From Zimbabwe beating Australia in 2007 to Hong Kong outclassing Bangladesh in 2014: Epic T20 World Cup upsets

All-rounder Shakib Al Hasan decimated minnows Papua New Guinea with a superb all-round performance as Bangladesh qualified for the Super 12s' of the T20 World Cup with a crushing 84-run victory on Thursday.

Bangladesh, with a net run rate of +1.733 and four points in the kitty, ensured a place among the elite teams after a shocking opening game defeat against Scotland.

The 'Tigers' first posted an imposing 181/7, as they rode on skipper Mahmudullah's blazing 50 off 28 balls and Shakib's aggressive 46 off 37 balls.

Shakib then showed why he is Bangladesh's greatest ever cricketer with a brilliant spell of 4/9 in his four-over spell as Papua New Guinea were all-out for 97 in 19.3 overs.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/i-dont-know-what-insecurity-we-salman-butt-slams-babar-azam-co-ahead-of-t20-wc-opener-vs-india-422635">'I don't know what insecurity we' - Salman Butt slams Babar Azam &amp; Co. ahead of T20 WC opener vs India</a>

"Obviously, it was a setback, the first game (vs Scotland), but in the T20 format the team that is better on the day wins. But now the pressure is off and we can play expressively," Shakib, who was adjudged 'Player of the Match', said after the game.

"It's not an easy format to get back into form, but luckily I'm getting more chance to bat up the order. A little tired, I've been playing non-stop cricket for the last five-six months, it's been a long season for me. But hopefully I can pull this tournament off," he sounded confident.

Skipper Mahmudullah, who himself played a captain's knock was happy to see the intent of his players in the last two games which they won convincingly.

"I think it was much-needed. The way that we wanted to play, the intent was there from the batters. Having said that I think the wicket was better in comparison, so the batters did well to get 180," Mahmudullah said at the post-match presentation ceremony.

Mahmudullah however feels that Powerplay batting is still a concern for Bangladesh.

"I think the two things we've been concerned about are the first six overs with bat and ball. If we get a good start, we can capitalise, so I think we need to improve on that.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/t20-wc-india-pak-or-wi-england-opener-jason-roy-names-two-biggest-threats-for-eoin-morgan-co-422652">T20 WC: India, Pak or WI? England opener Jason Roy names two biggest threats for Eoin Morgan &amp; Co.</a>

"I've said it before - we're much more skilled hitters than big hitters. So we need to find the bowlers we can take on on that particular day and we need to figure that out and communicate with the others as experienced batters," the skipper said.

Chasing 182, Papua New Guinea was never on-course for a comfortable chase. They lost openers Lega Siaka (5) and skipper Assad Vala (6), cheaply, as they slipped to 13/2.

It was a procession for PNG batters, as Shakib, the wily-old fox, snared two wickets in the 5th over, as Bangladesh was eyeing a massive victory after reducing the opposition to 14/4.

While Shakib scalped another two, he was well complimented by young off-spinner Mahedi Hasan (1/20), as the inexperience of PNG batters came to the fore and they were reduced to 29/7. The lower order did resist the inevitable but by then Bangladesh had booked their Super 12s berth.&nbsp;

All-rounder Shakib Al Hasan decimated minnows Papua New Guinea with a superb all-round performance as Bangladesh qualified for the Super 12s' of the T20 World Cup with a crushing 84-run victory on Thursday.

All-rounder Shakib Al Hasan decimated minnows Papua New Guinea with a superb all-round performance as Bangladesh qualified for the Super 12s' of the T20 World Cup with a crushing 84-run victory on Thursday. Bangladesh, with a net run rate of +1.733 and four points in the kitty, ensured a place among the elite teams after a shocking opening game defeat against Scotland. The 'Tigers' first posted an imposing 181/7, as they rode on skipper Mahmudullah's blazing 50 off 28 balls and Shakib's aggressive 46 off 37 balls. Shakib then showed why he is Bangladesh's greatest ever cricketer with a brilliant spell of 4/9 in his four-over spell as Papua New Guinea were all-out for 97 in 19.3 overs. ALSO READ | 'I don't know what insecurity we' - Salman Butt slams Babar Azam & Co. ahead of T20 WC opener vs India "Obviously, it was a setback, the first game (vs Scotland), but in the T20 format the team that is better on the day wins. But now the pressure is off and we can play expressively," Shakib, who was adjudged 'Player of the Match', said after the game. "It's not an easy format to get back into form, but luckily I'm getting more chance to bat up the order. A little tired, I've been playing non-stop cricket for the last five-six months, it's been a long season for me. But hopefully I can pull this tournament off," he sounded confident. Skipper Mahmudullah, who himself played a captain's knock was happy to see the intent of his players in the last two games which they won convincingly. "I think it was much-needed. The way that we wanted to play, the intent was there from the batters. Having said that I think the wicket was better in comparison, so the batters did well to get 180," Mahmudullah said at the post-match presentation ceremony. Mahmudullah however feels that Powerplay batting is still a concern for Bangladesh. "I think the two things we've been concerned about are the first six overs with bat and ball. If we get a good start, we can capitalise, so I think we need to improve on that. ALSO READ | T20 WC: India, Pak or WI? England opener Jason Roy names two biggest threats for Eoin Morgan & Co. "I've said it before - we're much more skilled hitters than big hitters. So we need to find the bowlers we can take on on that particular day and we need to figure that out and communicate with the others as experienced batters," the skipper said. Chasing 182, Papua New Guinea was never on-course for a comfortable chase. They lost openers Lega Siaka (5) and skipper Assad Vala (6), cheaply, as they slipped to 13/2. It was a procession for PNG batters, as Shakib, the wily-old fox, snared two wickets in the 5th over, as Bangladesh was eyeing a massive victory after reducing the opposition to 14/4. While Shakib scalped another two, he was well complimented by young off-spinner Mahedi Hasan (1/20), as the inexperience of PNG batters came to the fore and they were reduced to 29/7. The lower order did resist the inevitable but by then Bangladesh had booked their Super 12s berth.

T20 World Cup: Shakib Al Hasan shines as Bangladesh beat PNG to qualify for Super 12

Former Australia cricketer Matthew Hayden has weighed in on the high-octane T20 World Cup clash between India and Pakistan, which is scheduled to be held on Sunday (October 24).

Former Australia cricketer Matthew Hayden has weighed in on the high-octane T20 World Cup clash between India and Pakistan, which is scheduled to be held on Sunday (October 24). Hayden, who is working with the Pakistan team as a batting consultant, said that leadership will be key and as conditions in UAE leave "very little margin for error". During a media interaction, Hayden said, "I feel leadership will be key in the coming match as conditions in UAE leave very little margin for error and there are dogfight conditions out there." Citing examples of MS Dhoni and Eoin Morgan from the recently concluded Indian Premier League (IPL), where both the players led their teams — Chennai Super Kings (CSK) and Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) — with success when their own individual performances were not at expected levels. ALSO READ | Steve Smith names 'serious match-winners' who got 'all bases covered' to win T20 World Cup "Their individual performances were not as good as they have previously done as per their statistical records but the way they led their troops and conducted themselves played an important part in their teams reaching the IPL final in UAE conditions," Hayden said. Commenting on the Virat Kohli-led team, Hayden said having followed Indian cricket very closely over the years, he believes that KL Rahul and Rishab Pant pose the biggest threat to Pakistan in the match. "More or less I have watched KL Rahul grow and he is a major threat to Pakistan. I have watched him grow up as a boy. I have seen his struggles and his dominance in shorter formats. ALSO READ | 'I don't know what insecurity we' - Salman Butt slams Babar Azam & Co. ahead of T20 WC opener vs India "I have seen someone like Rishab Pant, his brash nature and beautiful vision for the game, how he has destroyed bowling attacks because he has got the opportunity because he sees it that way," Hayden added. Hayden said Pakistan captain Babar Azam had a role to play in the match as a leader and a premium batter. "There will be additional pressure on him as captain and batsman because he will be targeted and everyone will be wanting to, like they say, put him in their pocket. Babar has command and presence and he needs to fulfil that role in a batting sense and captain." LSO READ | Team India take 'Squid Game' challenge ahead of T20 World Cup opener, only two succeed - WATCH India vs Pakistan clash: The bilateral series between India and Pakistan has been suspended due to political reasons and previously, the arch-rivals met at the 2019 World Cup in England, where India won against Pakistan and maintained their unbeaten record in World Cups. Expressing his thoughts on the much-anticipated clash, Hayden said that having watched the various elements of the game and been part of it he can say that nothing matches the rivalry between Pakistan and India. "For an Australian obviously the Ashes and matches against England are tops but nothing matches the rivalry of these two teams," said Hayden.

T20 World Cup: Matthew Hayden reveals biggest 'threat' to Pakistan, highlights key in Indo-Pak clash

Match 10 of the T20 World Cup edition will see the Naseem Khushi-led Oman (OMAN) take on the Kyle Coetzer-led Scotland (SCO) on Thursday (October 21). The game will be played at the Al Amerat Cricket Ground (Ministry Turf 1), Al Amerat.

After an impressive performance by Scotland in the warm-up matches, where they won both matches against Namibia and Netherlands, they have continued their form in Group Stage. They sit at the top of the table in Group B after defeating Bangladesh and Papua New Guinea. A win in this match will seal their position in the Super-12 stage.

Whereas Oman and Bangladesh have won a game each but Oman has an edge because of Net run rate. A big win in the game against Scotland will bolster their chances for Super-12 round.

Let's take a look at the means on how to live stream or view the match: 

Where is the T20 World Cup match between Oman vs Scotland taking place?

The T20 World Cup match between Oman vs Scotland will take place at the Al Amerat Cricket Ground (Ministry Turf 1), Al Amerat.

What time does the T20 World Cup match between Oman vs Scotland begin?

The T20 World Cup match between Oman vs Scotland begins at 7:30 PM IST on Thursday.

Where and how to watch live coverage of the T20 World Cup match between Oman vs Scotland?

The T20 World Cup match between Oman vs Scotland will be aired live on Star Sports channels - Star Sports 1, Star Sports 2, Star Sports 3, Star Sports 3 HD. The online streaming of the T20 World Cup match between OMAN vs SCO will be available on Hotstar. The T20 World Cup matches will be shown on Star Sports 1, Star Sports 2, Star Sports 3, Star Sports HD, and DD Sports.

Match 10 of the T20 World Cup edition will see the Naseem Khushi-led Oman (OMAN) take on the Kyle Coetzer-led Scotland (SCO) on Thursday (October 21). The game will be played at the Al Amerat Cricket Ground (Ministry Turf 1), Al Amerat.

Match 10 of the T20 World Cup edition will see the Naseem Khushi-led Oman (OMAN) take on the Kyle Coetzer-led Scotland (SCO) on Thursday (October 21). The game will be played at the Al Amerat Cricket Ground (Ministry Turf 1), Al Amerat. After an impressive performance by Scotland in the warm-up matches, where they won both matches against Namibia and Netherlands, they have continued their form in Group Stage. They sit at the top of the table in Group B after defeating Bangladesh and Papua New Guinea. A win in this match will seal their position in the Super-12 stage. Whereas Oman and Bangladesh have won a game each but Oman has an edge because of Net run rate. A big win in the game against Scotland will bolster their chances for Super-12 round. Let's take a look at the means on how to live stream or view the match: Where is the T20 World Cup match between Oman vs Scotland taking place? The T20 World Cup match between Oman vs Scotland will take place at the Al Amerat Cricket Ground (Ministry Turf 1), Al Amerat. What time does the T20 World Cup match between Oman vs Scotland begin? The T20 World Cup match between Oman vs Scotland begins at 7:30 PM IST on Thursday. Where and how to watch live coverage of the T20 World Cup match between Oman vs Scotland? The T20 World Cup match between Oman vs Scotland will be aired live on Star Sports channels - Star Sports 1, Star Sports 2, Star Sports 3, Star Sports 3 HD. The online streaming of the T20 World Cup match between OMAN vs SCO will be available on Hotstar. The T20 World Cup matches will be shown on Star Sports 1, Star Sports 2, Star Sports 3, Star Sports HD, and DD Sports.

T20 World Cup, OMAN vs SCO live streaming: When and where to watch Oman vs Scotland match?

Australian batter Steve Smith praised the India cricket team, branding the Virat Kohli's side favourites&nbsp;to win the ICC Men's T20 World Cup after the Men in Blue outclassed Australia in a warmup match on Wednesday (October 20).&nbsp;

"They're a terrific side, they've got all bases covered and some serious match-winners. They've all been playing in these conditions the last couple of months with the IPL (Indian Premier League). So they'll be used to that," Smith was quoted as saying by Reuters.&nbsp;

During the match, Smith scored a half-century to help Australia post a competitive 152 for five, while chasing the target, India got off to a steady start as openers KL Rahul and Rohit Sharma put together 42 runs inside the first six overs.&nbsp;

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/i-dont-know-what-insecurity-we-salman-butt-slams-babar-azam-co-ahead-of-t20-wc-opener-vs-india-422635">'I don't know what insecurity we' - Salman Butt slams Babar Azam &amp; Co. ahead of T20 WC opener vs India</a>

Smith (57) was glad to get runs after being barely used by Delhi Capitals on the IPL's resumption in the UAE leg. "I feel like I've been hitting the ball really well. I haven't played too many games in the IPL but I've spent a lot of time in the nets, working on things and getting used to conditions," said the former skipper.&nbsp;

Rahul and Rohit Sharma put together 42 runs inside the first six overs. Both batters stitched together an opening stand of 68 runs and it finally ended in the 10th over as Ashton Agar had Rahul (39) caught at the hands of David Warner.&nbsp;

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/team-india-take-squid-game-challenge-ahead-of-t20-world-cup-opener-only-two-succeed-watch-422580">Team India take 'Squid Game' challenge ahead of T20 World Cup opener, only two succeed - WATCH</a>

Rohit and Suryakumar Yadav ensured that India does not suffer from more hiccups, and with the side 26-run away from the target, Rohit decided to retire hurt after playing a knock of 60. In the end, India registered a comfortable victory with Suryakumar (38) and Hardik Pandya (14) remaining unbeaten at the crease.&nbsp;

Australian batter Steve Smith praised the India cricket team, branding the Virat Kohli's side favourites to win the ICC Men's T20 World Cup after the Men in Blue outclassed Australia in a warmup match on Wednesday (October 20).

