A dominant India kickstarted their T20 World Cup with a eight-wicket win over Ireland after skittling the opposition on a paltry total of 96. Skipper Rohit Sharma (52), who retired hurt late in the innings, anchored the chase on a tricky pitch at the Nassau County&nbsp;International Cricket Stadium in New York where a slow outfield made run-making even more difficult.&nbsp;

With all eyes on what opening combination India were going to field in the&nbsp;World Cup, Rohit walked in alongside Virat Kohli (1) to face the opening Irish attack. While Rohit had a reprieve in the first over where a regulation take was dropped by the second slip, Kohli departed trying to manufacture shots on the tacky track.&nbsp;

The Indian team management pushed Rishabh Pant (36*) at no. 3 to join forces with Rohit. The pair took a circumspect route after the initial wicket before Rohit got the hang of the pitch and started hitting his strokes. He reached his half century in 36 balls before retiring hurt after being hit flush on the shoulder.&nbsp;

Suryakumar Yadav, in at no. 4 attempted to keep up with the scoring rate but miscued a tossed up delivery from Benjamin White straight to deep&nbsp;midwicket for an easy catch. However, Pant completed the formalities by reverse whipping a length ball on the stumps straight behind the wicketkeeper's head for a six.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/t20-world-cup-2024-pakistan-dealt-huge-blow-before-india-contest-as-imad-wasim-gets-ruled-out-of-usa-clash-728899">Also read |&nbsp;T20 World Cup 2024: Pakistan dealt huge blow before India contest as Imad Wasim is ruled out of USA clash</a>

<h2>India keep Ireland in check</h2>

Earlier, Rohit won the toss and elected to bowl first in&nbsp;the overcast conditions. While pundits anticipated some seam and swing, the dual nature of the pitch came as a mild shock to both sides as the ball took off from length on multiple occasions.&nbsp;

"Yeah, just a little sore (the arm). I said it at the toss as well. Quite unsure of what to expect from the pitch. Not aware on what it is to play like on a pitch that's five months old," said Rohit at the post-match presentation.&nbsp;

"I don't think the wicket settled down even when we batted second. There was enough for the bowlers."

India struck early in the third over as Arshdeep Singh sent opposition captain Paul Stirling back to the hut who miscued a pull shot straight up in the air. Rishabh Pant, playing his first match in Indian colours after 17 months, pouched the difficult catch without any fuss.&nbsp;

Only four Irish batters were able to get into double figures as Indian bowlers dominated the proceedings.&nbsp;If it wasn't for the pyrotechnics from&nbsp;Gareth Delany and Joshua Little at the back end of the innings, the Irish scorecard could've worn an even more sorry look.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/t20-world-cup-this-is-ea-cricket-pitch-fans-angry-over-pitch-and-outfield-used-in-india-vs-ireland-match-729147">Also read |&nbsp;T20 World Cup: ‘This is EA Cricket pitch’ - Fans angry over pitch and outfield used in India vs Ireland match</a>

While India played a thorough all-round game, the fans were still disappointed by the management for not picking Kuldeep Yadav in the squad. Additionally, fans online were not happy with ICC for conducting match on a ground where the conditions did not encourage proper contest between both facets of the game.&nbsp;

Since the Nassau County Stadium was developed from scratch in the last few months, drop-in pitches that were prepared in Australia and later curated in Florida have been used for the two matches. The outfield has also been laid down artificially which means the ball cannot zip through the surface when the batter strokes it.&nbsp;

A dominant India kickstarted their T20 World Cup with a eight-wicket win over Ireland after skittling the opposition on a paltry total of 96. Skipper Rohit Sharma (52), who retired hurt late in the innings, anchored the chase on a tricky pitch at the Nassau County International Cricket Stadium in New York where a slow outfield made run-making even more difficult.

A dominant India kickstarted their T20 World Cup with a eight-wicket win over Ireland after skittling the opposition on a paltry total of 96. Skipper Rohit Sharma (52), who retired hurt late in the innings, anchored the chase on a tricky pitch at the Nassau County International Cricket Stadium in New York where a slow outfield made run-making even more difficult. With all eyes on what opening combination India were going to field in the World Cup, Rohit walked in alongside Virat Kohli (1) to face the opening Irish attack. While Rohit had a reprieve in the first over where a regulation take was dropped by the second slip, Kohli departed trying to manufacture shots on the tacky track. The Indian team management pushed Rishabh Pant (36*) at no. 3 to join forces with Rohit. The pair took a circumspect route after the initial wicket before Rohit got the hang of the pitch and started hitting his strokes. He reached his half century in 36 balls before retiring hurt after being hit flush on the shoulder. Suryakumar Yadav, in at no. 4 attempted to keep up with the scoring rate but miscued a tossed up delivery from Benjamin White straight to deep midwicket for an easy catch. However, Pant completed the formalities by reverse whipping a length ball on the stumps straight behind the wicketkeeper's head for a six. Also read | T20 World Cup 2024: Pakistan dealt huge blow before India contest as Imad Wasim is ruled out of USA clash India keep Ireland in check Earlier, Rohit won the toss and elected to bowl first in the overcast conditions. While pundits anticipated some seam and swing, the dual nature of the pitch came as a mild shock to both sides as the ball took off from length on multiple occasions. "Yeah, just a little sore (the arm). I said it at the toss as well. Quite unsure of what to expect from the pitch. Not aware on what it is to play like on a pitch that's five months old," said Rohit at the post-match presentation. "I don't think the wicket settled down even when we batted second. There was enough for the bowlers." India struck early in the third over as Arshdeep Singh sent opposition captain Paul Stirling back to the hut who miscued a pull shot straight up in the air. Rishabh Pant, playing his first match in Indian colours after 17 months, pouched the difficult catch without any fuss. Only four Irish batters were able to get into double figures as Indian bowlers dominated the proceedings. If it wasn't for the pyrotechnics from Gareth Delany and Joshua Little at the back end of the innings, the Irish scorecard could've worn an even more sorry look. Also read | T20 World Cup: ‘This is EA Cricket pitch’ - Fans angry over pitch and outfield used in India vs Ireland match While India played a thorough all-round game, the fans were still disappointed by the management for not picking Kuldeep Yadav in the squad. Additionally, fans online were not happy with ICC for conducting match on a ground where the conditions did not encourage proper contest between both facets of the game. Since the Nassau County Stadium was developed from scratch in the last few months, drop-in pitches that were prepared in Australia and later curated in Florida have been used for the two matches. The outfield has also been laid down artificially which means the ball cannot zip through the surface when the batter strokes it.

T20 World Cup: India sink Ireland to kickstart tournament with dominant win

India beat Ireland on Wednesday (June 5) to kickstart their T20 World Cup 2024 campaign in style. Playing the Irish side at the&nbsp;Nassau County International Cricket Stadium, New York, India rode on Jasprit Bumrah's 2 for 6 and Hardik Pandya's 3 for 27 to bundle out the Irish camp for a paltry 96&nbsp;and chased it down in 12.2 overs with eight wickets in hand. With this win, Rohit Sharma surpassed T20 WC-winning skipper MS Dhoni to become India's most successful T20I captain.

Rohit, who became the T20I captain after the 2021 T20 WC, has led the Men in Blue in 42 wins in just 55 matches. He, thus, surpassed Dhoni's tally, who led India in 41 wins in 72 games during his captaincy tenure.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/t20-world-cup-india-sink-ireland-to-kickstart-tournament-with-dominant-win-729181">T20 World Cup: India sink Ireland to kickstart tournament with dominant win</a>

Most T20I wins as captain&nbsp;(including Super Over victories)

46 wins in 81 matches - Babar Azam (Pakistan) 
44 wins in 57 matches - Brian Masaba (Uganda) 
44 wins in 71 matches - Eoin Morgan (England) 
43 wins in 55 matches - Rohit Sharma (India) 
42 wins in 52 matches - Asghar Afghan (Afghanistan) 
41 wins in 72 matches - MS Dhoni (India) 
41 wins in 76 matches - Aaron Finch (Australia)

Most wins as Indian captain&nbsp;in T20Is 
43 Rohit Sharma 
43 MS Dhoni 
32 Virat Kohli

Talking about the India-Ireland clash, Paul Stirling &amp; Co. were asked to bat first on a tricky pitch in New York. The Irish camp had no clue about the surface as Indian pacers made early inroads and created enough pressure to dismiss the opposition for 96 in 16 overs. In reply, India rode on captain Rohit's 37-ball 52, who got retired hurt after suffering a blow to his right arm, and Rishabh Pant's 36 not out to close the proceedings in a flash.&nbsp;

Rohit also became the first-ever player to hit 600, or more, international sixes during the Ireland clash. India will now face Pakistan, at the same venue in New York, in their upcoming clash on June 9 (Sunday).

India beat Ireland on Wednesday (June 5) to kickstart their T20 World Cup 2024 campaign in style. Playing the Irish side at the Nassau County International Cricket Stadium, New York, India rode on Jasprit Bumrah's 2 for 6 and Hardik Pandya's 3 for 27 to bundle out the Irish camp for a paltry 96 and chased it down in 12.

India beat Ireland on Wednesday (June 5) to kickstart their T20 World Cup 2024 campaign in style. Playing the Irish side at the Nassau County International Cricket Stadium, New York, India rode on Jasprit Bumrah's 2 for 6 and Hardik Pandya's 3 for 27 to bundle out the Irish camp for a paltry 96 and chased it down in 12.2 overs with eight wickets in hand. With this win, Rohit Sharma surpassed T20 WC-winning skipper MS Dhoni to become India's most successful T20I captain. Rohit, who became the T20I captain after the 2021 T20 WC, has led the Men in Blue in 42 wins in just 55 matches. He, thus, surpassed Dhoni's tally, who led India in 41 wins in 72 games during his captaincy tenure. Also read: T20 World Cup: India sink Ireland to kickstart tournament with dominant win Most T20I wins as captain (including Super Over victories) 46 wins in 81 matches - Babar Azam (Pakistan) 44 wins in 57 matches - Brian Masaba (Uganda) 44 wins in 71 matches - Eoin Morgan (England) 43 wins in 55 matches - Rohit Sharma (India) 42 wins in 52 matches - Asghar Afghan (Afghanistan) 41 wins in 72 matches - MS Dhoni (India) 41 wins in 76 matches - Aaron Finch (Australia) Most wins as Indian captain in T20Is 43 Rohit Sharma 43 MS Dhoni 32 Virat Kohli Talking about the India-Ireland clash, Paul Stirling & Co. were asked to bat first on a tricky pitch in New York. The Irish camp had no clue about the surface as Indian pacers made early inroads and created enough pressure to dismiss the opposition for 96 in 16 overs. In reply, India rode on captain Rohit's 37-ball 52, who got retired hurt after suffering a blow to his right arm, and Rishabh Pant's 36 not out to close the proceedings in a flash. Rohit also became the first-ever player to hit 600, or more, international sixes during the Ireland clash. India will now face Pakistan, at the same venue in New York, in their upcoming clash on June 9 (Sunday).

T20 WC: Rohit Sharma surpasses MS Dhoni to become Indian captain with most T20I wins after Ireland tie

Uganda claimed their first ever&nbsp;T20&nbsp;World&nbsp;Cup&nbsp;win with a three-wicket victory over Papua New Guinea at Providence Stadium on Wednesday in a low-scoring but tense encounter. The African side bowled out PNG for 77 and after struggling at 26-5 in reply, reached the target in 18.2 overs with Riazat Ali Shah top-scoring with 33.

Riazat put on a crucial sixth wicket partnership of 35 with Juma Miyagi (13) which effectively won the game for the tournament debutants. But PNG will rue the moment that Riazat, on eight, was dropped by Charles Amini, who misjudged a relatively simple catch.

The Pacific Islanders had their work cut out trying to defend such a low total but were also undone in part by some loose bowling, conceding 15 wides. After that let-off, Riazat played a disciplined and focused innings until, with just three needed to win, he skied a catch to John Kariko at third man.

The Ugandans celebrated their victory with dancing on the edge of the field as the team, which beat out more established cricketing nation Zimbabwe to reach the tournament, picked up their first points.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/t20-world-cup-india-sink-ireland-to-kickstart-tournament-with-dominant-win-729181">T20 World Cup: India sink Ireland to kickstart tournament with dominant win</a>

"That's a pretty special win for us. You know, first win at the&nbsp;World&nbsp;Cup," said Uganda skipper Brian Masaba.

"It doesn't get more special than this. I'm super proud of this group of guys. I mean, they've put in the work, they've put in such a shift. And to get a win for their country at the&nbsp;World&nbsp;Cup&nbsp;is very, very special," he added.

Masaba had won the toss and put Papua New Guinea in to bat and was rewarded when Alpesh Ramjani removed PNG captain Assad Vala with the second ball of the innings, trapping him lbw in what was a wicket-maiden opening over.

Sese Bau tried to drive Juma Miyagi but was snaffled up by Roger Mukasa who did well to get back and make the catch from mid-off.

Tony Ura went in similar fashion as his attempted drive off Cosmas Kyewuta became a simple catch for Mukasa at mid-on to leave his side struggling at 19-3 in the fourth over. Lega Siaka looked confident making 12 off 17 balls before an ill-advised attempt to make a second run ended in a run-out and when Charles Amini was bowled by Frank Nsubuga it was damage limitation time.

But only Hiri Hiri (15) and Kiplin Doriga (12) were able to make double figures as the Pacific Islanders were bowled out with five balls left of their allotted 20 overs.

Uganda claimed their first ever T20 World Cup win with a three-wicket victory over Papua New Guinea at Providence Stadium on Wednesday in a low-scoring but tense encounter.

