India batter Rinku Singh has opened up on snub from the T20 World Cup 2024 squad and said that he missed out due to team combination. The left-hand batter has raised to prominence as a finisher in last couple of Indian Premier League (IPL) seasons where he plays for 2024 champions Kolkata Knight Riders.

"Yes, anyone feels a little bad if he is not selected despite good performance. However, this time I could not get selected due to the team combination. It is okay, one should not think too much about things that are not in one's hands," Rinku said in an interview with news outlet Dainik Jagran.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/t20-world-cup-wasim-jaffer-feels-virat-kohli-and-yashasvi-jaiswal-should-open-for-india-rohit-at-no-3-or-4-726714">Wasim Jaffer feels Virat Kohli and Yashasvi Jaiswal should open for India, Rohit at No 3 or 4</a>

"Yes, I was a little upset in the beginning. Whatever happened is fine. Whatever happens happens for good. Rohit Bhaiya did not say anything special. He only said that just keep working hard. There is a World Cup again after two years. There is no need to worry too much. This is what he said to me," he added.

Rinku's IPL 2024 form might also have played a role in his snub. The batter could score only 168 runs in 14 games at an average of about 18 and a strike rate of 148. In 2023, Rinku was one of the star batters, scoring 474 runs at an average of almost 60 and a strike rate of nearly 150.

India are placed in Group A with Pakistan, Canada, Ireland and co-hosts USA. India start their campaign against Ireland on June 5 before taking on arch-rivals Pakistan on June 9. Their next match is against the USA on June 12 before facing Canada in last group-stage match on June 15.

India squad for T20 World Cup 2024: Rohit Sharma, Yashasvi Jaiswal, Virat Kohli, Rishabh Pant, Sanju Samson, Suryakumar Yadav, Hardik Pandya, Shivam Dube, Ravindra Jadeja, Axar Patel, Arshdeep Singh, Jasprit Bumrah, Yuzvendra Chahal, Kuldeep Yadav, Mohammed Siraj

India batter Rinku Singh has opened up on snub from the T20 World Cup 2024 squad and said that he missed out due to team combination. The left-hand batter has raised to prominence as a finisher in last couple of Indian Premier League (IPL) seasons where he plays for 2024 champions Kolkata Knight Riders.

India batter Rinku Singh has opened up on snub from the T20 World Cup 2024 squad and said that he missed out due to team combination. The left-hand batter has raised to prominence as a finisher in last couple of Indian Premier League (IPL) seasons where he plays for 2024 champions Kolkata Knight Riders. "Yes, anyone feels a little bad if he is not selected despite good performance. However, this time I could not get selected due to the team combination. It is okay, one should not think too much about things that are not in one's hands," Rinku said in an interview with news outlet Dainik Jagran. Also Read: Wasim Jaffer feels Virat Kohli and Yashasvi Jaiswal should open for India, Rohit at No 3 or 4 "Yes, I was a little upset in the beginning. Whatever happened is fine. Whatever happens happens for good. Rohit Bhaiya did not say anything special. He only said that just keep working hard. There is a World Cup again after two years. There is no need to worry too much. This is what he said to me," he added. Rinku's IPL 2024 form might also have played a role in his snub. The batter could score only 168 runs in 14 games at an average of about 18 and a strike rate of 148. In 2023, Rinku was one of the star batters, scoring 474 runs at an average of almost 60 and a strike rate of nearly 150. India are placed in Group A with Pakistan, Canada, Ireland and co-hosts USA. India start their campaign against Ireland on June 5 before taking on arch-rivals Pakistan on June 9. Their next match is against the USA on June 12 before facing Canada in last group-stage match on June 15. India squad for T20 World Cup 2024: Rohit Sharma, Yashasvi Jaiswal, Virat Kohli, Rishabh Pant, Sanju Samson, Suryakumar Yadav, Hardik Pandya, Shivam Dube, Ravindra Jadeja, Axar Patel, Arshdeep Singh, Jasprit Bumrah, Yuzvendra Chahal, Kuldeep Yadav, Mohammed Siraj

T20 World Cup 2024: Rinku Singh opens up on snub from India's squad. Here's what he said

Australian Test opener Usman Khawaja has backed fellow teammate Glenn Maxwell to come good in the upcoming T20 World Cup 2024. Khawaja's backing comes at a time with Maxwell having a horrible Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024 season scoring only 52 runs across 10 games for Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB).

“The IPL form is absolutely irrelevant. Maxy’s proven himself time and time again. Any player who’s performed over a long period of time understands that you can’t perform well every time you go out there," Khawaja told news outlet the West Australian.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/t20-world-cup-wasim-jaffer-feels-virat-kohli-and-yashasvi-jaiswal-should-open-for-india-rohit-at-no-3-or-4-726714">Wasim Jaffer feels Virat Kohli and Yashasvi Jaiswal should open for India, Rohit at No 3 or 4</a>

"You take a few risks, particularly if you bat in the middle order, and T20 cricket’s not easy. But (for this tournament) if he gets one good innings, he’s away. It doesn’t matter what’s happened in the past. He’s not going to change his game and nor should he. Just keep going. He’ll find it," Khawaja added.

Australia are placed in Group B along with England, Namibia, Oman and Scotland. They start their campaign on June 5 against Oman before taking on arch-rivals England on June 8. Their&nbsp;next match comes against Namibia on June 11 before playing against Scotland on June 15 in their last group stage match.

The Australia squad is being led by Mitchell Marsh with Cam Green and Marcus Stoinis being other all-rounders apart from Maxwell. The big-hitting batter, however, is the only spinning all-rounder in the side with Ashton Agar and Adam Zampa being the specialist spinners.

Among the pacers, the Australians have selected ODI and Test skipper Pat Cummins, IPL 2024 winner Mitchell Marsh, Josh Hazlewood and Nathan Ellis.

Among the batters, David Warner and Travis Head have been selected as openers with this being Warner's last T20 World Cup.

Tim David is kept in the middle order while Josh Inglis and Matthew Wade have been selected as wicketkeeper-batters.

Australian Test opener Usman Khawaja has backed fellow teammate Glenn Maxwell to come good in the upcoming T20 World Cup 2024. Khawaja's backing comes at a time with Maxwell having a horrible Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024 season scoring only 52 runs across 10 games for Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB).

Australian Test opener Usman Khawaja has backed fellow teammate Glenn Maxwell to come good in the upcoming T20 World Cup 2024. Khawaja's backing comes at a time with Maxwell having a horrible Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024 season scoring only 52 runs across 10 games for Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB). “The IPL form is absolutely irrelevant. Maxy’s proven himself time and time again. Any player who’s performed over a long period of time understands that you can’t perform well every time you go out there," Khawaja told news outlet the West Australian. Also Read: Wasim Jaffer feels Virat Kohli and Yashasvi Jaiswal should open for India, Rohit at No 3 or 4 "You take a few risks, particularly if you bat in the middle order, and T20 cricket’s not easy. But (for this tournament) if he gets one good innings, he’s away. It doesn’t matter what’s happened in the past. He’s not going to change his game and nor should he. Just keep going. He’ll find it," Khawaja added. Australia are placed in Group B along with England, Namibia, Oman and Scotland. They start their campaign on June 5 against Oman before taking on arch-rivals England on June 8. Their next match comes against Namibia on June 11 before playing against Scotland on June 15 in their last group stage match. The Australia squad is being led by Mitchell Marsh with Cam Green and Marcus Stoinis being other all-rounders apart from Maxwell. The big-hitting batter, however, is the only spinning all-rounder in the side with Ashton Agar and Adam Zampa being the specialist spinners. Among the pacers, the Australians have selected ODI and Test skipper Pat Cummins, IPL 2024 winner Mitchell Marsh, Josh Hazlewood and Nathan Ellis. Among the batters, David Warner and Travis Head have been selected as openers with this being Warner's last T20 World Cup. Tim David is kept in the middle order while Josh Inglis and Matthew Wade have been selected as wicketkeeper-batters.

T20 World Cup 2024: 'He’s not going to...,' Australia opener Usman Khawaja on Maxwell's form before tournament

Former Indian opener Wasim Jaffer has suggested Virat Kohli and Yashasvi Jaiswal should open for India in the forthcoming 2024 T20 World Cup, to be held in West Indies and USA in June. Captain Rohit Sharma and Jaiswal were India's openers in their last T20I series in the run-up to the T20 WC, however, Jaffer feels Rohit can bat at No. 4 as he plays spin really well and backed Kohli to replace him at the top. Meanwhile, the former cricketer feels Suryakumar Yadav can bat at No. 3 in the mega event.&nbsp;

Jaffer wrote on X, formerly Twitter, "Kohli and Jaiswal should open in the World Cup imo. Rohit &amp; SKY should bat 3 and 4 depending on the start we get. Rohit plays spin really well so batting at 4 shouldn't be a concern."

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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Kohli &amp; Jaiswal should open in the World Cup imo. Rohit &amp; SKY should bat 3&amp;4 depending on the start we get. Rohit plays spin really well so batting at 4 shouldn't be a concern. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/T20WorldCup?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#T20WorldCup</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvPAK?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDvPAK</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvIRE?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDvIRE</a> <a href="https://t.co/nMgwwaDNXb">pic.twitter.com/nMgwwaDNXb</a>
— Wasim Jaffer (@WasimJaffer14) <a href="https://twitter.com/WasimJaffer14/status/1795716168868938019?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 29, 2024</a></blockquote>
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Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/t20-world-cup-virat-kohli-remains-the-only-missing-face-as-indian-players-undergo-training-726650">T20 World Cup: Virat Kohli remains the only missing face as Indian players undergo training</a>

It is to be noted that Rohit has a decent record&nbsp;while batting at No. 3 and 4. In 12 T20Is batting in those positions, the Indian captain has 315 runs at an average of 39.37 with four half-centuries under his belt. Nonetheless, he has batted as an opener for majority part of his T20I career and has all his four T20I centuries while batting at the top. On the other hand, Kohli has been India's best batter at No. 3, in white-ball formats, for a very long time. However, he has a good record as a T20I opener as well. The right-hander had 400 runs from nine games at an average of 57.14 with a top score of 122 not out (which came against Afghanistan during 2022 Asia Cup 2022). Meanwhile,&nbsp;Jaiswal&nbsp;has a solitary T20I hundred as an opener, which came&nbsp;against Nepal in the 2023 Asian Games.

India are placed in Group A in the T20 WC, along with arch-rivals Pakistan, USA, Ireland and Canada. They open their campaign on June 5 versus Ireland in New York before their marquee face-off versus Pakistan on June 9.

Former Indian opener Wasim Jaffer has suggested Virat Kohli and Yashasvi Jaiswal should open for India in the forthcoming 2024 T20 World Cup, to be held in West Indies and USA in June.

Former Indian opener Wasim Jaffer has suggested Virat Kohli and Yashasvi Jaiswal should open for India in the forthcoming 2024 T20 World Cup, to be held in West Indies and USA in June. Captain Rohit Sharma and Jaiswal were India's openers in their last T20I series in the run-up to the T20 WC, however, Jaffer feels Rohit can bat at No. 4 as he plays spin really well and backed Kohli to replace him at the top. Meanwhile, the former cricketer feels Suryakumar Yadav can bat at No. 3 in the mega event. Jaffer wrote on X, formerly Twitter, "Kohli and Jaiswal should open in the World Cup imo. Rohit & SKY should bat 3 and 4 depending on the start we get. Rohit plays spin really well so batting at 4 shouldn't be a concern." Kohli & Jaiswal should open in the World Cup imo. Rohit & SKY should bat 3&4 depending on the start we get. Rohit plays spin really well so batting at 4 shouldn't be a concern. #T20WorldCup #INDvPAK #INDvIRE pic.twitter.com/nMgwwaDNXb — Wasim Jaffer (@WasimJaffer14) May 29, 2024 × Also read: T20 World Cup: Virat Kohli remains the only missing face as Indian players undergo training It is to be noted that Rohit has a decent record while batting at No. 3 and 4. In 12 T20Is batting in those positions, the Indian captain has 315 runs at an average of 39.37 with four half-centuries under his belt. Nonetheless, he has batted as an opener for majority part of his T20I career and has all his four T20I centuries while batting at the top. On the other hand, Kohli has been India's best batter at No. 3, in white-ball formats, for a very long time. However, he has a good record as a T20I opener as well. The right-hander had 400 runs from nine games at an average of 57.14 with a top score of 122 not out (which came against Afghanistan during 2022 Asia Cup 2022). Meanwhile, Jaiswal has a solitary T20I hundred as an opener, which came against Nepal in the 2023 Asian Games. India are placed in Group A in the T20 WC, along with arch-rivals Pakistan, USA, Ireland and Canada. They open their campaign on June 5 versus Ireland in New York before their marquee face-off versus Pakistan on June 9.

T20 World Cup: Wasim Jaffer feels Virat Kohli and Yashasvi Jaiswal should open for India, Rohit at No 3 or 4

India’s vice-captain Hardik Pandya has arrived in New York as he gears up for the T20 World Cup which starts on Saturday (June 1) in the USA and West Indies. Hardik, who did not travel with the rest of the Indian squad, arrived from London and avoided taking a direct flight to the financial capital of the United States. Hardik will now look to make headlines for all the right reasons after being in the news for a reported divorce from his wife Nataša Stanković.

<h2>Hardik Pandya arrives in New York</h2>

After he arrived in New York, Hardik took to his social media handle and posted pictures of his training and was seen ready for the marquee tournament. He posted pictures of him in the Indian training gear and swimming in the team hotel. He looks&nbsp;in great shape for the tournament where India will be one of the favourites to win the T20 World Cup. Hardik was in decent form during the recently concluded Indian Premier League (IPL 2024) season but faced criticism for his poor captaincy.

With just four wins throughout the season, MI finished bottom of the league for the second time in the last three seasons.

<h2>Hardik’s reported divorce from Nataša</h2>

According to several reports in Indian media, Nataša and Hardik are on the verge of filing for a divorce. This comes after the Serbian model changed her name on social media handles, raising speculations of friction between the couple. Nataša was also seen on a casual date with a friend in Mumbai around the time Hardik&nbsp;ended the IPL season.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/kkr-batter-nitish-rana-shares-screenshot-of-whatsapp-text-with-gautam-gambhir-726379">KKR batter Nitish Rana shares screenshot of WhatsApp text with Gautam Gambhir</a>

At the time of writing, neither Hardik nor Nataša have confirmed the divorce rumours while fans on the internet have labelled the entire thing&nbsp;a publicity stunt.

<h2>India's squad for T20 World Cup 2024</h2>

Batters:&nbsp;Rohit Sharma (captain), Virat Kohli, Yashasvi Jaiswal, Suryakumar Yadav.

Wicketkeepers:&nbsp;Rishabh Pant, Sanju Samson.

All-rounders:&nbsp;Hardik Pandya (vice-captain), Shivam Dube, Axar Patel, Ravindra Jadeja.

Bowlers:&nbsp;Yuzvendra Chahal, Kuldeep Yadav, Jasprit Bumrah, Arshdeep Singh, Mohammed Siraj

India’s vice-captain Hardik Pandya has arrived in New York as he gears up for the T20 World Cup which starts on Saturday (June 1) in the USA and West Indies. Hardik, who did not travel with the rest of the Indian squad, arrived from London and avoided taking a direct flight to the financial capital of the United States.

India’s vice-captain Hardik Pandya has arrived in New York as he gears up for the T20 World Cup which starts on Saturday (June 1) in the USA and West Indies. Hardik, who did not travel with the rest of the Indian squad, arrived from London and avoided taking a direct flight to the financial capital of the United States. Hardik will now look to make headlines for all the right reasons after being in the news for a reported divorce from his wife Nataša Stanković. Hardik Pandya arrives in New York After he arrived in New York, Hardik took to his social media handle and posted pictures of his training and was seen ready for the marquee tournament. He posted pictures of him in the Indian training gear and swimming in the team hotel. He looks in great shape for the tournament where India will be one of the favourites to win the T20 World Cup. Hardik was in decent form during the recently concluded Indian Premier League (IPL 2024) season but faced criticism for his poor captaincy. With just four wins throughout the season, MI finished bottom of the league for the second time in the last three seasons. Hardik’s reported divorce from Nataša According to several reports in Indian media, Nataša and Hardik are on the verge of filing for a divorce. This comes after the Serbian model changed her name on social media handles, raising speculations of friction between the couple. Nataša was also seen on a casual date with a friend in Mumbai around the time Hardik ended the IPL season. ALSO READ | KKR batter Nitish Rana shares screenshot of WhatsApp text with Gautam Gambhir At the time of writing, neither Hardik nor Nataša have confirmed the divorce rumours while fans on the internet have labelled the entire thing a publicity stunt. India's squad for T20 World Cup 2024 Batters: Rohit Sharma (captain), Virat Kohli, Yashasvi Jaiswal, Suryakumar Yadav. Wicketkeepers: Rishabh Pant, Sanju Samson. All-rounders: Hardik Pandya (vice-captain), Shivam Dube, Axar Patel, Ravindra Jadeja. Bowlers: Yuzvendra Chahal, Kuldeep Yadav, Jasprit Bumrah, Arshdeep Singh, Mohammed Siraj

T20 World Cup: Hardik Pandya arrives in New York to join Team India amid divorce rumours with wife Nataša

When India's T20 World Cup 2024 squad was announced, it left many surprised when Rinku Singh's name didn't feature in it. Rinku, who has made a mark in a handful of T20Is, wasn't named in the main squad but will be travelling to West Indies and USA, the co-hosts of the upcoming World Cup, as a part of the travelling reserves. The left-hander has 356 runs in 15 T20Is at a strike-rate of&nbsp;176.23 and an average of 89. In India's last T20I before the T20 WC, Rinku made his highest score (69) and was involved in a mammoth unbroken 190-run fifth-wicket stand along with captain Rohit Sharma (121); which came against Afghanistan in January 2024.

