Former India batsman and NCA head Rahul Dravid has backed the thought of adding T20 cricket in the Olympics. He said that he is all for the expansion of the game.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2020-witnessed-record-breaking-surge-in-viewership-342978" hreflang="en">IPL 2020 witnessed record-breaking surge in viewership</a>

Manoj Badle, the lead owner of IPL franchise Rajasthan Royals in association with Simon Hughes launched their book via virtual seminar on Friday called 'A New Innings'. Dravid was a part of the seminar.&nbsp;

"I think it will be great if the T20 format of the game can become an Olympic sport. Obviously, it will come with its challenges. Also, cricket is a game that requires a certain kind of facility for it to be successful," Dravid said during the virtual seminar.

"We have seen in the just-concluded IPL, the success of IPL was on large part due to the quality of wickets... if you can get all of that right and get the facilities in place then why not. I am certainly for the expansion of the T20 game. If it is possible, cricket should endeavor to try and get into the Olympics," he added.

Mumbai Indians were the champions of IPL 2020, after beating Delhi Capitals in the finals last Tuesday. Mumbai extended their record by winning the Indian Premier League title for the fifth time. They also became the second team in IPL history to successfully defend their trophy.&nbsp;

Dravid lauded Mumbai Indians and said that they have a really good mix of experienced and young talented players.

"I think what they have done really well over the last 4-5 years is that they have maintained a really strong core of really high-quality players and mixed that up with identifying some really good young talented players," he said.

"... that has really been the key, their ability to maintain a core of very experienced senior players, obviously world-class T20 players, and the critical thing is that then balancing that out with young exciting Indian talent. And they have been able to do that exceptionally well," Dravid added.

Former India batsman and NCA head Rahul Dravid has backed the thought of adding T20 cricket in the Olympics. He said that he is all for the expansion of the game.

Former India batsman and NCA head Rahul Dravid has backed the thought of adding T20 cricket in the Olympics. He said that he is all for the expansion of the game. Also read: IPL 2020 witnessed record-breaking surge in viewership Manoj Badle, the lead owner of IPL franchise Rajasthan Royals in association with Simon Hughes launched their book via virtual seminar on Friday called 'A New Innings'. Dravid was a part of the seminar. "I think it will be great if the T20 format of the game can become an Olympic sport. Obviously, it will come with its challenges. Also, cricket is a game that requires a certain kind of facility for it to be successful," Dravid said during the virtual seminar. "We have seen in the just-concluded IPL, the success of IPL was on large part due to the quality of wickets... if you can get all of that right and get the facilities in place then why not. I am certainly for the expansion of the T20 game. If it is possible, cricket should endeavor to try and get into the Olympics," he added. Mumbai Indians were the champions of IPL 2020, after beating Delhi Capitals in the finals last Tuesday. Mumbai extended their record by winning the Indian Premier League title for the fifth time. They also became the second team in IPL history to successfully defend their trophy. Dravid lauded Mumbai Indians and said that they have a really good mix of experienced and young talented players. "I think what they have done really well over the last 4-5 years is that they have maintained a really strong core of really high-quality players and mixed that up with identifying some really good young talented players," he said. "... that has really been the key, their ability to maintain a core of very experienced senior players, obviously world-class T20 players, and the critical thing is that then balancing that out with young exciting Indian talent. And they have been able to do that exceptionally well," Dravid added.

'T20 format of the game can become an Olympic sport': Rahul Dravid

Chris Gayle becomes the first cricketer in T20 history to smash 1000 sixes in the shortest format. The West Indian achieved this feat in an Indian Premier League match against Rajasthan Royals.&nbsp;

The Universe Boss smashed 8 sixes in his blistering knock against the Royals and saved the day for KXIP.&nbsp;

1000 - Chris Gayle*&nbsp; 
690 - Kieron Pollard 
485 - Brendon McCullum 
467 - Shane Watson 
447 - Andre Russell 
417 - AB de Villiers

Gayle smashed 99 runs off 63 balls which included 8 mammoth sixes powered Kings XI Punjab to 185. He was actually dropped twice which proved costly for Rajasthan.&nbsp;

The 41-year-old was benched for the first half of the tournament and now is among the front-runners with most sixes by player.

Chris Gayle becomes the first cricketer in T20 history to smash 1000 sixes in the shortest format. The West Indian achieved this feat in an Indian Premier League match against Rajasthan Royals.

Chris Gayle becomes the first cricketer in T20 history to smash 1000 sixes in the shortest format. The West Indian achieved this feat in an Indian Premier League match against Rajasthan Royals. The Universe Boss smashed 8 sixes in his blistering knock against the Royals and saved the day for KXIP. 1000 - Chris Gayle* 690 - Kieron Pollard 485 - Brendon McCullum 467 - Shane Watson 447 - Andre Russell 417 - AB de Villiers Gayle smashed 99 runs off 63 balls which included 8 mammoth sixes powered Kings XI Punjab to 185. He was actually dropped twice which proved costly for Rajasthan. The 41-year-old was benched for the first half of the tournament and now is among the front-runners with most sixes by player.

Chris Gayle becomes first player to smash 1000 sixes in T20 cricket

Hampshire's Shaheen Shah Afridi etched his name into the record books after a wonderful spell during a Vitality Blast encounter against Middlesex. Pakistan's pacer spearhead scalped four wickets in four deliveries to help Hampshire get a 20-run victory.&nbsp;

Shaheen's achievement came when Middlesex nearly won the match as they needed just 22 runs off 16 deliveries. Set batsman John Simpson was at the crease with 48 runs. However, Afridi managed to dismiss four in four including Simpson and Hampshire won the match.&nbsp;

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🤯 <a href="https://twitter.com/iShaheenAfridi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@iShaheenAfridi</a> 
 
That's it. That's the tweet. <a href="https://t.co/tmh1gdBCcg">pic.twitter.com/tmh1gdBCcg</a>
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While bowling in the 18th over, Afridi dismissed Simpson, followed by Middlesex skipper Steve Finn, Thilan Walallawita and Tim Murtagh. With this, he became the first Pakistan player to achieve the feat of scalping four wickets in four balls. He also became the seventh player overall to touch this milestone.

Afridi registered bowling figures of 6/19. He as also named the man of the match at Rose Bowl, Southampton.

Hampshire managed to end their terrible run in the tournament after this win. The team just earned two victories from 10 matches in their campaign, finishing bottom in the South Group with only five points.

Hampshire's Shaheen Shah Afridi etched his name into the record books after a wonderful spell during a Vitality Blast encounter against Middlesex. Pakistan's pacer spearhead scalped four wickets in four deliveries to help Hampshire get a 20-run victory.

Hampshire's Shaheen Shah Afridi etched his name into the record books after a wonderful spell during a Vitality Blast encounter against Middlesex. Pakistan's pacer spearhead scalped four wickets in four deliveries to help Hampshire get a 20-run victory. Shaheen's achievement came when Middlesex nearly won the match as they needed just 22 runs off 16 deliveries. Set batsman John Simpson was at the crease with 48 runs. However, Afridi managed to dismiss four in four including Simpson and Hampshire won the match. 🤯 @iShaheenAfridi That's it. That's the tweet. pic.twitter.com/tmh1gdBCcg — Hampshire Cricket (@hantscricket) September 20, 2020 × While bowling in the 18th over, Afridi dismissed Simpson, followed by Middlesex skipper Steve Finn, Thilan Walallawita and Tim Murtagh. With this, he became the first Pakistan player to achieve the feat of scalping four wickets in four balls. He also became the seventh player overall to touch this milestone. Afridi registered bowling figures of 6/19. He as also named the man of the match at Rose Bowl, Southampton. Hampshire managed to end their terrible run in the tournament after this win. The team just earned two victories from 10 matches in their campaign, finishing bottom in the South Group with only five points.

Watch: Hampshire’s Shaheen Afridi takes four wickets in four balls against Middlesex

Indian women's cricket team head coach WV Raman reflects on the march to the T20 world cup final last month, the positives from the campaign, the expectations from Shafali Verma and whether it is time for the BCCI to launch a women's IPL.

WION exclusive conversation with Indian women's cricket team Head Coach WV Raman

Indian women's cricket team dominating campaign in the ICC women's T20 World Cup continues as the women in blue have qualified for the semifinals after beating New Zealand by three runs.

Indian women's cricket team dominating campaign in the ICC women's T20 World Cup continues as the women in blue have qualified for the semifinals after beating New Zealand by three runs. Also read: Teen sensation Shafali Verma now has highest strike-rate in Women's T20Is The Indian side is the only unbeaten side in the tournament. India survived after nearly losing the game to the Kiwis, New Zealand needed 4 off the last ball. But Shikha Pandey's final delivery was a wicket after Hayley Jenson was run out. Shafali Verma's 46 runs played a vital role in the game for India. Other Indian batswoman failed to perform well a kept they kept losing wickets. By the end of the 20 overs, India's score stood at 133 for 8 wickets. In reply, New Zealand's Amelia Karr scored (34 runs) the most for the team. All the Indian bowlers (Deepti Sharma, Shikha Pandey, Rajeshwari Gaikwad, Poonam Yadav and Radha Yadav ) scalped one wicket each. India's Shikha Pandey proved to be the most economical bowler. New Zealand scored 130/6 by the end of 20 overs. Shafali Verma was adjudged 'Player of the Match'. India is yet to face Sri Lanka before progressing into semis. Their semifinals opponent is yet to be decided.