Uganda claimed their first ever T20 World Cup win with a three-wicket victory over Papua New Guinea at Providence Stadium on Wednesday in a low-scoring but tense encounter. The African side bowled out PNG for 77 and after struggling at 26-5 in reply, reached the target in 18.2 overs with Riazat Ali Shah top-scoring with 33. Riazat put on a crucial sixth wicket partnership of 35 with Juma Miyagi (13) which effectively won the game for the tournament debutants. But PNG will rue the moment that Riazat, on eight, was dropped by Charles Amini, who misjudged a relatively simple catch. The Pacific Islanders had their work cut out trying to defend such a low total but were also undone in part by some loose bowling, conceding 15 wides. After that let-off, Riazat played a disciplined and focused innings until, with just three needed to win, he skied a catch to John Kariko at third man. The Ugandans celebrated their victory with dancing on the edge of the field as the team, which beat out more established cricketing nation Zimbabwe to reach the tournament, picked up their first points. Also read: T20 World Cup: India sink Ireland to kickstart tournament with dominant win "That's a pretty special win for us. You know, first win at the World Cup," said Uganda skipper Brian Masaba. "It doesn't get more special than this. I'm super proud of this group of guys. I mean, they've put in the work, they've put in such a shift. And to get a win for their country at the World Cup is very, very special," he added. Masaba had won the toss and put Papua New Guinea in to bat and was rewarded when Alpesh Ramjani removed PNG captain Assad Vala with the second ball of the innings, trapping him lbw in what was a wicket-maiden opening over. Sese Bau tried to drive Juma Miyagi but was snaffled up by Roger Mukasa who did well to get back and make the catch from mid-off. Tony Ura went in similar fashion as his attempted drive off Cosmas Kyewuta became a simple catch for Mukasa at mid-on to leave his side struggling at 19-3 in the fourth over. Lega Siaka looked confident making 12 off 17 balls before an ill-advised attempt to make a second run ended in a run-out and when Charles Amini was bowled by Frank Nsubuga it was damage limitation time. But only Hiri Hiri (15) and Kiplin Doriga (12) were able to make double figures as the Pacific Islanders were bowled out with five balls left of their allotted 20 overs.

Uganda register maiden T20 World Cup victory with win over PNG

On Wednesday (June 5), India started their campaign at the 2024 T20 World Cup by beating Ireland by eight wickets in match 8 at the&nbsp;Nassau County International Cricket Stadium, New York. Opting to bowl first, India rode on Jasprit Bumrah's 2 for 6 and Hardik Pandya's 3 for 27 to bundle out Paul Stirling-led Ireland for 96 in 16 overs and chased down the score in 12.2 overs with eight wickets in hand. During the run-chase, captain Rohit Sharma retired hurt, for a 37-ball 52, after copping up a blow to his right arm.&nbsp;

After the game, Rohit played down any injury concern. At the post-match presentation, Hitman said, "Yeah, just a little sore (the arm)." The statement comes as a huge relief for the Indian camp and their ardent fans as Men in Blue's next clash is against Pakistan, at the same venue in New York, on Sunday (June 9).

Talking about his time spent at the pitch, Rohit said, "It was scratchy, but good to spend some time in the middle and understand what kind of shots to play there."

Along with Rohit, Rishabh Pant -- who came in at No. 3 -- also made a mark and was unbeaten on 36 (off 26 balls) to steer India to an easy win, with Bumrah adjudged the Player-of-the-Match.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/t20-wc-rohit-sharma-surpasses-ms-dhoni-to-become-indian-captain-with-most-t20i-wins-after-ireland-tie-729219">T20 WC: Rohit Sharma surpasses MS Dhoni to become Indian captain with most T20I wins after Ireland tie</a>

On how the surface played, Indian captain Rohit further opined, "Quite unsure of what to expect from the pitch. I don't think the wicket settled down even when we batted second. There was enough for the bowlers. That's pretty much what you gotta do. Try to hit those lengths consistently. All these guys have played a lot of Test cricket. Arshdeep is the only guy who hasn't. His two wickets upfront set the tone for us. Don't think we can play four spinners here (laughs)."

He added, "I don't know what to expect from the pitch to be honest. We will prepare as if the conditions are going to be like this (for Pakistan game). This is going to be a kind of game where all XI of us will need to contribute."

India will take on Pakistan in a marquee clash on Sunday with an aim to make it two wins in a row. They are placed in Group A along with Pakistan, Ireland, USA and Canada. The ninth edition of the T20 WC is being held in West Indies and the USA.

On Wednesday (June 5), India started their campaign at the 2024 T20 World Cup by beating Ireland by eight wickets in match 8 at the Nassau County International Cricket Stadium, New York.

On Wednesday (June 5), India started their campaign at the 2024 T20 World Cup by beating Ireland by eight wickets in match 8 at the Nassau County International Cricket Stadium, New York. Opting to bowl first, India rode on Jasprit Bumrah's 2 for 6 and Hardik Pandya's 3 for 27 to bundle out Paul Stirling-led Ireland for 96 in 16 overs and chased down the score in 12.2 overs with eight wickets in hand. During the run-chase, captain Rohit Sharma retired hurt, for a 37-ball 52, after copping up a blow to his right arm. After the game, Rohit played down any injury concern. At the post-match presentation, Hitman said, "Yeah, just a little sore (the arm)." The statement comes as a huge relief for the Indian camp and their ardent fans as Men in Blue's next clash is against Pakistan, at the same venue in New York, on Sunday (June 9). Talking about his time spent at the pitch, Rohit said, "It was scratchy, but good to spend some time in the middle and understand what kind of shots to play there." Along with Rohit, Rishabh Pant -- who came in at No. 3 -- also made a mark and was unbeaten on 36 (off 26 balls) to steer India to an easy win, with Bumrah adjudged the Player-of-the-Match. Also read: T20 WC: Rohit Sharma surpasses MS Dhoni to become Indian captain with most T20I wins after Ireland tie On how the surface played, Indian captain Rohit further opined, "Quite unsure of what to expect from the pitch. I don't think the wicket settled down even when we batted second. There was enough for the bowlers. That's pretty much what you gotta do. Try to hit those lengths consistently. All these guys have played a lot of Test cricket. Arshdeep is the only guy who hasn't. His two wickets upfront set the tone for us. Don't think we can play four spinners here (laughs)." He added, "I don't know what to expect from the pitch to be honest. We will prepare as if the conditions are going to be like this (for Pakistan game). This is going to be a kind of game where all XI of us will need to contribute." India will take on Pakistan in a marquee clash on Sunday with an aim to make it two wins in a row. They are placed in Group A along with Pakistan, Ireland, USA and Canada. The ninth edition of the T20 WC is being held in West Indies and the USA.

T20 WC: Rohit Sharma plays down injury concern ahead of Pakistan tie after retiring hurt vs Ireland

2021 champions Australia kickstarted their T20 World Cup 2024 campaign with a 39-run win over Oman at the Kensington Oval, Barbados on Wednesday (June 5). While the margin reflects a straightforward win for Mitchell Marsh &amp; Co., the Men in Yellow had some tough moments to overcome to beat the lowly-ranked side. Australia rode on Marcus Stoinis' 36-ball 67*, and 3 for 19, and David Warner's 51-ball 56 to post 164-5 and defended it by restricting Oman for 125/9.

Talking about the contest, Oman opted to bowl first and had Australia struggling at 37&nbsp;for 1 in the powerplays. Travis Head fell early and Warner-Marsh couldn't find the boundaries at ease on a&nbsp;sluggish pitch&nbsp;coupled with some disciplined bowling from Oman. In the middle-overs, Marsh and Glenn Maxwell, whose poor run of form continues from IPL 2024, departed soon and Warner was joined by Stoinis. The duo took their time, with Warner playing the anchor role, but Stoinis got a reprieve and made the most of it from thereon.&nbsp;

Stoinis' 36-ball 67 was laced with 2 fours and 6 sixes as 58 came off the death overs to take his side to an above-par total. Meanwhile, Warner also&nbsp;surpassed Australia's T20 WC-winning captain Aaron Finch&nbsp;to become the country's highest run-getter in the format.

Oman bowlers lost the plot in the end overs, dishing out&nbsp;full-tosses at Stoinis, after a fine start. Mehran Khan was the most-successful bowler with 2 for 38.&nbsp;The medium pacer was also on a hat-trick at one point.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/t20-wc-rohit-sharma-surpasses-ms-dhoni-to-become-indian-captain-with-most-t20i-wins-after-ireland-tie-729219">T20 WC: Rohit Sharma surpasses MS Dhoni to become Indian captain with most T20I wins after Ireland tie</a>

In the run chase, Oman were never in it with Mitchell Starc,&nbsp;who had an injury scare but later confirmed it was just cramps, set the tone for the one-time winners. Nathan Ellis and Stoinis chipped in as well, as Oman were reeling at 29 for 3, further reduced to 56 for 5. While Ayaan and Mehran Khan played decently, they started the counterattack too late and had much to do. As a result, they managed 125 for 9 in 20 overs.

At the post-match presentation, Player-of-the-Match Stoinis said, "Nice start, we got the win and boys spent some time in the middle and everyone got to bowl. I was trying to soak up the conditions and keep it simple. Couple kept low and couple were spinning for the spinners. It seemed like swing wasn't available, and I was trying to get some bounce with cross-seam deliveries."

Australia's next clash is against arch-rivals England on June 8 (Saturday) in Barbados.

2021 champions Australia kickstarted their T20 World Cup 2024 campaign with a 39-run win over Oman at the Kensington Oval, Barbados on Wednesday (June 5). While the margin reflects a straightforward win for Mitchell Marsh & Co.

2021 champions Australia kickstarted their T20 World Cup 2024 campaign with a 39-run win over Oman at the Kensington Oval, Barbados on Wednesday (June 5). While the margin reflects a straightforward win for Mitchell Marsh & Co., the Men in Yellow had some tough moments to overcome to beat the lowly-ranked side. Australia rode on Marcus Stoinis' 36-ball 67*, and 3 for 19, and David Warner's 51-ball 56 to post 164-5 and defended it by restricting Oman for 125/9. Talking about the contest, Oman opted to bowl first and had Australia struggling at 37 for 1 in the powerplays. Travis Head fell early and Warner-Marsh couldn't find the boundaries at ease on a sluggish pitch coupled with some disciplined bowling from Oman. In the middle-overs, Marsh and Glenn Maxwell, whose poor run of form continues from IPL 2024, departed soon and Warner was joined by Stoinis. The duo took their time, with Warner playing the anchor role, but Stoinis got a reprieve and made the most of it from thereon. Stoinis' 36-ball 67 was laced with 2 fours and 6 sixes as 58 came off the death overs to take his side to an above-par total. Meanwhile, Warner also surpassed Australia's T20 WC-winning captain Aaron Finch to become the country's highest run-getter in the format. Oman bowlers lost the plot in the end overs, dishing out full-tosses at Stoinis, after a fine start. Mehran Khan was the most-successful bowler with 2 for 38. The medium pacer was also on a hat-trick at one point. Also read: T20 WC: Rohit Sharma surpasses MS Dhoni to become Indian captain with most T20I wins after Ireland tie In the run chase, Oman were never in it with Mitchell Starc, who had an injury scare but later confirmed it was just cramps, set the tone for the one-time winners. Nathan Ellis and Stoinis chipped in as well, as Oman were reeling at 29 for 3, further reduced to 56 for 5. While Ayaan and Mehran Khan played decently, they started the counterattack too late and had much to do. As a result, they managed 125 for 9 in 20 overs. At the post-match presentation, Player-of-the-Match Stoinis said, "Nice start, we got the win and boys spent some time in the middle and everyone got to bowl. I was trying to soak up the conditions and keep it simple. Couple kept low and couple were spinning for the spinners. It seemed like swing wasn't available, and I was trying to get some bounce with cross-seam deliveries." Australia's next clash is against arch-rivals England on June 8 (Saturday) in Barbados.

T20 World Cup: Marcus Stoinis stars in Australia's convincing win over Oman in Barbados

As Rishabh Pant went across the crease and scooped Ireland's Barry McCarthy out of the ropes to register an eight-wicket win on Wednesday (Jun 5) in its first match of the 2024 T20 World Cup, one thing became clear: India aren't as bad as many thought for many weeks leading up to the tournament.

When the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) released the squad for the tourney in the USA and the West Indies, it felt like India were stomping on an axe. The team looked dull. Not one member of the first 15 reached the IPL 2024 final, which seemed symbolic of the team being behind the needs of the hard-hitting, defensive-bowling T20 era.

Pant was in the middle of it. A batter with a T20I average of 22.43 and a strike rate of 126.38 was reportedly the first-choice wicketkeeper over Sanju Samson, the captain of Rajasthan Royals, who had just had his best-ever season in the IPL with a strike rate of 153.47.

To be clear, that concern, along with the worry about the seemingly conservative selections (like Rohit Sharma, who doesn’t have the T20 numbers to back him) and the exclusion of Rinku Singh were not wrong. They made complete sense at the time and still do.

However, from the evidence of the conditions we have seen so far in both host countries, the squad doesn’t look as out of place as it would have been otherwise.

Both Pant and Rohit like to take their time at the start of the innings. It wasn’t possible during IPL 2024 because on tracks as flat as those in Hyderabad and Bengaluru, wasting deliveries to understand the bounce meant pulling your team behind. In the US, with uneven bounce and turn, and in the West Indies, with slow turn and low bounce, taking time is excusable.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/t20-wc-rohit-sharma-surpasses-ms-dhoni-to-become-indian-captain-with-most-t20i-wins-after-ireland-tie-729219">Also read |&nbsp;T20 WC: Rohit Sharma surpasses MS Dhoni to become Indian captain with most T20I wins after Ireland tie</a>

Here, it’s important for the set batters to take responsibility and finish the game because unlike in the IPL, wickets can quickly fall in the middle overs when the ball gets old.