Australian batter Steve Smith praised the India cricket team, branding the Virat Kohli's side favourites to win the ICC Men's T20 World Cup after the Men in Blue outclassed Australia in a warmup match on Wednesday (October 20). "They're a terrific side, they've got all bases covered and some serious match-winners. They've all been playing in these conditions the last couple of months with the IPL (Indian Premier League). So they'll be used to that," Smith was quoted as saying by Reuters. During the match, Smith scored a half-century to help Australia post a competitive 152 for five, while chasing the target, India got off to a steady start as openers KL Rahul and Rohit Sharma put together 42 runs inside the first six overs. ALSO READ | 'I don't know what insecurity we' - Salman Butt slams Babar Azam & Co. ahead of T20 WC opener vs India Smith (57) was glad to get runs after being barely used by Delhi Capitals on the IPL's resumption in the UAE leg. "I feel like I've been hitting the ball really well. I haven't played too many games in the IPL but I've spent a lot of time in the nets, working on things and getting used to conditions," said the former skipper. Rahul and Rohit Sharma put together 42 runs inside the first six overs. Both batters stitched together an opening stand of 68 runs and it finally ended in the 10th over as Ashton Agar had Rahul (39) caught at the hands of David Warner. ALSO READ | Team India take 'Squid Game' challenge ahead of T20 World Cup opener, only two succeed - WATCH Rohit and Suryakumar Yadav ensured that India does not suffer from more hiccups, and with the side 26-run away from the target, Rohit decided to retire hurt after playing a knock of 60. In the end, India registered a comfortable victory with Suryakumar (38) and Hardik Pandya (14) remaining unbeaten at the crease.

Steve Smith names 'serious match-winners' who got 'all bases covered' to win T20 World Cup

Babar Azam-led Pakistan completed their two warm-up encounters in the T20 World Cup 2021 before they face Virat Kohli's Team India in both sides' tournament-opener, on October 24 (Sunday) at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium.

While Pakistan comprehensively beat West Indies, by 7 wickets, in their first warm-up game, they lost to South Africa by 6 wickets in a last-over thriller. The Men in Green will, however, feel confident heading into the encounter versus India&nbsp;as they are one of the top-three sides in ICC T20I rankings and have enough firepower to stun their arch-rivals. However, former tainted Pakistan skipper Salman Butt isn't impressed with Babar &amp; Co. after the warm-up games.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/no-r-ashwin-and-shardul-thakur-as-irfan-pathan-names-his-india-xi-for-t20-wc-opener-vs-pakistan-422612">No R Ashwin and Shardul Thakur as Irfan Pathan names his India XI for T20 WC opener vs Pakistan</a>

Speaking on his Youtube channel, Butt slammed Babar-led Pakistan for not giving their out-of-form players enough chances in the warm-up games before the main draw of the showpiece event kicks off from October 23 (Saturday).

'Don't know what insecurity we have that 'someone else should not make runs in that position or someone else should not get that opportunity'

Butt said, "India have utilized these warm-up matches well... they've given game time to everyone despite the fact that they've all played the IPL. If they had not done this and had played with their playing XI, even then we could have argued that 'They haven't played together as a team so are doing it now'. But even they didn't do it. I don't know what insecurity we have that 'someone else should not make runs in that position or someone else should not get that opportunity'. For God's sake, you are the captain, you have to use your players, where will you do that?"

"Can't it happen that God forbid that you both [Babar and Rizwan] will get out in the first over? Then also someone will have to play against the new ball. See, Babar got out early here [against South Africa] na? Now, what is their mindset of going ahead? I don't understand this strategy," he added.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/dont-know-how-india-get-favourites-tag-says-michael-vaughan-ahead-of-virat-kohli-cos-pakistan-tie-422332">Don’t know how India get favourites tag, says Michael Vaughan ahead of Virat Kohli &amp; Co.'s Pakistan tie</a>

India and Pakistan will meet in the T20 WC history for the sixth time, with the Men in Blue leading their neighbours 5-0 in head-to-head tally. In their last encounter, both in the format and in the T20 WC, India beat Pakistan by 6 wickets in the 2016 edition.&nbsp;

In addition, Kohli &amp; Co. thrashed Pakistan by 89 runs (DLS method) in what was the last face-off between both sides across formats, during the 2019 ODI World Cup.&nbsp;

Will Babar &amp; Co. stun India and end their winning streak? Only time will tell...

Babar Azam-led Pakistan completed their two warm-up encounters in the T20 World Cup 2021 before they face Virat Kohli's Team India in both sides' tournament-opener, on October 24 (Sunday) at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium.

Babar Azam-led Pakistan completed their two warm-up encounters in the T20 World Cup 2021 before they face Virat Kohli's Team India in both sides' tournament-opener, on October 24 (Sunday) at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium. While Pakistan comprehensively beat West Indies, by 7 wickets, in their first warm-up game, they lost to South Africa by 6 wickets in a last-over thriller. The Men in Green will, however, feel confident heading into the encounter versus India as they are one of the top-three sides in ICC T20I rankings and have enough firepower to stun their arch-rivals. However, former tainted Pakistan skipper Salman Butt isn't impressed with Babar & Co. after the warm-up games. ALSO READ | No R Ashwin and Shardul Thakur as Irfan Pathan names his India XI for T20 WC opener vs Pakistan Speaking on his Youtube channel, Butt slammed Babar-led Pakistan for not giving their out-of-form players enough chances in the warm-up games before the main draw of the showpiece event kicks off from October 23 (Saturday). 'Don't know what insecurity we have that 'someone else should not make runs in that position or someone else should not get that opportunity' Butt said, "India have utilized these warm-up matches well... they've given game time to everyone despite the fact that they've all played the IPL. If they had not done this and had played with their playing XI, even then we could have argued that 'They haven't played together as a team so are doing it now'. But even they didn't do it. I don't know what insecurity we have that 'someone else should not make runs in that position or someone else should not get that opportunity'. For God's sake, you are the captain, you have to use your players, where will you do that?" "Can't it happen that God forbid that you both [Babar and Rizwan] will get out in the first over? Then also someone will have to play against the new ball. See, Babar got out early here [against South Africa] na? Now, what is their mindset of going ahead? I don't understand this strategy," he added. ALSO READ | Don’t know how India get favourites tag, says Michael Vaughan ahead of Virat Kohli & Co.'s Pakistan tie India and Pakistan will meet in the T20 WC history for the sixth time, with the Men in Blue leading their neighbours 5-0 in head-to-head tally. In their last encounter, both in the format and in the T20 WC, India beat Pakistan by 6 wickets in the 2016 edition. In addition, Kohli & Co. thrashed Pakistan by 89 runs (DLS method) in what was the last face-off between both sides across formats, during the 2019 ODI World Cup. Will Babar & Co. stun India and end their winning streak? Only time will tell...

'I don't know what insecurity we' - Salman Butt slams Babar Azam & Co. ahead of T20 WC opener vs India

Oman is all geared up to host six matches in the first round of the upcoming ICC T20 World Cup and Oman Cricket Chairman Pankaj Khimji believes hosting such a marquee event will give a fillip to the sport in the region. He also believes the relationship between Oman Cricket and the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has grown with each passing day.

In an interaction with ANI, Khimji opened up about his hopes from the T20 World Cup, the national team`s preparations, relations with BCCI, and whether hosting marquee events in associate nations can give a boost to the sport.

"We are totally elated and overwhelmed, I cannot express what it means for Oman to host such a tournament. First of all, even to be considered was a big high for us. Think about it, we are an associate country. Only four-five associate teams have done T20 World Cup two times in a row and we are one of them. Hosting the World Cup is an all-time high, an associate nation playing and hosting is totally what dreams are made of. We are living a dream as they say," Khimji said.

Oman is placed in Group B of the Qualifying Stages for the upcoming ICC Men`s T20 World Cup alongside Bangladesh, Papua New Guinea, and Scotland. The top two sides from the group will qualify for the Super 12 Stages.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/oman-cricket-chairman-pankaj-khimji-son-of-worlds-only-hindu-sheikh-422603">Oman Cricket Chairman, Pankaj Khimji: Son of world's only Hindu Sheikh</a>

"The best part of being the host is how you do the build-up. Fortunately, Oman eased restrictions towards the latter part of last year so we could play a little bit of domestic cricket. We were not able to get competitive games because nobody was ready to travel. So we had to play within ourselves. By the end of August, we realised that Oman is going to host the World Cup. We needed to make sure that the team did justice to its place. We got Mumbai (Ranji Trophy heavyweights) to come over here and play four ODIs and three T20Is and we had a super series with them. Amol Muzumdar was here, Yashasvi Jaiswal was here," he added.

Khimji is full of praise for the BCCI, saying that the cricket board is super efficient and everything is taken care of."You do not realise what the BCCI does. It is a dinosaur, not a dinosaur from an age point of view, but a dinosaur in size. It is a machine that is super-efficient. Not many people realise that doing 13-14 years of IPL is not easy. Your IPL tournaments every year is bigger than any tournament anywhere in the world. I am thankful to the ICC, Sourav Ganguly, and Jay Shah for trusting us," said Khimji.

"BCCI has been super-efficient. BCCI has made sure that we have four people here at our beck and call at all times, moderating us and helping us in every aspect of hosting the tournament. Whether I need Sourav Ganguly or Jay Shah`s help, they have been fantastic. Every one of them has been outstanding. We have had no problems whatsoever," he added.

When asked whether Oman Cricket would like to host IPL in the coming future, Khimji said: "Who would even want to think twice before answering this question. If BCCI were to consider Oman or even think of considering Oman as an IPL host, I would be elated. I would not even blink an eyelid if they ask me whether we would host the IPL. Between BCCI and Oman Cricket, the relationship is of mutual respect and trust. We still do not have a contract in place, that`s how good the relations are."

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/t20-world-cup-rohit-sharma-comments-on-hardik-pandyas-availability-says-he-should-be-ready-422499">T20 World Cup: Rohit Sharma comments on Hardik Pandya's availability, says 'he should be ready'</a>

"We are absolutely doing this out of passion and complete faith in each other`s commitments. We have a commitment, we shook our hands, and off we went. It will be unprecedented that we probably would not even be signing a contract for hosting this event after the tournament is over," he added.

Talking about how hosting ICC events would augur well for associate teams, Khimji said: "You have hit the nail. I am so much for this that a certain amount of ICC-sponsored full country tournaments should be encouraged to take place in associate countries. What happens is that it not only gives a fillip to the local structure but it also helps in making sure that we are getting in tune. Local governments will also start supporting the sport. I think it is important that ICC should encourage full members to play games in associate countries."&nbsp;

Oman is all geared up to host six matches in the first round of the upcoming ICC T20 World Cup and Oman Cricket Chairman Pankaj Khimji believes hosting such a marquee event will give a fillip to the sport in the region.