ICC Women's T20 World Cup: Shafali Verma stars as India qualify for semifinals

The women's T20 World Cup begins this week in Australia, and it could be the most competitive tournament yet according to the host's skipper Meg Lanning.

Captains pose with T20 World Cup trophy, Lanning predicts competitive tournament

KL Rahul has earned his career-best T20I rankings after displaying an outstanding form for India in the T20I series against New Zealand. He is currently ranked two in the ICC top, 10 batsmen, in T20I list. He scored the highest runs in the 5-match series (224 runs).&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rohit-sharma-goes-past-virat-kohli-in-terms-of-most-50-score-in-t20is-278244">Rohit Sharma's new record in T20Is outshines Virat Kohli</a>

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I freaking love this game🇮🇳 <a href="https://t.co/iT76YJheIP">pic.twitter.com/iT76YJheIP</a>
— K L Rahul (@klrahul11) <a href="https://twitter.com/klrahul11/status/1222488123336036352?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 29, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Rohit Sharma's World Record of most 50+ scores in T20I helped him jump three ranks, he is currently ranked at number 10. This is Rohit's 25th 50+ score (21 half-centuries, 4 centuries) for team India, it has also helped the prolific Indian opener almost bridge the gap between him and Kohli in terms of T20I career runs. The difference is down to just 21 runs. Kohli still leads in the list of most half-centuries (24 half-centuries).&nbsp;

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“Everything negative – pressure, challenges – is all an opportunity to rise.” 
. 
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Proud of this team. 🇮🇳<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MambaMentality?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MambaMentality</a> <a href="https://t.co/14iaWHppOg">pic.twitter.com/14iaWHppOg</a>
— Jasprit Bumrah (@Jaspritbumrah93) <a href="https://twitter.com/Jaspritbumrah93/status/1223938796468817920?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 2, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Shreyas Iyer (currently ranked 55th) and Manish Pandey (currently ranked 58th) jumped 63 ranks and 12 ranks respectively.&nbsp;

Virat Kolhi retained his ninth rank after a decent performance of 105 runs in four matches.&nbsp;

Three Indian batsmen are in the top 10 ranked batsmen in T20I's list.&nbsp;

India's bowling attack has also earned a massive upgrade after defending modest totals put up by India.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/jasprit-bumrah-breaks-world-record-bowls-most-maiden-overs-in-t20is-278334">Jasprit Bumrah</a>'s (currently ranked 11th) unique World Record in the final T20I helped him gain 26 places. He has become the bowler to bowl most maiden overs in T20I history. The 26-year-old has 7 maidens to his name in T20Is.&nbsp;

Yuzvendra Chahal has gone 10 places up and is currently ranked 30th, Shardul Thakur's nail-biting final over in the fourth T20I helped India seal a victory against the Kiwis. Thakur scalped eight wickets in the series and has jumped 34 places to 57th position. Navdeep Saini and Ravindra Jadeja's efficient bowling helped them earn rank no 71 and 76 respectively.&nbsp;

India will be looking to continue their winning run against the Kiwi as they clean swept the T20I series, with this India, have become the first team to win a T20I series with 5-0 margin. India have extended their record for most successive T20Is winning eight in succession.&nbsp;

KL Rahul has earned his career-best T20I rankings after displaying an outstanding form for India in the T20I series against New Zealand. He is currently ranked two in the ICC top, 10 batsmen, in T20I list.

KL Rahul has earned his career-best T20I rankings after displaying an outstanding form for India in the T20I series against New Zealand. He is currently ranked two in the ICC top, 10 batsmen, in T20I list. He scored the highest runs in the 5-match series (224 runs). Also read: Rohit Sharma's new record in T20Is outshines Virat Kohli I freaking love this game🇮🇳 pic.twitter.com/iT76YJheIP — K L Rahul (@klrahul11) January 29, 2020 × Rohit Sharma's World Record of most 50+ scores in T20I helped him jump three ranks, he is currently ranked at number 10. This is Rohit's 25th 50+ score (21 half-centuries, 4 centuries) for team India, it has also helped the prolific Indian opener almost bridge the gap between him and Kohli in terms of T20I career runs. The difference is down to just 21 runs. Kohli still leads in the list of most half-centuries (24 half-centuries). “Everything negative – pressure, challenges – is all an opportunity to rise.” . . Proud of this team. 🇮🇳#MambaMentality pic.twitter.com/14iaWHppOg — Jasprit Bumrah (@Jaspritbumrah93) February 2, 2020 × Shreyas Iyer (currently ranked 55th) and Manish Pandey (currently ranked 58th) jumped 63 ranks and 12 ranks respectively. Virat Kolhi retained his ninth rank after a decent performance of 105 runs in four matches. Three Indian batsmen are in the top 10 ranked batsmen in T20I's list. India's bowling attack has also earned a massive upgrade after defending modest totals put up by India. Jasprit Bumrah's (currently ranked 11th) unique World Record in the final T20I helped him gain 26 places. He has become the bowler to bowl most maiden overs in T20I history. The 26-year-old has 7 maidens to his name in T20Is. Yuzvendra Chahal has gone 10 places up and is currently ranked 30th, Shardul Thakur's nail-biting final over in the fourth T20I helped India seal a victory against the Kiwis. Thakur scalped eight wickets in the series and has jumped 34 places to 57th position. Navdeep Saini and Ravindra Jadeja's efficient bowling helped them earn rank no 71 and 76 respectively. India will be looking to continue their winning run against the Kiwi as they clean swept the T20I series, with this India, have become the first team to win a T20I series with 5-0 margin. India have extended their record for most successive T20Is winning eight in succession.

India players rise in ICC T20I rankings after clean sweep over New Zealand

Indian opener&nbsp;Rohit Sharma broke&nbsp;another record in the absence of Indian skipper Virat Kohli in the final T20I against New Zealand in Mount Maunganui on Sunday.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-whitewash-new-zealand-wins-fifth-t20i-by-seven-runs-278153">India whitewash New Zealand, wins fifth T20I by seven runs</a>

Rohit's 60 runs off 41 balls helped him to surpass Virat&nbsp;Kohli in the list of players with most 50+ scores in T20Is.

This is Rohit's 25th 50+ score (21 half-centuries, 4 centuries) for team India, it has also helped the prolific Indian opener almost bridge the gap between him and Kohli in terms of T20I career runs. The difference is down to just 21 runs. Kohli still leads in the list of most half-centuries (24 half-centuries).&nbsp;

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FIFTY!<a href="https://twitter.com/ImRo45?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ImRo45</a> brings up his 21st T20I half-century off 36 deliveries. 
 
Live - <a href="https://t.co/3a7zBdRNm2">https://t.co/3a7zBdRNm2</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/NZvIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#NZvIND</a> <a href="https://t.co/N1nRDSvNjo">pic.twitter.com/N1nRDSvNjo</a>
— BCCI (@BCCI) <a href="https://twitter.com/BCCI/status/1223881275422887936?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 2, 2020</a></blockquote>
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The list of batsmen with most 50+ scores in T20I:

1). Rohit Sharma (Ind): 25&nbsp; 
2). Virat Kohli (Ind): 24&nbsp; 
3). Paul Stirling (Ireland), Martin Guptill (NZ): 17 
4). David Warner (Aus): 16

Rohit Sharma was retired hurt during the 5th T20I, he was struck by&nbsp;a calf injury. He predicted to be fit in a few days.&nbsp;

India extended their record for most successive T20Is winning eight in succession. Chasing a target of 164 runs, New Zealand witnessed a very poor start as three of their batsmen were sent back to the pavilion before the completion of four overs.

With the clean sweep against the Black Caps, India has become the first team to win a T20I series with&nbsp;5-0 margin.

Indian opener Rohit Sharma broke another record in the absence of Indian skipper Virat Kohli in the final T20I against New Zealand in Mount Maunganui on Sunday. Also read: India whitewash New Zealand, wins fifth T20I by seven runs Rohit's 60 runs off 41 balls helped him to surpass Virat Kohli in the list of players with most 50+ scores in T20Is.

Indian opener Rohit Sharma broke another record in the absence of Indian skipper Virat Kohli in the final T20I against New Zealand in Mount Maunganui on Sunday. Also read: India whitewash New Zealand, wins fifth T20I by seven runs Rohit's 60 runs off 41 balls helped him to surpass Virat Kohli in the list of players with most 50+ scores in T20Is. This is Rohit's 25th 50+ score (21 half-centuries, 4 centuries) for team India, it has also helped the prolific Indian opener almost bridge the gap between him and Kohli in terms of T20I career runs. The difference is down to just 21 runs. Kohli still leads in the list of most half-centuries (24 half-centuries). FIFTY!@ImRo45 brings up his 21st T20I half-century off 36 deliveries. Live - https://t.co/3a7zBdRNm2 #NZvIND pic.twitter.com/N1nRDSvNjo — BCCI (@BCCI) February 2, 2020 × The list of batsmen with most 50+ scores in T20I: 1). Rohit Sharma (Ind): 25 2). Virat Kohli (Ind): 24 3). Paul Stirling (Ireland), Martin Guptill (NZ): 17 4). David Warner (Aus): 16 Rohit Sharma was retired hurt during the 5th T20I, he was struck by a calf injury. He predicted to be fit in a few days. India extended their record for most successive T20Is winning eight in succession. Chasing a target of 164 runs, New Zealand witnessed a very poor start as three of their batsmen were sent back to the pavilion before the completion of four overs. With the clean sweep against the Black Caps, India has become the first team to win a T20I series with 5-0 margin.