“It's going back to the old T20, with someone needed to bat through [the innings],” Australian captain Mitchell Marsh said on Thursday after his side recovered from 50/3 against Oman to win the game by 39 runs in Barbados.

This “old T20” suits India well. Apart from Pant and Rohit, Virat Kohli at the top can always drop into the anchor role, despite leveling up his big-hitting game in IPL 2024.

The finishing concerns about Ravindra Jadeja and Hardik Pandya can also rest as their weakness — hard-length at pace — seems to be slightly less effective on the slowish tracks. The abundance of spin throughout the tournament will also favour the move to bring Shivam Dube (who strikes at 158.80 against spin in the IPL since 2022) over Rinku (110.65).

Finally, India’s bowling attack, which initially seemed over-dependent on Jasprit Bumrah, looks much better. Arshdeep Singh and Mohammed Siraj, who struggled on flat tracks in India, are enjoying the seam movement available in the US while Jadeja and Axar Patel’s Test-match style bowling is much more difficult to get away here than in India.

A bit like how Australia performed better than India in the 2023 World Cup final thanks to the helpful pitch, despite being a weaker team on paper, the Men in Blue can get the best out of their playing 11 to beat stronger, more balanced opponents with the help of the conditions.

It might be a well-thought-out move from the selectors or just a happy coincidence — and a bigger test awaits against Pakistan on June 9 still — but so far, it’s working and India is thriving.

As Rishabh Pant went across the crease and scooped Ireland's Barry McCarthy out of the ropes to register an eight-wicket win on Wednesday (Jun 5) in its first match of the 2024 T20 World Cup, one thing became clear: India aren't as bad as many thought for many weeks leading up to the tournament.

As Rishabh Pant went across the crease and scooped Ireland's Barry McCarthy out of the ropes to register an eight-wicket win on Wednesday (Jun 5) in its first match of the 2024 T20 World Cup, one thing became clear: India aren't as bad as many thought for many weeks leading up to the tournament. When the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) released the squad for the tourney in the USA and the West Indies, it felt like India were stomping on an axe. The team looked dull. Not one member of the first 15 reached the IPL 2024 final, which seemed symbolic of the team being behind the needs of the hard-hitting, defensive-bowling T20 era. Pant was in the middle of it. A batter with a T20I average of 22.43 and a strike rate of 126.38 was reportedly the first-choice wicketkeeper over Sanju Samson, the captain of Rajasthan Royals, who had just had his best-ever season in the IPL with a strike rate of 153.47. To be clear, that concern, along with the worry about the seemingly conservative selections (like Rohit Sharma, who doesn’t have the T20 numbers to back him) and the exclusion of Rinku Singh were not wrong. They made complete sense at the time and still do. However, from the evidence of the conditions we have seen so far in both host countries, the squad doesn’t look as out of place as it would have been otherwise. Both Pant and Rohit like to take their time at the start of the innings. It wasn’t possible during IPL 2024 because on tracks as flat as those in Hyderabad and Bengaluru, wasting deliveries to understand the bounce meant pulling your team behind. In the US, with uneven bounce and turn, and in the West Indies, with slow turn and low bounce, taking time is excusable. Also read | T20 WC: Rohit Sharma surpasses MS Dhoni to become Indian captain with most T20I wins after Ireland tie Here, it’s important for the set batters to take responsibility and finish the game because unlike in the IPL, wickets can quickly fall in the middle overs when the ball gets old. “It's going back to the old T20, with someone needed to bat through [the innings],” Australian captain Mitchell Marsh said on Thursday after his side recovered from 50/3 against Oman to win the game by 39 runs in Barbados. This “old T20” suits India well. Apart from Pant and Rohit, Virat Kohli at the top can always drop into the anchor role, despite leveling up his big-hitting game in IPL 2024. The finishing concerns about Ravindra Jadeja and Hardik Pandya can also rest as their weakness — hard-length at pace — seems to be slightly less effective on the slowish tracks. The abundance of spin throughout the tournament will also favour the move to bring Shivam Dube (who strikes at 158.80 against spin in the IPL since 2022) over Rinku (110.65). Finally, India’s bowling attack, which initially seemed over-dependent on Jasprit Bumrah, looks much better. Arshdeep Singh and Mohammed Siraj, who struggled on flat tracks in India, are enjoying the seam movement available in the US while Jadeja and Axar Patel’s Test-match style bowling is much more difficult to get away here than in India. A bit like how Australia performed better than India in the 2023 World Cup final thanks to the helpful pitch, despite being a weaker team on paper, the Men in Blue can get the best out of their playing 11 to beat stronger, more balanced opponents with the help of the conditions. It might be a well-thought-out move from the selectors or just a happy coincidence — and a bigger test awaits against Pakistan on June 9 still — but so far, it’s working and India is thriving.

T20 World Cup: Why the tough conditions in the US and West Indies are a blessing in disguise for India

During India's T20 World Cup opener versus Ireland, on Wednesday (June 5) in New York, Indian captain Rohit Sharma became the first batter to hit 600 international sixes.

T20 WORLD CUP: Batters with most sixes in international cricket

Former Australia captain Ricky Ponting has backed Pakistan Cricket Board's (PCB) decision to reappoint Babar Azam as the T20I captain ahead of the Men in Green's T20 World Cup 2024 run, in West Indies and USA. Ponting feels the team looks more settled under Babar and have a better chance at the ongoing mega event under him. Babar replaced Shaheen Afridi, who succeeded the former, as the T20I captain just two months before the marquee ICC event. Shaheen had a short stint as the T20I captain, where he only led Pakistan in five away games in New Zealand, with the Black Caps thrashing them 4-1.

Speaking to the ICC, Ponting suggested that it is not necessary for a good player to be a good captain as well. "Captaincy just sits well with some people and it doesn't sit well with others," the ex-cricketer stated.

The Aussie reckoned, "We've seen it through the years that some of the best players that have ever played the game have not necessarily made the best captains and the thing that makes some of the very best players so good is how focused they are on what they need to do to get better and to be the best and find a way every day to get better." 
 
Ponting further opined, "And when you are captain, you can't do that. You've got to actually compartmentalise what you're doing, look after your own game, look after all the guys around you. So, some guys can manage that better than others."

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/hes-being-bodyshamed-former-pakistan-captain-comes-in-defence-of-azam-khan-729060">'He's being bodyshamed': Former Pakistan captain comes in defence of Azam Khan</a>

It is to be noted that Babar stepped down as Pakistan captain across formats after the team's shambolic performance in the 2023 ODI World Cup in India, where the one-time winners failed to even make it to the semifinals. Soon, PCB appointed Shaheen as the T20I captain but the change in captaincy couldn't bring a change in the team fortunes. In addition, it was learnt that the pacer was contemplating to step aside as captain after not being included in discussions about his future in the role.

Ponting, the two-time ODI WC-winning captain, further pointed out that Babar also suffered a dip in form when he earlier took over the captaincy, however, the right-hander learnt from it and emerged as a match-winner.

"I reckon Babar, when he first started, I had that feeling that he... because if you look at his record, his numbers went down on the back of it. So I think he might have learned a bit from that," Punter mentioned.

Ponting feels Pakistan have strengthened their chances to get their hands on the T20 WC trophy with Babar back at the helm of affairs. He added, "Shaheen didn't set the world on fire as a leader either, so I think going back into a World Cup it just looks like a more settled team when you've got someone like Babar as captain rather than Afridi."

Babar-led Pakistan kickoff their T20 WC campaign on Thursday (June 6), against USA at Dallas. They are placed in Group A along with arch-rivals India, USA, Canada and Ireland.

Former Australia captain Ricky Ponting has backed Pakistan Cricket Board's (PCB) decision to reappoint Babar Azam as the T20I captain ahead of the Men in Green's T20 World Cup 2024 run, in West Indies and USA.

Former Australia captain Ricky Ponting has backed Pakistan Cricket Board's (PCB) decision to reappoint Babar Azam as the T20I captain ahead of the Men in Green's T20 World Cup 2024 run, in West Indies and USA. Ponting feels the team looks more settled under Babar and have a better chance at the ongoing mega event under him. Babar replaced Shaheen Afridi, who succeeded the former, as the T20I captain just two months before the marquee ICC event. Shaheen had a short stint as the T20I captain, where he only led Pakistan in five away games in New Zealand, with the Black Caps thrashing them 4-1. Speaking to the ICC, Ponting suggested that it is not necessary for a good player to be a good captain as well. "Captaincy just sits well with some people and it doesn't sit well with others," the ex-cricketer stated. The Aussie reckoned, "We've seen it through the years that some of the best players that have ever played the game have not necessarily made the best captains and the thing that makes some of the very best players so good is how focused they are on what they need to do to get better and to be the best and find a way every day to get better." Ponting further opined, "And when you are captain, you can't do that. You've got to actually compartmentalise what you're doing, look after your own game, look after all the guys around you. So, some guys can manage that better than others." Also read: 'He's being bodyshamed': Former Pakistan captain comes in defence of Azam Khan It is to be noted that Babar stepped down as Pakistan captain across formats after the team's shambolic performance in the 2023 ODI World Cup in India, where the one-time winners failed to even make it to the semifinals. Soon, PCB appointed Shaheen as the T20I captain but the change in captaincy couldn't bring a change in the team fortunes. In addition, it was learnt that the pacer was contemplating to step aside as captain after not being included in discussions about his future in the role. Ponting, the two-time ODI WC-winning captain, further pointed out that Babar also suffered a dip in form when he earlier took over the captaincy, however, the right-hander learnt from it and emerged as a match-winner. "I reckon Babar, when he first started, I had that feeling that he... because if you look at his record, his numbers went down on the back of it. So I think he might have learned a bit from that," Punter mentioned. Ponting feels Pakistan have strengthened their chances to get their hands on the T20 WC trophy with Babar back at the helm of affairs. He added, "Shaheen didn't set the world on fire as a leader either, so I think going back into a World Cup it just looks like a more settled team when you've got someone like Babar as captain rather than Afridi." Babar-led Pakistan kickoff their T20 WC campaign on Thursday (June 6), against USA at Dallas. They are placed in Group A along with arch-rivals India, USA, Canada and Ireland.

‘Shaheen didn’t set the world on fire as leader’: Ponting backs PCB’s call to reappoint Babar as T20I captain 

The ninth edition of the T20 World Cup is underway in the West Indies and the USA. Rohit Sharma-led India kick off their campaign on June 5 versus Ireland, in New York. Notably, there are as many as six players making their debut for India, from the 15-man squad, at the marquee tournament. Here is a look at the debutant players.

T20 World Cup: Debutants for Team India at T20 World Cup 2024

Ind vs Pak: Most runs for India vs Pakistan in T20 World Cup matches

Ahead of their marquee encounter versus India at the 2024 T20 World Cup, the Pakistan cricket team has landed itself in trouble. Before their T20 WC opener, where they face USA on June 6 in Dallas, Babar Azam &amp; Co. is said to have hosted a dinner party for fans in the USA. Apparently, the fans were invited for a 'meet and greet' session with the Pakistani players. However, the invite wasn't&nbsp;free and fans were said to have been charged&nbsp;$25 (INR 2,000 approx).

Thus, this has not been well received by the Pakistan cricket fraternity. Former Pakistan wicketkeeper-captain Rashid Latif was left fuming and he took to social media to make the shocking claims. He further highlighted that the programme was organised by the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) and players.

On social media platform X, formerly Twitter, Latif posted a video and claimed that the fans were charged for the 'meet and greet' session. "There are official dinners, but this is a private dinner. Who can do this? It's terrible. That means you met our players in 25 dollars. God forbid, had there been a mess, people would have said boys are earning money," Latif said in the video.&nbsp;

Here is the video:

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">
Let’s Save The Star &amp; Be Stars 
Unofficial Private Dinner During WC24<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/T20WorldCup?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#T20WorldCup</a> <a href="https://t.co/BXEgPyA2p2">pic.twitter.com/BXEgPyA2p2</a>
— Rashid Latif | 🇵🇰 (@iRashidLatif68) <a href="https://twitter.com/iRashidLatif68/status/1798114528267321522?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 4, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/t20-world-cup-2024-pakistan-dealt-huge-blow-before-india-contest-as-imad-wasim-gets-ruled-out-of-usa-clash-728899">T20 World Cup 2024: Pakistan dealt huge blow before India contest as Imad Wasim gets ruled out of USA clash</a>

In addition, television presenter and cricket correspondent Nauman Niaz called out the "sad state of affairs".

Further, Latif also suggested that while he understood the idea of organising charity dinners, however, hosting a private dinner&nbsp;with a fee&nbsp;is astonishing.

In this regard, Latif commented, "People tell me that whoever calls the Pakistan players, they just ask, 'how much money will you give?' This has become common. Things were different at our time. We had 2–3 dinners, but they were official. But this is highlighted because it's the World Cup. So the players should be careful. The amount of 25 dollars shouldn't be blatantly used like this."

"You attend 2–3 dinners, but without the commercial angle. You can go for charity dinners and fundraisers, but this is neither fundraising nor a charity dinner. This is a private function with the name of Pakistan and Pakistan cricket associated with it. Don't make this mistake," he added.

Babar-led Pakistan are placed in Group A along with arch-rivals India, Canada, USA and Ireland in the ongoing T20 WC, in West Indies and the USA. While they open their campaign versus USA, their clash against India (in New York on June 9) is keenly awaited.

Ahead of their marquee encounter versus India at the 2024 T20 World Cup, the Pakistan cricket team has landed itself in trouble. Before their T20 WC opener, where they face USA on June 6 in Dallas, Babar Azam & Co.