Despite his consistent run as a finisher, Rinku couldn't make it to the T20 WC squad. Recently, the star player (who won the IPL 2024 with the Kolkata Knight Riders) opined on his exclusion and revealed his chat with captain Rohit.&nbsp;

<h2>'Rohit Sharma told there is another T20 WC in 2026'</h2>

After KKR's IPL 2024 win, Rinku said during a chat with Daignik Jagran, "Rohit Bhaiya did not say anything special. He only said that just keep working hard. There is a World Cup again after two years. There is no need to worry too much. This is what he said to me."

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/ms-dhoni-to-be-india-head-coach-virat-kohlis-coach-suggests-him-as-contender-726321">MS Dhoni to be India head coach? Virat Kohli's coach suggests him as contender</a>

Rinku further also opined on captain Rohit. He heaped praise on Hitman and said, "The whole world has seen how good his captaincy is. If I talk about myself personally, I have done only one tour with him so far. I have not even talked to him much. He supports the youth a lot.&nbsp;He added,&nbsp;"He only wants the youth to do well and he always says that play, do well."

Rohit-led India are placed in Group A in the 2024 T20 WC. The Men in Blue will kick off their campaign on June 5 versus Ireland in New York. Their group comprises arch-rivals Pakistan, Canada, Ireland and USA. In the 2022 edition, Rohit-led India ended as the semifinalists.

<h3>India’s 2024 T20 World Cup squad –</h3>

Rohit Sharma (c), Hardik Pandya (vc), Yashasvi Jaiswal, Virat Kohli, Suryakumar Yadav, Rishabh Pant (wk), Sanju Samson (wk), Shivam Dube, Ravindra Jadeja, Axar Patel, Kuldeep Yadav, Yuzvendra Chahal, Arshdeep Singh, Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammed Siraj

Reserves: Shubman Gill, Rinku Singh, Khaleel Ahmed and Avesh Khan

When India's T20 World Cup 2024 squad was announced, it left many surprised when Rinku Singh's name didn't feature in it. Rinku, who has made a mark in a handful of T20Is, wasn't named in the main squad but will be travelling to West Indies and USA, the co-hosts of the upcoming World Cup, as a part of the travelling reserves.

When India's T20 World Cup 2024 squad was announced, it left many surprised when Rinku Singh's name didn't feature in it. Rinku, who has made a mark in a handful of T20Is, wasn't named in the main squad but will be travelling to West Indies and USA, the co-hosts of the upcoming World Cup, as a part of the travelling reserves. The left-hander has 356 runs in 15 T20Is at a strike-rate of 176.23 and an average of 89. In India's last T20I before the T20 WC, Rinku made his highest score (69) and was involved in a mammoth unbroken 190-run fifth-wicket stand along with captain Rohit Sharma (121); which came against Afghanistan in January 2024. Despite his consistent run as a finisher, Rinku couldn't make it to the T20 WC squad. Recently, the star player (who won the IPL 2024 with the Kolkata Knight Riders) opined on his exclusion and revealed his chat with captain Rohit. 'Rohit Sharma told there is another T20 WC in 2026' After KKR's IPL 2024 win, Rinku said during a chat with Daignik Jagran, "Rohit Bhaiya did not say anything special. He only said that just keep working hard. There is a World Cup again after two years. There is no need to worry too much. This is what he said to me." Also read: MS Dhoni to be India head coach? Virat Kohli's coach suggests him as contender Rinku further also opined on captain Rohit. He heaped praise on Hitman and said, "The whole world has seen how good his captaincy is. If I talk about myself personally, I have done only one tour with him so far. I have not even talked to him much. He supports the youth a lot. He added, "He only wants the youth to do well and he always says that play, do well." Rohit-led India are placed in Group A in the 2024 T20 WC. The Men in Blue will kick off their campaign on June 5 versus Ireland in New York. Their group comprises arch-rivals Pakistan, Canada, Ireland and USA. In the 2022 edition, Rohit-led India ended as the semifinalists. India’s 2024 T20 World Cup squad – Rohit Sharma (c), Hardik Pandya (vc), Yashasvi Jaiswal, Virat Kohli, Suryakumar Yadav, Rishabh Pant (wk), Sanju Samson (wk), Shivam Dube, Ravindra Jadeja, Axar Patel, Kuldeep Yadav, Yuzvendra Chahal, Arshdeep Singh, Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammed Siraj Reserves: Shubman Gill, Rinku Singh, Khaleel Ahmed and Avesh Khan

There is a World Cup again after two years: Rinku Singh reveals chat with Rohit Sharma post T20 WC snub

Virat Kohli's childhood coach Rajkumar Sharma has picked MS Dhoni as India's next head coach. The current head coach Rahul Dravid's tenure is about to end following the 2024 T20 World Cup, in the West Indies and the USA in June. The official deadline to apply for the top post was May 27. While some big foreign names distanced themselves from taking the top job, it is highly likely that an Indian will take over from Dravid. Reports have indicated that Gautam Gambhir is being looked upon as a strong candidate, however, Kohli's coach has suggested Dhoni's name should he retire from IPL.

Talking on India News' programme CRICIT PREDICTA, Sharma&nbsp;said, "First of all, it will be interesting to see which names apply for this post. I would like that whoever becomes the coach should be an Indian. If Mahendra Singh Dhoni announces retirement, he can prove to be a good option. He (Dhoni) has played a lot of cricket and has won big tournaments."

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/virat-kohli-rohit-sharma-wont-repeat-mistakes-from-t20-world-cup-2022-feels-sanjay-manjrekar-726301">Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma wont repeat mistakes from T20 World Cup 2022, feels Sanjay Manjrekar</a> 
 
Sharma added, "Dhoni will have more respect in the dressing room and he has played this format for a long time. Being able to plan for the team and manage it properly, is most needed in the team because when Dhoni became the captain, there were big players in that team like Sachin Tendulkar, Virender Sehwag, Rahul Dravid, Harbhajan Singh, Anil Kumble, Gautam Gambhir, and Yuvraj Singh were present. Despite this, Dhoni handled the team brilliantly."

Dhoni was last seen on the cricket field during the just-concluded IPL 2024. Dhoni-starrer Chennai Super Kings (CSK) bowed out of the ten-team competition in the group stage, ending at the fifth position and narrowly missing out on the playoffs spot. While the legendary Indian cricketer remains mum on his IPL future, many believe he has played his last IPL season and will announce retirement before the mega auction, for the 2025 season, later this year.

Virat Kohli's childhood coach Rajkumar Sharma has picked MS Dhoni as India's next head coach. The current head coach Rahul Dravid's tenure is about to end following the 2024 T20 World Cup, in the West Indies and the USA in June.

Virat Kohli's childhood coach Rajkumar Sharma has picked MS Dhoni as India's next head coach. The current head coach Rahul Dravid's tenure is about to end following the 2024 T20 World Cup, in the West Indies and the USA in June. The official deadline to apply for the top post was May 27. While some big foreign names distanced themselves from taking the top job, it is highly likely that an Indian will take over from Dravid. Reports have indicated that Gautam Gambhir is being looked upon as a strong candidate, however, Kohli's coach has suggested Dhoni's name should he retire from IPL. Talking on India News' programme CRICIT PREDICTA, Sharma said, "First of all, it will be interesting to see which names apply for this post. I would like that whoever becomes the coach should be an Indian. If Mahendra Singh Dhoni announces retirement, he can prove to be a good option. He (Dhoni) has played a lot of cricket and has won big tournaments." Also read: Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma wont repeat mistakes from T20 World Cup 2022, feels Sanjay Manjrekar Sharma added, "Dhoni will have more respect in the dressing room and he has played this format for a long time. Being able to plan for the team and manage it properly, is most needed in the team because when Dhoni became the captain, there were big players in that team like Sachin Tendulkar, Virender Sehwag, Rahul Dravid, Harbhajan Singh, Anil Kumble, Gautam Gambhir, and Yuvraj Singh were present. Despite this, Dhoni handled the team brilliantly." Dhoni was last seen on the cricket field during the just-concluded IPL 2024. Dhoni-starrer Chennai Super Kings (CSK) bowed out of the ten-team competition in the group stage, ending at the fifth position and narrowly missing out on the playoffs spot. While the legendary Indian cricketer remains mum on his IPL future, many believe he has played his last IPL season and will announce retirement before the mega auction, for the 2025 season, later this year.

MS Dhoni to be India head coach? Virat Kohli’s coach suggests him as contender

Former Indian cricketer-turned-commentator Sanjay Manjrekar feels Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma will not repeat their mistakes from the 2022 T20 World Cup in the upcoming edition. The 2024 T20 World Cup kicks off on June 1 with Rohit-led India placed in Group A along with arch-rivals Pakistan, Ireland, USA and Canada. Before their tournament opener, Manjrekar opined that India bowed out of the 2022 edition due to Rohit-Kohli's defensive approach in the semifinals, where they lost to eventual winners England by 10 wickets, but feels the duo will not repeat their mistakes this time around.&nbsp;

<h2>'India had lost T20 WC 2022 semifinal due to Kohli, Rohit's knocks'</h2>

Manjrekar wrote in his column, "In the last T20 World Cup two years ago, in the semis against England in Adelaide, India batted first and got only 168 runs in 20 overs, and a shocking 62 in the first 10. The bulk of deliveries in this crucial period were faced by the seniors, Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli. Rohit got 27 off 28 balls at a strike rate of 96, while Virat scored 50 off 40 balls at a strike rate of 125, eventually getting out in the 18th over."

"India had lost the tournament right there. Thanks to Hardik Pandya’s 63 off 33 balls, at a strike rate of 190, India had something to show on the board. England, unsurprisingly, chased the target in 16 overs with 10 wickets in hand," Manjrekar recounted the semifinal loss.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/eng-vs-pak-england-captain-jos-buttler-to-miss-third-t20i-for-birth-of-child-726248">Eng vs Pak: England captain Jos Buttler to miss third T20I for birth of child</a>

However, Manjrekar feels Rohit and Kohli will not be making the same mistakes this time around as the Hitman has resorted to ultra-aggressive approach at the top whereas Kohli has also improved his power-hitting versus spin outside the powerplays. Manjrekar added, "Having said this, we can be sure of one thing. Rohit and Virat will not commit the same mistakes made in that semis. It’s worth acknowledging that Virat is not the same T20 player he was two years ago. He must know deep down, surely, that the ‘outside noise’ has actually made him a better T20 batter today than he was two years ago."

"Is there still a lingering risk attached to Virat – that when it comes to the big stage, the knockout games, he is preoccupied with batting longer rather than batting quicker? For Indian cricket’s sake, let’s hope this preoccupation is buried deep," the former batter concluded.

In the recent past, Rohit has been very aggressive with the bat at the top (especially in the 2023 ODI World Cup and during the T20Is versus Afghanistan early this year). Meanwhile, Kohli struck at an impressive 154.69 in IPL 2024, ending with most runs (741) in the just-concluded league. Both the batters are expected to continue their run-scoring spree, at a higher strike-rate, in the upcoming T20 WC, in West Indies and USA.

Former Indian cricketer-turned-commentator Sanjay Manjrekar feels Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma will not repeat their mistakes from the 2022 T20 World Cup in the upcoming edition.

Former Indian cricketer-turned-commentator Sanjay Manjrekar feels Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma will not repeat their mistakes from the 2022 T20 World Cup in the upcoming edition. The 2024 T20 World Cup kicks off on June 1 with Rohit-led India placed in Group A along with arch-rivals Pakistan, Ireland, USA and Canada. Before their tournament opener, Manjrekar opined that India bowed out of the 2022 edition due to Rohit-Kohli's defensive approach in the semifinals, where they lost to eventual winners England by 10 wickets, but feels the duo will not repeat their mistakes this time around. 'India had lost T20 WC 2022 semifinal due to Kohli, Rohit's knocks' Manjrekar wrote in his column, "In the last T20 World Cup two years ago, in the semis against England in Adelaide, India batted first and got only 168 runs in 20 overs, and a shocking 62 in the first 10. The bulk of deliveries in this crucial period were faced by the seniors, Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli. Rohit got 27 off 28 balls at a strike rate of 96, while Virat scored 50 off 40 balls at a strike rate of 125, eventually getting out in the 18th over." "India had lost the tournament right there. Thanks to Hardik Pandya’s 63 off 33 balls, at a strike rate of 190, India had something to show on the board. England, unsurprisingly, chased the target in 16 overs with 10 wickets in hand," Manjrekar recounted the semifinal loss. Also read: Eng vs Pak: England captain Jos Buttler to miss third T20I for birth of child However, Manjrekar feels Rohit and Kohli will not be making the same mistakes this time around as the Hitman has resorted to ultra-aggressive approach at the top whereas Kohli has also improved his power-hitting versus spin outside the powerplays. Manjrekar added, "Having said this, we can be sure of one thing. Rohit and Virat will not commit the same mistakes made in that semis. It’s worth acknowledging that Virat is not the same T20 player he was two years ago. He must know deep down, surely, that the ‘outside noise’ has actually made him a better T20 batter today than he was two years ago." "Is there still a lingering risk attached to Virat – that when it comes to the big stage, the knockout games, he is preoccupied with batting longer rather than batting quicker? For Indian cricket’s sake, let’s hope this preoccupation is buried deep," the former batter concluded. In the recent past, Rohit has been very aggressive with the bat at the top (especially in the 2023 ODI World Cup and during the T20Is versus Afghanistan early this year). Meanwhile, Kohli struck at an impressive 154.69 in IPL 2024, ending with most runs (741) in the just-concluded league. Both the batters are expected to continue their run-scoring spree, at a higher strike-rate, in the upcoming T20 WC, in West Indies and USA.

Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma won’t repeat mistakes of T20 World Cup 2022, feels Sanjay Manjrekar

England captain Jos Buttler will miss their third T20 International against Pakistan for the birth of his third child, the team said ahead of Tuesday's match in Cardiff. Buttler has returned home to be with his wife after leading England to a 23-run win at Edgbaston on Saturday, which gave them a 1-0 lead in the four-match series following the washout of the first game in Leeds.

"Jos Buttler is set to miss our third IT20 match vs Pakistan as his wife Louise is expecting the birth of their third child," England Cricket said in a statement.

All-rounder Moeen Ali will captain England in Buttler's absence. The team did not say whether Buttler would return in time to play in the final match of the series at The Oval on Thursday. Holders England are set to leave for the T20 World Cup in the United States and West Indies on Friday. They face Australia, Scotland, Oman and Namibia in Group B.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/t20-wc-no-ipl-final-bound-players-available-for-warm-up-ties-as-backroom-staff-to-take-field-marsh-725885">T20 WC - No IPL final-bound players available for warm-up ties as backroom staff to take field: Marsh</a>

Pakistan squad:&nbsp;

Babar Azam (captain), Abrar Ahmed, Azam Khan, Fakhar Zaman, Haris Rauf, Hasan Ali, Iftikhar Ahmed, Imad Wasim, Mohammad Abbas Afridi, Mohammad Amir, Mohammad Rizwan, Muhammad Irfan Khan, Naseem Shah, Saim Ayub, Salman Ali Agha, Shadab Khan, Shaheen Shah Afridi and Usman Khan.

England squad:

Philip Salt(w), Will Jacks, Ben Duckett, Jonny Bairstow, Harry Brook, Moeen Ali(c), Liam Livingstone, Chris Jordan, Jofra Archer, Adil Rashid, Reece Topley, Mark Wood, Sam Curran, Tom Hartley

England captain Jos Buttler will miss their third T20 International against Pakistan for the birth of his third child, the team said ahead of Tuesday's match in Cardiff.

England captain Jos Buttler will miss their third T20 International against Pakistan for the birth of his third child, the team said ahead of Tuesday's match in Cardiff. Buttler has returned home to be with his wife after leading England to a 23-run win at Edgbaston on Saturday, which gave them a 1-0 lead in the four-match series following the washout of the first game in Leeds. "Jos Buttler is set to miss our third IT20 match vs Pakistan as his wife Louise is expecting the birth of their third child," England Cricket said in a statement. All-rounder Moeen Ali will captain England in Buttler's absence. The team did not say whether Buttler would return in time to play in the final match of the series at The Oval on Thursday. Holders England are set to leave for the T20 World Cup in the United States and West Indies on Friday. They face Australia, Scotland, Oman and Namibia in Group B. Also read: T20 WC - No IPL final-bound players available for warm-up ties as backroom staff to take field: Marsh Pakistan squad: Babar Azam (captain), Abrar Ahmed, Azam Khan, Fakhar Zaman, Haris Rauf, Hasan Ali, Iftikhar Ahmed, Imad Wasim, Mohammad Abbas Afridi, Mohammad Amir, Mohammad Rizwan, Muhammad Irfan Khan, Naseem Shah, Saim Ayub, Salman Ali Agha, Shadab Khan, Shaheen Shah Afridi and Usman Khan. England squad: Philip Salt(w), Will Jacks, Ben Duckett, Jonny Bairstow, Harry Brook, Moeen Ali(c), Liam Livingstone, Chris Jordan, Jofra Archer, Adil Rashid, Reece Topley, Mark Wood, Sam Curran, Tom Hartley

Eng vs Pak: England captain Jos Buttler to miss third T20I for birth of child

Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has dismissed rumours of Shaheen Shah Afridi&nbsp;being offered&nbsp; a vice-captaincy role for the T20 World Cup after reports emerged on Saturday (May 26).&nbsp; Afridi, who&nbsp;was recently stripped&nbsp;of the captaincy role in the T20&nbsp;format&nbsp;was reported&nbsp;to&nbsp;be&nbsp; offered&nbsp;the vice-captaincy role.&nbsp;However, those rumours have&nbsp;been shut down&nbsp;as Pakistan prepares for the T20 World Cup without a designated vice-captain in the 15-member&nbsp; squad.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<h2>PCB dismisses rumours</h2>

"The selectors were shocked with this news because when they held their nearly two-hour online meeting on Friday, six out of seven selectors were not in favour of having a vice-captain to Babar Azam,"&nbsp;a source close to one of the national selectors told PTI.