Rohit Sharma's new record in T20Is outshines Virat Kohli

India snatched the fourth Twenty20 against New Zealand on Friday after yet another super over was needed to separate the two sides after the scores were tied following the regulation 20 overs.

New Zealand, batting first in the decider, made 13 with Tim Seifert dropped twice before he was eventually dismissed.

In reply, Indian captain Virat Kohli hit the winning runs with a ball to spare.

The third match also ended in a super over with Rohit Sharma hitting sixes off the last two balls to get India home.

"What's happened in the last two games is unbelievable," Kohli said.

"It feels good when you are out of the game and then somehow find a way to come back and that shows the character of the team."

The win puts India 4-0 up in the five-match series with New Zealand stand-in captain Tim Southee not happy that his side could not wrap the game up in the 20 overs.

"It's very tough, especially in the position we got ourselves into and then to give them a chance at the end, they're going to grab it with both hands," he said.

New Zealand, chasing India's 165 for eight, went into their last over only needing seven runs to win and with seven wickets in hand.

However, they were restricted to six runs and lost four wickets to finish 165 for seven and set up the super over.

New Zealand had already suffered an earlier setback with talismanic captain Kane Williamson a late scratching having not fully recovered from a shoulder injury suffered while fielding in game three.

It was left to lusty hitting by Colin Munro and Seifert to provide the backbone of their innings with Munro making 64 and Seifert out in the final over for 57.

India sent into bat first, made 165 for eight on a flat track at Wellington stadium with the innings anchored by an unbeaten 50 from Manish Pandey and his partnerships with Thakur and Navdeep Saini.

India were six for 88 in the 12th over before Pandey and Thakur arrested the slide in a 43-run stand with Thakur contributing 20.&nbsp;

Saini, who was not out 11 in his first appearance on the tour, put on 22 with Pandey off the last 13 deliveries.&nbsp;

In a slow start to their reply, New Zealand were 23 for one after five overs.

But in the sixth over, when Thakur wound back the pace to under 140 kilometres per hour (87mph), Munro found his timing with a six and two fours to get the scoreboard moving.

In partnership with Seifert they put on 72 off 44 deliveries before Munro was run out in a smart piece of relay fielding involving Thakur and Kohli who threw down the stumps.

India snatched the fourth Twenty20 against New Zealand on Friday after yet another super over was needed to separate the two sides after the scores were tied following the regulation 20 overs.

India snatched the fourth Twenty20 against New Zealand on Friday after yet another super over was needed to separate the two sides after the scores were tied following the regulation 20 overs. New Zealand, batting first in the decider, made 13 with Tim Seifert dropped twice before he was eventually dismissed. In reply, Indian captain Virat Kohli hit the winning runs with a ball to spare. The third match also ended in a super over with Rohit Sharma hitting sixes off the last two balls to get India home. "What's happened in the last two games is unbelievable," Kohli said. "It feels good when you are out of the game and then somehow find a way to come back and that shows the character of the team." The win puts India 4-0 up in the five-match series with New Zealand stand-in captain Tim Southee not happy that his side could not wrap the game up in the 20 overs. "It's very tough, especially in the position we got ourselves into and then to give them a chance at the end, they're going to grab it with both hands," he said. New Zealand, chasing India's 165 for eight, went into their last over only needing seven runs to win and with seven wickets in hand. However, they were restricted to six runs and lost four wickets to finish 165 for seven and set up the super over. New Zealand had already suffered an earlier setback with talismanic captain Kane Williamson a late scratching having not fully recovered from a shoulder injury suffered while fielding in game three. It was left to lusty hitting by Colin Munro and Seifert to provide the backbone of their innings with Munro making 64 and Seifert out in the final over for 57. India sent into bat first, made 165 for eight on a flat track at Wellington stadium with the innings anchored by an unbeaten 50 from Manish Pandey and his partnerships with Thakur and Navdeep Saini. India were six for 88 in the 12th over before Pandey and Thakur arrested the slide in a 43-run stand with Thakur contributing 20. Saini, who was not out 11 in his first appearance on the tour, put on 22 with Pandey off the last 13 deliveries. In a slow start to their reply, New Zealand were 23 for one after five overs. But in the sixth over, when Thakur wound back the pace to under 140 kilometres per hour (87mph), Munro found his timing with a six and two fours to get the scoreboard moving. In partnership with Seifert they put on 72 off 44 deliveries before Munro was run out in a smart piece of relay fielding involving Thakur and Kohli who threw down the stumps.

India snatch another super over T20 victory against New Zealand

Pakistan Cricket Board's (PCB) chief executive Wasim Khan has said that no deal has been made with the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) regarding the hosting of Asia Cup.

He also said that the team would not participate in the T20 World Cup 2021 if India refused to visit Pakistan for the Asia Cup.

"It is not the prerogative of the PCB or the ICC to change the host as it was the decision of the Asian Cricket Council (ACC)," dawn.com quoted Wasim as saying.

"We are currently considering two venues to host the Asia Cup. If India doesn`t come to Pakistan for the Asia Cup, we would also refuse participation in the 2021 T20 World Cup there," he added.

Earlier this month, when BCB agreed to play a series in Pakistan, it was reported that a deal was struck between the boards that Bangladesh would be hosting the Asia Cup in place of Pakistan.

The T20 World Cup 2021 is slated to be played in India. While the Asia Cup is scheduled to be played in Pakistan in September this year. 
&nbsp;

Pakistan Cricket Board's (PCB) chief executive Wasim Khan has said that no deal has been made with the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) regarding the hosting of Asia Cup.

Pakistan Cricket Board's (PCB) chief executive Wasim Khan has said that no deal has been made with the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) regarding the hosting of Asia Cup. He also said that the team would not participate in the T20 World Cup 2021 if India refused to visit Pakistan for the Asia Cup. "It is not the prerogative of the PCB or the ICC to change the host as it was the decision of the Asian Cricket Council (ACC)," dawn.com quoted Wasim as saying. "We are currently considering two venues to host the Asia Cup. If India doesn`t come to Pakistan for the Asia Cup, we would also refuse participation in the 2021 T20 World Cup there," he added. Earlier this month, when BCB agreed to play a series in Pakistan, it was reported that a deal was struck between the boards that Bangladesh would be hosting the Asia Cup in place of Pakistan. The T20 World Cup 2021 is slated to be played in India. While the Asia Cup is scheduled to be played in Pakistan in September this year.

Won't play T20 World Cup 2021, if India refuses to participate in Asia Cup: PCB

India will be touring in New Zealand for five T20Is, three ODIs, and two Tests. The matches will commence on January 24.

Also read-&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-vs-australia-3rd-odi-rohit-sharma-shami-shine-as-hosts-claim-series-275323">India vs Australia 3rd ODI: Rohit Sharma, Shami shine as hosts claim series</a> 
&nbsp; 
The hosts will be looking forward to bouncing back after they lost home Test series against Australia. The series was a clean sweep. (0-3)

Also read-&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/aus-vs-nz-nathan-lyon-takes-five-as-australia-dominate-in-sydney-272264">Aus vs NZ: Nathan Lyon takes five as Australia dominate in Sydney</a>

India will be confident and pumped up after a recent series win against Australia. India came back from behind to win the three-match ODI series (2-1).&nbsp;

Ishant Sharma might be ruled out of the series post an ankle injury while playing against Vidharbha in the Ranji Trophy, Shikhar Dhawan will also miss out the five T20Is against Kiwis following a shoulder injury he inflicted while fielding in the third ODI against the Aussies.

Shikhar's replacement will be announced soon. Board of Cricket Control in India (BCCI) will review Ishant's MRI scan again and will look at the extent of the tear.

Despite Rishabh Pant's regaining fitness, it seems like he will be benched during the tour as the Indian Skipper said that KL Rahul's current role is more suitable to the team. Rahul's outstanding form in the previous series as helped him cement his position in the playing XI. He was designated as the keeper after Pant was ruled out for the remainder of the series post-concussion. His stumping against Aaron Finch was decisive in the second ODI.&nbsp;

Virat Kohli compared this formula to that of World Cup 2003, where Rahul Dravid donned the gloves to make a place for an extra batsman.&nbsp;

New Zealand, on the other hand, will aim to win all the formats of the tour as the ICC World Cup finalists would want to establish confidence after the forgettable home series against the Aussies.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

Fixtures-

T20I series:

January 24, Friday- 1st T20I New Zealand vs India - Eden Park, Auckland

January 26, Sunday- 2nd T20I New Zealand vs India - Eden Park, Auckland

January 29, Wednesday- 3rd T20I New Zealand vs India - Seddon Park, Hamilton

January 31, Friday- 4th T20I New Zealand vs India - Westpac Stadium, Wellington

February 02, Sunday- 5th T20I New Zealand vs India - Bay Oval, Mount Maunganui

 
ODI series:

February 05, Wednesday- &nbsp;1st ODI New Zealand vs India - Seddon Park, Hamilton

February 08, Saturday- &nbsp;2nd ODI New Zealand vs India - Eden Park, Auckland

February 11, Tuesday- &nbsp;3rd ODI New Zealand vs India - Bay Oval, Mount Maunganui

Test series:

February 21, Fri to February 25, Tue- 1st Test, New Zealand vs India - Basin Reserve, Wellington

February 29, Sat - March 04, Wed- 2nd Test, New Zealand vs India - Hagley Oval, Christchurch 
&nbsp;

India will be touring in New Zealand for five T20Is, three ODIs, and two Tests. The matches will commence on January 24. Also read- India vs Australia 3rd ODI: Rohit Sharma, Shami shine as hosts claim series The hosts will be looking forward to bouncing back after they lost home Test series against Australia.