Ahead of their marquee encounter versus India at the 2024 T20 World Cup, the Pakistan cricket team has landed itself in trouble. Before their T20 WC opener, where they face USA on June 6 in Dallas, Babar Azam & Co. is said to have hosted a dinner party for fans in the USA. Apparently, the fans were invited for a 'meet and greet' session with the Pakistani players. However, the invite wasn't free and fans were said to have been charged $25 (INR 2,000 approx). Thus, this has not been well received by the Pakistan cricket fraternity. Former Pakistan wicketkeeper-captain Rashid Latif was left fuming and he took to social media to make the shocking claims. He further highlighted that the programme was organised by the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) and players. On social media platform X, formerly Twitter, Latif posted a video and claimed that the fans were charged for the 'meet and greet' session. "There are official dinners, but this is a private dinner. Who can do this? It's terrible. That means you met our players in 25 dollars. God forbid, had there been a mess, people would have said boys are earning money," Latif said in the video. Here is the video: Let’s Save The Star & Be Stars Unofficial Private Dinner During WC24#T20WorldCup pic.twitter.com/BXEgPyA2p2 — Rashid Latif | 🇵🇰 (@iRashidLatif68) June 4, 2024 × Also read: T20 World Cup 2024: Pakistan dealt huge blow before India contest as Imad Wasim gets ruled out of USA clash In addition, television presenter and cricket correspondent Nauman Niaz called out the "sad state of affairs". Further, Latif also suggested that while he understood the idea of organising charity dinners, however, hosting a private dinner with a fee is astonishing. In this regard, Latif commented, "People tell me that whoever calls the Pakistan players, they just ask, 'how much money will you give?' This has become common. Things were different at our time. We had 2–3 dinners, but they were official. But this is highlighted because it's the World Cup. So the players should be careful. The amount of 25 dollars shouldn't be blatantly used like this." "You attend 2–3 dinners, but without the commercial angle. You can go for charity dinners and fundraisers, but this is neither fundraising nor a charity dinner. This is a private function with the name of Pakistan and Pakistan cricket associated with it. Don't make this mistake," he added. Babar-led Pakistan are placed in Group A along with arch-rivals India, Canada, USA and Ireland in the ongoing T20 WC, in West Indies and the USA. While they open their campaign versus USA, their clash against India (in New York on June 9) is keenly awaited.

T20 WC: Before India clash, Pakistan players SLAMMED for charging fans for a private dinner

South Africa's Anrich Nortje took a remarkable four wickets for just seven runs as the Proteas dismissed Sri Lanka for a record low 77 on their way to a six-wicket win in the teams' T20 World Cup opener in New York on Monday.

Sri Lanka's total was their lowest in all T20 cricket, with fast bowler Nortje's figures the best by a South African at a T20 World Cup, surpassing his own 4-10 against Bangladesh in Sydney two years ago.

Kagiso Rabada (2-21) and left-arm spinner Keshav Maharaj, who took two wickets in two balls on his way to 2-22, also damaged Sri Lanka's cause.

Opener Kusal Mendis (19) and veteran all-rounder Angelo Mathews (16) were the only Sri Lanka batsmen to cross 15 after their captain, Wanindu Hasaranga, seemingly misread conditions by opting to bat first after winning the toss in what was the first match at a Long Island ground built specially for this tournament.

But South Africa too lost early wickets in their chase as their top order also struggled to time the ball on a pitch that was difficult for batting.

They were 23-2 early in their reply but opener Quinton de Kock made 20 before, with the Proteas wobbling at 58-4, the big-hitting Heinrich Klaasen struck a six and a four off successive deliveries to ease his side's nerves.

Klaasen was 19 not out as South Africa finished on 80-4 with 26 balls to spare.

South Africa fast bowler Ottneil Baartman, making his World Cup debut, sparked Sri Lanka's&nbsp;collapse when, with his first ball, he had Pathum Nissanka caught in the deep before Nortje dismissed Kamindu Mendis in similar fashion.

Maharaj then struck twice in the ninth over as both the advancing Hasaranga, stumped by De Kock and Sadeera Samarawickrama, clean bowled by a quicker delivery, fell for nought to leave Sri Lanka 32-4 before Charith Asalanka survived the hat-trick ball.

Nortje returned to dismiss Mathews in his last over.

Sri Lanka were bowled out with five balls left when last man Nuwan Thushara was run out for one of four ducks in the innings.&nbsp;

South Africa's Anrich Nortje took a remarkable four wickets for just seven runs as the Proteas dismissed Sri Lanka for a record low 77 on their way to a six-wicket win in the teams' T20 World Cup opener in New York on Monday.

South Africa's Anrich Nortje took a remarkable four wickets for just seven runs as the Proteas dismissed Sri Lanka for a record low 77 on their way to a six-wicket win in the teams' T20 World Cup opener in New York on Monday. Sri Lanka's total was their lowest in all T20 cricket, with fast bowler Nortje's figures the best by a South African at a T20 World Cup, surpassing his own 4-10 against Bangladesh in Sydney two years ago. Kagiso Rabada (2-21) and left-arm spinner Keshav Maharaj, who took two wickets in two balls on his way to 2-22, also damaged Sri Lanka's cause. Opener Kusal Mendis (19) and veteran all-rounder Angelo Mathews (16) were the only Sri Lanka batsmen to cross 15 after their captain, Wanindu Hasaranga, seemingly misread conditions by opting to bat first after winning the toss in what was the first match at a Long Island ground built specially for this tournament. But South Africa too lost early wickets in their chase as their top order also struggled to time the ball on a pitch that was difficult for batting. They were 23-2 early in their reply but opener Quinton de Kock made 20 before, with the Proteas wobbling at 58-4, the big-hitting Heinrich Klaasen struck a six and a four off successive deliveries to ease his side's nerves. Klaasen was 19 not out as South Africa finished on 80-4 with 26 balls to spare. South Africa fast bowler Ottneil Baartman, making his World Cup debut, sparked Sri Lanka's collapse when, with his first ball, he had Pathum Nissanka caught in the deep before Nortje dismissed Kamindu Mendis in similar fashion. Maharaj then struck twice in the ninth over as both the advancing Hasaranga, stumped by De Kock and Sadeera Samarawickrama, clean bowled by a quicker delivery, fell for nought to leave Sri Lanka 32-4 before Charith Asalanka survived the hat-trick ball. Nortje returned to dismiss Mathews in his last over. Sri Lanka were bowled out with five balls left when last man Nuwan Thushara was run out for one of four ducks in the innings.

T20 World Cup: South Africa off to winning start after Nortje’s electric spell rattles Sri Lanka

Team India’s head coach Rahul Dravid has confirmed his exit from the side as the ongoing T20 World Cup will be his last assignment. Dravid, who took charge of the Indian side in November 2021 led India to the final of the ODI World Cup and World Test Championship but will now step away from his role. Dravid will look to bow out on a high as India aim for their first T20 World Cup title in 17 years as they enter the tournament as one of the favourites.

<h2>Dravid to bid farewell</h2>

"Every tournament is important," Dravid said. "Every game that I've coached for India has been very important for me. For me, this is no different just because it is going to be the last one that I'm in charge of. I love doing the job. I've really enjoyed coaching India, and I think it's a truly special job to do. I've enjoyed working with this team, and it's a great bunch of boys to work with.”

"Unfortunately, just the kind of schedules [that are in place in international cricket] and where I find myself in this stage in my life, I don't think I'll be able to re-apply,” Dravid added.

Dravid has enjoyed a successful stint in charge of the Indian side after taking over from Ravi Shastri in 2021. He led India to Test series wins over England while also helping them reach the semifinals of the T20 World Cup in other significant achievements. His contract came to an end at the 2023 ODI World Cup where India finished runners-up to Australia.

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However, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) decided to extend his stay at least until the T20 World Cup. However, Dravid has now stated that he won’t be reapplying for the role and will leave after the end of his current stint.

India will start their T20 World Cup campaign against Ireland on Wednesday (June 5) while they face Pakistan in their second match on June 9. All of India’s group stage matches will take place in New York and will also face Canada and co-hosts United States.

Team India’s head coach Rahul Dravid has confirmed his exit from the side as the ongoing T20 World Cup will be his last assignment. Dravid, who took charge of the Indian side in November 2021 led India to the final of the ODI World Cup and World Test Championship but will now step away from his role.

Team India’s head coach Rahul Dravid has confirmed his exit from the side as the ongoing T20 World Cup will be his last assignment. Dravid, who took charge of the Indian side in November 2021 led India to the final of the ODI World Cup and World Test Championship but will now step away from his role. Dravid will look to bow out on a high as India aim for their first T20 World Cup title in 17 years as they enter the tournament as one of the favourites. Dravid to bid farewell "Every tournament is important," Dravid said. "Every game that I've coached for India has been very important for me. For me, this is no different just because it is going to be the last one that I'm in charge of. I love doing the job. I've really enjoyed coaching India, and I think it's a truly special job to do. I've enjoyed working with this team, and it's a great bunch of boys to work with.” "Unfortunately, just the kind of schedules [that are in place in international cricket] and where I find myself in this stage in my life, I don't think I'll be able to re-apply,” Dravid added. Dravid has enjoyed a successful stint in charge of the Indian side after taking over from Ravi Shastri in 2021. He led India to Test series wins over England while also helping them reach the semifinals of the T20 World Cup in other significant achievements. His contract came to an end at the 2023 ODI World Cup where India finished runners-up to Australia. ALSO READ | Kylian Mbappe joins Real Madrid on five-year deal after dramatic transfer saga However, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) decided to extend his stay at least until the T20 World Cup. However, Dravid has now stated that he won’t be reapplying for the role and will leave after the end of his current stint. India will start their T20 World Cup campaign against Ireland on Wednesday (June 5) while they face Pakistan in their second match on June 9. All of India’s group stage matches will take place in New York and will also face Canada and co-hosts United States.

Rahul Dravid confirms exit from Team India's coaching role after ongoing T20 World Cup

India would want to kick off their T20 World Cup campaign&nbsp;on a winning note at the latest edition of the tournament on Wednesday (June 5). India will start their campaign against Ireland in the T20 World Cup and will look to end their 17-year drought to win the coveted tournament. One player on everyone’s radar will be Virat Kohli who is in red-hot form having won the Orange Cap for scoring most runs in the recently concluded Indian Premier League (IPL 2024).

<h2>Smith backs Virat to flourish with bat</h2>

According to former Australia skipper Steve Smith Virat will end as the highest run scorer in the tournament which will see him continue the rich form. Virat scored 741 runs in 15 matches of the IPL and helped his Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) side reach the playoffs. However, those runs could not help his side to its maiden IPL win.

"My top run-getter for this tournament will be Virat Kohli. He is coming off a terrific IPL and he is bringing in some great form and I think he will be the leading run-getter," said Smith while speaking to ICC world feed coverage.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/t20-world-cup-important-not-to-think-about-icc-trophy-jinx-says-india-coach-rahul-dravid-before-ireland-tie-728549">T20 World Cup: Important not to think about ICC trophy jinx, says India coach Rahul Dravid before Ireland tie</a>

After a 16-hour flight, Virat arrived in New York on Friday evening and rushed to the team hotel to take a rest. The former Indian captain has been in superb form in big tournaments. He was the highest run-scorer in the ODI World Cup back in November.

He was given an extra break after the IPL and was with his family before linking up with the squad. Like the T20 World Cup, Virat had earlier linked up with the Indian team late during the South Africa series in December 2023.&nbsp;

However, for now suspense&nbsp;surrounds what position Virat will play at the T20 World Cup as he is rumoured to open the batting while few have suggested he bat at No.3.

India would want to kick off their T20 World Cup campaign on a winning note at the latest edition of the tournament on Wednesday (June 5). India will start their campaign against Ireland in the T20 World Cup and will look to end their 17-year drought to win the coveted tournament.

India would want to kick off their T20 World Cup campaign on a winning note at the latest edition of the tournament on Wednesday (June 5). India will start their campaign against Ireland in the T20 World Cup and will look to end their 17-year drought to win the coveted tournament. One player on everyone’s radar will be Virat Kohli who is in red-hot form having won the Orange Cap for scoring most runs in the recently concluded Indian Premier League (IPL 2024). Smith backs Virat to flourish with bat According to former Australia skipper Steve Smith Virat will end as the highest run scorer in the tournament which will see him continue the rich form. Virat scored 741 runs in 15 matches of the IPL and helped his Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) side reach the playoffs. However, those runs could not help his side to its maiden IPL win. "My top run-getter for this tournament will be Virat Kohli. He is coming off a terrific IPL and he is bringing in some great form and I think he will be the leading run-getter," said Smith while speaking to ICC world feed coverage. ALSO READ | T20 World Cup: Important not to think about ICC trophy jinx, says India coach Rahul Dravid before Ireland tie After a 16-hour flight, Virat arrived in New York on Friday evening and rushed to the team hotel to take a rest. The former Indian captain has been in superb form in big tournaments. He was the highest run-scorer in the ODI World Cup back in November. He was given an extra break after the IPL and was with his family before linking up with the squad. Like the T20 World Cup, Virat had earlier linked up with the Indian team late during the South Africa series in December 2023. However, for now suspense surrounds what position Virat will play at the T20 World Cup as he is rumoured to open the batting while few have suggested he bat at No.3.

T20 World Cup 2024: Virat Kohli will be the highest run-scorer, says former Australia skipper Steve Smith

Ahead of Team India's T20 World Cup 2024 opener, on Wednesday (June 5), outgoing head coach Rahul Dravid lauded the national team for being consistent in major events despite their 11-year-long ICC title drought. India have not won an ICC trophy since 2013 Champions Trophy but have remained one of the most consistent sides, making it to the knockouts at regular intervals. Dravid stated that India isn't thinking about their trophy jinx and are focused on getting into the knockouts of the ongoing T20 WC&nbsp;in West Indies and USA.

Speaking to the press, two days before India's match versus Ireland in New York on Wednesday, Dravid said, "To be very honest with you, I think we've actually played really well in these World Cup tournaments. In terms of our consistency, we've been very consistent. Obviously making the semi-final in Australia (2022). The World Test Championship is slightly different, it's not one tournament, but it's a whole cycle but playing extremely well in that cycle to get to the final there again."