"The&nbsp;minutes of the meeting&nbsp;are on record as per the instructions of the PCB Chairman. So,&nbsp;today's&nbsp;news about Shaheen declining the vice-captaincy came as a big shock to the selectors,"&nbsp;the source said.

According to a report by Espncricinfo on&nbsp;Saturday&nbsp;Afridi was offered the vice-captaincy role, however, he quickly turned down the offer.&nbsp;He was unhappy with the manner in which he was stripped of the captaincy role&nbsp;earlier&nbsp;while there was no concrete explanation given by the PCB.&nbsp;The 24-year-old was handed&nbsp;Pakistan’s&nbsp;T20 captaincy after the ODI World Cup when Babar Azam resigned&nbsp;from his role. However, a 4-1 series defeat to New Zealand and a poor Pakistan Super League (PSL) campaign as&nbsp;captain,&nbsp;saw PCB strip Afridi from the&nbsp; captain’s&nbsp;role.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2024-big-final-kolkata-knight-riders-vs-sunrisers-hyderabad-match-preview-and-result-prediction-725489">IPL 2024 BIG FINAL, Kolkata Knight Riders vs SunRisers Hyderabad – Match preview and result prediction</a>

As things stand, Pakistan will travel to the T20 World Cup without a designated vice-captain. In case Pakistan need to field a different captain in the absence of Babar Azam&nbsp;the&nbsp;team management is likely to push for Mohammad Rizwan and Haris Rauf&nbsp;who&nbsp;remain senior members of the Pakistan squad.&nbsp;

<h2>Pakistan's Squad for T20 World Cup 2024</h2>

Babar Azam (captain), Abrar Ahmed, Azam Khan, Fakhar Zaman, Haris Rauf, Iftikhar Ahmed, Imad Wasim, Mohammad Abbas Afridi, Mohammad Amir, Mohammad Rizwan, Naseem Shah, Saim Ayub, Shadab Khan, Shaheen Shah Afridi, Usman Khan

Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has dismissed rumours of Shaheen Shah Afridi being offered a vice-captaincy role for the T20 World Cup after reports emerged on Saturday (May 26).

Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has dismissed rumours of Shaheen Shah Afridi being offered a vice-captaincy role for the T20 World Cup after reports emerged on Saturday (May 26). Afridi, who was recently stripped of the captaincy role in the T20 format was reported to be offered the vice-captaincy role. However, those rumours have been shut down as Pakistan prepares for the T20 World Cup without a designated vice-captain in the 15-member squad. PCB dismisses rumours "The selectors were shocked with this news because when they held their nearly two-hour online meeting on Friday, six out of seven selectors were not in favour of having a vice-captain to Babar Azam," a source close to one of the national selectors told PTI. "The minutes of the meeting are on record as per the instructions of the PCB Chairman. So, today's news about Shaheen declining the vice-captaincy came as a big shock to the selectors," the source said. According to a report by Espncricinfo on Saturday Afridi was offered the vice-captaincy role, however, he quickly turned down the offer. He was unhappy with the manner in which he was stripped of the captaincy role earlier while there was no concrete explanation given by the PCB. The 24-year-old was handed Pakistan’s T20 captaincy after the ODI World Cup when Babar Azam resigned from his role. However, a 4-1 series defeat to New Zealand and a poor Pakistan Super League (PSL) campaign as captain, saw PCB strip Afridi from the captain’s role. ALSO READ | IPL 2024 BIG FINAL, Kolkata Knight Riders vs SunRisers Hyderabad – Match preview and result prediction As things stand, Pakistan will travel to the T20 World Cup without a designated vice-captain. In case Pakistan need to field a different captain in the absence of Babar Azam the team management is likely to push for Mohammad Rizwan and Haris Rauf who remain senior members of the Pakistan squad. Pakistan's Squad for T20 World Cup 2024 Babar Azam (captain), Abrar Ahmed, Azam Khan, Fakhar Zaman, Haris Rauf, Iftikhar Ahmed, Imad Wasim, Mohammad Abbas Afridi, Mohammad Amir, Mohammad Rizwan, Naseem Shah, Saim Ayub, Shadab Khan, Shaheen Shah Afridi, Usman Khan

T20 World Cup 2024: PCB dismisses rumours of Shaheen Shah Afridi being offered vice-captaincy

Pakistan speedster Shaheen Shah Afridi reportedly refused to be the vice-captain of the national side for the upcoming T20 World Cup in the USA and West Indies. On Friday (May 24), the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) announced its squad for the marquee event which will be led by Babar Azam. Afridi, who was stripped of the captaincy in the T20 format, however, was reportedly approached by the PCB to take the deputy role during the T20 World Cup.

<h2>Afridi rejected deputy role</h2>

According to a report by Espncricinfo, Afridi quickly turned down the offer to become the vice-captain. He was unhappy with the manner in which he was stripped of the captaincy role while there was no concrete explanation given by the PCB. The 24-year-old was handed Pakistan’s T20 captaincy after the ODI World Cup when Babar Azam resigned from his role. However, a 4-1 series defeat to New Zealand and a poor Pakistan Super League (PSL) campaign as captain, saw PCB strip Afridi off the captain’s role.

While the action did not go well with the pacer, PCB tried to convince Afridi to take the vice-captaincy role. However, Afridi was determined to not take the role which therefore resulted in Pakistan announcing the 15-man squad without a designated vice-captain.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/t20-world-cup-hardik-pandya-to-fly-from-london-as-team-indias-first-batch-to-depart-for-new-york-on-may-25-725274">T20 World Cup: Hardik Pandya to fly from London as Team India's first batch to depart for New York on May 25</a>

On Friday, the selection committee meeting attended by new white-ball coach Gary Kirsten along with Abdul Razzaq, Asad Shafiq, Babar Azam, Bilal Afzal, &nbsp;Mohammad Yousuf and Wahab Riaz announced the squad four hours before the deadline. The 15-man squad sees the return of Mohammad Amir and Imad Wasim with the former playing his first T20 World Cup since 2016.

Pakistan will start their T20 World Cup campaign against co-hosts USA on Thursday (June 6) before taking on India in a high-voltage clash on June 9 in New York. Pakistan will then face Canada and Ireland to round off the first group-stage campaign.

<h2>Pakistan's Squad for T20 World Cup 2024</h2>

Babar Azam (captain), Abrar Ahmed, Azam Khan, Fakhar Zaman, Haris Rauf, Iftikhar Ahmed, Imad Wasim, Mohammad Abbas Afridi, Mohammad Amir, Mohammad Rizwan, Naseem Shah, Saim Ayub, Shadab Khan, Shaheen Shah Afridi, Usman Khan

Pakistan speedster Shaheen Shah Afridi reportedly refused to be the vice-captain of the national side for the upcoming T20 World Cup in the USA and West Indies. On Friday (May 24), the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) announced its squad for the marquee event which will be led by Babar Azam.

Pakistan speedster Shaheen Shah Afridi reportedly refused to be the vice-captain of the national side for the upcoming T20 World Cup in the USA and West Indies. On Friday (May 24), the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) announced its squad for the marquee event which will be led by Babar Azam. Afridi, who was stripped of the captaincy in the T20 format, however, was reportedly approached by the PCB to take the deputy role during the T20 World Cup. Afridi rejected deputy role According to a report by Espncricinfo, Afridi quickly turned down the offer to become the vice-captain. He was unhappy with the manner in which he was stripped of the captaincy role while there was no concrete explanation given by the PCB. The 24-year-old was handed Pakistan’s T20 captaincy after the ODI World Cup when Babar Azam resigned from his role. However, a 4-1 series defeat to New Zealand and a poor Pakistan Super League (PSL) campaign as captain, saw PCB strip Afridi off the captain’s role. While the action did not go well with the pacer, PCB tried to convince Afridi to take the vice-captaincy role. However, Afridi was determined to not take the role which therefore resulted in Pakistan announcing the 15-man squad without a designated vice-captain. ALSO READ | T20 World Cup: Hardik Pandya to fly from London as Team India's first batch to depart for New York on May 25 On Friday, the selection committee meeting attended by new white-ball coach Gary Kirsten along with Abdul Razzaq, Asad Shafiq, Babar Azam, Bilal Afzal, Mohammad Yousuf and Wahab Riaz announced the squad four hours before the deadline. The 15-man squad sees the return of Mohammad Amir and Imad Wasim with the former playing his first T20 World Cup since 2016. Pakistan will start their T20 World Cup campaign against co-hosts USA on Thursday (June 6) before taking on India in a high-voltage clash on June 9 in New York. Pakistan will then face Canada and Ireland to round off the first group-stage campaign. Pakistan's Squad for T20 World Cup 2024 Babar Azam (captain), Abrar Ahmed, Azam Khan, Fakhar Zaman, Haris Rauf, Iftikhar Ahmed, Imad Wasim, Mohammad Abbas Afridi, Mohammad Amir, Mohammad Rizwan, Naseem Shah, Saim Ayub, Shadab Khan, Shaheen Shah Afridi, Usman Khan

T20 World Cup 2024: Shaheen Shah Afridi rejected vice-captaincy despite PCB’s request - Reports

Babar Azam will lead the Pakistan cricket team in the upcoming T20 World Cup in the USA and West Indies after they revealed their 15-man squad on Friday (May 24). The 15-man squad will see the return of Mohammad Amir and Imad Wasim with the former playing his first T20 World Cup since 2016.

The selection committee meeting was attended by new white-ball coach Gary Kirsten along with Abdul Razzaq, Asad Shafiq, Babar Azam, Bilal Afzal, Mohammad Yousuf and Wahab Riaz.

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Pakistan confirm ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2024 squad 
 
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<h2>Pakistan finally reveal squad for T20 World Cup</h2>

With the deadline to announce the squad fast approaching on Saturday (May 25), the selection committee on Friday revealed the 15-man squad. As expected, Babar will lead the side while Shaheen Shah Afridi remains one of the untouchables in the squad.

However, it was Mohammad Amir who made the headlines with his return to T20 World Cup action for the first time in over eight years. Amir recently returned to the Pakistan squad for the Ireland tour despite having visa issues while Imad Wasim will also make his return to the World Cup squad for the first time since 2021.

Hasan Ali, who was sent back home during the ongoing England tour dropped from the squad after failing to convince the coaches and selection committee.

This will be new white-ball coach Gary Kirsten’s first assignment with the national side in a major International Cricket Council (ICC) tournament, having taken charge of the side earlier this month. Interestingly, there are no reserve players in the Pakistan squad despite the ICC’s provision.

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Pakistan will start their T20 World Cup campaign against co-hosts USA on Thursday (June 6) before taking on India in a high-voltage clash on June 9 in New York. Pakistan will then face Canada and Ireland to round off the first group-stage campaign.

<h2>Pakistan's Squad for T20 World Cup 2024</h2>

Babar Azam (captain), Abrar Ahmed, Azam Khan, Fakhar Zaman, Haris Rauf, Iftikhar Ahmed, Imad Wasim, Mohammad Abbas Afridi, Mohammad Amir, Mohammad Rizwan, Naseem Shah, Saim Ayub, Shadab Khan, Shaheen Shah Afridi, Usman Khan

Babar Azam will lead the Pakistan cricket team in the upcoming T20 World Cup in the USA and West Indies after they revealed their 15-man squad on Friday (May 24).

Babar Azam will lead the Pakistan cricket team in the upcoming T20 World Cup in the USA and West Indies after they revealed their 15-man squad on Friday (May 24). The 15-man squad will see the return of Mohammad Amir and Imad Wasim with the former playing his first T20 World Cup since 2016. The selection committee meeting was attended by new white-ball coach Gary Kirsten along with Abdul Razzaq, Asad Shafiq, Babar Azam, Bilal Afzal, Mohammad Yousuf and Wahab Riaz. Pakistan confirm ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2024 squad Read more ➡️ https://t.co/CuJbxi7M3X#WeHaveWeWill | #BackTheBoysInGreen — PCB Media (@TheRealPCBMedia) May 24, 2024 × Pakistan finally reveal squad for T20 World Cup With the deadline to announce the squad fast approaching on Saturday (May 25), the selection committee on Friday revealed the 15-man squad. As expected, Babar will lead the side while Shaheen Shah Afridi remains one of the untouchables in the squad. However, it was Mohammad Amir who made the headlines with his return to T20 World Cup action for the first time in over eight years. Amir recently returned to the Pakistan squad for the Ireland tour despite having visa issues while Imad Wasim will also make his return to the World Cup squad for the first time since 2021. Hasan Ali, who was sent back home during the ongoing England tour dropped from the squad after failing to convince the coaches and selection committee. This will be new white-ball coach Gary Kirsten’s first assignment with the national side in a major International Cricket Council (ICC) tournament, having taken charge of the side earlier this month. Interestingly, there are no reserve players in the Pakistan squad despite the ICC’s provision. ALSO READ | ‘Never say never’ – AB de Villiers joins list of elite candidates for India’s head coach job Pakistan will start their T20 World Cup campaign against co-hosts USA on Thursday (June 6) before taking on India in a high-voltage clash on June 9 in New York. Pakistan will then face Canada and Ireland to round off the first group-stage campaign. Pakistan's Squad for T20 World Cup 2024 Babar Azam (captain), Abrar Ahmed, Azam Khan, Fakhar Zaman, Haris Rauf, Iftikhar Ahmed, Imad Wasim, Mohammad Abbas Afridi, Mohammad Amir, Mohammad Rizwan, Naseem Shah, Saim Ayub, Shadab Khan, Shaheen Shah Afridi, Usman Khan

Babar Azam-led Pakistan reveal T20 World Cup squad as Mohammad Amir, Imad Wasim return; Hasan Ali dropped

England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) have appointed&nbsp;David Young as their new psychologist as the side prepares for the upcoming T20 World Cup in the USA and West Indies. Young, who will be on a short spell with the England&nbsp;side&nbsp;is employed&nbsp;by Premier League champions Manchester City. He has been instrumental in Man&nbsp;City’s&nbsp;excellent form&nbsp;which&nbsp;recently saw them lift their fourth consecutive Premier League title.&nbsp;

<h2>Young returns with England</h2>

Young comes with a successful CV as a psychologist, having&nbsp;helped England win the ODI World Cup during his first spell with the side. He was the chief psychologist during 2016 and 2020 before switching his alliances to football with Manchester City. His arrival was welcomed by white-ball skipper Jos Buttler and Matthew Mott as they look to defend their T20 World Cup crown&nbsp;which&nbsp;they won in 2022 in Australia.&nbsp;

"He's&nbsp;previously been with the team&nbsp;and&nbsp;he's&nbsp;already been a great ally in messages back to me, making sure my messages are clear.&nbsp;It's&nbsp;always good to have someone&nbsp;who's&nbsp;a little bit removed from the squad to&nbsp;make sure&nbsp;you're&nbsp;landing your messages…&nbsp;He's&nbsp;still doing other roles&nbsp;but&nbsp;we've&nbsp;got him for this&nbsp;series,&nbsp;and the start of the World Cup&nbsp;as well,"&nbsp;Mott said.

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During&nbsp;Young’s&nbsp;tenure with Man City, the side&nbsp;also&nbsp;won the Champions League along with FA Cup and Premier League titles. He will now look to replicate the same success with England as they look to put behind a disappointing ODI World Cup in India.&nbsp;

England are paired with arch-rivals Australia in group B and will be favourites to make the reach round. They will rely on the services of captain Jos Buttler, Sam Curran, Harry Brook and others in an attempt to replicate the 2022 T20 World Cup success.&nbsp;

England squad

Jos Buttler (c), Phil Salt, Will Jacks, Jonny Bairstow, Ben Duckett, Harry Brook, Liam Livingstone, Moeen Ali (vice-captain), Sam Curran, Chris Jordan, Tom Hartley, Adil Rashid, Jofra Archer, Mark Wood, Reece Topley.

England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) have appointed David Young as their new psychologist as the side prepares for the upcoming T20 World Cup in the USA and West Indies.