India will be touring in New Zealand for five T20Is, three ODIs, and two Tests. The matches will commence on January 24. Also read- India vs Australia 3rd ODI: Rohit Sharma, Shami shine as hosts claim series The hosts will be looking forward to bouncing back after they lost home Test series against Australia. The series was a clean sweep. (0-3) Also read- Aus vs NZ: Nathan Lyon takes five as Australia dominate in Sydney India will be confident and pumped up after a recent series win against Australia. India came back from behind to win the three-match ODI series (2-1). Ishant Sharma might be ruled out of the series post an ankle injury while playing against Vidharbha in the Ranji Trophy, Shikhar Dhawan will also miss out the five T20Is against Kiwis following a shoulder injury he inflicted while fielding in the third ODI against the Aussies. Shikhar's replacement will be announced soon. Board of Cricket Control in India (BCCI) will review Ishant's MRI scan again and will look at the extent of the tear. Despite Rishabh Pant's regaining fitness, it seems like he will be benched during the tour as the Indian Skipper said that KL Rahul's current role is more suitable to the team. Rahul's outstanding form in the previous series as helped him cement his position in the playing XI. He was designated as the keeper after Pant was ruled out for the remainder of the series post-concussion. His stumping against Aaron Finch was decisive in the second ODI. Virat Kohli compared this formula to that of World Cup 2003, where Rahul Dravid donned the gloves to make a place for an extra batsman. New Zealand, on the other hand, will aim to win all the formats of the tour as the ICC World Cup finalists would want to establish confidence after the forgettable home series against the Aussies. Fixtures- T20I series: January 24, Friday- 1st T20I New Zealand vs India - Eden Park, Auckland January 26, Sunday- 2nd T20I New Zealand vs India - Eden Park, Auckland January 29, Wednesday- 3rd T20I New Zealand vs India - Seddon Park, Hamilton January 31, Friday- 4th T20I New Zealand vs India - Westpac Stadium, Wellington February 02, Sunday- 5th T20I New Zealand vs India - Bay Oval, Mount Maunganui ODI series: February 05, Wednesday- 1st ODI New Zealand vs India - Seddon Park, Hamilton February 08, Saturday- 2nd ODI New Zealand vs India - Eden Park, Auckland February 11, Tuesday- 3rd ODI New Zealand vs India - Bay Oval, Mount Maunganui Test series: February 21, Fri to February 25, Tue- 1st Test, New Zealand vs India - Basin Reserve, Wellington February 29, Sat - March 04, Wed- 2nd Test, New Zealand vs India - Hagley Oval, Christchurch

India vs New Zealand: Kiwis eye redemption against Virat's men

Former England batsman Kevin Pietersen on Thursday slammed Pakistan's decision to omit Ahmed Shehzad from the upcoming Bangladesh T20I squad.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/pakistan-recall-hafeez-and-malik-for-bangladesh-t20-series-274695">Pakistan recall Hafeez and Malik for Bangladesh T20 series</a>

Taking to Twitter, Pietersen said that opening batsman had a decent record in the Pakistan Super League (PSL) and despite that, he has been dropped from the side which is "stupid".

"Just seen the team that PAKISTAN have picked to play Bangladesh. How on this planet can @iamahmadshazhad NOT be in that squad??? His PSL numbers and domestic number are so much better than the batter picked ahead of him! STUPID!" Pietersen tweeted.

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Just seen the team that PAKISTAN have picked to play Bangladesh. 
 
How on this planet can @iamahmadshazhad NOT be in that squad??? 
 
His PSL numbers and domestic number are so much better than the batter picked ahead of him! 
 
STUPID!
— Kevin Pietersen🦏 (@KP24) <a href="https://twitter.com/KP24/status/1217847999453433857?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 16, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Shehzad last played against Sri Lanka in the T20I in October 2019. Shoaib Malik and Mohammad Hafeez have returned to the Pakistani side for the upcoming three-match T20I series against Bangladesh.

Malik played his last T20 game against Pakistan in February 2019 while Hafeez is returning to the side after a break of 14 months.

Haris Rauf, Ahsan Ali and Amad Ali have got their maiden call for the Bangladesh series.

Asif Ali, Fakhar Zaman, Haris Sohail, Imam-ul-Haq, Mohammad Amir, Mohammad Irfan, and Wahab Riaz have been ruled out of the side following a T20I series defeat against Australia.

Pakistan lost the three-match T20I series against Australia 2-0. The first T20I match was abandoned due to rain.

Pakistan squad: Babar Azam (captain), Ahsan Ali, Amad Butt, Haris Rauf, Iftikhar Ahmed, Imad Wasim, Khushdil Shah, Mohammad Hafeez, Mohammad Hasnain, Mohammad Rizwan (wicketkeeper), Musa Khan, Shadab Khan, Shaheen Shah Afridi, Shoaib Malik, Usman Qadir.

Bangladesh will play three T20I matches against the hosts on January 24, 25 and 27 in Lahore.

&nbsp;

Former England batsman Kevin Pietersen on Thursday slammed Pakistan's decision to omit Ahmed Shehzad from the upcoming Bangladesh T20I squad. Also read: Pakistan recall Hafeez and Malik for Bangladesh T20 series Taking to Twitter, Pietersen said that opening batsman had a decent record in the Pakistan Super League (PSL) and despite that, he has been dropped from the side which is "stupid".

Former England batsman Kevin Pietersen on Thursday slammed Pakistan's decision to omit Ahmed Shehzad from the upcoming Bangladesh T20I squad. Also read: Pakistan recall Hafeez and Malik for Bangladesh T20 series Taking to Twitter, Pietersen said that opening batsman had a decent record in the Pakistan Super League (PSL) and despite that, he has been dropped from the side which is "stupid". "Just seen the team that PAKISTAN have picked to play Bangladesh. How on this planet can @iamahmadshazhad NOT be in that squad??? His PSL numbers and domestic number are so much better than the batter picked ahead of him! STUPID!" Pietersen tweeted. Just seen the team that PAKISTAN have picked to play Bangladesh. How on this planet can @iamahmadshazhad NOT be in that squad??? His PSL numbers and domestic number are so much better than the batter picked ahead of him! STUPID! — Kevin Pietersen🦏 (@KP24) January 16, 2020 × Shehzad last played against Sri Lanka in the T20I in October 2019. Shoaib Malik and Mohammad Hafeez have returned to the Pakistani side for the upcoming three-match T20I series against Bangladesh. Malik played his last T20 game against Pakistan in February 2019 while Hafeez is returning to the side after a break of 14 months. Haris Rauf, Ahsan Ali and Amad Ali have got their maiden call for the Bangladesh series. Asif Ali, Fakhar Zaman, Haris Sohail, Imam-ul-Haq, Mohammad Amir, Mohammad Irfan, and Wahab Riaz have been ruled out of the side following a T20I series defeat against Australia. Pakistan lost the three-match T20I series against Australia 2-0. The first T20I match was abandoned due to rain. Pakistan squad: Babar Azam (captain), Ahsan Ali, Amad Butt, Haris Rauf, Iftikhar Ahmed, Imad Wasim, Khushdil Shah, Mohammad Hafeez, Mohammad Hasnain, Mohammad Rizwan (wicketkeeper), Musa Khan, Shadab Khan, Shaheen Shah Afridi, Shoaib Malik, Usman Qadir. Bangladesh will play three T20I matches against the hosts on January 24, 25 and 27 in Lahore.

Kevin Pietersen calls Pakistani selectors 'stupid' for dropping Shehzad in upcoming T20 series

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/.../we-dominated-the-series-shikhar-dhawan-india- beat-sri-lanka-to-sweep-the-series-273519">Lasith Malinga</a> said Sunday he was ready to stand down as Sri Lanka's Twenty20 skipper after the team's humiliating 2-0 loss to India in their latest foreign tour.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/3rd-t20i-ind-vs-lanka-virat-kohli-and-jasprit-bumrah-break-records-after-emphatic-victory-over-sri-lanka-273577">Virat Kohli, Jasprit Bumrah shatter records as India claim series win against Sri Lanka</a>

Returning from the series, the 36-year-old told reporters that Sri Lanka was just not good enough to make an impact in the 20 over game.

He said Sri Lankan bowlers weren't able to restrict opponents while the batsmen were incapable of putting up the 170 runs needed for a fighting chance in a match.

"We don't have that," Malinga said, adding that it was unfair to expect a winning performance from the team given they were ranked just ninth in the world when returned to the captaincy just over a year ago.

But he added that he was "ready to accept" his responsibility for the team's performance.&nbsp;

"I am ready any time. I am ready to quit," he said.

Malinga led Sri Lanka to the T20 World Cup title in 2014 and remained in charge until early 2016.

His return to the top job in December 2018 was a surprise as he had lost his spot in the team after recurring injuries forced him to sit out several tournaments.