He further opined, "And then we know the 50-over World Cup where we had a great run and went into the final. So, in terms of our consistency and quality of cricket that we have played in these big tournaments, we've been right up there with some of the best teams."

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/rahul-dravid-confirms-exit-from-team-indias-coaching-role-after-ongoing-t20-world-cup-728515">Rahul Dravid confirms exit from Team India's coaching role after ongoing T20 World Cup</a>

Dravid mentioned, "Yes, we probably haven't been able to get across the line in the knockout game. So, we just probably haven't been able to execute in that last phase. So, hopefully we play good cricket to get ourselves into those positions again and then maybe play good cricket on the day to cross the line.

"The important thing is when you start these tournaments is not to think about that, is to actually think about getting into those positions. You have to find yourselves in those positions where you are pushing for glory and that's all you can do as a group and as a team," the fomrer Indian captain added.

Under Dravid, who took over as coach in late 2021, India reached the semifinals of the 2022 T20 WC, played the 2023 WTC final and also reached the home ODI WC final later in the year. With him set to quit his job post the ongoing competition, Rohit Sharma-led India will be keen to give him a fitting farewell with a T20 WC win.

India are placed in Group A along with arch-rivals Pakistan, Ireland, USA and Canada.&nbsp;

Ahead of Team India's T20 World Cup 2024 opener, on Wednesday (June 5), outgoing head coach Rahul Dravid lauded the national team for being consistent in major events despite their 11-year-long ICC title drought.

Ahead of Team India's T20 World Cup 2024 opener, on Wednesday (June 5), outgoing head coach Rahul Dravid lauded the national team for being consistent in major events despite their 11-year-long ICC title drought. India have not won an ICC trophy since 2013 Champions Trophy but have remained one of the most consistent sides, making it to the knockouts at regular intervals. Dravid stated that India isn't thinking about their trophy jinx and are focused on getting into the knockouts of the ongoing T20 WC in West Indies and USA. Speaking to the press, two days before India's match versus Ireland in New York on Wednesday, Dravid said, "To be very honest with you, I think we've actually played really well in these World Cup tournaments. In terms of our consistency, we've been very consistent. Obviously making the semi-final in Australia (2022). The World Test Championship is slightly different, it's not one tournament, but it's a whole cycle but playing extremely well in that cycle to get to the final there again." He further opined, "And then we know the 50-over World Cup where we had a great run and went into the final. So, in terms of our consistency and quality of cricket that we have played in these big tournaments, we've been right up there with some of the best teams." Also read: Rahul Dravid confirms exit from Team India's coaching role after ongoing T20 World Cup Dravid mentioned, "Yes, we probably haven't been able to get across the line in the knockout game. So, we just probably haven't been able to execute in that last phase. So, hopefully we play good cricket to get ourselves into those positions again and then maybe play good cricket on the day to cross the line. "The important thing is when you start these tournaments is not to think about that, is to actually think about getting into those positions. You have to find yourselves in those positions where you are pushing for glory and that's all you can do as a group and as a team," the fomrer Indian captain added. Under Dravid, who took over as coach in late 2021, India reached the semifinals of the 2022 T20 WC, played the 2023 WTC final and also reached the home ODI WC final later in the year. With him set to quit his job post the ongoing competition, Rohit Sharma-led India will be keen to give him a fitting farewell with a T20 WC win. India are placed in Group A along with arch-rivals Pakistan, Ireland, USA and Canada.

T20 World Cup: Important not to think about ICC trophy jinx, says India coach Rahul Dravid before Ireland tie

Team India is gearing up for their T20 World Cup opener versus Ireland, on Wednesday (June 5) in New York. The one-time winners are preparing hard for a fine start and had an intense training session ahead of their clash versus the Irish clash. Virat Kohli, who missed India's sole warm-up match versus Bangladesh, headlined the Men in Blue's practice session where he batted for close to 40 minutes as the national side trained for close to three hours,&nbsp;at the Nassau County Cricket Ground on Monday evening.

Kohli was up against the likes of Jasprit Bumrah, Arshdeep Singh, Hardik Pandya, Ravindra Jadeja and Yuzvendra Chahal during his 40-minute batting session.The right-hander took time to get going, as he assessed the conditions, before playing his shots. Kohli judged the bounce on the training pitches, being fully well that the Nassau County Cricket Stadium has aided the fast bowlers so far in the 20-team tournament.&nbsp;

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/t20-world-cup-important-not-to-think-about-icc-trophy-jinx-says-india-coach-rahul-dravid-before-ireland-tie-728549">T20 World Cup: Important not to think about ICC trophy jinx, says India coach Rahul Dravid before Ireland tie</a>

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The focus has also been on the likes of Hardik Pandya, who has been bowling in full throttle at the nets. In addition, the likes of captain Rohit Sharma, Ravindra Jadeja, Kuldeep Yadav, Jasprit Bumrah were seen sweating hard at the nets.&nbsp;

India are placed in Group A along with arch-rivals Pakistan, Ireland, USA and Canada. They will face Pakistan, in New York on June 9 (Sunday), after their opening clash versus Ireland on Wednesday.&nbsp;

Ahead of their tournament opener, outgoing head coach Rahul Dravid spoke at length on India's ICC trophy drought. Speaking to the press, he said, "To be very honest with you, I think we've actually played really well in these World Cup tournaments. In terms of our consistency, we've been very consistent. Obviously making the semi-final in Australia (2022). The World Test Championship is slightly different, it's not one tournament, but it's a whole cycle but playing extremely well in that cycle to get to the final there again."

Dravid added, "Yes, we probably haven't been able to get across the line in the knockout game. So, we just probably haven't been able to execute in that last phase. So, hopefully we play good cricket to get ourselves into those positions again and then maybe play good cricket on the day to cross the line."

Team India is gearing up for their T20 World Cup opener versus Ireland, on Wednesday (June 5) in New York. The one-time winners are preparing hard for a fine start and had an intense training session ahead of their clash versus the Irish clash.

Team India is gearing up for their T20 World Cup opener versus Ireland, on Wednesday (June 5) in New York. The one-time winners are preparing hard for a fine start and had an intense training session ahead of their clash versus the Irish clash. Virat Kohli, who missed India's sole warm-up match versus Bangladesh, headlined the Men in Blue's practice session where he batted for close to 40 minutes as the national side trained for close to three hours, at the Nassau County Cricket Ground on Monday evening. Kohli was up against the likes of Jasprit Bumrah, Arshdeep Singh, Hardik Pandya, Ravindra Jadeja and Yuzvendra Chahal during his 40-minute batting session.The right-hander took time to get going, as he assessed the conditions, before playing his shots. Kohli judged the bounce on the training pitches, being fully well that the Nassau County Cricket Stadium has aided the fast bowlers so far in the 20-team tournament. Also read: T20 World Cup: Important not to think about ICC trophy jinx, says India coach Rahul Dravid before Ireland tie View this post on Instagram A post shared by Team India (@indiancricketteam) × The focus has also been on the likes of Hardik Pandya, who has been bowling in full throttle at the nets. In addition, the likes of captain Rohit Sharma, Ravindra Jadeja, Kuldeep Yadav, Jasprit Bumrah were seen sweating hard at the nets. India are placed in Group A along with arch-rivals Pakistan, Ireland, USA and Canada. They will face Pakistan, in New York on June 9 (Sunday), after their opening clash versus Ireland on Wednesday. Ahead of their tournament opener, outgoing head coach Rahul Dravid spoke at length on India's ICC trophy drought. Speaking to the press, he said, "To be very honest with you, I think we've actually played really well in these World Cup tournaments. In terms of our consistency, we've been very consistent. Obviously making the semi-final in Australia (2022). The World Test Championship is slightly different, it's not one tournament, but it's a whole cycle but playing extremely well in that cycle to get to the final there again." Dravid added, "Yes, we probably haven't been able to get across the line in the knockout game. So, we just probably haven't been able to execute in that last phase. So, hopefully we play good cricket to get ourselves into those positions again and then maybe play good cricket on the day to cross the line."

T20 WC: Virat Kohli headlines India's intense training session ahead of Ireland clash - Watch

Afghanistan captain Rashid Khan is confident of his team's run in T20 World Cup 2024, being held in the West Indies and USA. Many former cricketers and experts of the game have predicted that Afghanistan would reach the semifinals. The legspinner opened up on the predictions being made by the pundits and said that it is only a positive sign for the team -- highlighting their growth over the years -- ahead of their tournament opener versus Uganda, on Tuesday (Jun 4). Afghanistan impressed one and all in the last ICC event, i.e. the 2023 ODI World Cup in India, and narrowly missed out on a semifinal spot.

Ahead of Afghanistan's match versus Uganda, Rashid said, "A few people, they have mentioned Afghanistan is going to be there for semis. But we take that as a very positive sign, and something is there for us. Before, it used to be Afghanistan even contribution was harder for us to get qualified. And now to be nominated [nominated by experts], to be there in the top four. I think it's big for us, but for us, we don't look to those things a lot."

<h2>'Nothing is impossible for us as a team'</h2>

Rashid further highlighted how the last ODI WC performance has instilled faith in the team. He opined, "It's all about how we're going to be there in the ground, delivering. We were very near in the last World Cup [ODI World Cup] as well to be in the semis. We were just one game away from being in the semis and that's where I feel like the belief started that nothing is impossible and for us as a team. So yeah, looking forward we are really excited about this World Cup but as I said before as well, we take one game at a time and then see how it goes."

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/t20-world-cup-namibia-beat-oman-in-super-over-thriller-hosts-west-indies-rally-to-win-against-png-728155">T20 World Cup: Namibia beat Oman in Super-Over thriller; hosts West Indies rally to win against PNG</a>

Rashid even stressed that Afghanistan are well prepared to handle the burden of expectations, emphasising that it is&nbsp;important for modern-day cricketers to perform under pressure.

In this regard, he stated, "Well, I feel in cricket there is always pressure. Either you play ICC events, or you play bilateral series, whatever the game you play, or any of the side against you play, there is always pressure. And for me, it's very simple. When there is pressure, you have to stick to your basics and you believe that basics what you can do and what is possible and what is under control."

"I feel that is more important than what people expect. So, the pressure will be there, but for us, and we need to keep it simple. We give 100% and you can't control that, like - the result. I think it's not under control. So, something not under our control, I feel like we better not think about it. And the pressure is always there, always there. But the more important thing is like, we stick to our basics, we do the right things, and we believe. I think that's the most important thing. I feel like we should do even under lots of pressure as well," Rashid added.

Afghanistan are placed in Group C in the 20-nation T20 WC, along with co-hosts West Indies, Papua New Guinea, New Zealand and Uganda.&nbsp;

Afghanistan captain Rashid Khan is confident of his team's run in T20 World Cup 2024, being held in the West Indies and USA. Many former cricketers and experts of the game have predicted that Afghanistan would reach the semifinals.

Afghanistan captain Rashid Khan is confident of his team's run in T20 World Cup 2024, being held in the West Indies and USA. Many former cricketers and experts of the game have predicted that Afghanistan would reach the semifinals. The legspinner opened up on the predictions being made by the pundits and said that it is only a positive sign for the team -- highlighting their growth over the years -- ahead of their tournament opener versus Uganda, on Tuesday (Jun 4). Afghanistan impressed one and all in the last ICC event, i.e. the 2023 ODI World Cup in India, and narrowly missed out on a semifinal spot. Ahead of Afghanistan's match versus Uganda, Rashid said, "A few people, they have mentioned Afghanistan is going to be there for semis. But we take that as a very positive sign, and something is there for us. Before, it used to be Afghanistan even contribution was harder for us to get qualified. And now to be nominated [nominated by experts], to be there in the top four. I think it's big for us, but for us, we don't look to those things a lot." 'Nothing is impossible for us as a team' Rashid further highlighted how the last ODI WC performance has instilled faith in the team. He opined, "It's all about how we're going to be there in the ground, delivering. We were very near in the last World Cup [ODI World Cup] as well to be in the semis. We were just one game away from being in the semis and that's where I feel like the belief started that nothing is impossible and for us as a team. So yeah, looking forward we are really excited about this World Cup but as I said before as well, we take one game at a time and then see how it goes." Also read: T20 World Cup: Namibia beat Oman in Super-Over thriller; hosts West Indies rally to win against PNG Rashid even stressed that Afghanistan are well prepared to handle the burden of expectations, emphasising that it is important for modern-day cricketers to perform under pressure. In this regard, he stated, "Well, I feel in cricket there is always pressure. Either you play ICC events, or you play bilateral series, whatever the game you play, or any of the side against you play, there is always pressure. And for me, it's very simple. When there is pressure, you have to stick to your basics and you believe that basics what you can do and what is possible and what is under control." "I feel that is more important than what people expect. So, the pressure will be there, but for us, and we need to keep it simple. We give 100% and you can't control that, like - the result. I think it's not under control. So, something not under our control, I feel like we better not think about it. And the pressure is always there, always there. But the more important thing is like, we stick to our basics, we do the right things, and we believe. I think that's the most important thing. I feel like we should do even under lots of pressure as well," Rashid added. Afghanistan are placed in Group C in the 20-nation T20 WC, along with co-hosts West Indies, Papua New Guinea, New Zealand and Uganda.

T20 World Cup: ‘We don’t look...’ - Rashid Khan reacts to experts predicting Afghanistan to reach semifinals

The International Cricket Council (ICC) has announced record prize money for the T20 World Cup, currently underway in the West Indies and USA. The global governing body of cricket on Monday declared a prize fund of $11.25 million for the marquee tournament, with the winner set to pocket at least $2.45 million.&nbsp;

The champions will be earning the highest paycheck in the history of the tournament.&nbsp;The runners-up will earn at least $1.28 million, while the losing semi-finalists will take home $787,500 each. Teams that do not advance past the Super 8 stage&nbsp;will receive $382,500 each, and those finishing between ninth and 12th place will get $247,500 each.