England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) have appointed David Young as their new psychologist as the side prepares for the upcoming T20 World Cup in the USA and West Indies. Young, who will be on a short spell with the England side is employed by Premier League champions Manchester City. He has been instrumental in Man City’s excellent form which recently saw them lift their fourth consecutive Premier League title. Young returns with England Young comes with a successful CV as a psychologist, having helped England win the ODI World Cup during his first spell with the side. He was the chief psychologist during 2016 and 2020 before switching his alliances to football with Manchester City. His arrival was welcomed by white-ball skipper Jos Buttler and Matthew Mott as they look to defend their T20 World Cup crown which they won in 2022 in Australia. "He's previously been with the team and he's already been a great ally in messages back to me, making sure my messages are clear. It's always good to have someone who's a little bit removed from the squad to make sure you're landing your messages… He's still doing other roles but we've got him for this series, and the start of the World Cup as well," Mott said. ALSO READ | Bayern Munich close to signing relegated Burnley boss Vincent Kompany as next manager During Young’s tenure with Man City, the side also won the Champions League along with FA Cup and Premier League titles. He will now look to replicate the same success with England as they look to put behind a disappointing ODI World Cup in India. England are paired with arch-rivals Australia in group B and will be favourites to make the reach round. They will rely on the services of captain Jos Buttler, Sam Curran, Harry Brook and others in an attempt to replicate the 2022 T20 World Cup success. England squad Jos Buttler (c), Phil Salt, Will Jacks, Jonny Bairstow, Ben Duckett, Harry Brook, Liam Livingstone, Moeen Ali (vice-captain), Sam Curran, Chris Jordan, Tom Hartley, Adil Rashid, Jofra Archer, Mark Wood, Reece Topley.

T20 World Cup 2024: ECB appoints Manchester City's David Young as team psychologist

Former Australian captain Ricky Ponting has slammed Virat Kohli's T20I critics who keep calling for his ouster from the national side. Ahead of the T20 World Cup 2024 edition, which kicks off next month in West Indies and USA, former Aussie batter Ponting has lauded Kohli and feels the right-hander has a lot to offer to India in the shortest format. Punter added that Kohli will be his 'first pick' for India in T20Is.

In recent times, Kohli has been a target of a lot of criticism regarding his strike-rate in T20Is (138.15). The 35-year-old even entered IPL 2024 with a lot of eyebrows on his strike rate, with many raising fingers at his ability to keep the tempo of the innings up right throughout (especially in the middle-overs). Nonetheless, the former Indian captain has silenced his critics in style in this year's IPL, being the highest run-getter with&nbsp;708 runs at an average of 64.36 and a strike-rate of 155.60.

Thus, Ponting slammed Kohli's critics. He told the ICC, "It's funny with Virat. I think people in India just always try to find a reason not to pick him or a reason why he's maybe not as good as some of those other guys in the T20 game. He (Kohli) is the first pick for me for India."

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/security-threat-to-virat-kohli-prompts-rcb-to-cancel-practice-session-report-724256">Security threat to Virat Kohli prompts RCB to cancel practice session ahead of Eliminator: Report</a>

Punter added, "He can play his role at the top. And if you've got the right guys around him scoring (like) Suryakumar (Yadav), Rohit Sharma's going to have a high strike rate. These other guys can go in there and play their way."

Kohli returned to India's T20I setup early this year after a 14-month break. Given how he has fared in the IPL, the veteran looks well prepared to tackle the tricky and contrasting conditions and nature of the surface in West Indies and USA, the co-hosts for the upcoming T20 WC.

Rohit Sharma-led India are placed in Group A along with Pakistan, USA, Ireland and Canada. They open their campaign on June 5 versus Ireland in New York.

Former Australian captain Ricky Ponting has slammed Virat Kohli's T20I critics who keep calling for his ouster from the national side. Ahead of the T20 World Cup 2024 edition, which kicks off next month in West Indies and USA, former Aussie batter Ponting has lauded Kohli and feels the right-hander has a lot to offer to India in the shortest format.

Former Australian captain Ricky Ponting has slammed Virat Kohli's T20I critics who keep calling for his ouster from the national side. Ahead of the T20 World Cup 2024 edition, which kicks off next month in West Indies and USA, former Aussie batter Ponting has lauded Kohli and feels the right-hander has a lot to offer to India in the shortest format. Punter added that Kohli will be his 'first pick' for India in T20Is. In recent times, Kohli has been a target of a lot of criticism regarding his strike-rate in T20Is (138.15). The 35-year-old even entered IPL 2024 with a lot of eyebrows on his strike rate, with many raising fingers at his ability to keep the tempo of the innings up right throughout (especially in the middle-overs). Nonetheless, the former Indian captain has silenced his critics in style in this year's IPL, being the highest run-getter with 708 runs at an average of 64.36 and a strike-rate of 155.60. Thus, Ponting slammed Kohli's critics. He told the ICC, "It's funny with Virat. I think people in India just always try to find a reason not to pick him or a reason why he's maybe not as good as some of those other guys in the T20 game. He (Kohli) is the first pick for me for India." Also read: Security threat to Virat Kohli prompts RCB to cancel practice session ahead of Eliminator: Report Punter added, "He can play his role at the top. And if you've got the right guys around him scoring (like) Suryakumar (Yadav), Rohit Sharma's going to have a high strike rate. These other guys can go in there and play their way." Kohli returned to India's T20I setup early this year after a 14-month break. Given how he has fared in the IPL, the veteran looks well prepared to tackle the tricky and contrasting conditions and nature of the surface in West Indies and USA, the co-hosts for the upcoming T20 WC. Rohit Sharma-led India are placed in Group A along with Pakistan, USA, Ireland and Canada. They open their campaign on June 5 versus Ireland in New York.

Funny how people want him dropped from T20Is: Ponting silences Virat Kohli's critics before T20 World Cup

England are eager to unleash Jofra Archer's "fear factor" against Pakistan as the paceman prepares to return from a long injury lay-off ahead of next month's T20 World Cup, says team-mate Sam Curran.

Injuries have blighted Archer's international career and he has not played top-level cricket for 14 months due to back and elbow issues.

He has managed just 15 Twenty20 appearances for England since making his international debut five years ago but is in the squad for their four-match T20 series against Pakistan, starting this week, and the World Cup.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/ipl-2024-we-will-go-back-nita-ambani-on-mumbai-indians-disappointing-season-723621">IPL 2024: 'We will go back...,' Nita Ambani on Mumbai Indians' 'disappointing' season</a>

The 29-year-old has been building up his fitness by playing club cricket in Barbados and last week took a wicket for Sussex's second XI.&nbsp;

"It's incredibly exciting to have a player of his quality," all-rounder Curran said on Monday. "I'm sure England fans and players are extremely buzzed to have him back."

"He's obviously got that extra pace and fear factor we can bring to opposition. We all hope his injuries are behind him now.&nbsp;

"Jof's had a really tough couple of years -- we all hope he can come back and do what he does for England and bring the A game that we know he's got."

England, who are reigning T20 world champions, are desperate to find form ahead of the tournament in the West Indies and the United States after a dismal 50-over World Cup defence in India last year.

Curran is one of eight squad members who returned early from the Indian Premier League ahead of the Pakistan series.&nbsp;

The players had little time together before the defence of their 50-over title.

"The messaging from (captain) Jos (Buttler) and the coaching staff was they wanted to get the group back together and we probably didn't have that last time," said Curran.

"We've been apart for a while so these games are going to be really crucial. We want to be playing as a team and get used to our roles.

"There's a lot of buzz around the group, it seems like we're back to our energy and it seems like the boys are really fizzed about this trophy hopefully coming back."

The first game of the four-match T20 series against Pakistan takes place at Headingley on Wednesday.

England are eager to unleash Jofra Archer's "fear factor" against Pakistan as the paceman prepares to return from a long injury lay-off ahead of next month's T20 World Cup, says team-mate Sam Curran.

England are eager to unleash Jofra Archer's "fear factor" against Pakistan as the paceman prepares to return from a long injury lay-off ahead of next month's T20 World Cup, says team-mate Sam Curran. Injuries have blighted Archer's international career and he has not played top-level cricket for 14 months due to back and elbow issues. He has managed just 15 Twenty20 appearances for England since making his international debut five years ago but is in the squad for their four-match T20 series against Pakistan, starting this week, and the World Cup. Also Read: IPL 2024: 'We will go back...,' Nita Ambani on Mumbai Indians' 'disappointing' season The 29-year-old has been building up his fitness by playing club cricket in Barbados and last week took a wicket for Sussex's second XI. "It's incredibly exciting to have a player of his quality," all-rounder Curran said on Monday. "I'm sure England fans and players are extremely buzzed to have him back." "He's obviously got that extra pace and fear factor we can bring to opposition. We all hope his injuries are behind him now. "Jof's had a really tough couple of years -- we all hope he can come back and do what he does for England and bring the A game that we know he's got." England, who are reigning T20 world champions, are desperate to find form ahead of the tournament in the West Indies and the United States after a dismal 50-over World Cup defence in India last year. Curran is one of eight squad members who returned early from the Indian Premier League ahead of the Pakistan series. The players had little time together before the defence of their 50-over title. "The messaging from (captain) Jos (Buttler) and the coaching staff was they wanted to get the group back together and we probably didn't have that last time," said Curran. "We've been apart for a while so these games are going to be really crucial. We want to be playing as a team and get used to our roles. "There's a lot of buzz around the group, it seems like we're back to our energy and it seems like the boys are really fizzed about this trophy hopefully coming back." The first game of the four-match T20 series against Pakistan takes place at Headingley on Wednesday.

T20 World Cup 2024: England look for form ahead of tournament as Jofra Archer returns in series vs Pakistan

Australia&nbsp;are all&nbsp;set to include Jake Fraser-McGurk and Matt Short in their T20 World Cup reserve contingent as they prepare to clinch yet another International Cricket Council (ICC) silverware. According to credible reports, the&nbsp;selection panel led by George Bailey will include Fraser-McGurk&nbsp;who&nbsp;was a revolution for the Delhi Capitals in the ongoing Indian Premier League (IPL 2024). Fraser-McGurk’s explosive form&nbsp;was praised&nbsp;by everyone but was not enough to get him a place in Australia’s 15-man squad for the T20 World Cup.

<h2>Reprieve for Fraser-McGurk?</h2>

According to a report by ESPNcricinfo, the 22-year-old will be in the USA and West Indies with the squad but only as a travel reserve.&nbsp;This&nbsp;will mean he won’t be able to participate in any official contest either as a player or a substitute. However, he could be part of the training sessions and&nbsp;can&nbsp;travel with the rest of the squad.&nbsp;The report also sees Matt Short&nbsp;being&nbsp;the other player part&nbsp;of the travel reserve and could be a value addition if there is any late casualty in the squad.&nbsp;

For Fraser-McGurk, IPL 2024 proved to be the breakthrough season&nbsp;having&nbsp;scored&nbsp;330 runs in nine matches.&nbsp;He was only roped in as a late change after Lungi Ngidi pulled out due to injury for DC in the IPL 2024. Considering he&nbsp;was only roped in&nbsp;for a base value of $24,000, it&nbsp;proved to be&nbsp;a bargain for DC&nbsp;who&nbsp;narrowly missed out on the IPL 2024 Playoffs.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/ipl-playoffs-2024-kkr-vs-srk-qualifier-may-21-rr-vs-rcb-eliminator-may-22-ahmedabad-723181">IPL Playoffs 2024: KKR vs SRH in first qualifier &amp; RR vs RCB in eliminator</a>

While Matt Short has already represented Australia in nine T20I matches with a best of 66 runs with the bat. He will primarily&nbsp;serve as&nbsp;a backup to Glenn Maxwell&nbsp;as&nbsp;he also bowls whenever required.

Short had a breakout season in the Big Bash League 2022-23&nbsp;that saw him win the Player of the Tournament Award after being the competitions leading run-scorer. He followed that up the next season, again making the most runs and going back-to-back in the Player of the Tournament Award.

Australia open their T20 World Cup campaign against Oman in Barbados on June 5, before Group B fixtures against England, Namibia and Scotland.

<h2>Australia squad:</h2>

Mitchell Marsh (c), Ashton Agar, Pat Cummins, Tim David, Nathan Ellis, Cameron Green, Josh Hazlewood, Travis Head, Josh Inglis, Glenn Maxwell, Mitchell Starc, Marcus Stoinis, Matthew Wade, David Warner, Adam Zampa

All teams are allowed to make changes to their squad until 25 May, after which any alteration will require approval from ICC's Event Technical Committee.

Australia are all set to include Jake Fraser-McGurk and Matt Short in their T20 World Cup reserve contingent as they prepare to clinch yet another International Cricket Council (ICC) silverware.

Australia are all set to include Jake Fraser-McGurk and Matt Short in their T20 World Cup reserve contingent as they prepare to clinch yet another International Cricket Council (ICC) silverware. According to credible reports, the selection panel led by George Bailey will include Fraser-McGurk who was a revolution for the Delhi Capitals in the ongoing Indian Premier League (IPL 2024). Fraser-McGurk’s explosive form was praised by everyone but was not enough to get him a place in Australia’s 15-man squad for the T20 World Cup. Reprieve for Fraser-McGurk? According to a report by ESPNcricinfo, the 22-year-old will be in the USA and West Indies with the squad but only as a travel reserve. This will mean he won’t be able to participate in any official contest either as a player or a substitute. However, he could be part of the training sessions and can travel with the rest of the squad. The report also sees Matt Short being the other player part of the travel reserve and could be a value addition if there is any late casualty in the squad. For Fraser-McGurk, IPL 2024 proved to be the breakthrough season having scored 330 runs in nine matches. He was only roped in as a late change after Lungi Ngidi pulled out due to injury for DC in the IPL 2024. Considering he was only roped in for a base value of $24,000, it proved to be a bargain for DC who narrowly missed out on the IPL 2024 Playoffs. ALSO READ | IPL Playoffs 2024: KKR vs SRH in first qualifier & RR vs RCB in eliminator While Matt Short has already represented Australia in nine T20I matches with a best of 66 runs with the bat. He will primarily serve as a backup to Glenn Maxwell as he also bowls whenever required. Short had a breakout season in the Big Bash League 2022-23 that saw him win the Player of the Tournament Award after being the competitions leading run-scorer. He followed that up the next season, again making the most runs and going back-to-back in the Player of the Tournament Award. Australia open their T20 World Cup campaign against Oman in Barbados on June 5, before Group B fixtures against England, Namibia and Scotland. Australia squad: Mitchell Marsh (c), Ashton Agar, Pat Cummins, Tim David, Nathan Ellis, Cameron Green, Josh Hazlewood, Travis Head, Josh Inglis, Glenn Maxwell, Mitchell Starc, Marcus Stoinis, Matthew Wade, David Warner, Adam Zampa All teams are allowed to make changes to their squad until 25 May, after which any alteration will require approval from ICC's Event Technical Committee.

T20 World Cup 2024: Australia likely to include Jake Fraser-McGurk, Matt Short as travel reserves

Hardik Pandya has had a miserable run in IPL 2024. Rejoining the Mumbai Indians (MI), during the&nbsp;trade window last year, the former Gujarat Titans (GT) skipper fell flat in all departments in this year's season. In 13 games, Hardik has not created any impact as a captain as well as an all-rounder. Under him, MI are the first to be eliminated from the playoffs race and have only 4 wins in 13 games. On the other hand, he has managed just 200 runs at 18.18 and scalped 11 wickets at an economy of 10.59.&nbsp;

Ahead of MI's last game, where they host Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) on Friday (May 17) at the Wankhede Stadium, former Australian all-rounder Shane Watson has urged Hardik to step up and give his all, especially with the bat given the T20 World Cup is not far away.&nbsp;

Speaking on Jio Cinema, Watson said, "They (MI) have got so much to play for. They have been very disappointing this season. With the calibre of players that they have got in their unit, in front of their home crowd, they would want to put up a big show for their home fans and me."

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/ipl-2024-playoff-scenario-will-srh-qualify-if-rain-plays-spoilsport-and-who-gets-eliminated-read-all-details-722221">IPL 2024 Playoff Scenario: Will SRH qualify if rain plays spoilsport and who gets eliminated? Read all details</a>

He shifted his focus on Hardik and stated, "I have got this feeling that Hardik Pandya has really got to step up in last game and really exert his dominance. The T20 World Cup is not too far away, and he really has to hit his straps, especially with the bat."

Hardik returned to competitive cricket, after a knee injury during the home ODI WC&nbsp;last year and IPL 2024. Despite his low returns, he made a comeback in India's squad for the T20 WC, which kicks off in June in West Indies and the USA.&nbsp;

Watson&nbsp;added, "He (Hardik) has been most disappointing with the bat, knowing how good he was with GT, coming in at No. 4. The impact that he provided with the bat, he was coming in with plenty of runs to score and steady the ship. So, for me Hardik Pandya has to be the man to step up."

Hardik fired&nbsp;all cylinders for GT from 2022-23, managing&nbsp;833 runs across 2 seasons with 6 fifties along with 11 scalps.&nbsp;He&nbsp;will be desperate&nbsp;to make the most of his chances in MI's last IPL encounter, on Friday evening,&nbsp;given&nbsp;India&nbsp;only play one warm-up game before their T20 WC opener, i.e. on June 5.

Hardik Pandya has had a miserable run in IPL 2024. Rejoining the Mumbai Indians (MI), during the trade window last year, the former Gujarat Titans (GT) skipper fell flat in all departments in this year's season.