Oman is all geared up to host six matches in the first round of the upcoming ICC T20 World Cup and Oman Cricket Chairman Pankaj Khimji believes hosting such a marquee event will give a fillip to the sport in the region. He also believes the relationship between Oman Cricket and the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has grown with each passing day. In an interaction with ANI, Khimji opened up about his hopes from the T20 World Cup, the national team`s preparations, relations with BCCI, and whether hosting marquee events in associate nations can give a boost to the sport. "We are totally elated and overwhelmed, I cannot express what it means for Oman to host such a tournament. First of all, even to be considered was a big high for us. Think about it, we are an associate country. Only four-five associate teams have done T20 World Cup two times in a row and we are one of them. Hosting the World Cup is an all-time high, an associate nation playing and hosting is totally what dreams are made of. We are living a dream as they say," Khimji said. Oman is placed in Group B of the Qualifying Stages for the upcoming ICC Men`s T20 World Cup alongside Bangladesh, Papua New Guinea, and Scotland. The top two sides from the group will qualify for the Super 12 Stages. ALSO READ: Oman Cricket Chairman, Pankaj Khimji: Son of world's only Hindu Sheikh "The best part of being the host is how you do the build-up. Fortunately, Oman eased restrictions towards the latter part of last year so we could play a little bit of domestic cricket. We were not able to get competitive games because nobody was ready to travel. So we had to play within ourselves. By the end of August, we realised that Oman is going to host the World Cup. We needed to make sure that the team did justice to its place. We got Mumbai (Ranji Trophy heavyweights) to come over here and play four ODIs and three T20Is and we had a super series with them. Amol Muzumdar was here, Yashasvi Jaiswal was here," he added. Khimji is full of praise for the BCCI, saying that the cricket board is super efficient and everything is taken care of."You do not realise what the BCCI does. It is a dinosaur, not a dinosaur from an age point of view, but a dinosaur in size. It is a machine that is super-efficient. Not many people realise that doing 13-14 years of IPL is not easy. Your IPL tournaments every year is bigger than any tournament anywhere in the world. I am thankful to the ICC, Sourav Ganguly, and Jay Shah for trusting us," said Khimji. "BCCI has been super-efficient. BCCI has made sure that we have four people here at our beck and call at all times, moderating us and helping us in every aspect of hosting the tournament. Whether I need Sourav Ganguly or Jay Shah`s help, they have been fantastic. Every one of them has been outstanding. We have had no problems whatsoever," he added. When asked whether Oman Cricket would like to host IPL in the coming future, Khimji said: "Who would even want to think twice before answering this question. If BCCI were to consider Oman or even think of considering Oman as an IPL host, I would be elated. I would not even blink an eyelid if they ask me whether we would host the IPL. Between BCCI and Oman Cricket, the relationship is of mutual respect and trust. We still do not have a contract in place, that`s how good the relations are." ALSO READ | T20 World Cup: Rohit Sharma comments on Hardik Pandya's availability, says 'he should be ready' "We are absolutely doing this out of passion and complete faith in each other`s commitments. We have a commitment, we shook our hands, and off we went. It will be unprecedented that we probably would not even be signing a contract for hosting this event after the tournament is over," he added. Talking about how hosting ICC events would augur well for associate teams, Khimji said: "You have hit the nail. I am so much for this that a certain amount of ICC-sponsored full country tournaments should be encouraged to take place in associate countries. What happens is that it not only gives a fillip to the local structure but it also helps in making sure that we are getting in tune. Local governments will also start supporting the sport. I think it is important that ICC should encourage full members to play games in associate countries."

T20 WC: BCCI is like a dinosaur in size, big and super efficient, says Oman cricket chairman Pankaj Khimji

Former Australian wicketkeeper-batsman Adam Gilchrist is concerned about opening batter David Warner's form heading into the ICC T20 World Cup 2021, considering that he wasn't part of his IPL team&nbsp;Sunrisers Hyderabad's&nbsp;'playing&nbsp;XI' after their first two games in the UAE leg.

Australia, who have never won the T20 World Cup, will begin their campaign in the 'Super 12s' on October 23 against another underachievers in the form of South Africa. Aaron Finch &amp; Co. are in a group comprising England, South Africa and West Indies. In their first warm-up match, Australia defeated New Zealand by 3 wickets whereas the Men in Yellow suffered a heavy 9-wicket defeat versus Team India&nbsp;in the second fixture.

Ahead of Australia's campaign, Gilchrist&nbsp;told SEN's Whateley,"I know there's a bit of uncertainty around him (Warner) and his results, but he hasn't played any cricket. A lot of them haven't played much cricket. We can't really judge how Dave is going on the back of a disgruntled situation with his franchise."

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/dont-know-how-india-get-favourites-tag-says-michael-vaughan-ahead-of-virat-kohli-cos-pakistan-tie-422332">Don’t know how India get favourites tag, says Michael Vaughan ahead of Virat Kohli &amp; Co.'s Pakistan tie</a>

Following a string of disappointing performances during the IPL 14's India leg, Warner was replaced as SRH captain as Kane Williamson succeeded him. The Australian opener's form, however, did not improve in the second-half land was dropped after two successive failures in the second and final leg.

Gilchrist has, however, shown faith in Warner and included him in his Australia XI for their T20 WC opener despite his poor form.

Gilly's AUS XI: Aaron Finch, Warner, Mitch Marsh, Steve Smith, Glenn Maxwell, Josh Inglis (wicketkeeper), Marcus Stoinis, Pat Cummins, Mitchell Starc, Josh Hazlewood, Adam Zampa.

When&nbsp;the&nbsp;ball&nbsp;is new, Gilchrist&nbsp;believes&nbsp;Marsh&nbsp;can&nbsp;make&nbsp;an&nbsp;impact&nbsp;with&nbsp;the&nbsp;bat.&nbsp;"I think he can have a big impact there, just going in earlier and getting the ball while it's harder."

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/t20-wc-fan-asks-shaheen-afridi-for-indo-pak-match-tickets-pacer-responds-in-hilarious-manner-watch-422308">T20 WC: Fan asks Shaheen Afridi for Indo-Pak match tickets, pacer responds in hilarious manner - Watch</a>

While&nbsp;Australia&nbsp;will&nbsp;go&nbsp;with&nbsp;Matthew&nbsp;Wade,&nbsp;he&nbsp;believes&nbsp;Josh&nbsp;Inglis&nbsp;should&nbsp;play&nbsp;behind&nbsp;the&nbsp;stumps&nbsp;because&nbsp;his&nbsp;"eagerness&nbsp;could&nbsp;just&nbsp;be&nbsp;the catalyst." The former Aussie keeper added, "I think Matthew Wade will start, but I have Inglis in there, so I've got a little bit of a difference of opinion and what I expect will happen. There's not a major reason, other than that it's someone a bit fresh, new and hungry. That eagerness in there might just be the catalyst to spark something."

Former Australian wicketkeeper-batsman Adam Gilchrist is concerned about opening batter David Warner's form heading into the ICC T20 World Cup 2021, considering that he wasn't part of his IPL team Sunrisers Hyderabad's 'playing XI' after their first two games in the UAE leg.

Former Australian wicketkeeper-batsman Adam Gilchrist is concerned about opening batter David Warner's form heading into the ICC T20 World Cup 2021, considering that he wasn't part of his IPL team Sunrisers Hyderabad's 'playing XI' after their first two games in the UAE leg. Australia, who have never won the T20 World Cup, will begin their campaign in the 'Super 12s' on October 23 against another underachievers in the form of South Africa. Aaron Finch & Co. are in a group comprising England, South Africa and West Indies. In their first warm-up match, Australia defeated New Zealand by 3 wickets whereas the Men in Yellow suffered a heavy 9-wicket defeat versus Team India in the second fixture. Ahead of Australia's campaign, Gilchrist told SEN's Whateley,"I know there's a bit of uncertainty around him (Warner) and his results, but he hasn't played any cricket. A lot of them haven't played much cricket. We can't really judge how Dave is going on the back of a disgruntled situation with his franchise." ALSO READ | Don’t know how India get favourites tag, says Michael Vaughan ahead of Virat Kohli & Co.'s Pakistan tie Following a string of disappointing performances during the IPL 14's India leg, Warner was replaced as SRH captain as Kane Williamson succeeded him. The Australian opener's form, however, did not improve in the second-half land was dropped after two successive failures in the second and final leg. Gilchrist has, however, shown faith in Warner and included him in his Australia XI for their T20 WC opener despite his poor form. Gilly's AUS XI: Aaron Finch, Warner, Mitch Marsh, Steve Smith, Glenn Maxwell, Josh Inglis (wicketkeeper), Marcus Stoinis, Pat Cummins, Mitchell Starc, Josh Hazlewood, Adam Zampa. When the ball is new, Gilchrist believes Marsh can make an impact with the bat. "I think he can have a big impact there, just going in earlier and getting the ball while it's harder." ALSO READ | T20 WC: Fan asks Shaheen Afridi for Indo-Pak match tickets, pacer responds in hilarious manner - Watch While Australia will go with Matthew Wade, he believes Josh Inglis should play behind the stumps because his "eagerness could just be the catalyst." The former Aussie keeper added, "I think Matthew Wade will start, but I have Inglis in there, so I've got a little bit of a difference of opinion and what I expect will happen. There's not a major reason, other than that it's someone a bit fresh, new and hungry. That eagerness in there might just be the catalyst to spark something."

T20 World Cup: Adam Gilchrist concerned over David Warner's form after his SRH fallout in IPL 2021

Team India completed their two warm-up games ahead of the main draw of the T20 World Cup 2021 with emphatic performances. Virat Kohli-led India beat England by 7 wickets before they demolished Australia by 9 wickets to tick several boxes and will now gear up for their tournament-opener, versus Pakistan, on October 24 (Sunday).

India and Pakistan will be locking horns with each other on the 22-yard cricket strip after a gap of two years. The last face-off between the two arch-rivals took place during the 2019 ODI World Cup, in England and Wales, when Kohli &amp; Co. thrashed Sarfaraz Ahmed-led Pakistan by 89 runs (DLS method). Since both sides meet only during ICC or multi-nation tournaments, the excitement is on another level before the upcoming face-off.

Ahead of the clash, former Indian all-rounder Irfan Pathan named his playing XI for India for the Pakistan clash, at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium on Sunday (October 24). Speaking on Star Sports, Pathan named KL Rahul and Rohit Sharma as his openers whereas Captain Kohli will be batting at No. 3 (as he mentioned at the coin toss during the England warm-up tie).

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/team-india-take-squid-game-challenge-ahead-of-t20-world-cup-opener-only-two-succeed-watch-422580">Team India take 'Squid Game' challenge ahead of T20 World Cup opener, only two succeed - WATCH</a>

Pathan's middle and lower-order comprised Suryakumar Yadav, Rishabh Pant, Hardik Pandya and Ravindra Jadeja whereas the 36-year-old went ahead with Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammed Shami as his pacers. His spin department comprises Varun Chakravarthy and Jadeja as he had no space for R Ashwin and in-form fast-bowling all-rounder Shardul Thakur.&nbsp;

Interestingly, Ishan Kishan -- who smashed a 46-ball 70 (retired hurt) in the first warm-up encounter -- also misses out from Pathan's XI.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/t20-wc-dale-steyn-shares-his-india-xi-for-pakistan-clash-names-gamechanger-for-virat-kohli-co-422420">T20 WC: Dale Steyn shares his India XI for Pakistan clash, names gamechanger for Virat Kohli &amp; Co.</a>

Irfan Pathan’s&nbsp;Playing XI for Pakistan tie:&nbsp;KL Rahul, Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, Suryakumar Yadav, Rishabh Pant, Hardik Pandya, Ravindra Jadeja, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Mohammed Shami, Varun Chakravarthy, Jasprit Bumrah

Team India completed their two warm-up games ahead of the main draw of the T20 World Cup 2021 with emphatic performances. Virat Kohli-led India beat England by 7 wickets before they demolished Australia by 9 wickets to tick several boxes and will now gear up for their tournament-opener, versus Pakistan, on October 24 (Sunday).

Team India completed their two warm-up games ahead of the main draw of the T20 World Cup 2021 with emphatic performances. Virat Kohli-led India beat England by 7 wickets before they demolished Australia by 9 wickets to tick several boxes and will now gear up for their tournament-opener, versus Pakistan, on October 24 (Sunday). India and Pakistan will be locking horns with each other on the 22-yard cricket strip after a gap of two years. The last face-off between the two arch-rivals took place during the 2019 ODI World Cup, in England and Wales, when Kohli & Co. thrashed Sarfaraz Ahmed-led Pakistan by 89 runs (DLS method). Since both sides meet only during ICC or multi-nation tournaments, the excitement is on another level before the upcoming face-off. Ahead of the clash, former Indian all-rounder Irfan Pathan named his playing XI for India for the Pakistan clash, at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium on Sunday (October 24). Speaking on Star Sports, Pathan named KL Rahul and Rohit Sharma as his openers whereas Captain Kohli will be batting at No. 3 (as he mentioned at the coin toss during the England warm-up tie). ALSO READ | Team India take 'Squid Game' challenge ahead of T20 World Cup opener, only two succeed - WATCH Pathan's middle and lower-order comprised Suryakumar Yadav, Rishabh Pant, Hardik Pandya and Ravindra Jadeja whereas the 36-year-old went ahead with Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammed Shami as his pacers. His spin department comprises Varun Chakravarthy and Jadeja as he had no space for R Ashwin and in-form fast-bowling all-rounder Shardul Thakur. Interestingly, Ishan Kishan -- who smashed a 46-ball 70 (retired hurt) in the first warm-up encounter -- also misses out from Pathan's XI. ALSO READ | T20 WC: Dale Steyn shares his India XI for Pakistan clash, names gamechanger for Virat Kohli & Co. Irfan Pathan’s Playing XI for Pakistan tie: KL Rahul, Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, Suryakumar Yadav, Rishabh Pant, Hardik Pandya, Ravindra Jadeja, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Mohammed Shami, Varun Chakravarthy, Jasprit Bumrah

No R Ashwin and Shardul Thakur as Irfan Pathan names his India XI for T20 WC opener vs Pakistan

Ahead of the ICC Men's T20 World Cup campaign, Shardul Thakur was added to the main squad of the Indian cricket team, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) had informed.