As for the lower end of the table, teams finishing between 13th and 20th will receive&nbsp;$225,000 each.&nbsp;

“This event is historic in so many ways so it is fitting that the prize money for players reflects that. Hundreds of millions of fans around the world will be entertained by the players in what we’re hoping to be an Out of This World event," said&nbsp;ICC Chief Executive Geoff Allardice on the bumper prize announcement.&nbsp;

<table align="center" border="1" cellpadding="1" cellspacing="1">
	<tbody>
		<tr>
			<td>Teams</td>
			<td>Money</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Champions</td>
			<td>$2.5 million (winner)</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Runners-up</td>
			<td>$1.28 million&nbsp;</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Losing semifinalist 1</td>
			<td>$787,500</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Losing semifinalist 2</td>
			<td>$787,500</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Teams ranked 5th to 8th</td>
			<td>$382,500 each</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Teams ranked 9th to 12th</td>
			<td>$247,500 each</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Teams ranked 13th to 20th&nbsp;</td>
			<td>$225,000 each</td>
		</tr>
	</tbody>
</table>

*Each team will win an additional&nbsp;$31,154 for each match won, excluding the semi-finals and finals.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/t20-world-cup-new-york-stadium-to-have-police-snipers-for-marquee-india-vs-pakistan-clash-reports-728305">Watch |&nbsp;T20 World Cup: New York stadium to have police snipers for marquee India vs Pakistan clash - Reports</a>

<h2>T20 World Cup format</h2>

The T20 World Cup comprises of 20 teams, divided into four groups of five each. Each team will be playing other teams in the pool only once. Here are the five groups:&nbsp;&nbsp;

Group A - India, Pakistan, USA, Canada, Ireland

Group B - Australia, England, Namibia, Oman, Scotland

Group C - Afghanistan, West Indies, New Zealand, Papua New Guinea, Uganda

Group D - South Africa, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, Nepal, Netherlands

A win carries two points while a point is offered in case of a no result. The top two teams from each group advance to the next stage of the tournament, which is called the Super 8.&nbsp;

The Super 8 stage will be contested in two groups of four teams each. However, the pools are already pre-decided.&nbsp;Every team in the five groups in the first round have been given a seeding based on their ranking. The teams in the two Super 8 groups will be: A1, B2, C1, D2 and A2, B1, C2, D1.

(With inputs from agencies)

The International Cricket Council (ICC) has announced record prize money for the T20 World Cup, currently underway in the West Indies and USA. The global governing body of cricket on Monday declared a prize fund of $11.

The International Cricket Council (ICC) has announced record prize money for the T20 World Cup, currently underway in the West Indies and USA. The global governing body of cricket on Monday declared a prize fund of $11.25 million for the marquee tournament, with the winner set to pocket at least $2.45 million. The champions will be earning the highest paycheck in the history of the tournament. The runners-up will earn at least $1.28 million, while the losing semi-finalists will take home $787,500 each. Teams that do not advance past the Super 8 stage will receive $382,500 each, and those finishing between ninth and 12th place will get $247,500 each. As for the lower end of the table, teams finishing between 13th and 20th will receive $225,000 each. “This event is historic in so many ways so it is fitting that the prize money for players reflects that. Hundreds of millions of fans around the world will be entertained by the players in what we’re hoping to be an Out of This World event," said ICC Chief Executive Geoff Allardice on the bumper prize announcement. Teams Money Champions $2.5 million (winner) Runners-up $1.28 million Losing semifinalist 1 $787,500 Losing semifinalist 2 $787,500 Teams ranked 5th to 8th $382,500 each Teams ranked 9th to 12th $247,500 each Teams ranked 13th to 20th $225,000 each *Each team will win an additional $31,154 for each match won, excluding the semi-finals and finals. Watch | T20 World Cup: New York stadium to have police snipers for marquee India vs Pakistan clash - Reports T20 World Cup format The T20 World Cup comprises of 20 teams, divided into four groups of five each. Each team will be playing other teams in the pool only once. Here are the five groups: Group A - India, Pakistan, USA, Canada, Ireland Group B - Australia, England, Namibia, Oman, Scotland Group C - Afghanistan, West Indies, New Zealand, Papua New Guinea, Uganda Group D - South Africa, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, Nepal, Netherlands A win carries two points while a point is offered in case of a no result. The top two teams from each group advance to the next stage of the tournament, which is called the Super 8. The Super 8 stage will be contested in two groups of four teams each. However, the pools are already pre-decided. Every team in the five groups in the first round have been given a seeding based on their ranking. The teams in the two Super 8 groups will be: A1, B2, C1, D2 and A2, B1, C2, D1. (With inputs from agencies)

T20 World Cup 2024: Here’s how much prize money each team will earn in the tournament

Huge efforts are being made to tighten the security for the ongoing 2024 T20 World Cup, being held in West Indies and USA. Ahead of the much-awaited India vs Pakistan match, on June 9 (Sunday) in New York, organisers and security officials are leaving no stone unturned for the smooth conduct of the match. Thus, there will be police snipers at covert locations for the upcoming India-Pakistan T20 WC match, especially after&nbsp;a pro-ISIS group reportedly threatened to disrupt the high-voltage game. The two Asian giants are set to lock horns at the&nbsp;Nassau County Cricket Ground, New York.

According to a report in the BBC, the Nassau County Police Department is set to oversee a massive operation to ensure all the games held at the venue are held without any unwanted incident. In addition, there will be SWAT teams along with plainclothes police officers operating inside the ground.

The ICC told the news outlet, "The safety and security of everyone at the event is our number one priority and we have a comprehensive and robust security plan in place." It added, "We work closely with authorities in our host countries and continually monitor and evaluate the global landscape to ensure appropriate plans are in place to mitigate any risks identified to our event."

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/t20-wc-luggage-lost-flight-delayed-ipl-bound-aussie-players-face-challenges-upon-landing-in-caribbean-728276">T20 WC: Luggage lost, flight delayed - IPL bound-Aussie players face challenges upon landing in Caribbean</a>

The report further stated that the parkland surrounding the temporary stadium will also not be open for the public on all match days,&nbsp;in a bid to prevent any potential drone attack. Thus, the fans attending the games&nbsp;will have to go through airport-style security scanners before being granted entry inside the stadium premises.

Talking about Rohit Sharma-led Team India, the one-time winners are placed in Group A along with arch-rivals Pakistan, Ireland, Canada and USA. They will open their campaign versus Ireland on June 5 at the Nassau County Cricket Ground in New York before meeting Babar Azam-led Men in Green, at the same venue, on June 9.

Huge efforts are being made to tighten the security for the ongoing 2024 T20 World Cup, being held in West Indies and USA. Ahead of the much-awaited India vs Pakistan match, on June 9 (Sunday) in New York, organisers and security officials are leaving no stone unturned for the smooth conduct of the match.

Huge efforts are being made to tighten the security for the ongoing 2024 T20 World Cup, being held in West Indies and USA. Ahead of the much-awaited India vs Pakistan match, on June 9 (Sunday) in New York, organisers and security officials are leaving no stone unturned for the smooth conduct of the match. Thus, there will be police snipers at covert locations for the upcoming India-Pakistan T20 WC match, especially after a pro-ISIS group reportedly threatened to disrupt the high-voltage game. The two Asian giants are set to lock horns at the Nassau County Cricket Ground, New York. According to a report in the BBC, the Nassau County Police Department is set to oversee a massive operation to ensure all the games held at the venue are held without any unwanted incident. In addition, there will be SWAT teams along with plainclothes police officers operating inside the ground. The ICC told the news outlet, "The safety and security of everyone at the event is our number one priority and we have a comprehensive and robust security plan in place." It added, "We work closely with authorities in our host countries and continually monitor and evaluate the global landscape to ensure appropriate plans are in place to mitigate any risks identified to our event." Also read: T20 WC: Luggage lost, flight delayed - IPL bound-Aussie players face challenges upon landing in Caribbean The report further stated that the parkland surrounding the temporary stadium will also not be open for the public on all match days, in a bid to prevent any potential drone attack. Thus, the fans attending the games will have to go through airport-style security scanners before being granted entry inside the stadium premises. Talking about Rohit Sharma-led Team India, the one-time winners are placed in Group A along with arch-rivals Pakistan, Ireland, Canada and USA. They will open their campaign versus Ireland on June 5 at the Nassau County Cricket Ground in New York before meeting Babar Azam-led Men in Green, at the same venue, on June 9.

T20 World Cup: New York stadium to have police snipers for marquee India vs Pakistan clash - Reports

Former West Indies cricketer-turned-commentator Ian Bishop feels Hardik Pandya has moved on from IPL 2024 setback and lauded the all-rounder for having a strong personality. In IPL 2024, Hardik had a torrid time both as captain and player. Returning to Mumbai Indians (MI),&nbsp;Hardik was booed by a wide section of fans, across the nation, for replacing Rohit Sharma as the MI captain. Moreover, the 30-year-old only managed only 216 runs, at an average of 18, along with taking 11 wickets from 14 games. Under Hardik, MI finished at the tenth spot. However, the all-rounder showed signs of returning to form during India's T20 World Cup 2024 warm-up game versus Bangladesh on Saturday (June 1).

However, in&nbsp;the warm-up tie, Hardik smashed a 23-ball 40 and also chipped in with a wicket at the Nassau County Cricket Ground, New York. On Monday (June 3), after Namibia's thrilling Super Over win over Oman, in Barbados, in match 3 of the T20 WC, Bishop opined that Hardik has moved on from his horrible run in IPL 2024.&nbsp;

Bishop stated, "I think he is a pretty strong personality. I would like to think that the other members of the team would have rallied around him. What he endured during the IPL, some of it was not of his own making. I just wish fans could have approached it maybe a little differently, but they have the right to voice their views however they see fit.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/t20-wc-luggage-lost-flight-delayed-ipl-bound-aussie-players-face-challenges-upon-landing-in-caribbean-728276">T20 WC: Luggage lost, flight delayed - IPL bound-Aussie players face challenges upon landing in Caribbean</a>

Bishop further added, "I am sure he has moved on now to what is the biggest stage in T20 international cricket and that whole picture is ahead of us. But he is a strong guy."

At present, Hardik is gearing up for India's T20 WC opener, where the Rohit-led Men in Blue will face Ireland on June 5 (Wednesday) in New York. The one-time winners are placed in Group A along with arch-rivals Pakistan, Ireland, USA and Canada.

India are looking to win their second T20 WC title and Hardik will be eager to fire on all cylinders to fulfill India's dreams.&nbsp;

Former West Indies cricketer-turned-commentator Ian Bishop feels Hardik Pandya has moved on from IPL 2024 setback and lauded the all-rounder for having a strong personality.

Former West Indies cricketer-turned-commentator Ian Bishop feels Hardik Pandya has moved on from IPL 2024 setback and lauded the all-rounder for having a strong personality. In IPL 2024, Hardik had a torrid time both as captain and player. Returning to Mumbai Indians (MI), Hardik was booed by a wide section of fans, across the nation, for replacing Rohit Sharma as the MI captain. Moreover, the 30-year-old only managed only 216 runs, at an average of 18, along with taking 11 wickets from 14 games. Under Hardik, MI finished at the tenth spot. However, the all-rounder showed signs of returning to form during India's T20 World Cup 2024 warm-up game versus Bangladesh on Saturday (June 1). However, in the warm-up tie, Hardik smashed a 23-ball 40 and also chipped in with a wicket at the Nassau County Cricket Ground, New York. On Monday (June 3), after Namibia's thrilling Super Over win over Oman, in Barbados, in match 3 of the T20 WC, Bishop opined that Hardik has moved on from his horrible run in IPL 2024. Bishop stated, "I think he is a pretty strong personality. I would like to think that the other members of the team would have rallied around him. What he endured during the IPL, some of it was not of his own making. I just wish fans could have approached it maybe a little differently, but they have the right to voice their views however they see fit. Also read: T20 WC: Luggage lost, flight delayed - IPL bound-Aussie players face challenges upon landing in Caribbean Bishop further added, "I am sure he has moved on now to what is the biggest stage in T20 international cricket and that whole picture is ahead of us. But he is a strong guy." At present, Hardik is gearing up for India's T20 WC opener, where the Rohit-led Men in Blue will face Ireland on June 5 (Wednesday) in New York. The one-time winners are placed in Group A along with arch-rivals Pakistan, Ireland, USA and Canada. India are looking to win their second T20 WC title and Hardik will be eager to fire on all cylinders to fulfill India's dreams.

T20 World Cup: Hardik Pandya is a strong personality, moved on from IPL 2024 fiasco, feels Ian Bishop

The ninth edition of the T20 World Cup kicks off on June 1 (Saturday) with 16 teams set to compete for the mega title. Ahead of the showpiece event, here is a look at the batters with the most runs in boundaries in the tournament history.

T20 World Cup - Batters with most runs in boundaries

Pakistan skipper Babar Azam created history during the fourth and final T20I between England and Pakistan on Thursday (May 30) at the Kennington Oval, London. He became only the second batter in men's T20I to join the 4,000-run club.

The right-hander achieved the feat during his 22-ball 36 to join Indian superstar Virat Kohli in the elusive club. Despite Babar's historic feat, Pakistan lost the final T20I by seven wickets and conceded the four-match series 2-0 to Jos Buttler &amp; Co.