Hardik Pandya has had a miserable run in IPL 2024. Rejoining the Mumbai Indians (MI), during the trade window last year, the former Gujarat Titans (GT) skipper fell flat in all departments in this year's season. In 13 games, Hardik has not created any impact as a captain as well as an all-rounder. Under him, MI are the first to be eliminated from the playoffs race and have only 4 wins in 13 games. On the other hand, he has managed just 200 runs at 18.18 and scalped 11 wickets at an economy of 10.59. Ahead of MI's last game, where they host Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) on Friday (May 17) at the Wankhede Stadium, former Australian all-rounder Shane Watson has urged Hardik to step up and give his all, especially with the bat given the T20 World Cup is not far away. Speaking on Jio Cinema, Watson said, "They (MI) have got so much to play for. They have been very disappointing this season. With the calibre of players that they have got in their unit, in front of their home crowd, they would want to put up a big show for their home fans and me." Also read: IPL 2024 Playoff Scenario: Will SRH qualify if rain plays spoilsport and who gets eliminated? Read all details He shifted his focus on Hardik and stated, "I have got this feeling that Hardik Pandya has really got to step up in last game and really exert his dominance. The T20 World Cup is not too far away, and he really has to hit his straps, especially with the bat." Hardik returned to competitive cricket, after a knee injury during the home ODI WC last year and IPL 2024. Despite his low returns, he made a comeback in India's squad for the T20 WC, which kicks off in June in West Indies and the USA. Watson added, "He (Hardik) has been most disappointing with the bat, knowing how good he was with GT, coming in at No. 4. The impact that he provided with the bat, he was coming in with plenty of runs to score and steady the ship. So, for me Hardik Pandya has to be the man to step up." Hardik fired all cylinders for GT from 2022-23, managing 833 runs across 2 seasons with 6 fifties along with 11 scalps. He will be desperate to make the most of his chances in MI's last IPL encounter, on Friday evening, given India only play one warm-up game before their T20 WC opener, i.e. on June 5.

T20 World Cup is not far away: Watson asks Hardik to step up with the bat in MI's last game in IPL 2024

Rohit Sharma-led India will play Bangladesh in their only warm-up game ahead of the 2024 T20 World Cup, in West Indies and the USA in June. The tournament kicks off on June 1, soon after IPL 2024&nbsp;concludes on May 26. India play their tournament-opener on June 5 versus Ireland in New York. Meanwhile, three teams&nbsp;Pakistan, England and New Zealand have opted against playing any warm-up games.

On Thursday (May 16), the International Cricket Council (ICC) announced a total of 16 warm-up matches along with the venues. None of these games will have international status and teams will be allowed to use all their 15 members.

Pakistan and England are set to be involved in a four-match T20I series, from May 22-30, whereas New Zealand also played a five-match series in Pakistan in late April. Hence, these three sides have opted against playing in the warm-up round.&nbsp;&nbsp;

In the past, every team has played two warm-up matches before a men's ICC&nbsp;event. Nonetheless, the ICC explained the change in plans this time around.

The ICC said, "In a departure from the previous cycle, teams can now choose to play up to two warm-up matches, depending on their arrival time at the event."

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/youre-not-a-newbie-start-winning-games-for-india-gambhir-pushes-sanju-samson-to-utilise-t20-wc-chance-722197">‘You’re not a newbie, start winning games for India’: Gambhir pushes Sanju Samson to utilise T20 WC chance</a>

<h2>FULL FIXTURES OF&nbsp;T20 WORLD CUP 2024 WARM-UP GAMES</h2>

<h2>Monday 27 May</h2>

Canada vs Nepal, Grand Prairie Cricket Stadium, Grand Prairie, Texas&nbsp; 
Oman vs Papua New Guinea, Brian Lara Cricket Academy, Trinidad and Tobago&nbsp; 
Namibia vs Uganda, Brian Lara Cricket Academy, Trinidad and Tobago&nbsp;

Tuesday 28 May

Sri Lanka vs Netherlands, Broward County Stadium, Broward County, Florida&nbsp; 
Bangladesh vs USA, Grand Prairie Cricket Stadium, Grand Prairie, Texas&nbsp; 
Australia vs Namibia, Queen’s Park Oval, Trinidad and Tobago

Wednesday 29 May

South Africa intra-squad, Broward County Stadium, Broward County, Florida 
Afghanistan vs Oman, Queen’s Park Oval, Trinidad and Tobago

Thursday 30 May

Nepal vs USA, Grand Prairie Cricket Stadium, Grand Prairie, Texas&nbsp; 
Scotland vs Uganda, Brian Lara Cricket Academy, Trinidad and Tobago&nbsp; 
Netherlands vs Canada, Grand Prairie Cricket Stadium, Grand Prairie, Texas&nbsp; 
Namibia vs Papua New Guinea, Brian Lara Cricket Academy, Trinidad and Tobago&nbsp; 
West Indies vs Australia, Queen’s Park Oval, Trinidad and Tobago

Friday 31 May

Ireland vs Sri Lanka, Broward County Stadium, Broward County, Florida&nbsp; 
Scotland vs Afghanistan, Queen’s Park Oval, Trinidad and Tobago

Saturday 1 June

Bangladesh vs India, Venue TBC USA

England enter the T20 WC as the defending champions, having won the last edition, in 2022 in Australia, with a win over Pakistan in the final.

Rohit Sharma-led India will play Bangladesh in their only warm-up game ahead of the 2024 T20 World Cup, in West Indies and the USA in June. The tournament kicks off on June 1, soon after IPL 2024 concludes on May 26.

Rohit Sharma-led India will play Bangladesh in their only warm-up game ahead of the 2024 T20 World Cup, in West Indies and the USA in June. The tournament kicks off on June 1, soon after IPL 2024 concludes on May 26. India play their tournament-opener on June 5 versus Ireland in New York. Meanwhile, three teams Pakistan, England and New Zealand have opted against playing any warm-up games. On Thursday (May 16), the International Cricket Council (ICC) announced a total of 16 warm-up matches along with the venues. None of these games will have international status and teams will be allowed to use all their 15 members. Pakistan and England are set to be involved in a four-match T20I series, from May 22-30, whereas New Zealand also played a five-match series in Pakistan in late April. Hence, these three sides have opted against playing in the warm-up round. In the past, every team has played two warm-up matches before a men's ICC event. Nonetheless, the ICC explained the change in plans this time around. The ICC said, "In a departure from the previous cycle, teams can now choose to play up to two warm-up matches, depending on their arrival time at the event." Also read: ‘You’re not a newbie, start winning games for India’: Gambhir pushes Sanju Samson to utilise T20 WC chance FULL FIXTURES OF T20 WORLD CUP 2024 WARM-UP GAMES Monday 27 May Canada vs Nepal, Grand Prairie Cricket Stadium, Grand Prairie, Texas Oman vs Papua New Guinea, Brian Lara Cricket Academy, Trinidad and Tobago Namibia vs Uganda, Brian Lara Cricket Academy, Trinidad and Tobago Tuesday 28 May Sri Lanka vs Netherlands, Broward County Stadium, Broward County, Florida Bangladesh vs USA, Grand Prairie Cricket Stadium, Grand Prairie, Texas Australia vs Namibia, Queen’s Park Oval, Trinidad and Tobago Wednesday 29 May South Africa intra-squad, Broward County Stadium, Broward County, Florida Afghanistan vs Oman, Queen’s Park Oval, Trinidad and Tobago Thursday 30 May Nepal vs USA, Grand Prairie Cricket Stadium, Grand Prairie, Texas Scotland vs Uganda, Brian Lara Cricket Academy, Trinidad and Tobago Netherlands vs Canada, Grand Prairie Cricket Stadium, Grand Prairie, Texas Namibia vs Papua New Guinea, Brian Lara Cricket Academy, Trinidad and Tobago West Indies vs Australia, Queen’s Park Oval, Trinidad and Tobago Friday 31 May Ireland vs Sri Lanka, Broward County Stadium, Broward County, Florida Scotland vs Afghanistan, Queen’s Park Oval, Trinidad and Tobago Saturday 1 June Bangladesh vs India, Venue TBC USA England enter the T20 WC as the defending champions, having won the last edition, in 2022 in Australia, with a win over Pakistan in the final.

T20 World Cup: India to play Bangladesh in only warm-up tie, no games for Pakistan, England and NZ

Ahead of taking over as Pakistan's white-ball coach, Gary Kirsten opened up on how he wants to ease things for Babar Azam. Babar recently got reappointed as the limited-overs captain and will lead the Men in Green in the 2024 T20 World Cup in West Indies and the USA in June. Kirsten stated that he, along with his coaching staff, will want Babar to play with more freedom citing his recent 42-ball 75 in the three-match T20I series finale versus Ireland in Dublin.

Babar played with a lot more freedom and was in his attacking best in the Ireland-Pakistan series decider, with the scoreline tied at 1-1.

Courtesy of his knock, and Player-of-the-Match Shaheen Afridi's 3 for 14, the Asian giants won by six wickets in pursuit of 179.

Kirsten -- who will take over as the white-ball coach with the upcoming T20 WC is first assignment -- feels Babar carries a lot of weight of the team on his shoulders, which needs to stop.

On Pakistan's over-dependence on Babar, Kirsten said on Talk Sport, "It is not fair on any player. He shouldn't feel like he has to be contributing all the time to a team. I've been in touch with Babar. He's done remarkably well and carries a lot of the weight of the team on his shoulders."

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/thick-skinned-kirsten-vows-to-address-mental-block-in-pakistans-quest-for-2024-t20-world-cup-glory-722435">‘Thick skinned’ Kirsten vows to address mental block in Pakistan's quest for 2024 T20 World Cup glory</a>

The South African, who coached India and led them to 2011 ODI WC glory, further added, "What we will try to do as a coaching staff is to lift that a little bit and to realise he's just one of a whole group of players and that he can free himself up to play with his natural talent."

Babar replaced Shaheen as the T20I captain just recently before the World Cup, which kicks off on June 1. Pakistan are placed in Group A along with India, Ireland, USA and Canada.&nbsp;

Ahead of taking over as Pakistan's white-ball coach, Gary Kirsten opened up on how he wants to ease things for Babar Azam. Babar recently got reappointed as the limited-overs captain and will lead the Men in Green in the 2024 T20 World Cup in West Indies and the USA in June.

Ahead of taking over as Pakistan's white-ball coach, Gary Kirsten opened up on how he wants to ease things for Babar Azam. Babar recently got reappointed as the limited-overs captain and will lead the Men in Green in the 2024 T20 World Cup in West Indies and the USA in June. Kirsten stated that he, along with his coaching staff, will want Babar to play with more freedom citing his recent 42-ball 75 in the three-match T20I series finale versus Ireland in Dublin. Babar played with a lot more freedom and was in his attacking best in the Ireland-Pakistan series decider, with the scoreline tied at 1-1. Courtesy of his knock, and Player-of-the-Match Shaheen Afridi's 3 for 14, the Asian giants won by six wickets in pursuit of 179. Kirsten -- who will take over as the white-ball coach with the upcoming T20 WC is first assignment -- feels Babar carries a lot of weight of the team on his shoulders, which needs to stop. On Pakistan's over-dependence on Babar, Kirsten said on Talk Sport, "It is not fair on any player. He shouldn't feel like he has to be contributing all the time to a team. I've been in touch with Babar. He's done remarkably well and carries a lot of the weight of the team on his shoulders." Also read: ‘Thick skinned’ Kirsten vows to address mental block in Pakistan's quest for 2024 T20 World Cup glory The South African, who coached India and led them to 2011 ODI WC glory, further added, "What we will try to do as a coaching staff is to lift that a little bit and to realise he's just one of a whole group of players and that he can free himself up to play with his natural talent." Babar replaced Shaheen as the T20I captain just recently before the World Cup, which kicks off on June 1. Pakistan are placed in Group A along with India, Ireland, USA and Canada.

Pakistan's limited-overs coach Gary Kirsten shares his take on Babar Azam, aims to 'take pressure off' him

The newly-built Nassau County International Cricket Stadium, near New York, was launched on Wednesday with the sport's world body "excited" to conquer new territories through the T20 World Cup in June.

The 34,000-capacity stadium, with infrastructure from the Las Vegas Formula 1 circuit and drop-in pitches prepared in Florida, will host the hotly-anticipated India-Pakistan clash on June 9, among its eight scheduled World Cup games.

The showpiece 20-over event will be co-hosted by the West Indies and the United States starting June 1 with New York, Florida and Dallas as venues.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/ipl-2024-will-there-be-reserve-day-for-rcb-vs-csk-league-match-at-chinnaswamy-721832">IPL 2024: Will there be reserve day for RCB vs CSK league match at Chinnaswamy?</a>

The International Cricket Council (ICC) remains happy with the focus on the India-Pakistan clash and the Nassau project as part of bringing the game to the US.

"Yeah, absolutely! We can run that game anywhere and the interest in the fixture would be immense," Chris Tetley, the ICC's head of events, told reporters in a media roundtable.

"The news stories that we have seen and the media coverage in the US itself as well as amongst the cricket media around the world. I have not seen that before around an ICC event."

Tetley added: "We are really excited to bring the T20 World Cup cricket to the US and the opportunity that it presents to the sport and from what I can see there is an audience really waiting for us to come."

T20 Cricket will also feature as one of five new sports at the Los Angeles Olympics in 2028.

Making a cricket stadium in Nassau remained a huge challenge for the ICC, who got in Adelaide Oval curator Damian Hough for the job.

Hough created the first drop-in pitch in Adelaide in 2013 and the latest strips at the Nassau County ground promise good cricket and balance between bat and ball.

"People shouldn't be concerned about drop-in pitches," said Hough.

"They are proven around the world, definitely in Australia. Some of the best cricket is played on drop-in pitches and are really successful."

The newly-built Nassau County International Cricket Stadium, near New York, was launched on Wednesday with the sport's world body "excited" to conquer new territories through the T20 World Cup in June.

The newly-built Nassau County International Cricket Stadium, near New York, was launched on Wednesday with the sport's world body "excited" to conquer new territories through the T20 World Cup in June. The 34,000-capacity stadium, with infrastructure from the Las Vegas Formula 1 circuit and drop-in pitches prepared in Florida, will host the hotly-anticipated India-Pakistan clash on June 9, among its eight scheduled World Cup games. The showpiece 20-over event will be co-hosted by the West Indies and the United States starting June 1 with New York, Florida and Dallas as venues. Also Read: IPL 2024: Will there be reserve day for RCB vs CSK league match at Chinnaswamy? The International Cricket Council (ICC) remains happy with the focus on the India-Pakistan clash and the Nassau project as part of bringing the game to the US. "Yeah, absolutely! We can run that game anywhere and the interest in the fixture would be immense," Chris Tetley, the ICC's head of events, told reporters in a media roundtable. "The news stories that we have seen and the media coverage in the US itself as well as amongst the cricket media around the world. I have not seen that before around an ICC event." Tetley added: "We are really excited to bring the T20 World Cup cricket to the US and the opportunity that it presents to the sport and from what I can see there is an audience really waiting for us to come." T20 Cricket will also feature as one of five new sports at the Los Angeles Olympics in 2028. Making a cricket stadium in Nassau remained a huge challenge for the ICC, who got in Adelaide Oval curator Damian Hough for the job. Hough created the first drop-in pitch in Adelaide in 2013 and the latest strips at the Nassau County ground promise good cricket and balance between bat and ball. "People shouldn't be concerned about drop-in pitches," said Hough. "They are proven around the world, definitely in Australia. Some of the best cricket is played on drop-in pitches and are really successful."

T20 World Cup 2024: ICC unveils complete India-Pakistan venue ahead of marquee clash

Team India will kick off their campaign at T20 World Cup 2024, to be held in the West Indies and USA in June, with their tournament opener on June 5 versus Ireland. Ahead of the match, former Indian opener Gautam Gambhir opined on who should be India's wicketkeeper in the playing XI. With two in-form keeper-batters such as Rishabh Pant and Sanju Samson in the squad, Gambhir backed Pant to feature ahead of Samson.

Gambhir -- the 2007 T20 WC winner -- told Sportskeeda, "I think only one of them will be in the starting side and whoever it is, India must back him ... both have equal quality. It's touch and go but I'd start with Rishabh because he's a left-hander and a natural middle-order batsman. Sanju in the IPL has batted at number three, but India's top-order is fixed."

Further, the current Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) mentor stated, "Rishabh has batted at number five, six and seven. India need a wicketkeeper in that position as compared to a top-three batsman. A left-hander in the middle-order gives you that left-hand-right-hand combination."

"If India see that Sanju can score more runs at number six or seven, they could go with him as well," Gambhir added.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/2024-t20-world-cup-india-get-second-semi-final-on-june-27-with-no-reserve-day-read-why-721430">2024 T20 World Cup: India get second semi-final on June 27 with no reserve day | Read Why</a>

Both Samson and Pant have had a good run in the ongoing IPL 2024 edition, where they are leading the Rajasthan Royals (RR) and Delhi Capitals (DC), respectively. Samson has 486 runs -- fifth-most -- at a strike rate of&nbsp;158.30, including five fifties. Meanwhile, the Delhi captain has 446 runs -- ninth-most -- striking at 155.40&nbsp;with three half-centuries.&nbsp;

Thus, there isn't much to separate between the two. For India, Samson has a better strike rate than Pant in T20Is (133.09 when compared to his competitor's 126.37). However, the latter has played 66 T20Is as opposed to Samson's 25.