Frictions were evident in the Sri Lankan team under Malinga's leadership, the local media reported.

"There seems to be deep divisions in the side. As captain, he has also sidelined his predecessors" including Thisara Perera and Angelo Mathews, the paper said.

The first match in Guwahati was abandoned after rain, but <a href="https://www.wionews.com/.../india-vs-sri-lanka-2nd-t20i-india-thrash-sri- lanka-by-7-wickets-in-the-second-t20i-take-1-0-lead-272801">India won the second </a>by India by seven wickets and the third by 78 runs.

Lasith Malinga said Sunday he was ready to stand down as Sri Lanka's Twenty20 skipper after the team's humiliating 2-0 loss to India in their latest foreign tour.

Lasith Malinga said Sunday he was ready to stand down as Sri Lanka's Twenty20 skipper after the team's humiliating 2-0 loss to India in their latest foreign tour. Also read: Virat Kohli, Jasprit Bumrah shatter records as India claim series win against Sri Lanka Returning from the series, the 36-year-old told reporters that Sri Lanka was just not good enough to make an impact in the 20 over game. He said Sri Lankan bowlers weren't able to restrict opponents while the batsmen were incapable of putting up the 170 runs needed for a fighting chance in a match. "We don't have that," Malinga said, adding that it was unfair to expect a winning performance from the team given they were ranked just ninth in the world when returned to the captaincy just over a year ago. But he added that he was "ready to accept" his responsibility for the team's performance. "I am ready any time. I am ready to quit," he said. Malinga led Sri Lanka to the T20 World Cup title in 2014 and remained in charge until early 2016. His return to the top job in December 2018 was a surprise as he had lost his spot in the team after recurring injuries forced him to sit out several tournaments. Frictions were evident in the Sri Lankan team under Malinga's leadership, the local media reported. "There seems to be deep divisions in the side. As captain, he has also sidelined his predecessors" including Thisara Perera and Angelo Mathews, the paper said. The first match in Guwahati was abandoned after rain, but India won the second by India by seven wickets and the third by 78 runs.

Malinga ready to quit after T20 debacle in India

As India finished&nbsp;a stylish series win against Sri Lanka, skipper&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/.../with-proficient-run-scoring-virat-kohli-proves- why-he-is-the-king-of-the-decade-270044">Virat Kohli</a>&nbsp;and bowling spearhead Jasprit Bumrah have continued their dominance when it comes to setting new records.

On Friday, Virat Kohli became&nbsp;the fastest captain to record 11,000 international runs. He achieved this feat after he scored 26 runs in just 17 balls.&nbsp;

<img alt="Virat Kohli" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="a3fe01d9-fae9-461a-8c51-66d3b07953be" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20%2814%29_7.jpg" /> 
[ Virat Kohli during 3rd T20I against Sri Lanka (Courtesy: Twitter/ @BCCI) ]

King Kohli took just 196 innings to&nbsp;break&nbsp;Ricky Ponting's record, who was the previous best in the list with 252 innings.&nbsp;

Kohli is the second Indian skipper to complete 11,000 run-mark after MS Dhoni accomplished it within 324 innings.&nbsp;

The Indian captain is overall the sixth skipper to achieve this feat. The list includes cricketing greats such as Graeme Smith (264 innings), Alan Border (316) and Stephen Fleming.

List of captains with most runs

1.) Ricky Ponting - 15440

2.) Graeme Smith - 14878

3.) Stephen Fleming - 11561

4.) MS Dhoni - 11207

5.) Allan Border - 11062

6.) Virat Kohli- 11,000+*&nbsp;

In an ongoing tussle of scoring most runs in T20Is, Virat Kohli once again surpassed his teammate Rohit Sharma to become the leading run-getter.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/we-dominated-the-series-shikhar-dhawan-india-beat-sri-lanka-to-sweep-the-series-273519">'We dominated the series,' says Shikhar Dhawan after India beat Sri Lanka to seal the series</a>

Also, frontline pacer Jasprit Bumrah became the leading wicket-taker for India in T20Is,

The 26-year old surpassed R Ashwin and Yuzvendra Chahal after he claimed his 53rd wicket in the very first over of Sri Lankan innings by dismissing&nbsp;Danushka Gunathilaka for just 1.

BCCI also tweeted to congratulate the bowler.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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BOOOM 💥💥 
 
Jasprit Bumrah is now the leading wicket-taker in T20Is for <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TeamIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TeamIndia</a> 🎯🎯 <a href="https://t.co/7PWeaq2Fyj">pic.twitter.com/7PWeaq2Fyj</a>
— BCCI (@BCCI) <a href="https://twitter.com/BCCI/status/1215681203073761280?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 10, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Earlier, India thrashed Sri Lanka by 78 runs to seal the series 2-0. The first match of the series was washed out. India will now play a three-match ODI series against Australia which will begin from 14th January.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

As India finished a stylish series win against Sri Lanka, skipper Virat Kohli and bowling spearhead Jasprit Bumrah have continued their dominance when it comes to setting new records.

As India finished a stylish series win against Sri Lanka, skipper Virat Kohli and bowling spearhead Jasprit Bumrah have continued their dominance when it comes to setting new records. On Friday, Virat Kohli became the fastest captain to record 11,000 international runs. He achieved this feat after he scored 26 runs in just 17 balls. [ Virat Kohli during 3rd T20I against Sri Lanka (Courtesy: Twitter/ @BCCI) ] King Kohli took just 196 innings to break Ricky Ponting's record, who was the previous best in the list with 252 innings. Kohli is the second Indian skipper to complete 11,000 run-mark after MS Dhoni accomplished it within 324 innings. The Indian captain is overall the sixth skipper to achieve this feat. The list includes cricketing greats such as Graeme Smith (264 innings), Alan Border (316) and Stephen Fleming. List of captains with most runs 1.) Ricky Ponting - 15440 2.) Graeme Smith - 14878 3.) Stephen Fleming - 11561 4.) MS Dhoni - 11207 5.) Allan Border - 11062 6.) Virat Kohli- 11,000+* In an ongoing tussle of scoring most runs in T20Is, Virat Kohli once again surpassed his teammate Rohit Sharma to become the leading run-getter. Also read: 'We dominated the series,' says Shikhar Dhawan after India beat Sri Lanka to seal the series Also, frontline pacer Jasprit Bumrah became the leading wicket-taker for India in T20Is, The 26-year old surpassed R Ashwin and Yuzvendra Chahal after he claimed his 53rd wicket in the very first over of Sri Lankan innings by dismissing Danushka Gunathilaka for just 1. BCCI also tweeted to congratulate the bowler. BOOOM 💥💥 Jasprit Bumrah is now the leading wicket-taker in T20Is for #TeamIndia 🎯🎯 pic.twitter.com/7PWeaq2Fyj — BCCI (@BCCI) January 10, 2020 × Earlier, India thrashed Sri Lanka by 78 runs to seal the series 2-0. The first match of the series was washed out. India will now play a three-match ODI series against Australia which will begin from 14th January.

Virat Kohli, Jasprit Bumrah shatter records as India claim series win against Sri Lanka

After winning the three-match T20I series against <a href="https://www.wionews.com/.../india-vs-sri-lanka-2nd-t20i-india-thrash-sri- lanka-by-7-wickets-in-the-second-t20i-take-1-0-lead-272801">Sri Lanka</a>, India batsman Shikhar Dhawan said they dominated the series while experimenting with different players and batting order.

"We dominated the series and if I talk about myself, I had a challenge that I am coming back after an injury and I have to perform. Everyone has different challenges. A lot of players coming in, they have their own challenges," Dhawan said in the post-match press conference.

India secured a massive 78-run victory in the third T20I match against Sri Lanka here on Friday and consequently, won the series by 2-0 as the first match was abandoned due to rain.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/australia-have-the-goods-to-give-virat-kohlis-men-a-run-for-their-money-finch-ahead-of-odi-series-against-india-273363">Australia have the goods to give Virat Kohli's men a run for their money: Finch ahead of ODI series against India</a>

India, who were asked to bat first, posted a massive 202-run target for Sri Lanka which the visitors failed to chase as they were all out on 123 runs.

Dhawan also played a crucial knock of 52 run to help India post a challenging target.

India made three changes in their squad for the third T20I against Sri Lanka and skipper&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/.../ind-vs-sl-3rd-t20i-can-visitors-pose-a-challenge -to-mighty-india-preview-273382">Virat Kohli</a> batted very low in the order.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/.../mayank-agarwal-replaces-shikhar-dhawan-for- odi-series-against-west-indies-267638">Dhawan</a> said they can try out new things in these series as the T20 World Cup is approaching.

"In these series, we can do the experiment and once we know that this thing is clicking, then we go with this pattern. Number one, two or three we know who is going to come. That is why it important to do the experiment and we can take that risk right now," he said.

"We won the first match and today, as a team, we wanted to bat first because we want to refine ourselves more while batting first and winning more games. That brings confidence and that is why we are consciously doing it," Dhawan added.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

After winning the three-match T20I series against Sri Lanka, India batsman Shikhar Dhawan said they dominated the series while experimenting with different players and batting order.