Most runs in men's T20Is

1. Virat Kohli - 4037 runs in 117 matches 
2. Babar Azam - 4023 runs in 119 matches 
3. Rohit Sharma - 3974 runs in 151 matches 
4. Paul Stirling - 3589 runs in 142 matches 
5. Martin Guptill - 3531 runs in 122 matches

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/t20-world-cup-2024-ricky-ponting-picks-australias-travis-head-to-be-highest-run-scorer-read-why-727192">T20 World Cup 2024: Ricky Ponting picks Australia's Travis Head to be highest run-scorer | Read Why</a>

Thus, during the match, Babar surpassed Indian captain Rohit Sharma's run tally and is now only 14 runs behind Kohli's.

It will be interesting to see who between Kohli and Babar will end the forthcoming T20 World Cup, which kicks off in June 1 in West Indies and USA, as the highest run-getter. Even Hitman isn't far behind and a good run in the T20 WC can propel him to the top spot.

Talking about 4,000-run club, Kohli remains the quickest batter to reach the milestone; attaining in just 107&nbsp;innings (five innings quicker than Babar).&nbsp;

Meanwhile, Babar-led Pakistan fell flat in the fourth and final T20I versus England in London. Opting to bowl first, T20 champions England dismissed Men in Green for 157 in 19.5&nbsp;overs. Babar (36) and Usman Khan (38) top-scored for their side as Mark Wood, Adil Rashid and Liam Livingstone claimed two wickets apiece.&nbsp;

In reply, England closed the game in 15.3 overs with vital contributions from their top-five.

With this, the hosts clinched the series 2-0, having already won the second T20I by 23 runs. The first and penultimate T20I were washed out due to rain.

This was the final game for both the sides before the T20 WC, starting on Saturday.

Pakistan skipper Babar Azam created history during the fourth and final T20I between England and Pakistan on Thursday (May 30) at the Kennington Oval, London. He became only the second batter in men's T20I to join the 4,000-run club.

Pakistan skipper Babar Azam created history during the fourth and final T20I between England and Pakistan on Thursday (May 30) at the Kennington Oval, London. He became only the second batter in men's T20I to join the 4,000-run club. The right-hander achieved the feat during his 22-ball 36 to join Indian superstar Virat Kohli in the elusive club. Despite Babar's historic feat, Pakistan lost the final T20I by seven wickets and conceded the four-match series 2-0 to Jos Buttler & Co. Most runs in men's T20Is 1. Virat Kohli - 4037 runs in 117 matches 2. Babar Azam - 4023 runs in 119 matches 3. Rohit Sharma - 3974 runs in 151 matches 4. Paul Stirling - 3589 runs in 142 matches 5. Martin Guptill - 3531 runs in 122 matches Also read: T20 World Cup 2024: Ricky Ponting picks Australia's Travis Head to be highest run-scorer | Read Why Thus, during the match, Babar surpassed Indian captain Rohit Sharma's run tally and is now only 14 runs behind Kohli's. It will be interesting to see who between Kohli and Babar will end the forthcoming T20 World Cup, which kicks off in June 1 in West Indies and USA, as the highest run-getter. Even Hitman isn't far behind and a good run in the T20 WC can propel him to the top spot. Talking about 4,000-run club, Kohli remains the quickest batter to reach the milestone; attaining in just 107 innings (five innings quicker than Babar). Meanwhile, Babar-led Pakistan fell flat in the fourth and final T20I versus England in London. Opting to bowl first, T20 champions England dismissed Men in Green for 157 in 19.5 overs. Babar (36) and Usman Khan (38) top-scored for their side as Mark Wood, Adil Rashid and Liam Livingstone claimed two wickets apiece. In reply, England closed the game in 15.3 overs with vital contributions from their top-five. With this, the hosts clinched the series 2-0, having already won the second T20I by 23 runs. The first and penultimate T20I were washed out due to rain. This was the final game for both the sides before the T20 WC, starting on Saturday.

Eng vs Pak: Babar Azam becomes second batter after Virat Kohli to complete 4k runs in men's T20Is

Former Australia skipper Ricky Ponting has picked Travis Head to be the highest run-scorer at the upcoming T20 World Cup 2024 in the USA and West Indies. Ponting's comments came on the back of Head's rich form in the last year or so including a sensational Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024 season for SunRisers Hyderabad (SRH) as well.

"My prediction for the leading run-scorer will be Travis Head. I just think everything he's done, whether it be red-ball or white-ball in the last couple of years, has been of the highest quality. I think he's playing fearless cricket at the moment," Ponting said on the ICC Review Podcast.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/t20-world-cup-2024-tim-paine-wants-pat-cummins-or-josh-hazlewood-out-for-this-bowler-in-australia-playing-xi-727110">T20 World Cup 2024: Tim Paine wants Pat Cummins or Josh Hazlewood out for THIS bowler in Australia playing XI</a>

Head scored a mammoth 567 runs in 15 matches in the IPL 2024 at an average of 40 and monster strike rate of 191. The team, however, lost the final against eventual champions Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR).

"His IPL had its ups and downs, but when it's been good, it's been very good. And it has won games of cricket for his team," Ponting noted.

"And it'll be exactly the same for Australia. So, look, he might not be the most consistent on the way through this tournament, but he'll be right up there, I'm sure, with the leading run scorers. And as I've said, if he spends any amount of time at the wicket for Australia, he'll win more games than ever," added the former skipper.

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 and Glenn Maxwell being the all-rounders.&nbsp;

Former Australia skipper Ricky Ponting has picked Travis Head to be the highest run-scorer at the upcoming T20 World Cup 2024 in the USA and West Indies. Ponting's comments came on the back of Head's rich form in the last year or so including a sensational Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024 season for SunRisers Hyderabad (SRH) as well.

Former Australia skipper Ricky Ponting has picked Travis Head to be the highest run-scorer at the upcoming T20 World Cup 2024 in the USA and West Indies. Ponting's comments came on the back of Head's rich form in the last year or so including a sensational Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024 season for SunRisers Hyderabad (SRH) as well. "My prediction for the leading run-scorer will be Travis Head. I just think everything he's done, whether it be red-ball or white-ball in the last couple of years, has been of the highest quality. I think he's playing fearless cricket at the moment," Ponting said on the ICC Review Podcast. Also Read: T20 World Cup 2024: Tim Paine wants Pat Cummins or Josh Hazlewood out for THIS bowler in Australia playing XI Head scored a mammoth 567 runs in 15 matches in the IPL 2024 at an average of 40 and monster strike rate of 191. The team, however, lost the final against eventual champions Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR). "His IPL had its ups and downs, but when it's been good, it's been very good. And it has won games of cricket for his team," Ponting noted. "And it'll be exactly the same for Australia. So, look, he might not be the most consistent on the way through this tournament, but he'll be right up there, I'm sure, with the leading run scorers. And as I've said, if he spends any amount of time at the wicket for Australia, he'll win more games than ever," added the former skipper. 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 and Glenn Maxwell being the all-rounders.

T20 World Cup 2024: Ricky Ponting picks Australia's Travis Head to be highest run-scorer | Read Why

Former Australia Test team captain has praised star bowler Mitchell Starc as he prepares for the T20 World Cup in the USA and West Indies. Starc along with Pat Cummins will lead Australia's bowling unit during the T20 World Cup as they bid to become the first team to be the defending champions in all three formats of the game.

<h2>Paine praises Starc</h2>

"He realised that with international cricket, you are going to get picked apart in the middle. But I think he nailed it. His record in the first overs of big games is amazing. He has done it at the MCG, we will never forget that. He knocked down Brendon McCullum. He has done that time and time again," Paine said.

"I think he is a victim of his own really high standards. People expect absolute brilliance from him every time he walks onto the field. And more often than not, he has produced... When he is on, he is as good as any other player who has ever played cricket, and he is gonna be a huge weapon in this coming World Cup again," Paine added.

Starc had a fruitful Indian Premier League (IPL 2024) campaign as he helped Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) win their third title. The speedster was at his&nbsp;best during the tournament and bagged 17 wickets in 14 matches. He was also awarded Player of the Match in the final having ended with figures of 14/2 in three overs. He was the standout bowler in the final and put SunRisers Hyderabad on the backfoot during his spell. &nbsp;

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Australia are placed in Group B where they will face defending champions England, Namibia, Scotland and Oman. The 2021 champions will start their T20 World Cup campaign against Oman on June 5 in Barbados.

Australia squad:&nbsp;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

Travelling Reserves:&nbsp;Jake Fraser-McGurk, Matt Short

Former Australia Test team captain has praised star bowler Mitchell Starc as he prepares for the T20 World Cup in the USA and West Indies. Starc along with Pat Cummins will lead Australia's bowling unit during the T20 World Cup as they bid to become the first team to be the defending champions in all three formats of the game.

Former Australia Test team captain has praised star bowler Mitchell Starc as he prepares for the T20 World Cup in the USA and West Indies. Starc along with Pat Cummins will lead Australia's bowling unit during the T20 World Cup as they bid to become the first team to be the defending champions in all three formats of the game. Paine praises Starc "He realised that with international cricket, you are going to get picked apart in the middle. But I think he nailed it. His record in the first overs of big games is amazing. He has done it at the MCG, we will never forget that. He knocked down Brendon McCullum. He has done that time and time again," Paine said. "I think he is a victim of his own really high standards. People expect absolute brilliance from him every time he walks onto the field. And more often than not, he has produced... When he is on, he is as good as any other player who has ever played cricket, and he is gonna be a huge weapon in this coming World Cup again," Paine added. Starc had a fruitful Indian Premier League (IPL 2024) campaign as he helped Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) win their third title. The speedster was at his best during the tournament and bagged 17 wickets in 14 matches. He was also awarded Player of the Match in the final having ended with figures of 14/2 in three overs. He was the standout bowler in the final and put SunRisers Hyderabad on the backfoot during his spell. ALSO READ | 'I don't care...,' Rajasthan Royals batter Riyan Parag opens up on India selection Australia are placed in Group B where they will face defending champions England, Namibia, Scotland and Oman. The 2021 champions will start their T20 World Cup campaign against Oman on June 5 in Barbados. 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 Travelling Reserves: Jake Fraser-McGurk, Matt Short

T20 World Cup 2024: Tim Paine heaps praise at 'match-winner' Mitchell Starc, says 'he is a victim of...'

All eyes are now on the commencement of the 2024 T20 World Cup&nbsp;to be jointly-held in West Indies and USA in June. The main focus is on the India-Pakistan game on June 9 in New York. Ahead of the mega clash, there are concerns about security at the Nassau Country Cricket Stadium,&nbsp;the venue&nbsp;in Long Island in New York. Security personnel are preparing for the possibility of a potential lone wolf attack&nbsp;and are taking extensive measures to prevent disruptions.&nbsp;

According to Wikipedia, lone wolf attack "is a particular kind of mass murder, committed in a public setting by an individual who plans and commits the act on their own."

The Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman and Police Commissioner Patrick Ryder revealed the security situation to the media on Wednesday morning (Eastern Time).

Blakeman was quoted as saying by CBS News, "Each and every day, Nassau County, as well as other communities and cities and counties and towns throughout the United States, receive all kinds of threats. We take every threat seriously."

He further opined, "To that end, we have taken many, many precautions. As well as making sure that the stadium and the surrounding Eisenhower Park are safe, the parking areas are safe, the watch areas are safe, we also are adding 100 additional police officers to our normal staffing for the rest of the county, just as a precaution."

One particular tip-off was regarding a likely lone wolf attack on the June 9 game, as per the report which attributed it to the police commissioner. "When you've got a game and a crowd as big as this, everything is credible. We will go through every fine detail when it comes to the security and safety of the residents here in Nassau County. I can guarantee you this is the largest security we've ever had to do in this county's history, and I can also guarantee you the safest place to be in Nassau County on June 9 will be inside that stadium," Ryder mentioned.

Also read: <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">T20 World Cup: Wasim Jaffer feels Virat Kohli and Yashasvi Jaiswal should open for India, Rohit at No 3 or 4</a>

It is to be noted that this is the first instance of an India-Pakistan being held in New York. Thus the hype and hysteria surrounding the game between the two arch-rivals is new to the local authorities as well. In addition, it has led to the Governor of New York State getting involved. She has emphasised that public safety will be her priority.

The office of Kathy Hochul said in a statement released on Wednesday (May 29) morning, "In preparation for the Cricket World Cup, my Administration has been working for months with federal law enforcement and Nassau County to ensure New Yorkers and visitors are safe. This has included close coordination with the New York State Police Counter Terrorism Unit and New York State Police Troop L, based on Long Island. While there is no credible public safety threat at this time, we continue to monitor the situation closely. I have also directed the New York State Police to engage in elevated security measures, including an increased law enforcement presence, advanced surveillance, and thorough screening processes. Public safety is my top priority and we are committed to ensuring the Cricket World Cup is a safe, enjoyable experience."

Meanwhile, a spokesperson for the International Cricket Council (ICC) stated, "The safety and security of everyone at the event is our number one priority and we have a comprehensive and robust security plan in place. We work closely with authorities in our host countries and continually monitor and evaluate the global landscape to ensure appropriate plans are in place to mitigate any risks identified to our event."

India and Pakistan are placed in Group A along with USA, Ireland and Canada. Rohit Sharma-led Men in Blue open their campaign on June 5, in New York, versus Ireland whereas Babar Azam's Pakistan will meet USA on June 6 in Dallas before the two Asian giants lock horns on June 9.

All eyes are now on the commencement of the 2024 T20 World Cup to be jointly-held in West Indies and USA in June. The main focus is on the India-Pakistan game on June 9 in New York.