India squad:&nbsp;

Rohit Sharma (c), Hardik Pandya (vc), Yashasvi Jaiswal, Virat Kohli, Suryakumar Yadav, Rishabh Pant (wk), Sanju Samson (wk), Shivam Dube, Ravindra Jadeja, Axar Patel, Kuldeep Yadav, Yuzvendra Chahal, Arshdeep Singh, Jasprit Bumrah, Mohd. Siraj

Reserves:&nbsp;Shubman Gill, Rinku Singh, Khaleel Ahmed and Avesh Khan

Team India will kick off their campaign at T20 World Cup 2024, to be held in the West Indies and USA in June, with their tournament opener on June 5 versus Ireland.

Team India will kick off their campaign at T20 World Cup 2024, to be held in the West Indies and USA in June, with their tournament opener on June 5 versus Ireland. Ahead of the match, former Indian opener Gautam Gambhir opined on who should be India's wicketkeeper in the playing XI. With two in-form keeper-batters such as Rishabh Pant and Sanju Samson in the squad, Gambhir backed Pant to feature ahead of Samson. Gambhir -- the 2007 T20 WC winner -- told Sportskeeda, "I think only one of them will be in the starting side and whoever it is, India must back him ... both have equal quality. It's touch and go but I'd start with Rishabh because he's a left-hander and a natural middle-order batsman. Sanju in the IPL has batted at number three, but India's top-order is fixed." Further, the current Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) mentor stated, "Rishabh has batted at number five, six and seven. India need a wicketkeeper in that position as compared to a top-three batsman. A left-hander in the middle-order gives you that left-hand-right-hand combination." "If India see that Sanju can score more runs at number six or seven, they could go with him as well," Gambhir added. Also read: 2024 T20 World Cup: India get second semi-final on June 27 with no reserve day | Read Why Both Samson and Pant have had a good run in the ongoing IPL 2024 edition, where they are leading the Rajasthan Royals (RR) and Delhi Capitals (DC), respectively. Samson has 486 runs -- fifth-most -- at a strike rate of 158.30, including five fifties. Meanwhile, the Delhi captain has 446 runs -- ninth-most -- striking at 155.40 with three half-centuries. Thus, there isn't much to separate between the two. For India, Samson has a better strike rate than Pant in T20Is (133.09 when compared to his competitor's 126.37). However, the latter has played 66 T20Is as opposed to Samson's 25. India squad: Rohit Sharma (c), Hardik Pandya (vc), Yashasvi Jaiswal, Virat Kohli, Suryakumar Yadav, Rishabh Pant (wk), Sanju Samson (wk), Shivam Dube, Ravindra Jadeja, Axar Patel, Kuldeep Yadav, Yuzvendra Chahal, Arshdeep Singh, Jasprit Bumrah, Mohd. Siraj Reserves: Shubman Gill, Rinku Singh, Khaleel Ahmed and Avesh Khan

Rishabh Pant vs Sanju Samson: Gautam Gambhir names who could be India's wicketkeeper at T20 WC

The ninth edition of the men's T20 World Cup will be held in West Indies and the USA in June. Ahead of the marquee event, we have a look at the players with most wins under their belt in the history of the tournament, since 2007

T20 World Cup 2024: Players with most wins in T20 World Cup history

Rohit Sharma could be playing his last few games for Team India in T20Is as there are reports indicating that the all-format skipper is set to retire from the format after the 2024 T20 World Cup. The mega event kicks off in the West Indies and USA in June with India placed in Group A along with arch-rivals Pakistan, Ireland, USA and Canada. This will be Rohit's second successive T20 WC as the Indian captain. In the 2022 edition, India ended as semifinalists under Hitman's captaincy in the marquee event held in Australia.

As per a report carried out by Dainik Jagran, Rohit is likely to bid adieu to T20Is and the T20 WC could prove to be his last few appearances in the format. Meanwhile, the report further revealed that Hardik Pandya was picked in India's T20 WC squad not for his performances, which have been ordinary in IPL 2024, but for the fact that the BCCI is looking at him as the future T20I skipper (prompting the BCCI selectors to not only pick Hardik but name him Rohit's deputy in the squad).

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rahul-dravid-unlikely-to-reapply-for-indias-head-coach-position-reports-720881">Rahul Dravid unlikely to reapply for India’s head coach position – Reports</a>

While these are all reports, it will be interesting to see if any BCCI senior official or someone from the Indian team management reacts to all these rumours. In another report, it is believed that the BCCI selection committee chief Ajit Agarkar and captain Rohit weren't in favour of including Hardik in the T20 WC squad. Hardik hasn't featured for India since his injury during the ODI WC at home last year. In IPL 2024, he marked his return to competitive cricket but the all-rounder has failed to make a strong impact with both bat and ball.&nbsp;

However, Agarkar and Rohit were pressured to include Hardik in the mix. While the report didn't mention what this pressure was and whom it came from, it is believed that it came from the upper brass within the BCCI who is looking at Hardik as the future Indian captain -- at least in T20Is.&nbsp;

Rohit Sharma could be playing his last few games for Team India in T20Is as there are reports indicating that the all-format skipper is set to retire from the format after the 2024 T20 World Cup.

Rohit Sharma could be playing his last few games for Team India in T20Is as there are reports indicating that the all-format skipper is set to retire from the format after the 2024 T20 World Cup. The mega event kicks off in the West Indies and USA in June with India placed in Group A along with arch-rivals Pakistan, Ireland, USA and Canada. This will be Rohit's second successive T20 WC as the Indian captain. In the 2022 edition, India ended as semifinalists under Hitman's captaincy in the marquee event held in Australia. As per a report carried out by Dainik Jagran, Rohit is likely to bid adieu to T20Is and the T20 WC could prove to be his last few appearances in the format. Meanwhile, the report further revealed that Hardik Pandya was picked in India's T20 WC squad not for his performances, which have been ordinary in IPL 2024, but for the fact that the BCCI is looking at him as the future T20I skipper (prompting the BCCI selectors to not only pick Hardik but name him Rohit's deputy in the squad). Also read: Rahul Dravid unlikely to reapply for India’s head coach position – Reports While these are all reports, it will be interesting to see if any BCCI senior official or someone from the Indian team management reacts to all these rumours. In another report, it is believed that the BCCI selection committee chief Ajit Agarkar and captain Rohit weren't in favour of including Hardik in the T20 WC squad. Hardik hasn't featured for India since his injury during the ODI WC at home last year. In IPL 2024, he marked his return to competitive cricket but the all-rounder has failed to make a strong impact with both bat and ball. However, Agarkar and Rohit were pressured to include Hardik in the mix. While the report didn't mention what this pressure was and whom it came from, it is believed that it came from the upper brass within the BCCI who is looking at Hardik as the future Indian captain -- at least in T20Is.

Rohit set to retire from T20Is post T20 World Cup, Hardik added in India squad on ‘pressure’ - Report

Colin Munro Retirement:&nbsp;New Zealand's swashbuckling opener Colin Munro announced his international retirement on Friday (May 10), after missing out on a spot in the T20 World Cup squad. Munro -- who was known for his power-hitting -- ended with plenty of records in T20Is and will continue to remain active in franchise cricket. The left-hander ended his career with 57 ODIs, 65 T20Is and a solitary Test, comprising from 2013-2024. Munro's last international appearance came in a T20I, versus India, in 2020.

<h2>Colin Munro retires from international cricket</h2>

Munro was hoping to make an international return in the upcoming T20 WC but his omission prompted him to 'close the chapter officially'.

He said in a statement on Friday, "Although it has been a while since my last appearance, I never gave up hope that I might be able to return off the back of my franchise T20 form."

"With the announcement of the Black Caps squad for the T20 World Cup now is the perfect time to close that chapter officially."

Munro, however, will continue to remain active in franchise cricket but his legacy remains in the shortest format game as a pioneer of aggressive, "360-degree style" batting, stated New Zealand Cricket boss Scott Weenink.

Weenink said, "(He) took calculated risk-taking to a new level, and led what was to become a revolution in the way short-form cricket was played. We thank him for his amazing contribution in more than hundred international games."

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/relief-for-pakistan-as-mohammad-amir-finally-gets-irish-visa-set-to-join-team-ahead-of-2nd-t20i-719814">Relief for Pakistan as Mohammad Amir finally gets Irish visa; set to join team ahead of 2nd T20I</a>

<h2>Colin Munro's&nbsp;international career</h2>

Munro, the Durban-born power-hitter, made his T20I debut against South Africa in 2012. He rose up the ladder and became one of the regulars for the Kiwis in the shortest format with a 47-ball century against West Indies in Mount Maunganui in 2018 -- which was the fastest T20 century for&nbsp;New Zealand back then. In addition,&nbsp;he&nbsp;became the first player to score three T20I centuries.

The southpaw's 14-ball half-century against Sri Lanka, at Auckland's Eden Park&nbsp;in 2016, remains the&nbsp;fastest in T20Is by a New Zealander; and the fourth fastest of all time.

Along with two T20 World Cups,&nbsp;Munro&nbsp;was also part of the Kane Williamson-led Black Caps squad for the 2019 ODI World Cup, where they lost to hosts England in a thrilling finale at Lord's. He played a solitary Test, ending with 15 runs, but was known for his white-ball heroics. In 57 ODIs, he made 1,271 runs at a strike rate of 104.69.&nbsp;Munro's T20I numbers are impressive: 1,724 runs (sixth-most by a Kiwi batter) at a whopping strike rate of 156.44.

Colin Munro Retirement: New Zealand's swashbuckling opener Colin Munro announced his international retirement on Friday (May 10), after missing out on a spot in the T20 World Cup squad.

Colin Munro Retirement: New Zealand's swashbuckling opener Colin Munro announced his international retirement on Friday (May 10), after missing out on a spot in the T20 World Cup squad. Munro -- who was known for his power-hitting -- ended with plenty of records in T20Is and will continue to remain active in franchise cricket. The left-hander ended his career with 57 ODIs, 65 T20Is and a solitary Test, comprising from 2013-2024. Munro's last international appearance came in a T20I, versus India, in 2020. Colin Munro retires from international cricket Munro was hoping to make an international return in the upcoming T20 WC but his omission prompted him to 'close the chapter officially'. He said in a statement on Friday, "Although it has been a while since my last appearance, I never gave up hope that I might be able to return off the back of my franchise T20 form." "With the announcement of the Black Caps squad for the T20 World Cup now is the perfect time to close that chapter officially." Munro, however, will continue to remain active in franchise cricket but his legacy remains in the shortest format game as a pioneer of aggressive, "360-degree style" batting, stated New Zealand Cricket boss Scott Weenink. Weenink said, "(He) took calculated risk-taking to a new level, and led what was to become a revolution in the way short-form cricket was played. We thank him for his amazing contribution in more than hundred international games." Also read: Relief for Pakistan as Mohammad Amir finally gets Irish visa; set to join team ahead of 2nd T20I Colin Munro's international career Munro, the Durban-born power-hitter, made his T20I debut against South Africa in 2012. He rose up the ladder and became one of the regulars for the Kiwis in the shortest format with a 47-ball century against West Indies in Mount Maunganui in 2018 -- which was the fastest T20 century for New Zealand back then. In addition, he became the first player to score three T20I centuries. The southpaw's 14-ball half-century against Sri Lanka, at Auckland's Eden Park in 2016, remains the fastest in T20Is by a New Zealander; and the fourth fastest of all time. Along with two T20 World Cups, Munro was also part of the Kane Williamson-led Black Caps squad for the 2019 ODI World Cup, where they lost to hosts England in a thrilling finale at Lord's. He played a solitary Test, ending with 15 runs, but was known for his white-ball heroics. In 57 ODIs, he made 1,271 runs at a strike rate of 104.69. Munro's T20I numbers are impressive: 1,724 runs (sixth-most by a Kiwi batter) at a whopping strike rate of 156.44.

Colin Munro Retirement: Cricket fans get a big shock, star player announces retirement before T20 World Cup

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is set to release an advertisement for a new head coach for the senior men's team, as disclosed by the board secretary Jay Shah in Mumbai on Wednesday (May 8). It is to be noted that Rahul Dravid -- the current head coach -- accepted the offer to extend his original contract till June this year. Hence, his contract will expire after the end of India's campaign in the forthcoming T20 World Cup 2024 in West Indies and the USA.

<h2>'If Dravid wants to apply, he is free to do so'</h2>

"Rahul's tenure is only up to June. So if he wants to apply, he is free to do so," the BCCI secretary said. Meanwhile other members of the coaching staff -- such as batting, bowling, and fielding coaches -- will be decided after consultation with the new coach.

Notably, Shah did not rule out the possibility of recruiting a foreign coach and left the issue open-ended.

"We cannot determine whether the new coach will be Indian or foreign. It will be up to the CAC, and we are a global body," the BCCI official said, indicating that the board is not likely to consider different coaches for different formats, a system adopted by boards such as the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) and the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) in recent times.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/ipl-2024-were-managing-his-workload-stephen-fleming-comments-on-ms-dhonis-status-in-csk-playing-xi-719838">IPL 2024: We're managing his workload, Stephen Fleming comments on MS Dhoni's status in CSK Playing XI</a>

Shah added, "That decision will also be made by the CAC. There are many all-format players, like Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma, and Rishabh Pant, among others. Moreover, there is no precedent for such a situation in India."

The BCCI secretary has confirmed that the new coach will serve for a long term, for an initial period of three years at least.

Dravid took the coaching job in late 2021, succeeding Ravi Shastri.

Under him, India reached the WTC final in 2023 and the ODI World Cup final later that year. India also reached the semifinals of the 2022 T20 World Cup and will be desperate to end their ICC-trophy drought in the next edition of the marquee event.&nbsp;

Irrespective of his next move, Dravid will be eager to sign off his current term on a high, leading India to their second T20 WC triumph in the 2024 edition in June.

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is set to release an advertisement for a new head coach for the senior men's team, as disclosed by the board secretary Jay Shah in Mumbai on Wednesday (May 8).

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is set to release an advertisement for a new head coach for the senior men's team, as disclosed by the board secretary Jay Shah in Mumbai on Wednesday (May 8). It is to be noted that Rahul Dravid -- the current head coach -- accepted the offer to extend his original contract till June this year. Hence, his contract will expire after the end of India's campaign in the forthcoming T20 World Cup 2024 in West Indies and the USA. 'If Dravid wants to apply, he is free to do so' "Rahul's tenure is only up to June. So if he wants to apply, he is free to do so," the BCCI secretary said. Meanwhile other members of the coaching staff -- such as batting, bowling, and fielding coaches -- will be decided after consultation with the new coach. Notably, Shah did not rule out the possibility of recruiting a foreign coach and left the issue open-ended. "We cannot determine whether the new coach will be Indian or foreign. It will be up to the CAC, and we are a global body," the BCCI official said, indicating that the board is not likely to consider different coaches for different formats, a system adopted by boards such as the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) and the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) in recent times. Also read: IPL 2024: We're managing his workload, Stephen Fleming comments on MS Dhoni's status in CSK Playing XI Shah added, "That decision will also be made by the CAC. There are many all-format players, like Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma, and Rishabh Pant, among others. Moreover, there is no precedent for such a situation in India." The BCCI secretary has confirmed that the new coach will serve for a long term, for an initial period of three years at least. Dravid took the coaching job in late 2021, succeeding Ravi Shastri. Under him, India reached the WTC final in 2023 and the ODI World Cup final later that year. India also reached the semifinals of the 2022 T20 World Cup and will be desperate to end their ICC-trophy drought in the next edition of the marquee event. Irrespective of his next move, Dravid will be eager to sign off his current term on a high, leading India to their second T20 WC triumph in the 2024 edition in June.

BCCI to release advertisement for new Team India coach as Rahul Dravid's extended tenure nears end

Sri Lanka have announced their squad for the upcoming T20 World Cup, with Wanindu Hasaranga leading the pack for the 2014 champions.

The squad announced on Thursday (May 9) includes Charith Asalanka as vice-captain while Chennai Super Kings (CSK) star bowler Matheesha Pathirana also made the squad despite injury ruling him out of the Indian Premier League (IPL 2024).

Sri Lanka will start their campaign against South Africa on June 3 in New York and will hope to recapture glory after a decade.

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Here's your Sri Lankan squad ready to roar at the ICC <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/T20WorldCup?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#T20WorldCup</a> 2024 in the USA and Caribbean! 🇱🇰 
 
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<h2>Hasaranga to lead Sri Lanka</h2>

Once a powerhouse of world cricket, Sri Lanka&nbsp;have been on the decline&nbsp;in recent years but will aim to get back the lost glory under Hasaranga and Co.&nbsp;

The 15-member squad includes veteran star Angelo Matthews and Dasun Shanaka&nbsp;while&nbsp;Dunith Wellalage&nbsp;also&nbsp;gets the cut. Matthews is the lone survivor from the Sri Lanka squad that won the T20 World Cup&nbsp;in&nbsp;2014.&nbsp;

Hasaranga’s&nbsp;eligibility had earlier caused controversy as he was likely to miss the start of the tournament.

During Sri&nbsp;Lanka's&nbsp;defeat to Bangladesh on March&nbsp;18&nbsp;Hasaranga was handed demerit points for showing dissent against an umpiring decision. According to the ICC ruling, a player with eight demerit points could be&nbsp;handed&nbsp;a ban for two Tests, four ODIs or four T20Is, depending on which came first.

In this case, Hasaranga was entitled to serve his ban during the T20 World Cup in the West Indies and the USA and could have missed up to four matches during the tournament.