Ahead of the ICC Men's T20 World Cup campaign, Shardul Thakur was added to the main squad of the Indian cricket team, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) had informed. Thakur had replaced Axar Patel, who is now on the list of stand-by players. Thakur earned praises for his outstanding run during the 14th edition of the Indian Premier League (IPL) for champions Chennai Super Kings (CSK) as he was the leading wicket-taker for his team with 21 scalps and emerged as a vital cog at several instances. When the IPL 2021 tournament was underway, former England captain Michael Vaughan had praised Thakur. During a conversation in the first week of October, Vaughan, while speaking to the Cricbuzz, said, "Last week I was with Lord Botham and he is a true lord. Thakur is very similar to Ian Botham." "He gets the ball in his hands and makes things happen. He did it in the Test series, he did it in the IPL. The mentor of the Indian T20 team is behind the stumps. He was captaining him. He was probably on the phone with Virat and Ravi talking about him, saying 'come on'. He (Shardul) has that ability to make things happen," Vaughan said. "He must have a very good deception of pace because you watch him and it's like 'yeah, it's pretty normal. But he has that deception like Ashwin. He bowls and it goes through quickly, bowls cross-seam and goes through quickly. He has that ability to surprise the batter and those subtle variations that we can't pick up," added Vaughan. Vaughan on Wednesday (October 20) said that the Eoin Morgan-led side needs to find a way to maximise the first six overs if they are to win the ICC Men`s T20 World Cup. The former England captain also said that Dawid Malan needs to get on with his innings or Jonny Bairstow should bat at number three. "England need to find a way of maximising the first 6 overs better ... If Malan is going to chew up so many balls in the power play he needs to either get on with it or Bairstow should Bat 3 ... #T20WorldCup," tweeted Vaughan. In the ongoing warm-up match between England and New Zealand, the former posted a total of 163/6, owing to Jos Buttler's knock of 73. Malan ended up scoring 11, but not before chewing 15 balls, On the other hand, Bairstow scored 30 from 21 balls with the help of two fours and two sixes. England had lost its first warm-up game against India by seven wickets on Monday. The Morgan-led outfit will open its T20 World Cup campaign on Saturday against West Indies. (With inputs from agencies)

T20 World Cup: When ex-England captain Michael Vaughan compared Indian star with Ian Botham

Former champions Sri Lanka breezed into the Super 12 stage of the Twenty20 World Cup on Wednesday after crushing Ireland by 70 runs in a Group A preliminary round match in Abu Dhabi.

The 2014 winners had to play the qualifying round but Dasun Shanaka's team proved they were still too good for their opponents as they registered their second successive win to make the main draw.

Put into bat, Sri Lanka recovered from a precarious 8-3 and went on to post a commanding 171-7 with all-rounder Wanindu Hasaranga (71) and opener Pathum Nissanka (61) engineering their turnaround.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/misbah-ul-haq-points-out-deep-rooted-problems-in-pakistan-cricket-says-looking-for-scapegoats-is-a-norm-422489">Misbah-ul-Haq points out 'deep-rooted' problems in Pakistan cricket, says 'looking for scapegoats is a norm'</a>

Ireland had promised a strong fight when they removed three Sri Lankan batsmen in the first 10 deliveries.

Paul Stirling dismissed Kusal Perera with his second ball and, in the next over, Josh Little dismissed Dinesh Chandimal and Avishka Fernando off successive deliveries.

Hasaranga not only denied Little a hat-trick but also led a counter-attack with his 47-ball blitz, which included one six and 10 boundaries, including four in a row against Simi Singh.

"Of course it was a concern at eight for three, but they (Hasaranga/Nissanka) put on an awesome partnership," Shanaka said.

"Hasaranga at five is a plan coming in at the World Cup and it worked well for us," he said of the all-rounder, who was named player-of-the-match.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-virat-kohli-instructs-bowler-to-remove-rcb-teammate-during-india-vs-australia-warm-up-clash-in-t20-wc-422472">Watch: Virat Kohli instructs bowler to remove RCB teammate during India vs Australia warm-up clash in T20 WC</a>

Sri Lanka were more convincing with the ball and shot out Ireland for 101 in 18.3 overs with off-spinner Maheesh Theekshana (3-17) leading the rout.

Ireland struggled to get going in their reply and were 32-3 in the fourth over.

Andy Balbirnie waged a lone battle with a gritty 41 and the match was effectively over for Ireland when their captain sliced a Lahiru Kumara delivery to Fernando at backward point.

Earlier, in another Group A match, Namibia beat Netherlands by six wickets to register their maiden victory in the tournament.

David Wiese produced an unbeaten match-winning knock of 66 as Namibia, having restricted their opponents to 164-4, chased down the target with six balls to spare.

Netherlands are now out of the race and the winner of Friday's match between Namibia and Ireland will progress to the next stage.

Former champions Sri Lanka breezed into the Super 12 stage of the Twenty20 World Cup on Wednesday after crushing Ireland by 70 runs in a Group A preliminary round match in Abu Dhabi.

Former champions Sri Lanka breezed into the Super 12 stage of the Twenty20 World Cup on Wednesday after crushing Ireland by 70 runs in a Group A preliminary round match in Abu Dhabi. The 2014 winners had to play the qualifying round but Dasun Shanaka's team proved they were still too good for their opponents as they registered their second successive win to make the main draw. Put into bat, Sri Lanka recovered from a precarious 8-3 and went on to post a commanding 171-7 with all-rounder Wanindu Hasaranga (71) and opener Pathum Nissanka (61) engineering their turnaround. ALSO READ | Misbah-ul-Haq points out 'deep-rooted' problems in Pakistan cricket, says 'looking for scapegoats is a norm' Ireland had promised a strong fight when they removed three Sri Lankan batsmen in the first 10 deliveries. Paul Stirling dismissed Kusal Perera with his second ball and, in the next over, Josh Little dismissed Dinesh Chandimal and Avishka Fernando off successive deliveries. Hasaranga not only denied Little a hat-trick but also led a counter-attack with his 47-ball blitz, which included one six and 10 boundaries, including four in a row against Simi Singh. "Of course it was a concern at eight for three, but they (Hasaranga/Nissanka) put on an awesome partnership," Shanaka said. "Hasaranga at five is a plan coming in at the World Cup and it worked well for us," he said of the all-rounder, who was named player-of-the-match. ALSO READ | Watch: Virat Kohli instructs bowler to remove RCB teammate during India vs Australia warm-up clash in T20 WC Sri Lanka were more convincing with the ball and shot out Ireland for 101 in 18.3 overs with off-spinner Maheesh Theekshana (3-17) leading the rout. Ireland struggled to get going in their reply and were 32-3 in the fourth over. Andy Balbirnie waged a lone battle with a gritty 41 and the match was effectively over for Ireland when their captain sliced a Lahiru Kumara delivery to Fernando at backward point. Earlier, in another Group A match, Namibia beat Netherlands by six wickets to register their maiden victory in the tournament. David Wiese produced an unbeaten match-winning knock of 66 as Namibia, having restricted their opponents to 164-4, chased down the target with six balls to spare. Netherlands are now out of the race and the winner of Friday's match between Namibia and Ireland will progress to the next stage.

T20 World Cup: Sri Lanka crush Ireland to breeze into Super 12 stage

Millions of cricket fans are desperately waiting for October 24, as the Virat Kohli-led Team India will start their ICC Men's T20 World Cup campaign with a heavyweight clash against Pakistan on the same day in Dubai.

Millions of cricket fans are desperately waiting for October 24, as the Virat Kohli-led Team India will start their ICC Men's T20 World Cup campaign with a heavyweight clash against Pakistan on the same day in Dubai. The cricket rivalry between the two nations goes above and beyond and when it comes to cricket in the World Cup, the frenzy is unparalleled. Ahead of the match, critics have been weighing in on the possible playing XIs, winning probability, etc. Now, former Indian captain Kapil Dev also gave his valuable insight over the situation. ALSO READ | Misbah-ul-Haq points out 'deep-rooted' problems in Pakistan cricket, says 'looking for scapegoats is a norm' Commenting on the match, Kapil said that players "get recognition" by doing well in IND-PAK matches. If a youngster comes out and performs well, then he gets global recognition. "It all depends on pressure and pleasure. If you are enjoying the game or are under pressure. If you take too much pressure, then you will not get the desired performances. The chances of winning the game increase for the team who believes in having fun while playing," explained Kapil Dev While speaking in a show on ABP TV. He further added, "Players get recognition by doing well in IND-PAK matches. If a youngster comes out and performs well, then he gets global recognition. Whereas, if a senior player does not do well, then it can hurt his reputation." The bilateral series between India and Pakistan has been suspended due to political reasons and previously, the arch-rivals met at the 2019 World Cup in England, where India won against Pakistan and maintained their unbeaten record in World Cups. ALSO READ | Watch: Virat Kohli instructs bowler to remove RCB teammate during India vs Australia warm-up clash in T20 WC Here's India's squad: India squad: Virat Kohli (c), Rohit Sharma (VC), KL Rahul, Suryakumar Yadav, Rishabh Pant, Hardik Pandya, R Ashwin, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Rahul Chahar, Varun, Mohammed Shami, Shardul Thakur, Jasprit Bumrah, Ravindra Jadeja, Ishan Kishan. Standby players: Shreyas Iyer, Deepak Chahar, Axar Patel.

T20 World Cup: Former Indian cricketer Kapil Dev tells why India vs Pakistan clash is important

As India is gearing up for a high-octane clash against Pakistan on Sunday (October 24) in the ongoing ICC Men's T20 World Cup, arguments over permutation and the combination of playing XI are trending everywhere.&nbsp;

Critics have expressed their views, particularly, on Indian all-rounder Hardik Pandya, who didn't bowl a single over during Mumbai Indians' disappointing IPL 2021 campaign.&nbsp;

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/misbah-ul-haq-points-out-deep-rooted-problems-in-pakistan-cricket-says-looking-for-scapegoats-is-a-norm-422489">Misbah-ul-Haq points out 'deep-rooted' problems in Pakistan cricket, says 'looking for scapegoats is a norm'</a>

However, commenting on Pandya's availability, Indian vice-captain Rohit Sharma on Wednesday (October 20) said that the all-rounder is expected to be "ready" to bowl when the team starts its T20 World Cup campaign on Sunday. 
&nbsp; 
"Hardik is coming along pretty well, but it'll be a while before he will start to bowl. He hasn't started bowling, but he should be ready by the start of the tournament," said Rohit at the toss for the warm-up match against Australia.

"We have quality in the main bowlers, but you need an option for a 6th bowler," he added.

During the warm-up match against Australia, India registered a convincing nine-wicket win while chasing 153.&nbsp;Pandya (14 not out off 8) came at four to finish the game and he did it with a clean hit over the bowler's head.

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All w̶a̶r̶m̶e̶d̶ fired up 🔥 <a href="https://t.co/1z8NDwtSxQ">pic.twitter.com/1z8NDwtSxQ</a>
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As cricket pundits constantly suggested a rejig in the Indian squad for the T20 World cup heading into the tournament, the team management has repeatedly stated that Pandya's bowling is crucial for the team's balance.&nbsp;

"Possibly, we need to find that sixth option. Myself, Virat and Suryakumar, all those guys need to come in and bowl to see who can be that sixth option," Rohit said.

India had beaten England by seven wickets in their first warm-up game on Monday.&nbsp;

As India is gearing up for a high-octane clash against Pakistan on Sunday (October 24) in the ongoing ICC Men's T20 World Cup, arguments over permutation and the combination of playing XI are trending everywhere.

As India is gearing up for a high-octane clash against Pakistan on Sunday (October 24) in the ongoing ICC Men's T20 World Cup, arguments over permutation and the combination of playing XI are trending everywhere. Critics have expressed their views, particularly, on Indian all-rounder Hardik Pandya, who didn't bowl a single over during Mumbai Indians' disappointing IPL 2021 campaign. ALSO READ | Misbah-ul-Haq points out 'deep-rooted' problems in Pakistan cricket, says 'looking for scapegoats is a norm' However, commenting on Pandya's availability, Indian vice-captain Rohit Sharma on Wednesday (October 20) said that the all-rounder is expected to be "ready" to bowl when the team starts its T20 World Cup campaign on Sunday. "Hardik is coming along pretty well, but it'll be a while before he will start to bowl. He hasn't started bowling, but he should be ready by the start of the tournament," said Rohit at the toss for the warm-up match against Australia. "We have quality in the main bowlers, but you need an option for a 6th bowler," he added. During the warm-up match against Australia, India registered a convincing nine-wicket win while chasing 153. Pandya (14 not out off 8) came at four to finish the game and he did it with a clean hit over the bowler's head. All w̶a̶r̶m̶e̶d̶ fired up 🔥 pic.twitter.com/1z8NDwtSxQ — hardik pandya (@hardikpandya7) October 20, 2021 × ALSO READ | Watch: Virat Kohli instructs bowler to remove RCB teammate during India vs Australia warm-up clash in T20 WC As cricket pundits constantly suggested a rejig in the Indian squad for the T20 World cup heading into the tournament, the team management has repeatedly stated that Pandya's bowling is crucial for the team's balance. "Possibly, we need to find that sixth option. Myself, Virat and Suryakumar, all those guys need to come in and bowl to see who can be that sixth option," Rohit said. India had beaten England by seven wickets in their first warm-up game on Monday.

T20 World Cup: Rohit Sharma comments on Hardik Pandya's availability, says 'he should be ready'

In a sensational display of power-hitting, David Wiese conjured up a 66-run knock to fashion Namibia's six-wicket win over the Netherlands in a crucial first round Group A game of the T20 World Cup here on Wednesday.

Wiese's maiden international half-century changed the pace of the game in matter of minutes as runs flew thick and fast after he took charge at the crease and in the process added 93 runs with skipper Gerhard Erasmus (32) for the fourth wicket.

Chasing 165 to stay alive in the competition, debutants Namibia were stuttering at 52 for three after nine overs but Wiese single-handedly sank the Dutch side.

His onslaught on the spinners, especially the monstrous straight sixes, was a treat to watch as the Dutch bowlers were guilty of putting the balls in the slot for Wiese to clobber.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/t20-wc-rohit-sharmas-half-century-helps-india-chase-australias-153-in-second-warm-up-game-422396">T20 WC: Rohit Sharma's half-century helps India chase Australia's 153 in second warm-up game</a>

And even if the pacers drew the length a bit back, the 36-year-old Wiese had enough power to muscle the ball around for big shots.