All eyes are now on the commencement of the 2024 T20 World Cup to be jointly-held in West Indies and USA in June. The main focus is on the India-Pakistan game on June 9 in New York. Ahead of the mega clash, there are concerns about security at the Nassau Country Cricket Stadium, the venue in Long Island in New York. Security personnel are preparing for the possibility of a potential lone wolf attack and are taking extensive measures to prevent disruptions. According to Wikipedia, lone wolf attack "is a particular kind of mass murder, committed in a public setting by an individual who plans and commits the act on their own." The Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman and Police Commissioner Patrick Ryder revealed the security situation to the media on Wednesday morning (Eastern Time). Blakeman was quoted as saying by CBS News, "Each and every day, Nassau County, as well as other communities and cities and counties and towns throughout the United States, receive all kinds of threats. We take every threat seriously." He further opined, "To that end, we have taken many, many precautions. As well as making sure that the stadium and the surrounding Eisenhower Park are safe, the parking areas are safe, the watch areas are safe, we also are adding 100 additional police officers to our normal staffing for the rest of the county, just as a precaution." One particular tip-off was regarding a likely lone wolf attack on the June 9 game, as per the report which attributed it to the police commissioner. "When you've got a game and a crowd as big as this, everything is credible. We will go through every fine detail when it comes to the security and safety of the residents here in Nassau County. I can guarantee you this is the largest security we've ever had to do in this county's history, and I can also guarantee you the safest place to be in Nassau County on June 9 will be inside that stadium," Ryder mentioned. Also read: T20 World Cup: Wasim Jaffer feels Virat Kohli and Yashasvi Jaiswal should open for India, Rohit at No 3 or 4 It is to be noted that this is the first instance of an India-Pakistan being held in New York. Thus the hype and hysteria surrounding the game between the two arch-rivals is new to the local authorities as well. In addition, it has led to the Governor of New York State getting involved. She has emphasised that public safety will be her priority. The office of Kathy Hochul said in a statement released on Wednesday (May 29) morning, "In preparation for the Cricket World Cup, my Administration has been working for months with federal law enforcement and Nassau County to ensure New Yorkers and visitors are safe. This has included close coordination with the New York State Police Counter Terrorism Unit and New York State Police Troop L, based on Long Island. While there is no credible public safety threat at this time, we continue to monitor the situation closely. I have also directed the New York State Police to engage in elevated security measures, including an increased law enforcement presence, advanced surveillance, and thorough screening processes. Public safety is my top priority and we are committed to ensuring the Cricket World Cup is a safe, enjoyable experience." Meanwhile, a spokesperson for the International Cricket Council (ICC) stated, "The safety and security of everyone at the event is our number one priority and we have a comprehensive and robust security plan in place. We work closely with authorities in our host countries and continually monitor and evaluate the global landscape to ensure appropriate plans are in place to mitigate any risks identified to our event." India and Pakistan are placed in Group A along with USA, Ireland and Canada. Rohit Sharma-led Men in Blue open their campaign on June 5, in New York, versus Ireland whereas Babar Azam's Pakistan will meet USA on June 6 in Dallas before the two Asian giants lock horns on June 9.

T20 World Cup: NYPD fears lone wolf attack during India-Pakistan mega clash

Virat Kohli recently recalled his&nbsp;World Cup debut&nbsp;in 2011, where he scored a magnificent 100 in India's face-off versus Bangladesh in what was the&nbsp;50-over&nbsp;mega event's tournament&nbsp;opener. Ahead of India's T20 World Cup 2024 warm-up game versus Bangladesh&nbsp;on June 1 in New York, Kohli spoke about his&nbsp;WC debut, which came during his second year in international cricket. On Feb 19, India faced Bangladesh in the 2011 ODI WC opener, in Mirpur,&nbsp;where the then MS Dhoni-led India rode on Virender Sehwag's 175 and Kohli's 100* to post 370-4 and later won by 87 runs.

In a recent interaction on Star Sports, Kohli admitted that he had butterflies in his stomach ahead of his WC debut. He got a chance to play alongside Sachin Tendulkar, Gautam Gambhir, Sehwag, Dhoni, Yuvraj Singh, Zaheer Khan, Harbhajan Singh and the likes and, thus, was nervous.&nbsp;

Kohli said, "It was (World Cup debut) against Bangladesh in Dhaka (in Mirpur), my first game and I was nervous. Yes, I will not lie. There is a different sense of excitement in the air when you come for a World Cup and I could obviously sense that. I was the youngest member of that team and I was getting to play with all these greats of Indian cricket in a World Cup game."

<h2>'Nervousness helped me to be aware and alert'</h2>

The former Indian captain further added, "For me it was definitely a moment where I was a bit nervous heading into the game and definitely the night before I was quite nervous but that is a good sign as well because your body is preparing you to enter a situation where you’re alert, you’re not taking things for granted. I think that nervousness helped me to be aware, be alert and be absolutely precise in the execution of my plans."

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/t20-world-cup-nypd-fear-lone-wolf-attack-during-india-pakistan-mega-clash-726899">T20 World Cup: NYPD fears lone wolf attack during India-Pakistan mega clash</a>

Kohli had a memorable outing where he slammed an unbeaten 100 off 83 balls (8 fours and 2 sixes) and was also involved in a mammoth 203-run third-wicket stand with Player-of-the-Match Sehwag (whose 175 was laced with 14 fours and 4 sixes). As a result, India stormed past the Bangla Tigers and later went onto win the 2011 edition, co-hosted by India, Sri Lanka and Bangladesh, by beating the Lankans in the final at Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai.

Since then, Kohli hasn't looked behind and been India's go-to-man in ODI WCs. He has 1,795 runs (second-most) in 37 games at an average of 59.83 with 5 centuries. He ended the 2023 edition, held in India, with most runs by a batter in a single edition (765). Even in T20 WC history, he is the leading run-getter with 1,141 runs starting from 2012-22.

Talking about India's&nbsp;upcoming T20 WC campaign, in West Indies and USA, Kohli's form will be crucial for Rohit Sharma &amp; Co. India will begin their campaign on June 5 versus Ireland in New York. They are placed in Group A alongside Pakistan, USA, Ireland and Canada.

Virat Kohli recently recalled his World Cup debut in 2011, where he scored a magnificent 100 in India's face-off versus Bangladesh in what was the 50-over mega event's tournament opener.

Virat Kohli recently recalled his World Cup debut in 2011, where he scored a magnificent 100 in India's face-off versus Bangladesh in what was the 50-over mega event's tournament opener. Ahead of India's T20 World Cup 2024 warm-up game versus Bangladesh on June 1 in New York, Kohli spoke about his WC debut, which came during his second year in international cricket. On Feb 19, India faced Bangladesh in the 2011 ODI WC opener, in Mirpur, where the then MS Dhoni-led India rode on Virender Sehwag's 175 and Kohli's 100* to post 370-4 and later won by 87 runs. In a recent interaction on Star Sports, Kohli admitted that he had butterflies in his stomach ahead of his WC debut. He got a chance to play alongside Sachin Tendulkar, Gautam Gambhir, Sehwag, Dhoni, Yuvraj Singh, Zaheer Khan, Harbhajan Singh and the likes and, thus, was nervous. Kohli said, "It was (World Cup debut) against Bangladesh in Dhaka (in Mirpur), my first game and I was nervous. Yes, I will not lie. There is a different sense of excitement in the air when you come for a World Cup and I could obviously sense that. I was the youngest member of that team and I was getting to play with all these greats of Indian cricket in a World Cup game." 'Nervousness helped me to be aware and alert' The former Indian captain further added, "For me it was definitely a moment where I was a bit nervous heading into the game and definitely the night before I was quite nervous but that is a good sign as well because your body is preparing you to enter a situation where you’re alert, you’re not taking things for granted. I think that nervousness helped me to be aware, be alert and be absolutely precise in the execution of my plans." Also read: T20 World Cup: NYPD fears lone wolf attack during India-Pakistan mega clash Kohli had a memorable outing where he slammed an unbeaten 100 off 83 balls (8 fours and 2 sixes) and was also involved in a mammoth 203-run third-wicket stand with Player-of-the-Match Sehwag (whose 175 was laced with 14 fours and 4 sixes). As a result, India stormed past the Bangla Tigers and later went onto win the 2011 edition, co-hosted by India, Sri Lanka and Bangladesh, by beating the Lankans in the final at Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai. Since then, Kohli hasn't looked behind and been India's go-to-man in ODI WCs. He has 1,795 runs (second-most) in 37 games at an average of 59.83 with 5 centuries. He ended the 2023 edition, held in India, with most runs by a batter in a single edition (765). Even in T20 WC history, he is the leading run-getter with 1,141 runs starting from 2012-22. Talking about India's upcoming T20 WC campaign, in West Indies and USA, Kohli's form will be crucial for Rohit Sharma & Co. India will begin their campaign on June 5 versus Ireland in New York. They are placed in Group A alongside Pakistan, USA, Ireland and Canada.

T20 World Cup: Virat Kohli recalls WC debut in 2011, says 'nervousness helped him to be aware and alert'

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."

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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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

The forthcoming 2024 T20 World Cup kicks off in June in the West Indies and USA. Ahead of the upcoming edition, here is a look at the batters with most sixes in the T20 WC history.

T20 World Cup 2024: Most sixes in T20 World Cup history

Virat Kohli remains the only member of the Indian T20 World Cup squad not to have reached New York&nbsp;ahead of the first warm-up match versus Bangladesh&nbsp;on June 1 at the Nassau County International Cricket Stadium. BCCI is yet to provide any update on his travel status but it appears that Kohli will miss the match and directly play in the first league contest against Ireland on June 4.&nbsp;

While Kohli is yet to jet off for the USA, most of the Indian players had their first training session on Tuesday (May 28).&nbsp;Soham Desai, the team's strength and conditioning coach revealed that the players were being accessed initially, having been away for two months on Indian Premier League (IPL) duty. They would be eased back into training slowly.&nbsp;

"They have been away for two-and-a-half months from us [the national team setup]. Just getting them together to know where they stand, what needs to be done before the World Cup was the goal," Desai said in a video released by BCCI.&nbsp;

"[The] goal is to spend 45 minutes to an hour there on the park to again get going.&nbsp;We want to see them move. We want to see them run so that we can put enough plans in place for each guy to be ready for the first game."&nbsp;

India's leader of the bowling lineup, Jasprit Bumrah, looked in happy spirits despite a disappointing campaign with the Mumbai Indians.&nbsp;

"We've not yet played cricket. We've come here for a team activity today.&nbsp;Hopefully, it will be good. The weather is really good. So looking forward," said Bumrah.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/predictable-non-risk-takers-and-unthreatening-david-llyods-assessment-of-indias-t20-world-cup-squad-724695">Also read |&nbsp;Predictable, non risk-takers and unthreatening – David Llyod’s assessment of India’s T20 World Cup squad&nbsp;&nbsp;</a>

<h2>Kohli taking a break?</h2>

Earlier, a report in The Indian Express had claimed that Kohli had sought a 'mini-break' from BCCI after the end of IPL.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

“Kohli had informed us way beforehand that he will be joining the team late and that is why the&nbsp;BCCI has kept his visa appointment for a later date,"&nbsp;a BCCI official was quoted as saying by the publication.&nbsp;

Kohli finished the IPL as the Orange Cap holder with 741 runs, which included a century and five fifties. However, his team lost in an agonising manner to Rajasthan Royals in the Eliminator, forcing the batter to take an extended break.

Indian captain Rohit Sharma, Jasprit Bumrah, Shivam Dube, Ravindra Jadeja, Kuldeep Yadav, Suryakumar Yadav, Rishabh Pant, Mohammad Siraj and Shubman Gill departed for the US in the first batch. Head coach Rahul Dravid, whose tenure expires after the marquee tournament, also took the flight, alongside his backroom staff.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<h3>India’s 2024 T20 World Cup squad:&nbsp;</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

(With inputs from agencies)

Virat Kohli remains the only member of the Indian T20 World Cup squad not to have reached New York ahead of the first warm-up match versus Bangladesh on June 1 at the Nassau County International Cricket Stadium.

Virat Kohli remains the only member of the Indian T20 World Cup squad not to have reached New York ahead of the first warm-up match versus Bangladesh on June 1 at the Nassau County International Cricket Stadium. BCCI is yet to provide any update on his travel status but it appears that Kohli will miss the match and directly play in the first league contest against Ireland on June 4. While Kohli is yet to jet off for the USA, most of the Indian players had their first training session on Tuesday (May 28). Soham Desai, the team's strength and conditioning coach revealed that the players were being accessed initially, having been away for two months on Indian Premier League (IPL) duty. They would be eased back into training slowly. "They have been away for two-and-a-half months from us [the national team setup]. Just getting them together to know where they stand, what needs to be done before the World Cup was the goal," Desai said in a video released by BCCI. "[The] goal is to spend 45 minutes to an hour there on the park to again get going. We want to see them move. We want to see them run so that we can put enough plans in place for each guy to be ready for the first game." India's leader of the bowling lineup, Jasprit Bumrah, looked in happy spirits despite a disappointing campaign with the Mumbai Indians. "We've not yet played cricket. We've come here for a team activity today. Hopefully, it will be good. The weather is really good. So looking forward," said Bumrah. Also read | Predictable, non risk-takers and unthreatening – David Llyod’s assessment of India’s T20 World Cup squad Kohli taking a break? Earlier, a report in The Indian Express had claimed that Kohli had sought a 'mini-break' from BCCI after the end of IPL. “Kohli had informed us way beforehand that he will be joining the team late and that is why the BCCI has kept his visa appointment for a later date," a BCCI official was quoted as saying by the publication. Kohli finished the IPL as the Orange Cap holder with 741 runs, which included a century and five fifties. However, his team lost in an agonising manner to Rajasthan Royals in the Eliminator, forcing the batter to take an extended break. Indian captain Rohit Sharma, Jasprit Bumrah, Shivam Dube, Ravindra Jadeja, Kuldeep Yadav, Suryakumar Yadav, Rishabh Pant, Mohammad Siraj and Shubman Gill departed for the US in the first batch. Head coach Rahul Dravid, whose tenure expires after the marquee tournament, also took the flight, alongside his backroom staff. 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 (With inputs from agencies)

T20 World Cup: Virat Kohli remains the only missing face as Indian players undergo training

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