However, the player and the board soon named Hasaranga in the Test squad, despite him having announced his retirement from the red-ball format.&nbsp;

As soon as&nbsp;he&nbsp;was registered&nbsp;for the Test series against Bangladesh,&nbsp;a two-match ban was triggered, clearing the slate of eight demerit points.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2024-heres-why-gujarat-titans-will-wear-lavender-jersey-against-kolkata-knight-riders-719787">IPL 2024: Here's why Gujarat Titans will wear lavender jersey against Kolkata Knight Riders</a>

On the flip side, Vijayakanth Viyaskanth, who made his IPL 2024 debut for Surnisers Hyderabad against Lucknow Super Giants on&nbsp;Wednesday&nbsp;was not included&nbsp;in the primary squad. He will join the reserve team alongside Asitha Fernando, Bhanuka Rajapaksa and Janith Liyanage.

<h2>Sri Lanka squad for 2024 T20 World Cup</h2>

Wanindu Hasaranga (capt), Charith Asalanka (vc), Kusal Mendis, Pathum Nissanka, Kamindu Mendis, Sadeera Samarawickrama, Angelo Mathews, Dasun Shanaka, Dhananjaya de Silva, Maheesh Theekshana, Dunith Wellalage, Dushmantha Chameera, Matheesha Pathirana, Nuwan Thushara, Dilshan Madushanka

Travelling reserves: Asitha Fernando, Vijayakanth Viyaskanth, Bhanuka Rajapaksa, Janith Liyanage

Sri Lanka have announced their squad for the upcoming T20 World Cup, with Wanindu Hasaranga leading the pack for the 2014 champions. The squad announced on Thursday (May 9) includes Charith Asalanka as vice-captain while Chennai Super Kings (CSK) star bowler Matheesha Pathirana also made the squad despite injury ruling him out of the Indian Premier League (IPL 2024).

Sri Lanka have announced their squad for the upcoming T20 World Cup, with Wanindu Hasaranga leading the pack for the 2014 champions. The squad announced on Thursday (May 9) includes Charith Asalanka as vice-captain while Chennai Super Kings (CSK) star bowler Matheesha Pathirana also made the squad despite injury ruling him out of the Indian Premier League (IPL 2024). Sri Lanka will start their campaign against South Africa on June 3 in New York and will hope to recapture glory after a decade. Here's your Sri Lankan squad ready to roar at the ICC #T20WorldCup 2024 in the USA and Caribbean! 🇱🇰 READ: https://t.co/9Zia3yVeVZ #LankanLions pic.twitter.com/ZresMKrIqg — Sri Lanka Cricket 🇱🇰 (@OfficialSLC) May 9, 2024 × Hasaranga to lead Sri Lanka Once a powerhouse of world cricket, Sri Lanka have been on the decline in recent years but will aim to get back the lost glory under Hasaranga and Co. The 15-member squad includes veteran star Angelo Matthews and Dasun Shanaka while Dunith Wellalage also gets the cut. Matthews is the lone survivor from the Sri Lanka squad that won the T20 World Cup in 2014. Hasaranga’s eligibility had earlier caused controversy as he was likely to miss the start of the tournament. During Sri Lanka's defeat to Bangladesh on March 18 Hasaranga was handed demerit points for showing dissent against an umpiring decision. According to the ICC ruling, a player with eight demerit points could be handed a ban for two Tests, four ODIs or four T20Is, depending on which came first. In this case, Hasaranga was entitled to serve his ban during the T20 World Cup in the West Indies and the USA and could have missed up to four matches during the tournament. However, the player and the board soon named Hasaranga in the Test squad, despite him having announced his retirement from the red-ball format. As soon as he was registered for the Test series against Bangladesh, a two-match ban was triggered, clearing the slate of eight demerit points. ALSO READ | IPL 2024: Here's why Gujarat Titans will wear lavender jersey against Kolkata Knight Riders On the flip side, Vijayakanth Viyaskanth, who made his IPL 2024 debut for Surnisers Hyderabad against Lucknow Super Giants on Wednesday was not included in the primary squad. He will join the reserve team alongside Asitha Fernando, Bhanuka Rajapaksa and Janith Liyanage. Sri Lanka squad for 2024 T20 World Cup Wanindu Hasaranga (capt), Charith Asalanka (vc), Kusal Mendis, Pathum Nissanka, Kamindu Mendis, Sadeera Samarawickrama, Angelo Mathews, Dasun Shanaka, Dhananjaya de Silva, Maheesh Theekshana, Dunith Wellalage, Dushmantha Chameera, Matheesha Pathirana, Nuwan Thushara, Dilshan Madushanka Travelling reserves: Asitha Fernando, Vijayakanth Viyaskanth, Bhanuka Rajapaksa, Janith Liyanage

T20 World Cup 2024: Wanindu Hasaranga leads Sri Lanka squad; injured CSK star Matheesha Pathirana included

Former Indian all-rounder Yuvraj Singh lavished praise on Virat Kohli and labelled him as the best batter of this generation. Yuvraj further stated that the former Indian captain deserves to win a World Cup medal more than anyone else. Kohli is gearing up for India's upcoming campaign in the T20 World Cup 2024 edition, in West Indies and USA in June, where he will compete in the tournament for the sixth time.&nbsp;

Kohli has been in sensational form in T20 WC history, amassing 1,143 runs. The 35-year-old was adjudged Player of the Tournament in 2014 and 2016 as well as in the 2022 edition. However, he has never won the T20 WC as his first-ever appearance came in 2012, five years after India's championship win in the inaugural season in 2007. He came close to winning the ODI World Cup at home in&nbsp;2023 but India lost to Australia in the final. Kohli ended up with 765 runs -- most by any batter in a single edition.

<h2>'I think he is also someone who needs a World Cup medal'</h2>

Thus, Kohli remains India's biggest player, especially in mega-events, and Yuvraj has backed him to win another&nbsp;World Cup title soon. The former Indian all-rounder said in a chat with ICC, "The best batter of this generation, I feel, in all formats. And I think he is also someone who needs a World Cup medal. He has one. I'm sure he is not satisfied with one. I think he surely deserves that medal as well."

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/ipl-2024-lsg-boss-sanjeev-goenka-fumes-after-loss-vs-srh-animated-talk-with-kl-rahul-goes-viral-watch-719529">IPL 2024: LSG boss Sanjiv Goenka fumes after loss vs SRH, animated talk with KL Rahul goes viral - Watch</a>

Yuvraj further opined on Kohli's playing style and added, "I think he understands his game really well. He knows if he's there till the end, he is going to win the game for India and he has done that on some big occasions - against Australia in Mohali as well." He concluded, "Once he had the confidence of chasing and knowing the situation, he knows how to bat in these situations, knows which bowlers to attack, which bowlers to take singles off, when to attack again, handle the pressure and knows when to change his game."

Kohli-starrer Indian team will begin their T20 WC campaign on June 5, where they face Ireland in New York. They are placed in Group A along with arch-rivals Pakistan, Ireland, Canada and the USA.&nbsp;

India squad for T20 WC 2024:&nbsp;

Rohit Sharma (c), Yashashvi Jaiswal, Virat Kohli, Suryakumar Yadav, Rishabh Pant (wk), Sanju Samson (wk), Hardik Pandya (vc), Shivam Dube, Ravindra Jadeja, Axar Patel, Kuldeep Yadav, Yuzvendra Chahal, Arshdeep Singh, Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Siraj.

Reserves: Shubman Gill, Rinku Singh, Khaleel Ahmed, Avesh Khan

Former Indian all-rounder Yuvraj Singh lavished praise on Virat Kohli and labelled him as the best batter of this generation. Yuvraj further stated that the former Indian captain deserves to win a World Cup medal more than anyone else.

Former Indian all-rounder Yuvraj Singh lavished praise on Virat Kohli and labelled him as the best batter of this generation. Yuvraj further stated that the former Indian captain deserves to win a World Cup medal more than anyone else. Kohli is gearing up for India's upcoming campaign in the T20 World Cup 2024 edition, in West Indies and USA in June, where he will compete in the tournament for the sixth time. Kohli has been in sensational form in T20 WC history, amassing 1,143 runs. The 35-year-old was adjudged Player of the Tournament in 2014 and 2016 as well as in the 2022 edition. However, he has never won the T20 WC as his first-ever appearance came in 2012, five years after India's championship win in the inaugural season in 2007. He came close to winning the ODI World Cup at home in 2023 but India lost to Australia in the final. Kohli ended up with 765 runs -- most by any batter in a single edition. 'I think he is also someone who needs a World Cup medal' Thus, Kohli remains India's biggest player, especially in mega-events, and Yuvraj has backed him to win another World Cup title soon. The former Indian all-rounder said in a chat with ICC, "The best batter of this generation, I feel, in all formats. And I think he is also someone who needs a World Cup medal. He has one. I'm sure he is not satisfied with one. I think he surely deserves that medal as well." Also read: IPL 2024: LSG boss Sanjiv Goenka fumes after loss vs SRH, animated talk with KL Rahul goes viral - Watch Yuvraj further opined on Kohli's playing style and added, "I think he understands his game really well. He knows if he's there till the end, he is going to win the game for India and he has done that on some big occasions - against Australia in Mohali as well." He concluded, "Once he had the confidence of chasing and knowing the situation, he knows how to bat in these situations, knows which bowlers to attack, which bowlers to take singles off, when to attack again, handle the pressure and knows when to change his game." Kohli-starrer Indian team will begin their T20 WC campaign on June 5, where they face Ireland in New York. They are placed in Group A along with arch-rivals Pakistan, Ireland, Canada and the USA. India squad for T20 WC 2024: Rohit Sharma (c), Yashashvi Jaiswal, Virat Kohli, Suryakumar Yadav, Rishabh Pant (wk), Sanju Samson (wk), Hardik Pandya (vc), Shivam Dube, Ravindra Jadeja, Axar Patel, Kuldeep Yadav, Yuzvendra Chahal, Arshdeep Singh, Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Siraj. Reserves: Shubman Gill, Rinku Singh, Khaleel Ahmed, Avesh Khan

Virat Kohli is best batter of this generation, deserves World Cup medal - Yuvraj Singh lauds Indian star

Ahead of Pakistan's tour of Ireland and England, white-ball captain Babar Azam opened up on the forthcoming T20 World Cup in West Indies and USA in June. The Men in Green are placed in Group A along with arch-rivals India, Canada, USA and Ireland. They will lock horns with India on June 9 in New York and Babar revealed that the one-time winners will have plans against Virat Kohli, who has an exceptional T20I record versus Pakistan. The right-hander has 488 runs in 10 games versus Babar &amp; Co., averaging a splendid 81.33.

Prior to Pakistan's departure for Ireland and England, Babar was asked on how will they tackle Kohli. He told the reporters in a press conference, "As a team, you always plan against different teams according to their strengths. We don't plan anything against only one player. We plan for all 11 players. We don't know much about the conditions in New York and we will plan accordingly. He [Virat Kohli] is one of the best players and we will plan against him as well."

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-west-indies-tighten-security-after-t20-world-cup-receive-terror-threat-718357">Cricket West Indies tightens security after T20 World Cup receive terror threat from North Pakistan</a>

In the 2022 T20 WC, both India and Pakistan were in the same group in the Super 10. The two Asian giants locked horns at the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG), Melbourne where Kohli's 82 not out, off 49 balls, propelled Rohit Sharma-led Men in Blue to a memorable four-wicket win, on the last ball of the contest, in chase of 160. Opting to bowl first, the 2007 winners India restricted Pakistan to 159 for 7 with Hardik Pandya and Arshdeep Singh accounting for three wickets each. In reply, India were on the mat and reeling at 31 for 4 before Hardik-Kohli's 113-run fifth-wicket stand turned things around and Kohli ended proceedings in style in a thrilling last over.&nbsp;

India T20 WC squad: Rohit Sharma (c), Yashashvi Jaiswal, Virat Kohli, Suryakumar Yadav,&nbsp;Rishabh Pant (wk), Sanju Samson (wk), Hardik Pandya (vc), Shivam Dube, Ravindra Jadeja, Axar Patel, Kuldeep Yadav, Yuzvendra Chahal,&nbsp;Arshdeep Singh, Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Siraj.

Reserves:&nbsp;Shubman Gill, Rinku Singh, Khaleel Ahmed, Avesh Khan

Pakistan T20 WC squad: To be announced&nbsp;

Pakistan will tour Ireland and play three T20Is, in Dublin, from May 10-14 before facing Jos Buttler-led England in four T20Is from May 22-30. Their final T20 WC squad is expected to be out during the England series.

Ahead of Pakistan's tour of Ireland and England, white-ball captain Babar Azam opened up on the forthcoming T20 World Cup in West Indies and USA in June. The Men in Green are placed in Group A along with arch-rivals India, Canada, USA and Ireland.

Ahead of Pakistan's tour of Ireland and England, white-ball captain Babar Azam opened up on the forthcoming T20 World Cup in West Indies and USA in June. The Men in Green are placed in Group A along with arch-rivals India, Canada, USA and Ireland. They will lock horns with India on June 9 in New York and Babar revealed that the one-time winners will have plans against Virat Kohli, who has an exceptional T20I record versus Pakistan. The right-hander has 488 runs in 10 games versus Babar & Co., averaging a splendid 81.33. Prior to Pakistan's departure for Ireland and England, Babar was asked on how will they tackle Kohli. He told the reporters in a press conference, "As a team, you always plan against different teams according to their strengths. We don't plan anything against only one player. We plan for all 11 players. We don't know much about the conditions in New York and we will plan accordingly. He [Virat Kohli] is one of the best players and we will plan against him as well." Also read: Cricket West Indies tightens security after T20 World Cup receive terror threat from North Pakistan In the 2022 T20 WC, both India and Pakistan were in the same group in the Super 10. The two Asian giants locked horns at the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG), Melbourne where Kohli's 82 not out, off 49 balls, propelled Rohit Sharma-led Men in Blue to a memorable four-wicket win, on the last ball of the contest, in chase of 160. Opting to bowl first, the 2007 winners India restricted Pakistan to 159 for 7 with Hardik Pandya and Arshdeep Singh accounting for three wickets each. In reply, India were on the mat and reeling at 31 for 4 before Hardik-Kohli's 113-run fifth-wicket stand turned things around and Kohli ended proceedings in style in a thrilling last over. India T20 WC squad: Rohit Sharma (c), Yashashvi Jaiswal, Virat Kohli, Suryakumar Yadav, Rishabh Pant (wk), Sanju Samson (wk), Hardik Pandya (vc), Shivam Dube, Ravindra Jadeja, Axar Patel, Kuldeep Yadav, Yuzvendra Chahal, Arshdeep Singh, Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Siraj. Reserves: Shubman Gill, Rinku Singh, Khaleel Ahmed, Avesh Khan Pakistan T20 WC squad: To be announced Pakistan will tour Ireland and play three T20Is, in Dublin, from May 10-14 before facing Jos Buttler-led England in four T20Is from May 22-30. Their final T20 WC squad is expected to be out during the England series.

‘We will....’ - Babar Azam on plan vs Virat Kohli ahead of marquee India-Pakistan T20 WC clash

Barely weeks away, the T20 World Cup 2024 edition is in focus now. Pakistan have a few more games to play before showing up at the mega event, to be co-hosted by West Indies and USA in June. Ahead of the showpiece tournament, Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) chief Mohsin Naqvi provided the players with extra motivation by announcing a mammoth amount for each of them if the Men in Green emerge victorious in the T20 WC. Babar Azam-led Pakistan are placed in Group A along with arch-rivals India, USA, Canada and Ireland.

Before Pakistan's upcoming T20Is versus Ireland and England, PCB&nbsp;posted on social media, "Chairman PCB Mohsin Naqvi announced to give 100,000 dollars prize to every player for winning the T20 World Cup."

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-west-indies-tighten-security-after-t20-world-cup-receive-terror-threat-718357">Cricket West Indies tightens security after T20 World Cup receive terror threat from North Pakistan</a>

<h2>'We hope that you will raise the Pakistani flag this time'</h2>

Naqvi also shared some words of encouragement for the players during a recent meet and said, as quoted by Geo News, "Don't care about anyone. Play only for Pakistan. All the players stand united [...] showcase teamwork and god willing, victory will be yours. The nation has a lot of expectations from you [...] we hope that you will raise the Pakistani flag this time."

At present, the Babar-led Pakistan side are gearing up for their away T20Is versus Ireland and England. They first play three T20Is versus Ireland, in Dublin, from May 10-14 before touring England for four T20Is from May 22-30. Their final T20 WC squad will be announced during the two series.

Squad: Babar Azam (c), Abrar Ahmed, Azam Khan, Fakhar Zaman, Haris Rauf, Hasan Ali, Iftikhar Ahmed, Imad Wasim, Mohammad Abbas Afridi, Mohammad Amir, Mohammad Rizwan, Muhammad Irfan Khan, Naseem Shah, Saim Ayub, Salman Ali Agha, Shadab Khan, Shaheen Shah Afridi, Usman Khan

Barely weeks away, the T20 World Cup 2024 edition is in focus now. Pakistan have a few more games to play before showing up at the mega event, to be co-hosted by West Indies and USA in June.