He raised his fifty in just 29 balls, with a six off rival skipper Pietar Seelar. His 40-ball unbeaten knock was adorned with five sixes and four shots to the fence.

Erasmus too timed the ball beautifully and got boundaries with ease in his 22-ball knock that had four fours and a six.

The victory has kept Namibia in hunt for the Super-12 stage and now need to beat Ireland in their final game in the first round. They had lost to Sri Lanka in their opening match.

The Netherlands now have lost both their games and their chances to make it to the next stage are quite low.

Earlier, opener Max O'Dowd (70) struck his second consecutive half-century and shared a 82-run stand with Colin Ackermann (35) to help the Netherland post a competitive 164 for four.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/dont-know-how-india-get-favourites-tag-says-michael-vaughan-ahead-of-virat-kohli-cos-pakistan-tie-422332">Don’t know how India get favourites tag, says Michael Vaughan ahead of Virat Kohli &amp; Co.'s Pakistan tie</a>

O'Dowd, who had hit 51 against Ireland in the previous match, expressed himself freely, going after the bowlers. At times he played uppish shots, not exactly in control but still kept finding the gaps to keep the scoreboard going.

His 57-ball knock had six fours and a six.

Stroke making was not easy on the wicket and his opening partner Stephan Myburgh (17) was happy playing the ball according to merit.

Myburgh got out when he tried to slap one hard from Frylinck but ended up giving a simple catch to Baard at point.

The Dutch side had high hopes from experienced Roelof van der Merwe (6) but he also fell cheaply off pacer David Wiese. 
Next-man in Ackermann though timed the ball nicely and even used his feet effectively.

O'Dowd completed his fifty with an inside-out boundary off the bowling of spinner Bernard Scholtz in the cover region. That shot also brought up hundred of the side in the 14th over.

Pacer JJ Smit was impressive with his accurate widish deliveries in slog overs, not letting the Dutch batters score freely. Wiese too kept it tight.

In a sensational display of power-hitting, David Wiese conjured up a 66-run knock to fashion Namibia's six-wicket win over the Netherlands in a crucial first round Group A game of the T20 World Cup here on Wednesday.

In a sensational display of power-hitting, David Wiese conjured up a 66-run knock to fashion Namibia's six-wicket win over the Netherlands in a crucial first round Group A game of the T20 World Cup here on Wednesday. Wiese's maiden international half-century changed the pace of the game in matter of minutes as runs flew thick and fast after he took charge at the crease and in the process added 93 runs with skipper Gerhard Erasmus (32) for the fourth wicket. Chasing 165 to stay alive in the competition, debutants Namibia were stuttering at 52 for three after nine overs but Wiese single-handedly sank the Dutch side. His onslaught on the spinners, especially the monstrous straight sixes, was a treat to watch as the Dutch bowlers were guilty of putting the balls in the slot for Wiese to clobber. ALSO READ: T20 WC: Rohit Sharma's half-century helps India chase Australia's 153 in second warm-up game And even if the pacers drew the length a bit back, the 36-year-old Wiese had enough power to muscle the ball around for big shots. He raised his fifty in just 29 balls, with a six off rival skipper Pietar Seelar. His 40-ball unbeaten knock was adorned with five sixes and four shots to the fence. Erasmus too timed the ball beautifully and got boundaries with ease in his 22-ball knock that had four fours and a six. The victory has kept Namibia in hunt for the Super-12 stage and now need to beat Ireland in their final game in the first round. They had lost to Sri Lanka in their opening match. The Netherlands now have lost both their games and their chances to make it to the next stage are quite low. Earlier, opener Max O'Dowd (70) struck his second consecutive half-century and shared a 82-run stand with Colin Ackermann (35) to help the Netherland post a competitive 164 for four. ALSO READ | Don’t know how India get favourites tag, says Michael Vaughan ahead of Virat Kohli & Co.'s Pakistan tie O'Dowd, who had hit 51 against Ireland in the previous match, expressed himself freely, going after the bowlers. At times he played uppish shots, not exactly in control but still kept finding the gaps to keep the scoreboard going. His 57-ball knock had six fours and a six. Stroke making was not easy on the wicket and his opening partner Stephan Myburgh (17) was happy playing the ball according to merit. Myburgh got out when he tried to slap one hard from Frylinck but ended up giving a simple catch to Baard at point. The Dutch side had high hopes from experienced Roelof van der Merwe (6) but he also fell cheaply off pacer David Wiese. Next-man in Ackermann though timed the ball nicely and even used his feet effectively. O'Dowd completed his fifty with an inside-out boundary off the bowling of spinner Bernard Scholtz in the cover region. That shot also brought up hundred of the side in the 14th over. Pacer JJ Smit was impressive with his accurate widish deliveries in slog overs, not letting the Dutch batters score freely. Wiese too kept it tight.

T20 WC: Former South Africa batter David Wiese's 66 helps Namibia stun Netherlands by 6 wickets

India fine-tuned their T20 World Cup preparations with a convincing nine-wicket win over Australia in their final warm-up game here on Wednesday but the sixth bowler's slot remained a worry as even Virat Kohli rolled his arm over going into the tournament proper.

Captaining the side with Kohli only taking the field to bowl, Rohit Sharma (60 retired off 41) showed sublime touch alongside opening partner K L Rahul (39 off 31) as India chased down Australia's 152 for five in 17.5 overs.

Suryakumar Yadav (38 not out off 27) came at number three in Kohli's absence and got valuable time in the middle which should boost his confidence going ahead.

Hardik Pandya (14 not out off 8) came at four to finish the game and he did it with a clean hit over the bowler's head.

Another plus for India was seasoned pacer Bhuvneshwar Kumar finding rhythm after a poor outing against England. India had also beaten England in their earlier practice game.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/dont-know-how-india-get-favourites-tag-says-michael-vaughan-ahead-of-virat-kohli-cos-pakistan-tie-422332">Don’t know how India get favourites tag, says Michael Vaughan ahead of Virat Kohli &amp; Co.'s Pakistan tie</a>

The batting department looks more or less settled and the five specialist bowlers also inspire confidence but the same can't be said about the extra bowling option with Hardik not bringing his all-round skills to the table at the moment.

"Hardik is coming along pretty well, but it'll be a while before he will start to bowl. He hasn't started bowling, but he should be ready by the start of the tournament," said Rohit at the toss for the warm-up match against Australia.

The team management is hoping he will be ready to bowl during India's World Cup campaign which begins with the marquee clash against Pakistan on Sunday.

Skipper Kohli kept things tight with two overs of medium pace but to expect him to do the job in high-pressure scenarios would be asking for too much from him.

India conceded 58 runs off the last five overs and that is something they would like to improve on.

After losing the toss, India put up a decent bowling effort.

Rohit mentioned at the toss that Kohli, Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammed Shami were rested from the game but the skipper took the field to bowl a couple of overs in which he conceded 12 runs.

India had Australia on the mat at 11 for three after Aaron Finch opted to bat first. David Warner's barren run continued after a failed attempt at a reverse sweep had him trapped in front off Ravichandran Ashwin.

With his very next ball, Ashwin got rid of birthday boy Mitchell Marsh who played for the turn which wasn't there only to edge it to the first slip.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/t20-wc-fan-asks-shaheen-afridi-for-indo-pak-match-tickets-pacer-responds-in-hilarious-manner-watch-422308">T20 WC: Fan asks Shaheen Afridi for Indo-Pak match tickets, pacer responds in hilarious manner - Watch</a>

Ravindra Jadeja had Finch trapped LBW with a slider off his very first ball, leaving Australia with a lot of work to do.

Steve Smith (57 off 48) and in-form Glenn Maxwell (37 off 28) tried to break the shackles with a 61-run partnership.

While Maxwell used his reverse sweep to good effect, Smith kept himself busy by rotating the strike.

After Maxwell fell to a conventional sweep, Smith and Marcus Stoinis (41 not out off 25 balls) got together and provided a much needed final flourish to the innings.

Smith smashed Shardul Thakur for three successive fours in the 17th over before Stoinis hit a straight six and a boundary off mystery spinner Varun Chakaravarthy, who conceded 23 runs off his two overs.

After a bad day in office against England, Bhuvneshwar found his rhythm and was effective both at the start and in the death. 
India, however, would be a tad disappointed to give away so many runs in the death overs and help Australia's recovery.

India fine-tuned their T20 World Cup preparations with a convincing nine-wicket win over Australia in their final warm-up game here on Wednesday but the sixth bowler's slot remained a worry as even Virat Kohli rolled his arm over going into the tournament proper.

India fine-tuned their T20 World Cup preparations with a convincing nine-wicket win over Australia in their final warm-up game here on Wednesday but the sixth bowler's slot remained a worry as even Virat Kohli rolled his arm over going into the tournament proper. Captaining the side with Kohli only taking the field to bowl, Rohit Sharma (60 retired off 41) showed sublime touch alongside opening partner K L Rahul (39 off 31) as India chased down Australia's 152 for five in 17.5 overs. Suryakumar Yadav (38 not out off 27) came at number three in Kohli's absence and got valuable time in the middle which should boost his confidence going ahead. Hardik Pandya (14 not out off 8) came at four to finish the game and he did it with a clean hit over the bowler's head. Another plus for India was seasoned pacer Bhuvneshwar Kumar finding rhythm after a poor outing against England. India had also beaten England in their earlier practice game. ALSO READ | Don’t know how India get favourites tag, says Michael Vaughan ahead of Virat Kohli & Co.'s Pakistan tie The batting department looks more or less settled and the five specialist bowlers also inspire confidence but the same can't be said about the extra bowling option with Hardik not bringing his all-round skills to the table at the moment. "Hardik is coming along pretty well, but it'll be a while before he will start to bowl. He hasn't started bowling, but he should be ready by the start of the tournament," said Rohit at the toss for the warm-up match against Australia. The team management is hoping he will be ready to bowl during India's World Cup campaign which begins with the marquee clash against Pakistan on Sunday. Skipper Kohli kept things tight with two overs of medium pace but to expect him to do the job in high-pressure scenarios would be asking for too much from him. India conceded 58 runs off the last five overs and that is something they would like to improve on. After losing the toss, India put up a decent bowling effort. Rohit mentioned at the toss that Kohli, Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammed Shami were rested from the game but the skipper took the field to bowl a couple of overs in which he conceded 12 runs. India had Australia on the mat at 11 for three after Aaron Finch opted to bat first. David Warner's barren run continued after a failed attempt at a reverse sweep had him trapped in front off Ravichandran Ashwin. With his very next ball, Ashwin got rid of birthday boy Mitchell Marsh who played for the turn which wasn't there only to edge it to the first slip. ALSO READ | T20 WC: Fan asks Shaheen Afridi for Indo-Pak match tickets, pacer responds in hilarious manner - Watch Ravindra Jadeja had Finch trapped LBW with a slider off his very first ball, leaving Australia with a lot of work to do. Steve Smith (57 off 48) and in-form Glenn Maxwell (37 off 28) tried to break the shackles with a 61-run partnership. While Maxwell used his reverse sweep to good effect, Smith kept himself busy by rotating the strike. After Maxwell fell to a conventional sweep, Smith and Marcus Stoinis (41 not out off 25 balls) got together and provided a much needed final flourish to the innings. Smith smashed Shardul Thakur for three successive fours in the 17th over before Stoinis hit a straight six and a boundary off mystery spinner Varun Chakaravarthy, who conceded 23 runs off his two overs. After a bad day in office against England, Bhuvneshwar found his rhythm and was effective both at the start and in the death. India, however, would be a tad disappointed to give away so many runs in the death overs and help Australia's recovery.

T20 WC: Rohit Sharma's half-century helps India chase Australia's 153 in second warm-up game

The T20 World Cup 2021 has commenced with the qualifiers and the warm-up encounters being held simultaneously. While India are finalising their team combination in the practice games, all eyes are on their tournament-opener in the main draw of the showpiece event, versus Pakistan, on October 24 at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai.

Both India and Pakistan will play their first game in the ICC event against each other as the stage is set for a blockbuster face-off. For the unversed, the arch-rivals meet each other only during ICC or multi-nation tournaments and not in bilateral series, due to the political tension between the two neighbouring countries.&nbsp;

Hence, whenever India-Pakistan meet in World Cups, it becomes a grand encounter as many cricket lovers remain glued to the television sets whereas a plethora of the gentlemen's game's lovers turn up inthe stadium. Ahead of the Indo-Pak tie, a fan asked Pakistan pacer Shaheen Afridi for the upcoming match's tickets (by asking him to check his pockets). To this, Afridi responded in a hilarious manner. Here's how it all panned out:

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/t20-wc-shahid-afridi-issues-stern-warning-says-pakistan-can-surprise-anyone-rule-them-out-at-own-peril-422118">T20 WC: Shahid Afridi issues stern warning, says 'Pakistan can surprise anyone, rule them out at own peril'</a>

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When a fan asked Shaheen “ India Pakistan match ki tickets han ap k pass” Shaheen checking his pocket 
<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/T20WorldCup?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#T20WorldCup</a> <a href="https://t.co/jf9nLtRDdC">pic.twitter.com/jf9nLtRDdC</a>
— Asad Abdullah (@asad_qureshi257) <a href="https://twitter.com/asad_qureshi257/status/1450412493558386688?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 19, 2021</a></blockquote>
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ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/t20-wc-pakistani-internet-sensation-returns-with-a-hilarious-video-as-indo-pak-clash-nears-watch-422058">T20 WC: Pakistani internet sensation returns with a hilarious video as Indo-Pak clash nears - WATCH</a>

India lead Pakistan 5-0 in the T20 WC history. They have never lost in any World Cup (ODIs and T20Is) versus the Men in Green. However, Virat Kohli-led Men in Blue won't take Babar Azam &amp; Co. lightly as they remain one of the top three sides in ICC T20I rankings.&nbsp;

India and Pakistan are placed in Pool B along with New Zealand and Afghanistan whereas Australia, South Africa, England and West Indies find themselves in Pool A. Two teams, each, will join both the groups from the qualifiers.