After winning the three-match T20I series against Sri Lanka, India batsman Shikhar Dhawan said they dominated the series while experimenting with different players and batting order. "We dominated the series and if I talk about myself, I had a challenge that I am coming back after an injury and I have to perform. Everyone has different challenges. A lot of players coming in, they have their own challenges," Dhawan said in the post-match press conference. India secured a massive 78-run victory in the third T20I match against Sri Lanka here on Friday and consequently, won the series by 2-0 as the first match was abandoned due to rain. Also Read: Australia have the goods to give Virat Kohli's men a run for their money: Finch ahead of ODI series against India India, who were asked to bat first, posted a massive 202-run target for Sri Lanka which the visitors failed to chase as they were all out on 123 runs. Dhawan also played a crucial knock of 52 run to help India post a challenging target. India made three changes in their squad for the third T20I against Sri Lanka and skipper Virat Kohli batted very low in the order. Dhawan said they can try out new things in these series as the T20 World Cup is approaching. "In these series, we can do the experiment and once we know that this thing is clicking, then we go with this pattern. Number one, two or three we know who is going to come. That is why it important to do the experiment and we can take that risk right now," he said. "We won the first match and today, as a team, we wanted to bat first because we want to refine ourselves more while batting first and winning more games. That brings confidence and that is why we are consciously doing it," Dhawan added.

'We dominated the series,' says Shikhar Dhawan after India beat Sri Lanka to seal the series

Bangladesh Cricket Board and the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/.../pakistan-have-no-dearth-of-talents-says-waqar- younis-271890">Pakistan Cricket Board</a> have been in much of a scuffle regarding the venue of the test series between them.

Today, Bangladesh Cricket Board is going to decide whether they will play the Test match in Pakistan or not.

In 2009, Sri Lanka's National Team bus on it's way to Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore was brutally ambushed by terrorists leaving 8 people dead and 7 Sri Lanka players and staff injured. After which Teams have been hesitant of tours in Pakistan.&nbsp;

Pakistan have managed to successfully host <a href="https://www.wionews.com/.../sri-lanka-arrive-for-first-tests-in-pakistan-since- 2009-attack-267140">Sri Lanka</a> in ODI, T20I, and Test Series after a long decade gap.

The fear of security lures in for the Bangladesh Cricket team. The BCB had agreed on playing the T20I in Pakistan as the T20 World Cup closes in, but they wanted a neutral venue to play two test matches.&nbsp;

These matches are for the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/.../south-africa-beat-england-by-107-runs-in-first- test-270868">World Test Championship</a>, so they are significant for both sides.

In December, Pakistan Cricket Board chairman Ehsan Mani wrote an e-mail to Bangladesh Cricket Board, asking them to provide valid reasons for not playing in Pakistan. &nbsp;

"We said we want to play only T20Is, but they wanted us to play the Tests. We will play the T20Is bilaterally before the [T20] World Cup. This was PCB's proposal today, but we haven't decided yet. We will on Thursday," said Nazmul Hassan, as reported by ANI.

Pakistan are&nbsp;fourth in ICC World Test Championship, with one win, two losses and a draw whereas Bangladesh are&nbsp;at the bottom of the table without a win and two heavy defeats. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-vs-sri-lanka-2nd-t20i-india-thrash-sri-lanka-by-7-wickets-in-the-second-t20i-take-1-0-lead-272801">India vs Sri Lanka, 2nd T20I: India thrash Sri Lanka by 7 wickets in the second T20I, take 1-0 lead</a>

Bangladesh Cricket Board and the Pakistan Cricket Board have been in much of a scuffle regarding the venue of the test series between them. Today, Bangladesh Cricket Board is going to decide whether they will play the Test match in Pakistan or not.

Bangladesh Cricket Board and the Pakistan Cricket Board have been in much of a scuffle regarding the venue of the test series between them. Today, Bangladesh Cricket Board is going to decide whether they will play the Test match in Pakistan or not. In 2009, Sri Lanka's National Team bus on it's way to Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore was brutally ambushed by terrorists leaving 8 people dead and 7 Sri Lanka players and staff injured. After which Teams have been hesitant of tours in Pakistan. Pakistan have managed to successfully host Sri Lanka in ODI, T20I, and Test Series after a long decade gap. The fear of security lures in for the Bangladesh Cricket team. The BCB had agreed on playing the T20I in Pakistan as the T20 World Cup closes in, but they wanted a neutral venue to play two test matches. These matches are for the World Test Championship, so they are significant for both sides. In December, Pakistan Cricket Board chairman Ehsan Mani wrote an e-mail to Bangladesh Cricket Board, asking them to provide valid reasons for not playing in Pakistan. "We said we want to play only T20Is, but they wanted us to play the Tests. We will play the T20Is bilaterally before the [T20] World Cup. This was PCB's proposal today, but we haven't decided yet. We will on Thursday," said Nazmul Hassan, as reported by ANI. Pakistan are fourth in ICC World Test Championship, with one win, two losses and a draw whereas Bangladesh are at the bottom of the table without a win and two heavy defeats. Also read: India vs Sri Lanka, 2nd T20I: India thrash Sri Lanka by 7 wickets in the second T20I, take 1-0 lead

Bangladesh Cricket Board to decide on Test Tour in Pakistan today

Bangladesh is ready to play<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/sri-lankas-malinga-to-retire-after-twenty20-world-cup-205008"> Twenty20</a> Internationals in Pakistan next month but the test series must take place in a neutral venue, the chief executive of the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/bangladesh-cricket-shahadat-hossain-for-five-years-over-physical-assault-263170">Bangladesh Cricket Board</a> (BCB), Nizamuddin Chowdhury, said.

Test cricket returned to Pakistan after a decade with a two-test series against Sri Lanka earlier this month.

Rawalpindi and Karachi hosted Pakistan's first tests on home soil since a militant attack on Sri Lanka's team bus in Lahore in 2009.

Enthused by the smooth staging of the series,<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/pakistan-cricket-board-removed-sarfaraz-ahmed-captain-256661"> Pakistan Cricket Board</a> (PCB) has announced its team would no more play their 'home' matches abroad as has been the practice with test teams shunning the country citing safety concerns.

PCB's assertion notwithstanding, Bangladesh remains wary of touring Pakistan for a lengthy period, Chowdhury told the Daily Star newspaper.

"We stand firm on our ground. We only want to play T20Is in Pakistan," the BCB CEO was quoted as saying.

"The stakeholders related to the series do not want us to play longer-version cricket in Pakistan," Nizamuddin said.

Bangladesh is expected to play three <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-vs-australia-2019-schedule-squad-time-and-venue-197778">Twenty20 Internationals</a> in Lahore before a two-test series against Pakistan who completed a 1-0 series victory against Sri Lanka on Monday.

"Actually, we have no other option here. We can play the T20Is but if we are to play tests then it should be in a neutral venue," Nizamuddin added.

PCB chairman Ehsan Mani has hinted raising the matter with the governing International Cricket Council should Bangladesh refuse to play the tests in Pakistan.

"No one should be under any misapprehension as to where Pakistan's home Tests will take place," Mani told reporters on Monday.

"All of Pakistan's matches, against Bangladesh or anyone else, will take place in Pakistan.

"I still hope the BCB will reflect on the matter and accept there is no reason for them not to visit Pakistan."

Bangladesh is ready to play Twenty20 Internationals in Pakistan next month but the test series must take place in a neutral venue, the chief executive of the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB), Nizamuddin Chowdhury, said.

Bangladesh is ready to play Twenty20 Internationals in Pakistan next month but the test series must take place in a neutral venue, the chief executive of the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB), Nizamuddin Chowdhury, said. Test cricket returned to Pakistan after a decade with a two-test series against Sri Lanka earlier this month. Rawalpindi and Karachi hosted Pakistan's first tests on home soil since a militant attack on Sri Lanka's team bus in Lahore in 2009. Enthused by the smooth staging of the series, Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has announced its team would no more play their 'home' matches abroad as has been the practice with test teams shunning the country citing safety concerns. PCB's assertion notwithstanding, Bangladesh remains wary of touring Pakistan for a lengthy period, Chowdhury told the Daily Star newspaper. "We stand firm on our ground. We only want to play T20Is in Pakistan," the BCB CEO was quoted as saying. "The stakeholders related to the series do not want us to play longer-version cricket in Pakistan," Nizamuddin said. Bangladesh is expected to play three Twenty20 Internationals in Lahore before a two-test series against Pakistan who completed a 1-0 series victory against Sri Lanka on Monday. "Actually, we have no other option here. We can play the T20Is but if we are to play tests then it should be in a neutral venue," Nizamuddin added. PCB chairman Ehsan Mani has hinted raising the matter with the governing International Cricket Council should Bangladesh refuse to play the tests in Pakistan. "No one should be under any misapprehension as to where Pakistan's home Tests will take place," Mani told reporters on Monday. "All of Pakistan's matches, against Bangladesh or anyone else, will take place in Pakistan. "I still hope the BCB will reflect on the matter and accept there is no reason for them not to visit Pakistan."

Cricket: Bangladesh insist on neutral venue for Pakistan tests

Nobody doubted&nbsp;England's title credentials in their home World Cup after the spectacular metamorphosis of Eoin Morgan's side into a white-ball juggernaut since their embarrassing exit from the 2015 tournament.

But few anticipated the drama that would mark their crowning moment as they ended a 44-year wait for a maiden 50-over World Cup title at a mesmerised Lord's.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/englands-ben-stokes-travels-rocky-road-en-route-success-245836">Stokes</a>'s international future had been in doubt after he was involved in a court case over a fight outside a nightclub, but with that behind him, he returned to the fold in spectacular style.