Barely weeks away, the T20 World Cup 2024 edition is in focus now. Pakistan have a few more games to play before showing up at the mega event, to be co-hosted by West Indies and USA in June. Ahead of the showpiece tournament, Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) chief Mohsin Naqvi provided the players with extra motivation by announcing a mammoth amount for each of them if the Men in Green emerge victorious in the T20 WC. Babar Azam-led Pakistan are placed in Group A along with arch-rivals India, USA, Canada and Ireland. Before Pakistan's upcoming T20Is versus Ireland and England, PCB posted on social media, "Chairman PCB Mohsin Naqvi announced to give 100,000 dollars prize to every player for winning the T20 World Cup." Also read: Cricket West Indies tightens security after T20 World Cup receive terror threat from North Pakistan 'We hope that you will raise the Pakistani flag this time' Naqvi also shared some words of encouragement for the players during a recent meet and said, as quoted by Geo News, "Don't care about anyone. Play only for Pakistan. All the players stand united [...] showcase teamwork and god willing, victory will be yours. The nation has a lot of expectations from you [...] we hope that you will raise the Pakistani flag this time." At present, the Babar-led Pakistan side are gearing up for their away T20Is versus Ireland and England. They first play three T20Is versus Ireland, in Dublin, from May 10-14 before touring England for four T20Is from May 22-30. Their final T20 WC squad will be announced during the two series. Squad: Babar Azam (c), Abrar Ahmed, Azam Khan, Fakhar Zaman, Haris Rauf, Hasan Ali, Iftikhar Ahmed, Imad Wasim, Mohammad Abbas Afridi, Mohammad Amir, Mohammad Rizwan, Muhammad Irfan Khan, Naseem Shah, Saim Ayub, Salman Ali Agha, Shadab Khan, Shaheen Shah Afridi, Usman Khan

T20 WC: PCB chief announces WHOPPING amount for each Pakistan player if Men in Green emerge victorious

Co-hosts West Indies have announced their squad for the upcoming T20 World Cup&nbsp;with&nbsp;Rovman Powell set to lead the side in his homeland. The 15-member&nbsp;squad&nbsp;did not have too many surprises&nbsp; and there was no international return of Sunil Narine despite impressing in the ongoing Indian Premier League (IPL 2024). The&nbsp;squad&nbsp;also consists of Alzarri Joseph and Narine’s KKR teammate Andre Russell as the hosts bid to win their third T20 World Cup.&nbsp;

<h2>Powell to lead West&nbsp;Indies</h2>

With much speculation surrounding the return of Sunil Narine, chief selector Desmond Haynes and Head Coach Daren Sammy on Friday (May 3) did not pull the rabbit out of the hat and opted to go with recent international players. Alzarri Joseph will be deputy captain for the side&nbsp;with&nbsp;places for Shai Hope, Akeal Hosein and Rajasthan Royals’ Shimron Hetmyer.&nbsp;

The T20 World Cup&nbsp;will be an emotional moment for the West Indies fans after having&nbsp;missed out on qualifying&nbsp;for the 2023 ODI World Cup.

The hosts won the T20 World Cup in 2012 when they beat Sri Lanka in the&nbsp;final&nbsp;while England were on the receiving end of a dramatic thriller in 2016 when the Caribbean side won their second title.&nbsp;

Interestingly, West Indies have opted not to name reserve players for the T20 World Cup and still have&nbsp;time&nbsp;until May 25 to make changes.&nbsp;So&nbsp;there&nbsp;is still an opportunity to retain&nbsp; Narine&nbsp;who&nbsp;as&nbsp;things&nbsp;stand&nbsp;is a retired international player.&nbsp;West Indies are in Group C along with Papua New Guinea, Uganda, New Zealand and Afghanistan.&nbsp;

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West Indies will play all their matches in their homeland despite the USA being the co-host. They will start their T20 World Cup journey against Papua New Guinea on June 2 before facing debutants Uganda on June 8.&nbsp;

West Indies squad for T20 World Cup 2024:

Rovman Powell (C), Alzarri Joseph (VC), Johnson Charles, Roston Chase, Shimron Hetmyer, Jason Holder, Shai Hope, Akeal Hosein, Shamar Joseph, Brandon King, Gudakesh Motie, Nicholas Pooran, Andre Russell, Sherfane Rutherford, Romario Shepherd

Co-hosts West Indies have announced their squad for the upcoming T20 World Cup with Rovman Powell set to lead the side in his homeland. The 15-member squad did not have too many surprises and there was no international return of Sunil Narine despite impressing in the ongoing Indian Premier League (IPL 2024).

Co-hosts West Indies have announced their squad for the upcoming T20 World Cup with Rovman Powell set to lead the side in his homeland. The 15-member squad did not have too many surprises and there was no international return of Sunil Narine despite impressing in the ongoing Indian Premier League (IPL 2024). The squad also consists of Alzarri Joseph and Narine’s KKR teammate Andre Russell as the hosts bid to win their third T20 World Cup. Powell to lead West Indies With much speculation surrounding the return of Sunil Narine, chief selector Desmond Haynes and Head Coach Daren Sammy on Friday (May 3) did not pull the rabbit out of the hat and opted to go with recent international players. Alzarri Joseph will be deputy captain for the side with places for Shai Hope, Akeal Hosein and Rajasthan Royals’ Shimron Hetmyer. The T20 World Cup will be an emotional moment for the West Indies fans after having missed out on qualifying for the 2023 ODI World Cup. The hosts won the T20 World Cup in 2012 when they beat Sri Lanka in the final while England were on the receiving end of a dramatic thriller in 2016 when the Caribbean side won their second title. Interestingly, West Indies have opted not to name reserve players for the T20 World Cup and still have time until May 25 to make changes. So there is still an opportunity to retain Narine who as things stand is a retired international player. West Indies are in Group C along with Papua New Guinea, Uganda, New Zealand and Afghanistan. ALSO READ | 'I'm not sure...': Jurgen Klopp provides update on his spat with Liverpool forward Mo Salah West Indies will play all their matches in their homeland despite the USA being the co-host. They will start their T20 World Cup journey against Papua New Guinea on June 2 before facing debutants Uganda on June 8. West Indies squad for T20 World Cup 2024: Rovman Powell (C), Alzarri Joseph (VC), Johnson Charles, Roston Chase, Shimron Hetmyer, Jason Holder, Shai Hope, Akeal Hosein, Shamar Joseph, Brandon King, Gudakesh Motie, Nicholas Pooran, Andre Russell, Sherfane Rutherford, Romario Shepherd

T20 World Cup 2024: Rovman Powell to lead West Indies' 15-man squad; no international return for Sunil Narine

Former Indian chief selector Kris Srikkanth has lashed out at the Ajit Agarkar-led BCCI selection committee for picking out-of-form Shubman Gill over Ruturaj Gaikwad in India's 15-man T20 World Cup squad. On Tuesday (April 30), the BCCI announced India's squad which features Rohit Sharma as the captain along with regulars such as Virat Kohli, Suryakumar Yadav, Jasprit Bumrah, etc.

Hardik Pandya, Rishabh Pant and Sanju Samson were also named in the main squad with Gill, Avesh Khan, Khaleel Ahmed and Rinku Singh part of&nbsp;the reserves list. This has not been well received by Srikkanth -- India's 1983 World Cup-winning member -- as he feels Gill is completely out of form in the ongoing IPL 2024 edition, contrary to Chennai Super Kings (CSK) captain Gaikwad.

So far, Gujarat Titans (GT) captain Gill has 320 runs in 10 games at an average of&nbsp;35.56. Meanwhile, Gaikwad is the top run-getter with 509 runs -- at 63.63 and a strike-rate of&nbsp;146.68 with 4 fifties and a hundred. Thus, Srikkanth feels it wasn't fair to overlook the CSK captain's purple patch and claimed that&nbsp;selection is 'all about favouritism'.

<h2>'Gill is selectors' delight, team selection is all about favouritism'</h2>

Srikkanth said on his YouTube channel 'Cheeky Chekka', "Shubman Gill is totally out of form, but why he's selected in the team. There's no doubt that Ruturaj Gaikwad deserves a place. He scored more than 500 runs in 17 innings. Also he scored a century against Australia. Shubman Gill is selectors' delight. He gets chance even if he fails. He finds place even if he fails in Test, ODIs and T20s.There's too much of favoritism in selection. The team selection is all about favouritism."

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/ipl-2024-youve-made-him-a-scapegoat-former-indian-cricketer-blasts-bcci-for-rinku-singhs-exclusion-717014">‘You’ve made him a scapegoat,’ former Indian cricketer blasts BCCI for Rinku Singh’s exclusion from WC squad</a>

Srikkanth even slammed the selectors for not including Rinku in the main squad, despite a strike-rate of 176.23 in 15 T20Is.&nbsp;

In this regard, he added, "I am not at all happy. C'mon all of you. Rinku Singh has been spoken about all over the world. He has performed in each and every opportunity he has got. How can you drop Rinku Singh? You drop anyone else, it doesn't matter. In my view, Rinku Singh should have been there, even if that meant you had to drop Yashasvi Jaiswal."

India are in Group A along with arch-rivals Pakistan, Ireland, USA and Canada and begin their campaign versus Ireland on June 5, in New York.

India's squad for T20 World Cup 2024:

Rohit Sharma (C), Hardik Pandya (VC), Yashasvi Jaiswal, Virat Kohli, Suryakumar Yadav, Rishabh Pant, Sanju Samson, Shivam Dube, Ravindra Jadeja, Axar Patel, Kuldeep Yadav, Yuzvendra Chahal, Arshdeep Singh, Mohammed Siraj, Jasprit Bumrah.

Reserves: Shubman Gill, Rinku Singh, Khaleel Ahmed, Avesh Khan

Former Indian chief selector Kris Srikkanth has lashed out at the Ajit Agarkar-led BCCI selection committee for picking out-of-form Shubman Gill over Ruturaj Gaikwad in India's 15-man T20 World Cup squad.

Former Indian chief selector Kris Srikkanth has lashed out at the Ajit Agarkar-led BCCI selection committee for picking out-of-form Shubman Gill over Ruturaj Gaikwad in India's 15-man T20 World Cup squad. On Tuesday (April 30), the BCCI announced India's squad which features Rohit Sharma as the captain along with regulars such as Virat Kohli, Suryakumar Yadav, Jasprit Bumrah, etc. Hardik Pandya, Rishabh Pant and Sanju Samson were also named in the main squad with Gill, Avesh Khan, Khaleel Ahmed and Rinku Singh part of the reserves list. This has not been well received by Srikkanth -- India's 1983 World Cup-winning member -- as he feels Gill is completely out of form in the ongoing IPL 2024 edition, contrary to Chennai Super Kings (CSK) captain Gaikwad. So far, Gujarat Titans (GT) captain Gill has 320 runs in 10 games at an average of 35.56. Meanwhile, Gaikwad is the top run-getter with 509 runs -- at 63.63 and a strike-rate of 146.68 with 4 fifties and a hundred. Thus, Srikkanth feels it wasn't fair to overlook the CSK captain's purple patch and claimed that selection is 'all about favouritism'. 'Gill is selectors' delight, team selection is all about favouritism' Srikkanth said on his YouTube channel 'Cheeky Chekka', "Shubman Gill is totally out of form, but why he's selected in the team. There's no doubt that Ruturaj Gaikwad deserves a place. He scored more than 500 runs in 17 innings. Also he scored a century against Australia. Shubman Gill is selectors' delight. He gets chance even if he fails. He finds place even if he fails in Test, ODIs and T20s.There's too much of favoritism in selection. The team selection is all about favouritism." Also read: ‘You’ve made him a scapegoat,’ former Indian cricketer blasts BCCI for Rinku Singh’s exclusion from WC squad Srikkanth even slammed the selectors for not including Rinku in the main squad, despite a strike-rate of 176.23 in 15 T20Is. In this regard, he added, "I am not at all happy. C'mon all of you. Rinku Singh has been spoken about all over the world. He has performed in each and every opportunity he has got. How can you drop Rinku Singh? You drop anyone else, it doesn't matter. In my view, Rinku Singh should have been there, even if that meant you had to drop Yashasvi Jaiswal." India are in Group A along with arch-rivals Pakistan, Ireland, USA and Canada and begin their campaign versus Ireland on June 5, in New York. India's squad for T20 World Cup 2024: Rohit Sharma (C), Hardik Pandya (VC), Yashasvi Jaiswal, Virat Kohli, Suryakumar Yadav, Rishabh Pant, Sanju Samson, Shivam Dube, Ravindra Jadeja, Axar Patel, Kuldeep Yadav, Yuzvendra Chahal, Arshdeep Singh, Mohammed Siraj, Jasprit Bumrah. Reserves: Shubman Gill, Rinku Singh, Khaleel Ahmed, Avesh Khan

T20 WC: Srikkanth SLAMS BCCI for picking Shubman Gill over Ruturaj Gaikwad, says 'it is all about favouritism'

Former Sri Lankan captain Kumar Sangakkara has named India favourites for the 2024 T20 World Cup&nbsp;to&nbsp;be played in the West Indies and the USA in June. On Tuesday (April 30), the BCCI selection committee, led by Ajit Agarkar, named India's 15-man squad which saw the return of Hardik Pandya and Rishabh Pant with Sanju Samson also getting a look-in. Meanwhile, Shivam Dube also got included whereas&nbsp;KL Rahul was dropped.

Rinku Singh, who has been India's finisher in the format in the recent past, was not part of the main squad but has been named in the reserves list. Speaking on Rohit Sharma-led India&nbsp;squad, Sangakkara -- who is currently serving as Rajasthan Royals (RR) head coach in IPL 2024 -- lauded the squad and made a big claim.

Sanga, ahead of RR's away game versus Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) on Thursday (May 2), said in Hyderabad, "It's (India) an extremely strong squad. They've got their batting covered, they've got their all-rounders in. They've got very high-quality spin and they've got very good combinations that they can play."

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/t20-world-cup-if-captain-tells-shivam-dube-reveals-chat-with-rohit-in-january-gave-selection-indication-717145">T20 World Cup: 'If captain tells...,' Shivam Dube reveals chat with Rohit in January gave selection indication</a>

Speaking on India's team combination, Sanga elaborated, "Knowing the conditions there, I'm sure Rahul (Dravid) and Rohit (Sharma) have a good idea of what the squad should be to play the cricket they want in the World Cup. And they'll be having two or three different combinations, depending on whether they want a deeper batting line-up or more strength in their bowling. But it's a really well-balanced squad, a very strong squad and India's always been very strong in international tournaments."

India are in Group A along with arch-rivals Pakistan, USA, Canada and Scotland. They begin their campaign versus Ireland on June 5 at the&nbsp;Nassau County International Cricket Stadium, New York.

India Squad for T20 World Cup

Rohit Sharma (c), Yashashvi Jaiswal, Virat Kohli, Suryakumar Yadav, Rishabh Pant (wk), Sanju Samson (wk), Hardik Pandya (vc), Shivam Dube, Ravindra Jadeja, Axar Patel, Kuldeep Yadav, Yuzvendra Chahal, Arshdeep Singh, Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Siraj.

Reserves:&nbsp;Shubman Gill, Rinku Singh, Khaleel Ahmed, Avesh Khan

Former Sri Lankan captain Kumar Sangakkara has named India favourites for the 2024 T20 World Cup to be played in the West Indies and the USA in June. On Tuesday (April 30), the BCCI selection committee, led by Ajit Agarkar, named India's 15-man squad which saw the return of Hardik Pandya and Rishabh Pant with Sanju Samson also getting a look-in.

Former Sri Lankan captain Kumar Sangakkara has named India favourites for the 2024 T20 World Cup to be played in the West Indies and the USA in June. On Tuesday (April 30), the BCCI selection committee, led by Ajit Agarkar, named India's 15-man squad which saw the return of Hardik Pandya and Rishabh Pant with Sanju Samson also getting a look-in. Meanwhile, Shivam Dube also got included whereas KL Rahul was dropped. Rinku Singh, who has been India's finisher in the format in the recent past, was not part of the main squad but has been named in the reserves list. Speaking on Rohit Sharma-led India squad, Sangakkara -- who is currently serving as Rajasthan Royals (RR) head coach in IPL 2024 -- lauded the squad and made a big claim. Sanga, ahead of RR's away game versus Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) on Thursday (May 2), said in Hyderabad, "It's (India) an extremely strong squad. They've got their batting covered, they've got their all-rounders in. They've got very high-quality spin and they've got very good combinations that they can play." Also read: T20 World Cup: 'If captain tells...,' Shivam Dube reveals chat with Rohit in January gave selection indication Speaking on India's team combination, Sanga elaborated, "Knowing the conditions there, I'm sure Rahul (Dravid) and Rohit (Sharma) have a good idea of what the squad should be to play the cricket they want in the World Cup. And they'll be having two or three different combinations, depending on whether they want a deeper batting line-up or more strength in their bowling. But it's a really well-balanced squad, a very strong squad and India's always been very strong in international tournaments." India are in Group A along with arch-rivals Pakistan, USA, Canada and Scotland. They begin their campaign versus Ireland on June 5 at the Nassau County International Cricket Stadium, New York. India Squad for T20 World Cup Rohit Sharma (c), Yashashvi Jaiswal, Virat Kohli, Suryakumar Yadav, Rishabh Pant (wk), Sanju Samson (wk), Hardik Pandya (vc), Shivam Dube, Ravindra Jadeja, Axar Patel, Kuldeep Yadav, Yuzvendra Chahal, Arshdeep Singh, Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Siraj. Reserves: Shubman Gill, Rinku Singh, Khaleel Ahmed, Avesh Khan

India favourites for T20 World Cup 2024, says Sri Lankan legend Kumar Sangakkara

t20-world-cup-2024

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