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The T20 World Cup 2021 has commenced with the qualifiers and the warm-up encounters being held simultaneously. While India are finalising their team combination in the practice games, all eyes are on their tournament-opener in the main draw of the showpiece event, versus Pakistan, on October 24 at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai.

The T20 World Cup 2021 has commenced with the qualifiers and the warm-up encounters being held simultaneously. While India are finalising their team combination in the practice games, all eyes are on their tournament-opener in the main draw of the showpiece event, versus Pakistan, on October 24 at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai. Both India and Pakistan will play their first game in the ICC event against each other as the stage is set for a blockbuster face-off. For the unversed, the arch-rivals meet each other only during ICC or multi-nation tournaments and not in bilateral series, due to the political tension between the two neighbouring countries. Hence, whenever India-Pakistan meet in World Cups, it becomes a grand encounter as many cricket lovers remain glued to the television sets whereas a plethora of the gentlemen's game's lovers turn up inthe stadium. Ahead of the Indo-Pak tie, a fan asked Pakistan pacer Shaheen Afridi for the upcoming match's tickets (by asking him to check his pockets). To this, Afridi responded in a hilarious manner. Here's how it all panned out: ALSO READ | T20 WC: Shahid Afridi issues stern warning, says 'Pakistan can surprise anyone, rule them out at own peril' When a fan asked Shaheen “ India Pakistan match ki tickets han ap k pass” Shaheen checking his pocket #T20WorldCup pic.twitter.com/jf9nLtRDdC — Asad Abdullah (@asad_qureshi257) October 19, 2021 × ALSO READ | T20 WC: Pakistani internet sensation returns with a hilarious video as Indo-Pak clash nears - WATCH India lead Pakistan 5-0 in the T20 WC history. They have never lost in any World Cup (ODIs and T20Is) versus the Men in Green. However, Virat Kohli-led Men in Blue won't take Babar Azam & Co. lightly as they remain one of the top three sides in ICC T20I rankings. India and Pakistan are placed in Pool B along with New Zealand and Afghanistan whereas Australia, South Africa, England and West Indies find themselves in Pool A. Two teams, each, will join both the groups from the qualifiers.

T20 WC: Fan asks Shaheen Afridi for Indo-Pak match tickets, pacer responds in hilarious manner - Watch

Virat Kohli's Team India are playing their second warm-up encounter on Wednesday afternoon (October 20), versus Australia, at the ICC Academy Ground, Dubai ahead of the main draw of the T20 World Cup 2021. The Men in Blue are trying to finalise their team combination and get their players some match-time ahead of the Super 12 round.

As Kohli opted out from leading India in the second warm-up match, Rohit Sharma came out for the coin toss and confirmed that Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammed Shami have been rested as well.

During Aaron Finch-led Australia's innings, as they opted to bat first, mentor MS Dhoni was seen assisting Rishabh Pant with his wicketkeeping drills on the sidelines.&nbsp;The video went viral in no time as the former Indian captain Dhoni was seen helping out his successor Pant, in a bid to hone his skills ahead of India's T20 WC opener, versus Pakistan on October 24 (Sunday) at Dubai. Here's the video:

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/dont-know-how-india-get-favourites-tag-says-michael-vaughan-ahead-of-virat-kohli-cos-pakistan-tie-422332">Don’t know how India get favourites tag, says Michael Vaughan ahead of Virat Kohli &amp; Co.'s Pakistan tie</a>

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Mentor MS Dhoni &amp; Rishabh Pant <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/T20WorldCup?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#T20WorldCup</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MSDhoni?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MSDhoni</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvAUS?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDvAUS</a> <a href="https://t.co/zlifcdDP4j">pic.twitter.com/zlifcdDP4j</a>
— Shoronjeet Banerjee (@shoronjeet02) <a href="https://twitter.com/shoronjeet02/status/1450769837907611654?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 20, 2021</a></blockquote>
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ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/t20-wc-fan-asks-shaheen-afridi-for-indo-pak-match-tickets-pacer-responds-in-hilarious-manner-watch-422308">T20 WC: Fan asks Shaheen Afridi for Indo-Pak match tickets, pacer responds in hilarious manner - Watch</a>

Dhoni has been roped in as a mentor for Team India for the marquee tournament, in order to help Virat Kohli &amp; Co. break their 8-year-old ICC-title drought and win their second title in the T20 WC history. It was under Dhoni when India won the inaugural edition, in 2007, in South Africa. Since then, the Men in Blue came close in the 2014 edition but ended as runners-up whereas the last edition saw them bow out in the semi-finals.

Talking about Pant, the swashbuckling left-hander was in good touch in the first warm-up fixture, between India and England, as his cameo (14-ball 29*) helped Kohli &amp; Co. beat England by 7 wickets. His form in the middle and lower-order will be crucial for India in the tournament.

India are placed in Pool B along with Pakistan, New Zealand, Afghanistan whereas two other teams will join from the qualifiers.

Virat Kohli's Team India are playing their second warm-up encounter on Wednesday afternoon (October 20), versus Australia, at the ICC Academy Ground, Dubai ahead of the main draw of the T20 World Cup 2021.

Virat Kohli's Team India are playing their second warm-up encounter on Wednesday afternoon (October 20), versus Australia, at the ICC Academy Ground, Dubai ahead of the main draw of the T20 World Cup 2021. The Men in Blue are trying to finalise their team combination and get their players some match-time ahead of the Super 12 round. As Kohli opted out from leading India in the second warm-up match, Rohit Sharma came out for the coin toss and confirmed that Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammed Shami have been rested as well. During Aaron Finch-led Australia's innings, as they opted to bat first, mentor MS Dhoni was seen assisting Rishabh Pant with his wicketkeeping drills on the sidelines. The video went viral in no time as the former Indian captain Dhoni was seen helping out his successor Pant, in a bid to hone his skills ahead of India's T20 WC opener, versus Pakistan on October 24 (Sunday) at Dubai. Here's the video: ALSO READ | Don’t know how India get favourites tag, says Michael Vaughan ahead of Virat Kohli & Co.'s Pakistan tie Mentor MS Dhoni & Rishabh Pant #T20WorldCup #MSDhoni #INDvAUS pic.twitter.com/zlifcdDP4j — Shoronjeet Banerjee (@shoronjeet02) October 20, 2021 × ALSO READ | T20 WC: Fan asks Shaheen Afridi for Indo-Pak match tickets, pacer responds in hilarious manner - Watch Dhoni has been roped in as a mentor for Team India for the marquee tournament, in order to help Virat Kohli & Co. break their 8-year-old ICC-title drought and win their second title in the T20 WC history. It was under Dhoni when India won the inaugural edition, in 2007, in South Africa. Since then, the Men in Blue came close in the 2014 edition but ended as runners-up whereas the last edition saw them bow out in the semi-finals. Talking about Pant, the swashbuckling left-hander was in good touch in the first warm-up fixture, between India and England, as his cameo (14-ball 29*) helped Kohli & Co. beat England by 7 wickets. His form in the middle and lower-order will be crucial for India in the tournament. India are placed in Pool B along with Pakistan, New Zealand, Afghanistan whereas two other teams will join from the qualifiers.

Watch: 'Mentor' MS Dhoni helps Rishabh Pant with wicketkeeping drills amid IND-AUS T20 WC warm-up tie

Match 8 of the T20 World Cup edition will see the Andrew Balbirnie-led Ireland (IRE) take on the Dasun Shanaka-led Sri Lanka (SL) on Wednesday (October 20). The game will be played at the Sheikh Zayed Stadium, Abu Dhabi.

In the warm-up matches, Sri Lanka won against both Bangladesh and Papua New Guinea whereas Ireland also defeated both Papua New Guinea and Bangladesh.

Both Sri Lanka and Ireland have won their first match in Round 1, against Namibia and Netherlands respectively. Who will emerge on top this time around?

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/t20-wc-fan-asks-shaheen-afridi-for-indo-pak-match-tickets-pacer-responds-in-hilarious-manner-watch-422308">T20 WC: Fan asks Shaheen Afridi for Indo-Pak match tickets, pacer responds in hilarious manner - Watch</a>

The Group A match will be vital to the hopes of both the teams progressing to the Super 12 stage.

Let's take a look at the means on how to live stream or view the match: 

Where is the T20 World Cup match between Ireland vs Sri Lanka taking place?

The T20 World Cup match between Ireland vs Sri Lanka will take place at the Sheikh Zayed Stadium, Abu Dhabi.

What time does the T20 World Cup match between Ireland vs Sri Lanka begin?

The T20 World Cup match between Ireland vs Sri Lanka begins at 7:30 PM IST on Wednesday.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/t20-wc-shahid-afridi-issues-stern-warning-says-pakistan-can-surprise-anyone-rule-them-out-at-own-peril-422118">T20 WC: Shahid Afridi issues stern warning, says 'Pakistan can surprise anyone, rule them out at own peril'</a>

Where and how to watch live coverage of the T20 World Cup match between Ireland vs Sri Lanka?

The T20 World Cup match between Ireland vs Sri Lanka will be aired live on Star Sports channels - Star Sports 1, Star Sports 2, Star Sports 3, Star Sports 3 HD. The online streaming of the T20 World Cup match between IRE vs SL will be available on Hotstar. The T20 World Cup matches will be shown on Star Sports 1, Star Sports 2, Star Sports 3, Star Sports HD, and DD Sports.

Match 8 of the T20 World Cup edition will see the Andrew Balbirnie-led Ireland (IRE) take on the Dasun Shanaka-led Sri Lanka (SL) on Wednesday (October 20). The game will be played at the Sheikh Zayed Stadium, Abu Dhabi.

Match 8 of the T20 World Cup edition will see the Andrew Balbirnie-led Ireland (IRE) take on the Dasun Shanaka-led Sri Lanka (SL) on Wednesday (October 20). The game will be played at the Sheikh Zayed Stadium, Abu Dhabi. In the warm-up matches, Sri Lanka won against both Bangladesh and Papua New Guinea whereas Ireland also defeated both Papua New Guinea and Bangladesh. Both Sri Lanka and Ireland have won their first match in Round 1, against Namibia and Netherlands respectively. Who will emerge on top this time around? ALSO READ | T20 WC: Fan asks Shaheen Afridi for Indo-Pak match tickets, pacer responds in hilarious manner - Watch The Group A match will be vital to the hopes of both the teams progressing to the Super 12 stage. Let's take a look at the means on how to live stream or view the match: Where is the T20 World Cup match between Ireland vs Sri Lanka taking place? The T20 World Cup match between Ireland vs Sri Lanka will take place at the Sheikh Zayed Stadium, Abu Dhabi. What time does the T20 World Cup match between Ireland vs Sri Lanka begin? The T20 World Cup match between Ireland vs Sri Lanka begins at 7:30 PM IST on Wednesday. ALSO READ | T20 WC: Shahid Afridi issues stern warning, says 'Pakistan can surprise anyone, rule them out at own peril' Where and how to watch live coverage of the T20 World Cup match between Ireland vs Sri Lanka? The T20 World Cup match between Ireland vs Sri Lanka will be aired live on Star Sports channels - Star Sports 1, Star Sports 2, Star Sports 3, Star Sports 3 HD. The online streaming of the T20 World Cup match between IRE vs SL will be available on Hotstar. The T20 World Cup matches will be shown on Star Sports 1, Star Sports 2, Star Sports 3, Star Sports HD, and DD Sports.

T20 World Cup, IRE vs SL live streaming: When and where to watch Ireland vs Sri Lanka match?

The T20 World Cup 2021 edition has started with the qualifying round underway whereas the automatically-qualified teams are engaged in the warm-up encounters. Before the main draw of the showpiece event, former England captain Michael Vaughan has made a big claim on Virat Kohli-led Team India.&nbsp;

While many former cricketers and experts of the gentlemen's game feel India are one of the favourites for the seventh edition of the T20 WC, Vaughan begs to differ.&nbsp; "England for me are the favourites. I don’t know how India get the “favourites” tag in T20 cricket. I just think they’ve been a long way off in the last few tournaments,’ Vaughan told BBC Test Match Special.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/t20-wc-fan-asks-shaheen-afridi-for-indo-pak-match-tickets-pacer-responds-in-hilarious-manner-watch-422308">T20 WC: Fan asks Shaheen Afridi for Indo-Pak match tickets, pacer responds in hilarious manner - Watch</a>

He further asserted, "West Indies and Pakistan will be threats. I wouldn’t write off Pakistan either. New Zealand have high-class players and you know they will come up with strategies to win games. I’ll say it now, I don’t give Australia much chance. In T20 cricket they’ve struggled. Glenn Maxwell’s exceptional so he will have to have an incredible tournament. But I don’t see the Aussies doing too much. England, India, West Indies, New Zealand, one of those four and maybe Pakistan because of the conditions."&nbsp;

“The pitches will be interesting because they’ve been used and slow [during the Indian Premier League]. I think 150-160 might be defendable scores,” Vaughan added.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/t20-wc-shahid-afridi-issues-stern-warning-says-pakistan-can-surprise-anyone-rule-them-out-at-own-peril-422118">T20 WC: Shahid Afridi issues stern warning, says 'Pakistan can surprise anyone, rule them out at own peril'</a>

For the unversed, India are placed in Pool B along with Pakistan, New Zealand, Afghanistan whereas two more teams will join from the qualifiers. The Men in Blue will like to end their ICC-title drought as Kohli &amp; Co. haven't won any mega event since 2013 Champions Trophy. In the previous edition, in 2016, India ended their campaign in the semi-finals after losing to eventual winners West Indies.&nbsp;

How far will India go in the T20 WC? Will they end their title-drought? Only time will tell...