In the final, he channelled his inner gladiator to almost single-handedly drag&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/new-zealand-draw-second-test-with-england-win-series-265850">England</a>&nbsp;to a tie with New Zealand as, after six weeks of cricket, the game was decided by a Super Over.

That too ended level but&nbsp;England&nbsp;knew it would be enough to win the trophy on the obscure boundary countback rule, triggering wild celebrations at the home of cricket and heated debate about the fairness of the rule.

Defeated captain Kane Williamson, adjudged player of the tournament, handled gracefully the heartbreak that cemented New Zealand's reputation as the tournament's perennial bridesmaids.

Three months after the July 14 final, the game's governing body discarded the rule, prompting a sarcastic response from New Zealand's Jimmy Neesham.

"Next on the agenda: Better binoculars for the ice spotters on the Titanic," tweeted the all-rounder who faced five of the six deliveries from Jofra Archer in that fateful Super Over.

Stokes&nbsp;also lit up the Ashes series.

After&nbsp;England&nbsp;had been bowled out for 67 and were running out of batsmen in their second innings, he smashed an incredible unbeaten 135 to secure an astonishing victory in the third Test at Headingley.

His heroics earned him the BBC Sports Personality of the Year award, but even the great all-rounder had to bow to&nbsp;Smith&nbsp;when it came to dominating the series.

&nbsp;

ASHES REDEMPTION

In a drawn series, Australia retained the Ashes largely because&nbsp;Smith&nbsp;redeemed himself in extraordinary fashion after the ball-tampering scandal in South Africa last year.

Stripped of the captaincy and smeared in ignominy after the Cape Town fiasco,&nbsp;Smith&nbsp;became Australia's immovable rock as he amassed 774 runs in seven innings at an average of 110, despite missing the third Test with a concussion.

Financial powerhouse India lost in the World Cup semi-finals but flexed their muscles in the long format. Virat Kohli and his men top the confused and confusing World Test Championship table with seven wins in as many matches, including their first pink-ball Test against Bangladesh last month.

That victory marked their 12th consecutive Test series win at home.

In other significant developments, women's T20 got the nod to feature in the 2022 Commonwealth Games in Birmingham, while Test cricket returned to Pakistan after more than a decade with a two-match series against Sri Lanka.

The game continued to grapple with corruption issues and Bangladesh captain Shakib-Al-Hasan was given a two-year ban, one of which is suspended, for failing to report fixing approaches.

Player-board disputes flared up in Bangladesh and South Africa, the latter also grappling with a tricky transition after quick Dale Steyn quit Test cricket while batsman Hashim Amla and leg-spinner Imran Tahir retired altogether.

The game also lost former&nbsp;England&nbsp;captain <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/former-england-captain-bob-willis-dies-at-70-266269">Bob Willis</a>, one of the heroes of the classic 1981 Ashes series who died of cancer aged 70 this month.

Nobody doubted England's title credentials in their home World Cup after the spectacular metamorphosis of Eoin Morgan's side into a white-ball juggernaut since their embarrassing exit from the 2015 tournament.

Nobody doubted England's title credentials in their home World Cup after the spectacular metamorphosis of Eoin Morgan's side into a white-ball juggernaut since their embarrassing exit from the 2015 tournament. But few anticipated the drama that would mark their crowning moment as they ended a 44-year wait for a maiden 50-over World Cup title at a mesmerised Lord's. Stokes's international future had been in doubt after he was involved in a court case over a fight outside a nightclub, but with that behind him, he returned to the fold in spectacular style. In the final, he channelled his inner gladiator to almost single-handedly drag England to a tie with New Zealand as, after six weeks of cricket, the game was decided by a Super Over. That too ended level but England knew it would be enough to win the trophy on the obscure boundary countback rule, triggering wild celebrations at the home of cricket and heated debate about the fairness of the rule. Defeated captain Kane Williamson, adjudged player of the tournament, handled gracefully the heartbreak that cemented New Zealand's reputation as the tournament's perennial bridesmaids. Three months after the July 14 final, the game's governing body discarded the rule, prompting a sarcastic response from New Zealand's Jimmy Neesham. "Next on the agenda: Better binoculars for the ice spotters on the Titanic," tweeted the all-rounder who faced five of the six deliveries from Jofra Archer in that fateful Super Over. Stokes also lit up the Ashes series. After England had been bowled out for 67 and were running out of batsmen in their second innings, he smashed an incredible unbeaten 135 to secure an astonishing victory in the third Test at Headingley. His heroics earned him the BBC Sports Personality of the Year award, but even the great all-rounder had to bow to Smith when it came to dominating the series. ASHES REDEMPTION In a drawn series, Australia retained the Ashes largely because Smith redeemed himself in extraordinary fashion after the ball-tampering scandal in South Africa last year. Stripped of the captaincy and smeared in ignominy after the Cape Town fiasco, Smith became Australia's immovable rock as he amassed 774 runs in seven innings at an average of 110, despite missing the third Test with a concussion. Financial powerhouse India lost in the World Cup semi-finals but flexed their muscles in the long format. Virat Kohli and his men top the confused and confusing World Test Championship table with seven wins in as many matches, including their first pink-ball Test against Bangladesh last month. That victory marked their 12th consecutive Test series win at home. In other significant developments, women's T20 got the nod to feature in the 2022 Commonwealth Games in Birmingham, while Test cricket returned to Pakistan after more than a decade with a two-match series against Sri Lanka. The game continued to grapple with corruption issues and Bangladesh captain Shakib-Al-Hasan was given a two-year ban, one of which is suspended, for failing to report fixing approaches. Player-board disputes flared up in Bangladesh and South Africa, the latter also grappling with a tricky transition after quick Dale Steyn quit Test cricket while batsman Hashim Amla and leg-spinner Imran Tahir retired altogether. The game also lost former England captain Bob Willis, one of the heroes of the classic 1981 Ashes series who died of cancer aged 70 this month.

Fuelled by Stokes, foiled by Smith: England headline 2019 act

Opener KL Rahul and Indian captain Virat Kohli shared a century partnership as<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/lewis-hetmyer-hammer-india-as-west-indies-set-207-run-target-in-first-t20i-266721"> India beat West Indies</a> by six wickets with 8 balls to spare in the first T20 International in Hyderabad's Rajiv Gandhi stadium.

Kohli remained unbeaten on 94 hitting six boundaries and an equal number of sixes in just 50 balls take India home as the hosts chased 207 for victory.

Opener KL Rahul provided the momentum earlier in the innings even as Rohit Sharma fell early to Pierre for just 8 as India lost their first wicket on 30. Thereafter it was a Rahul-Kohli show with West Indian bowlers unable to stem the flow of runs.

Rahul looked in immaculate form to take the lead scoring all round the wicket. The Indian opener hit five boundaries and four sixes in his 40-ball stay at the crease to take the game away from the visitors.

Wicketkeeper Rishab Pant provided the final flourish hitting two sixes as the Indian captain hit a six to finish off the game.

Earlier, West Indies surged to 207/5 after Virat Kohli won the toss and put West Indies in to bat.

The West Indies batters were severe on offie Washington Sundar who gave away 34 runs in a 3-over spell claiming the wicket of Lewis who fell after scoring 40 in just 17 balls which included 3 sixes and four hits to the boundary.

Shimron Hetmyer played the lead role in his 41-ball stay at the crease hitting two boundaries and four sixes before falling to Chahal's guile for 56. Hetmyer fell in the 18th over after West Indies reached 172 for the loss of four wickets as the Indian bowling attack wilted.

Pollard came good in the latter half of the innings hitting a quickfire 37 in just 19 balls with one boundary and four sixes and was ably supported by Holder who scored 24 in 9 balls with one boundary and two sixes.

Medium pacer Deepak Chahar had a tough day in the office as the West Indies batsman feasted on his bowling as he gave away 56 in four overs.

Jadeja and Chahal kept a lid on the batsman picking up three wickets between them giving away 66 runs in their allotted 8 overs but West Indies batsmen managed to still cross the 200-run mark.

The visitor finished the last over ripping apart medium pacer Bhuvneshwar Kumar who conceded 17 runs giving away a six and boundary as captain Virat Kohli dropped a sharp, running catch which eventually rolled over the boundary line.

Opener KL Rahul and Indian captain Virat Kohli shared a century partnership as India beat West Indies by six wickets with 8 balls to spare in the first T20 International in Hyderabad's Rajiv Gandhi stadium.