The T20 World Cup 2021 edition has started with the qualifying round underway whereas the automatically-qualified teams are engaged in the warm-up encounters. Before the main draw of the showpiece event, former England captain Michael Vaughan has made a big claim on Virat Kohli-led Team India.

The T20 World Cup 2021 edition has started with the qualifying round underway whereas the automatically-qualified teams are engaged in the warm-up encounters. Before the main draw of the showpiece event, former England captain Michael Vaughan has made a big claim on Virat Kohli-led Team India. While many former cricketers and experts of the gentlemen's game feel India are one of the favourites for the seventh edition of the T20 WC, Vaughan begs to differ. "England for me are the favourites. I don’t know how India get the “favourites” tag in T20 cricket. I just think they’ve been a long way off in the last few tournaments,’ Vaughan told BBC Test Match Special. ALSO READ | T20 WC: Fan asks Shaheen Afridi for Indo-Pak match tickets, pacer responds in hilarious manner - Watch He further asserted, "West Indies and Pakistan will be threats. I wouldn’t write off Pakistan either. New Zealand have high-class players and you know they will come up with strategies to win games. I’ll say it now, I don’t give Australia much chance. In T20 cricket they’ve struggled. Glenn Maxwell’s exceptional so he will have to have an incredible tournament. But I don’t see the Aussies doing too much. England, India, West Indies, New Zealand, one of those four and maybe Pakistan because of the conditions." “The pitches will be interesting because they’ve been used and slow [during the Indian Premier League]. I think 150-160 might be defendable scores,” Vaughan added. ALSO READ | T20 WC: Shahid Afridi issues stern warning, says 'Pakistan can surprise anyone, rule them out at own peril' For the unversed, India are placed in Pool B along with Pakistan, New Zealand, Afghanistan whereas two more teams will join from the qualifiers. The Men in Blue will like to end their ICC-title drought as Kohli & Co. haven't won any mega event since 2013 Champions Trophy. In the previous edition, in 2016, India ended their campaign in the semi-finals after losing to eventual winners West Indies. How far will India go in the T20 WC? Will they end their title-drought? Only time will tell...

Don’t know how India get favourites tag, says Michael Vaughan ahead of Virat Kohli & Co.'s Pakistan tie

England skipper Eoin Morgan said that he is ready to get himself dropped from England`s playing XI of ICC Men`s T20 World Cup if his poor form continues. Morgan has just come back after captaining the Indian Premier League (IPL) team Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) and taking them to the finals of the tournament. Morgan has been really short of T20 runs this year with an average of 16.63 with the highest score of 47 not out from 35 innings.

"It`s always something I`ve said - it`s always an option. I`m not going to stand in the way of a team winning the World Cup. I`ve been short of runs but my captaincy has been pretty good, as it goes. So, yes is the answer," said Morgan, as reported by ESPNcricinfo."Not being a bowler and being a bit older and not contributing as much in the field, I`ve loved the role of captain. You get two bites at the cherry impacting the game. As regards my batting, I wouldn`t be standing here if I hadn`t come out of every bad run of form that I`d ever had," he added.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/t20-wc-shahid-afridi-issues-stern-warning-says-pakistan-can-surprise-anyone-rule-them-out-at-own-peril-422118">T20 WC: Shahid Afridi issues stern warning, says 'Pakistan can surprise anyone, rule them out at own peril'</a>

England are the reigning 50-over world champions and go into the T20 World Cup looking to become the first team to hold both trophies at the same time. "I think it`ll be unbelievably special if we manage to do it. I think that the group of players that we`ve had together for the last five or six years, alongside some new, really talented and young guys coming through, who have really made a name for themselves, makes the composition of the squad extremely strong," said Morgan. "We`re always trying to push the limits, we`re always trying to get better as a side, and since 2019 our cricket has been as consistent as ever, I think, in the T20 format which is extremely difficult to do when there`s been chopping and changing the whole time," he added. England will be clashing with West Indies on October 23 in their first match of the Men`s T20 World Cup.

England skipper Eoin Morgan said that he is ready to get himself dropped from England`s playing XI of ICC Men`s T20 World Cup if his poor form continues. Morgan has just come back after captaining the Indian Premier League (IPL) team Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) and taking them to the finals of the tournament.

England skipper Eoin Morgan said that he is ready to get himself dropped from England`s playing XI of ICC Men`s T20 World Cup if his poor form continues. Morgan has just come back after captaining the Indian Premier League (IPL) team Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) and taking them to the finals of the tournament. Morgan has been really short of T20 runs this year with an average of 16.63 with the highest score of 47 not out from 35 innings. "It`s always something I`ve said - it`s always an option. I`m not going to stand in the way of a team winning the World Cup. I`ve been short of runs but my captaincy has been pretty good, as it goes. So, yes is the answer," said Morgan, as reported by ESPNcricinfo."Not being a bowler and being a bit older and not contributing as much in the field, I`ve loved the role of captain. You get two bites at the cherry impacting the game. As regards my batting, I wouldn`t be standing here if I hadn`t come out of every bad run of form that I`d ever had," he added. ALSO READ | T20 WC: Shahid Afridi issues stern warning, says 'Pakistan can surprise anyone, rule them out at own peril' England are the reigning 50-over world champions and go into the T20 World Cup looking to become the first team to hold both trophies at the same time. "I think it`ll be unbelievably special if we manage to do it. I think that the group of players that we`ve had together for the last five or six years, alongside some new, really talented and young guys coming through, who have really made a name for themselves, makes the composition of the squad extremely strong," said Morgan. "We`re always trying to push the limits, we`re always trying to get better as a side, and since 2019 our cricket has been as consistent as ever, I think, in the T20 format which is extremely difficult to do when there`s been chopping and changing the whole time," he added. England will be clashing with West Indies on October 23 in their first match of the Men`s T20 World Cup.

T20 WC: England captain Eoin Morgan open to dropping himself if poor form continues

There's never a dull moment in Pakistan cricket. There's always something happening at all times, which catches the attention of cricket lovers all across the world. Ahead of the T20 World Cup, Pakistan lost out on a chance to host New Zealand and England (i.e. the Three Lions' men's and women's teams) as the Kiwis abandoned their tour of Pakistan at the last moment, citing security concerns, whereas England followed suit.

Thus, it led to a huge disappointment for the Pakistan cricket lovers and the PCB. The New Zealand team's abandonment and England's withdrawal to tour Pakistan came at a time when the Asian side had started hosting international games at regular intervals in their own country. In 2009, Pakistan had faced a huge crisis when the Lahore terror attack, on Sri Lankan cricket team, led to them not being able to host international games for six years.

While the situation eased out reasonably, the NZ-England teams' withdrawals have again put Pakistan on the back foot. Nonetheless, the Babar Azam-led Men in Green will enter the T20 World Cup with an aim to vent out their frustration in the ICC event and return home with the title, replicating the Younis Khan-led side when they won the T20 WC following the terror attack, at Lahore, which resulted in Pakistan cricket's humiliation.

Ahead of Pakistan's T20 WC opener, versus India on October 24 at Dubai, former all-rounder and skipper Shahid Afridi has made a bold claim on Babar &amp; Co.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/t20-wc-pakistani-internet-sensation-returns-with-a-hilarious-video-as-indo-pak-clash-nears-watch-422058">T20 WC: Pakistani internet sensation returns with a hilarious video as Indo-Pak clash nears - WATCH</a>

"We had that issue of the Sri Lanka attacks on our minds," Afridi told AFP. "The whole nation was disappointed and frustrated so that win was very much needed. He added, "The win gave the whole nation happiness and some unforgettable moments. This is Pakistan cricket for you, never ever a dull day. Pakistan can surprise any team in the world. Rule them out at your peril."

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/when-youve-400-test-wickets-harbhajan-singh-trolls-shoaib-akhtar-ahead-of-india-pakistan-clash-422111">'When you've 400+ Test wickets...': Harbhajan Singh trolls Shoaib Akhtar ahead of India-Pakistan clash</a>

For the unversed, Pakistan are placed in Pool B with India, New Zealand and Afghanistan whereas they will also be joined by two other teams from the qualifiers. The Men in Green will like to win their first-ever World Cup game versus arch-rivals India, settle scores with New Zealand for their recent withdrawal to tour Pakistan in a bid to march ahead in the semi-finals and return with their second title in the T20 WC.

There's never a dull moment in Pakistan cricket. There's always something happening at all times, which catches the attention of cricket lovers all across the world.

There's never a dull moment in Pakistan cricket. There's always something happening at all times, which catches the attention of cricket lovers all across the world. Ahead of the T20 World Cup, Pakistan lost out on a chance to host New Zealand and England (i.e. the Three Lions' men's and women's teams) as the Kiwis abandoned their tour of Pakistan at the last moment, citing security concerns, whereas England followed suit. Thus, it led to a huge disappointment for the Pakistan cricket lovers and the PCB. The New Zealand team's abandonment and England's withdrawal to tour Pakistan came at a time when the Asian side had started hosting international games at regular intervals in their own country. In 2009, Pakistan had faced a huge crisis when the Lahore terror attack, on Sri Lankan cricket team, led to them not being able to host international games for six years. While the situation eased out reasonably, the NZ-England teams' withdrawals have again put Pakistan on the back foot. Nonetheless, the Babar Azam-led Men in Green will enter the T20 World Cup with an aim to vent out their frustration in the ICC event and return home with the title, replicating the Younis Khan-led side when they won the T20 WC following the terror attack, at Lahore, which resulted in Pakistan cricket's humiliation. Ahead of Pakistan's T20 WC opener, versus India on October 24 at Dubai, former all-rounder and skipper Shahid Afridi has made a bold claim on Babar & Co. ALSO READ | T20 WC: Pakistani internet sensation returns with a hilarious video as Indo-Pak clash nears - WATCH "We had that issue of the Sri Lanka attacks on our minds," Afridi told AFP. "The whole nation was disappointed and frustrated so that win was very much needed. He added, "The win gave the whole nation happiness and some unforgettable moments. This is Pakistan cricket for you, never ever a dull day. Pakistan can surprise any team in the world. Rule them out at your peril." ALSO READ | 'When you've 400+ Test wickets...': Harbhajan Singh trolls Shoaib Akhtar ahead of India-Pakistan clash For the unversed, Pakistan are placed in Pool B with India, New Zealand and Afghanistan whereas they will also be joined by two other teams from the qualifiers. The Men in Green will like to win their first-ever World Cup game versus arch-rivals India, settle scores with New Zealand for their recent withdrawal to tour Pakistan in a bid to march ahead in the semi-finals and return with their second title in the T20 WC.

T20 WC: Shahid Afridi issues stern warning, says 'Pakistan can surprise anyone, rule them out at own peril'

The whole cricketing fraternity is eagerly waiting for the commencement of the India-Pakistan clash in the T20 World Cup 2021. Both cricketing giants only meet during multi-nation or ICC events due to the political tension between the arch-rivals. However, whenever both sides lock horns in a big-ticket tournament, it leads to heads being turned all around the cricketing spectrum as many watch the proceedings, from various parts of the globe.

Virat Kohli-led India are set to meet Babar Azam's Pakistan in both sides' tournament-opener, in the main draw of the showpiece event, on October 24 at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai. Ahead of the marquee face-off, former Pakistan speedster Shoaib Akhtar poked fun at India's veteran off-spinner Harbhajan Singh. However, the Kolkata Knight Riders' (KKR) off-spinner had the last laugh with his reply. It all started when Akhtar shared a picture with Bhajji and hilariously trolled him. To this, the Indian also came back with a witty reply.

Here's how it all panned out between the two legendary cricketers:

<img alt="Harbhajan, Akhtar banter before Indo-Pak T20 WC clash" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="7a7f7ba2-3b15-44d6-abf0-1b8862ccdac1" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Bhajji_Akhtar%20tweets.jpeg" />

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/t20-wc-pakistani-internet-sensation-returns-with-a-hilarious-video-as-indo-pak-clash-nears-watch-422058">T20 WC: Pakistani internet sensation returns with a hilarious video as Indo-Pak clash nears - WATCH</a>

India and Pakistan last met during the 2019 ODI World Cup group stage encounter, at Edgbaston, Birmingham. Back then, the Kohli-led Men in Blue thrashed Pakistan by 89 runs (DLS method). On the other hand, India had also beaten Pakistan by 6 wickets in their 2016 T20 WC face-off, held at the iconic Eden Gardens, Kolkata.&nbsp;

India lead Pakistan 5-0 in T20 WC history and will be eager to maintain their flawless record versus the arch-rivals. However, Babar-led Pakistan won't be an easy opposition for the Indian team by any means. Both sides are placed in Pool B, along with New Zealand, Afghanistan whereas two other teams who will join them from the qualifiers.

The whole cricketing fraternity is eagerly waiting for the commencement of the India-Pakistan clash in the T20 World Cup 2021. Both cricketing giants only meet during multi-nation or ICC events due to the political tension between the arch-rivals.

The whole cricketing fraternity is eagerly waiting for the commencement of the India-Pakistan clash in the T20 World Cup 2021. Both cricketing giants only meet during multi-nation or ICC events due to the political tension between the arch-rivals. However, whenever both sides lock horns in a big-ticket tournament, it leads to heads being turned all around the cricketing spectrum as many watch the proceedings, from various parts of the globe. Virat Kohli-led India are set to meet Babar Azam's Pakistan in both sides' tournament-opener, in the main draw of the showpiece event, on October 24 at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai. Ahead of the marquee face-off, former Pakistan speedster Shoaib Akhtar poked fun at India's veteran off-spinner Harbhajan Singh. However, the Kolkata Knight Riders' (KKR) off-spinner had the last laugh with his reply. It all started when Akhtar shared a picture with Bhajji and hilariously trolled him. To this, the Indian also came back with a witty reply. Here's how it all panned out between the two legendary cricketers: ALSO READ | T20 WC: Pakistani internet sensation returns with a hilarious video as Indo-Pak clash nears - WATCH India and Pakistan last met during the 2019 ODI World Cup group stage encounter, at Edgbaston, Birmingham. Back then, the Kohli-led Men in Blue thrashed Pakistan by 89 runs (DLS method). On the other hand, India had also beaten Pakistan by 6 wickets in their 2016 T20 WC face-off, held at the iconic Eden Gardens, Kolkata. India lead Pakistan 5-0 in T20 WC history and will be eager to maintain their flawless record versus the arch-rivals. However, Babar-led Pakistan won't be an easy opposition for the Indian team by any means. Both sides are placed in Pool B, along with New Zealand, Afghanistan whereas two other teams who will join them from the qualifiers.

'When you've 400+ Test wickets...': Harbhajan Singh trolls Shoaib Akhtar ahead of India-Pakistan clash

There's never a dull moment when Rishabh Pant is standing behind the stumps, whether for Team India or the Delhi Capitals (DC) in the IPL. After taking DC to the playoffs in IPL 2021, the swashbuckling left-hander resumed his services as a wicketkeeper-batsman for Virat Kohli-led India in their first warm-up encounter, versus England, in the T20 World Cup 2021 in the UAE, on Monday evening (October 18).

As expected, Pant left everyone in splits with his commentary from behind the stumps. When R Ashwin came onto bowl the 11th over of England's innings, after India opted to bowl first at ICC Academy Ground, Dubai, Pant hilariously asked the wily off-spinner to resort to leg-spin.&nbsp;

The 24-year-old Pant suggested Ashwin, "Armaan pura karne ka yahi mauka hai.&nbsp;Leg spin karne ka Mauka bhi hai, dastoor bhi hai&nbsp;(This is your chance to fulfil your desire of bowling leg spin). Pant's hilarious video soon became the talk of the town and&nbsp;went viral on social media. Here's what he said:

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/t20-wc-salman-butt-suggests-ishan-kishans-batting-slot-ahttps://www.wionews.com/sports/t20-wc-salman-butt-suggests-ishan-kishans-batting-slot-after-his-blitzkrieg-vs-england-ahead-of-pakistan-tie-422090fter-his-blitzkrieg-vs-england-ahead-of-pakistan-tie-422090">T20 WC: Salman Butt suggests Ishan Kishan's batting slot after his blitzkrieg vs England ahead of Pakistan tie</a>

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ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/t20-wc-pakistani-internet-sensation-returns-with-a-hilarious-video-as-indo-pak-clash-nears-watch-422058">T20 WC: Pakistani internet sensation returns with a hilarious video as Indo-Pak clash nears - WATCH</a>

Talking about the match, India ticked many boxes in the warm-up encounter with Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammed Shami being the chief wicket-takers whereas Ashwin returned with an economical spell, 4-0-23-0. England, however, posted a competitive 188-5 riding on Moeen Ali, Jonny Bairstow and Liam Livingstone's entertaining cameos before Ishan Kishans 46-ball 70 (retired hurt) and KL Rahul's 24-ball 51 propelled the Men in Blue to an easy 7-wicket win, with an over to spare. Pant, on the other hand, also stood tall with a match-finishing 14-ball 29*.

India will take on Australia in the second warm-up encounter before facing Pakistan in their tournament-opener, on October 24 at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai during the main draw of the marquee event.

There's never a dull moment when Rishabh Pant is standing behind the stumps, whether for Team India or the Delhi Capitals (DC) in the IPL. After taking DC to the playoffs in IPL 2021, the swashbuckling left-hander resumed his services as a wicketkeeper-batsman for Virat Kohli-led India in their first warm-up encounter, versus England, in the T20 World Cup 2021 in the UAE, on Monday evening (October 18).

There's never a dull moment when Rishabh Pant is standing behind the stumps, whether for Team India or the Delhi Capitals (DC) in the IPL. After taking DC to the playoffs in IPL 2021, the swashbuckling left-hander resumed his services as a wicketkeeper-batsman for Virat Kohli-led India in their first warm-up encounter, versus England, in the T20 World Cup 2021 in the UAE, on Monday evening (October 18). As expected, Pant left everyone in splits with his commentary from behind the stumps. When R Ashwin came onto bowl the 11th over of England's innings, after India opted to bowl first at ICC Academy Ground, Dubai, Pant hilariously asked the wily off-spinner to resort to leg-spin. The 24-year-old Pant suggested Ashwin, "Armaan pura karne ka yahi mauka hai. Leg spin karne ka Mauka bhi hai, dastoor bhi hai (This is your chance to fulfil your desire of bowling leg spin). Pant's hilarious video soon became the talk of the town and went viral on social media. Here's what he said: ALSO READ | T20 WC: Salman Butt suggests Ishan Kishan's batting slot after his blitzkrieg vs England ahead of Pakistan tie pic.twitter.com/o3h2jskHKh — pant shirt fc (@pant_fc) October 18, 2021 × ALSO READ | T20 WC: Pakistani internet sensation returns with a hilarious video as Indo-Pak clash nears - WATCH Talking about the match, India ticked many boxes in the warm-up encounter with Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammed Shami being the chief wicket-takers whereas Ashwin returned with an economical spell, 4-0-23-0. England, however, posted a competitive 188-5 riding on Moeen Ali, Jonny Bairstow and Liam Livingstone's entertaining cameos before Ishan Kishans 46-ball 70 (retired hurt) and KL Rahul's 24-ball 51 propelled the Men in Blue to an easy 7-wicket win, with an over to spare. Pant, on the other hand, also stood tall with a match-finishing 14-ball 29*. India will take on Australia in the second warm-up encounter before facing Pakistan in their tournament-opener, on October 24 at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai during the main draw of the marquee event.

WATCH - 'Fulfill your desire....': Rishabh Pant's hilarious remark to R Ashwin caught on stump-mic

Ishan Kishan was given a chance at the top-order for Team India in their first warm-up fixture, ahead of the main draw of the T20 World Cup 2021 in the UAE. Virat Kohli-led India faced England in a warm-up encounter on Monday evening (October 18) and the swashbuckling left-hander, who didn't have a memorable IPL 14 for Mumbai Indians (MI), stunned one and all with his entertaining 46-ball 70 before he voluntarily walked off, retired hurt, to give others a chance in India's successful 189-run chase.

Opting to bowl first, Kohli-led India rode on Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammed Shami's breakthroughs to keep Eoin Morgan-less England for 188-5. Jos Buttler-led Three Lions posted a competitive score courtesy Moeen Ali, Jonny Bairstow and Liam Livingstone. However, the dew factor coupled with some sloppy fielding along with Ishan-KL Rahul's fireworks led to England's seven-wicket thrashing. Kohli &amp; Co. finished the run-chase with an over to spare, at ICC Academy Ground, Dubai.&nbsp;

Ishan, who opened the innings with Rohit Sharma being rested, has added to India's selection woes as the team management have plenty to choose from. The left-hander's innings comprised 7 fours and 3 sixes, at 152.37, as he has made a strong statement to be in India's XI for their tournament-opener, versus Pakistan on October 24 at Dubai.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/he-was-our-mentor-even-when-he-was-captain-kl-rahul-gives-his-take-on-ms-dhonis-mentorship-role-in-t20-wc-422076">'He was our mentor even when he was captain' - KL Rahul gives his take on MS Dhoni's mentorship role in T20 WC</a>

Ahead of the high-voltage Indo-Pak clash, former Pakistan captain Salman Butt has suggested where Ishan should bat&nbsp;in the mega event. He told on his Youtube channel, "Don't disturb the opening combination. Talk about the batting line-up after that. Rohit Sharma and KL Rahul will open and I don't think that will change. It could be possible that they use Ishan Kishan somewhere in the middle order or at one down or even bring him in after Kohli. That is because he is in form and can play anywhere.&nbsp;

“I haven't seen him struggling against the new ball or the spinners. So, these are very good signs. He played Moeen Ali very well and he hit Adil Rashid, who is a very good leg spinner, for a plenty. But today's highlight of India's batting, someone who batted extremely beautifully, was KL Rahul. It looked like he was facing the bowling machine. He was able to hit any ball anywhere and the best part was that all of them were correct shots. He is in dangerous form currently," opined Butt.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/we-never-give-big-statements-virender-sehwag-explains-why-pakistan-have-failed-to-beat-india-in-world-cups-422082">'We never give big statements': Virender Sehwag explains why Pakistan have failed to beat India in World Cups</a>

It will be interesting to see if Ishan features in India's XI for their tournament-opener versus Babar Azam-led Men in Green. They have plenty of power-hitters to choose from, in the form of Suryakumar Yadav, Rishabh Pant, Hardik Pandya, Ravindra Jadeja, etc.&nbsp;

India are in Pool B along with Pakistan, New Zealand and Afghanistan whereas two more teams will join them from the qualifiers.

Ishan Kishan was given a chance at the top-order for Team India in their first warm-up fixture, ahead of the main draw of the T20 World Cup 2021 in the UAE. Virat Kohli-led India faced England in a warm-up encounter on Monday evening (October 18) and the swashbuckling left-hander, who didn't have a memorable IPL 14 for Mumbai Indians (MI), stunned one and all with his entertaining 46-ball 70 before he voluntarily walked off, retired hurt, to give others a chance in India's successful 189-run chase.

Ishan Kishan was given a chance at the top-order for Team India in their first warm-up fixture, ahead of the main draw of the T20 World Cup 2021 in the UAE. Virat Kohli-led India faced England in a warm-up encounter on Monday evening (October 18) and the swashbuckling left-hander, who didn't have a memorable IPL 14 for Mumbai Indians (MI), stunned one and all with his entertaining 46-ball 70 before he voluntarily walked off, retired hurt, to give others a chance in India's successful 189-run chase. Opting to bowl first, Kohli-led India rode on Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammed Shami's breakthroughs to keep Eoin Morgan-less England for 188-5. Jos Buttler-led Three Lions posted a competitive score courtesy Moeen Ali, Jonny Bairstow and Liam Livingstone. However, the dew factor coupled with some sloppy fielding along with Ishan-KL Rahul's fireworks led to England's seven-wicket thrashing. Kohli & Co. finished the run-chase with an over to spare, at ICC Academy Ground, Dubai. Ishan, who opened the innings with Rohit Sharma being rested, has added to India's selection woes as the team management have plenty to choose from. The left-hander's innings comprised 7 fours and 3 sixes, at 152.37, as he has made a strong statement to be in India's XI for their tournament-opener, versus Pakistan on October 24 at Dubai. ALSO READ | 'He was our mentor even when he was captain' - KL Rahul gives his take on MS Dhoni's mentorship role in T20 WC Ahead of the high-voltage Indo-Pak clash, former Pakistan captain Salman Butt has suggested where Ishan should bat in the mega event. He told on his Youtube channel, "Don't disturb the opening combination. Talk about the batting line-up after that. Rohit Sharma and KL Rahul will open and I don't think that will change. It could be possible that they use Ishan Kishan somewhere in the middle order or at one down or even bring him in after Kohli. That is because he is in form and can play anywhere. “I haven't seen him struggling against the new ball or the spinners. So, these are very good signs. He played Moeen Ali very well and he hit Adil Rashid, who is a very good leg spinner, for a plenty. But today's highlight of India's batting, someone who batted extremely beautifully, was KL Rahul. It looked like he was facing the bowling machine. He was able to hit any ball anywhere and the best part was that all of them were correct shots. He is in dangerous form currently," opined Butt. ALSO READ | 'We never give big statements': Virender Sehwag explains why Pakistan have failed to beat India in World Cups It will be interesting to see if Ishan features in India's XI for their tournament-opener versus Babar Azam-led Men in Green. They have plenty of power-hitters to choose from, in the form of Suryakumar Yadav, Rishabh Pant, Hardik Pandya, Ravindra Jadeja, etc. India are in Pool B along with Pakistan, New Zealand and Afghanistan whereas two more teams will join them from the qualifiers.

T20 WC: Salman Butt suggests Ishan Kishan's batting slot after his blitzkrieg vs England ahead of Pakistan tie

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