Opener KL Rahul and Indian captain Virat Kohli shared a century partnership as India beat West Indies by six wickets with 8 balls to spare in the first T20 International in Hyderabad's Rajiv Gandhi stadium. Kohli remained unbeaten on 94 hitting six boundaries and an equal number of sixes in just 50 balls take India home as the hosts chased 207 for victory. Opener KL Rahul provided the momentum earlier in the innings even as Rohit Sharma fell early to Pierre for just 8 as India lost their first wicket on 30. Thereafter it was a Rahul-Kohli show with West Indian bowlers unable to stem the flow of runs. Rahul looked in immaculate form to take the lead scoring all round the wicket. The Indian opener hit five boundaries and four sixes in his 40-ball stay at the crease to take the game away from the visitors. Wicketkeeper Rishab Pant provided the final flourish hitting two sixes as the Indian captain hit a six to finish off the game. Earlier, West Indies surged to 207/5 after Virat Kohli won the toss and put West Indies in to bat. The West Indies batters were severe on offie Washington Sundar who gave away 34 runs in a 3-over spell claiming the wicket of Lewis who fell after scoring 40 in just 17 balls which included 3 sixes and four hits to the boundary. Shimron Hetmyer played the lead role in his 41-ball stay at the crease hitting two boundaries and four sixes before falling to Chahal's guile for 56. Hetmyer fell in the 18th over after West Indies reached 172 for the loss of four wickets as the Indian bowling attack wilted. Pollard came good in the latter half of the innings hitting a quickfire 37 in just 19 balls with one boundary and four sixes and was ably supported by Holder who scored 24 in 9 balls with one boundary and two sixes. Medium pacer Deepak Chahar had a tough day in the office as the West Indies batsman feasted on his bowling as he gave away 56 in four overs. Jadeja and Chahal kept a lid on the batsman picking up three wickets between them giving away 66 runs in their allotted 8 overs but West Indies batsmen managed to still cross the 200-run mark. The visitor finished the last over ripping apart medium pacer Bhuvneshwar Kumar who conceded 17 runs giving away a six and boundary as captain Virat Kohli dropped a sharp, running catch which eventually rolled over the boundary line.

KL Rahul, Virat Kohli slay West Indies as India win first T20I by 6 wickets

Critics of India's Rishabh Pant must leave the young wicketkeeper-batsman alone and let him play with freedom, stand-in captain Rohit Sharma said on Saturday.

The 22-year-old has received lots of flak lately from India's coaching staff, pundits and the media after losing his wicket through loose shots and his position in the India test side has been taken by fit-again Wriddhiman Saha.

Former Australia batsman Dean Jones told Reuters this week that Pant needs to improve his off-side game if he wants to graduate from being a one-trick pony.

"There is a lot of talk happening about Rishabh Pant every day, every minute," Rohit, who is leading the hosts in place of rested regular captain Virat Kohli, told reporters ahead of Sunday's deciding final Twenty20 international against Bangladesh at Nagpur.

"I just feel that he needs to be allowed to do what he wants to do on the field. I would request everyone to just keep their eyes away from Rishabh Pant for a while."

Pant was perceived as Mahendra Singh Dhoni's natural successor in limited-overs cricket for India when the former captain eventually hangs up his gloves and till recently was the preferred choice behind the stumps in all three formats.

He played 11 tests in the absence of the injured Saha and used his chances well, hitting a century in an Oval test against England last year while smashing an unbeaten 159 versus Australia in Sydney in January.

His six-hitting ability makes him a limited-overs asset, but India head coach Ravi Shastri and batting coach Vikram Rathour said in recent interviews that the left-hander's shot selection has occasionally let the team down.

Pant played within himself and seemed to curb his natural instincts in his 26-ball knock of 27 during India's loss to Bangladesh in the first T20 in Delhi while he did not get a chance to bat during the series-levelling win at Rajkot.

He, however, handed a reprieve to Bangladesh opener Liton Das, who was stumped off Yuzvendra Chahal but replays confirmed Pant did not collect the ball behind the stumps, with part of his gloves jutting ahead of the line.

Pant nearly repeated the mistake when effecting a similar dismissal to send back Soumya Sarkar for 30 off Chahal.

"He is a young guy ... trying to make his mark in international cricket. Every move he makes on the field, people start talking about him. It is not fair," Rohit said.

"Focus on him a lot more when he is doing good things also, not just the bad things. He is a fearless cricketer and we want him to have that freedom. And if you guys keep your eyes little bit off him, it will allow him to perform even better."

Critics of India's Rishabh Pant must leave the young wicketkeeper-batsman alone and let him play with freedom, stand-in captain Rohit Sharma said on Saturday. The 22-year-old has received lots of flak lately from India's coaching staff, pundits and the media after losing his wicket through loose shots and his position in the India test side has been taken by fit-again Wriddhiman Saha.

Critics of India's Rishabh Pant must leave the young wicketkeeper-batsman alone and let him play with freedom, stand-in captain Rohit Sharma said on Saturday. The 22-year-old has received lots of flak lately from India's coaching staff, pundits and the media after losing his wicket through loose shots and his position in the India test side has been taken by fit-again Wriddhiman Saha. Former Australia batsman Dean Jones told Reuters this week that Pant needs to improve his off-side game if he wants to graduate from being a one-trick pony. "There is a lot of talk happening about Rishabh Pant every day, every minute," Rohit, who is leading the hosts in place of rested regular captain Virat Kohli, told reporters ahead of Sunday's deciding final Twenty20 international against Bangladesh at Nagpur. "I just feel that he needs to be allowed to do what he wants to do on the field. I would request everyone to just keep their eyes away from Rishabh Pant for a while." Pant was perceived as Mahendra Singh Dhoni's natural successor in limited-overs cricket for India when the former captain eventually hangs up his gloves and till recently was the preferred choice behind the stumps in all three formats. He played 11 tests in the absence of the injured Saha and used his chances well, hitting a century in an Oval test against England last year while smashing an unbeaten 159 versus Australia in Sydney in January. His six-hitting ability makes him a limited-overs asset, but India head coach Ravi Shastri and batting coach Vikram Rathour said in recent interviews that the left-hander's shot selection has occasionally let the team down. Pant played within himself and seemed to curb his natural instincts in his 26-ball knock of 27 during India's loss to Bangladesh in the first T20 in Delhi while he did not get a chance to bat during the series-levelling win at Rajkot. He, however, handed a reprieve to Bangladesh opener Liton Das, who was stumped off Yuzvendra Chahal but replays confirmed Pant did not collect the ball behind the stumps, with part of his gloves jutting ahead of the line. Pant nearly repeated the mistake when effecting a similar dismissal to send back Soumya Sarkar for 30 off Chahal. "He is a young guy ... trying to make his mark in international cricket. Every move he makes on the field, people start talking about him. It is not fair," Rohit said. "Focus on him a lot more when he is doing good things also, not just the bad things. He is a fearless cricketer and we want him to have that freedom. And if you guys keep your eyes little bit off him, it will allow him to perform even better."

Leave Pant alone, implores India's stand-in captain Rohit

Bangladesh defeated India by seven wickets in the first T20I at the Arun Jaitley stadium here on Sunday. 
 
The visitors have now taken a 1-0 lead in the three-match T20I series. This was their first-ever victory over India in the shortest format of the game. 
 
Chasing a decent target of 149 runs, Bangladesh's Liton Das was sent back to the pavilion in the very first over, bowled by Deepak Chahar. Mohammad Naim was then joined by Soumya Sarkar on the field. 
 
Both played brilliantly and struck regular boundaries, forming a 46-run partnership. However, their partnership was broken by Yuzvendra Chahal as he got hold of Naim (26). Naim's dismissal brought Mushfiqur Rahim out on the field. 
 
The duo kept the scoreboard running and provided their side with some momentum. They took visitors over the 100-run mark but soon after Khaleel Ahmed bowled Sarkar (39) in the 17th over. 
 
In the next over, bowled by Chahal, Krunal Pandya dropped Rahim's easy catch. Bangladesh brought the match to a point where they needed 22 runs from 12 balls with Rahim and Mahmudullah on the field. 
 
Khaleel Ahmed conceded 18 runs in the 19th over with Rahim smashing four boundaries in the over. Mahmudullah then struck a six in the last over and handed Bangladesh a massive victory. Rahim played an unbeaten knock of 60 runs during the chase. 
 
Earlier, after being sent to bat first, India suffered a major blow as Rohit Sharma was dismissed in the very first over of the innings. Sharma (9) was given LBW on the Shafiul Islam's delivery. 
 
However, despite early dismissal, Sharma managed to become the highest run-getter in the shortest format of the game as he has now 2,452 runs. Shikhar Dhawan's was then joined by KL Rahul on the field. 
 
Both added 26 runs on the board before Rahul (15) gave away an easy catch to Mahmudullah off Aminul Islam's delivery in the seventh over. Shreyas Iyer was the next batsman and played a quick knock of 22 runs off 13 balls before getting caught by Mohammad Naim on Aminul Islam's ball. 
 
Rishabh Pant then came out to bat and played cautiously with Dhawan. Both formed a 25-run partnership. However, in the 15th over, due to miscommunication Dhawan was run-out on 41 runs. 
 
Shivam Dube then took the field but failed to leave a mark as he was caught and bowled by Afif Hossain in the next over. 
 
The fall of wickets did not stop as Pant (27) too was sent back to the pavilion in the 19th over. Washington Sundar and Krunal Pandya then took the charge and helped India set a respectable total on the board. 
 
The second T20I between both teams will be played on November 7 in Gujarat.

Bangladesh defeated India by seven wickets in the first T20I at the Arun Jaitley stadium here on Sunday. The visitors have now taken a 1-0 lead in the three-match T20I series.

Bangladesh defeated India by seven wickets in the first T20I at the Arun Jaitley stadium here on Sunday. The visitors have now taken a 1-0 lead in the three-match T20I series. This was their first-ever victory over India in the shortest format of the game. Chasing a decent target of 149 runs, Bangladesh's Liton Das was sent back to the pavilion in the very first over, bowled by Deepak Chahar. Mohammad Naim was then joined by Soumya Sarkar on the field. Both played brilliantly and struck regular boundaries, forming a 46-run partnership. However, their partnership was broken by Yuzvendra Chahal as he got hold of Naim (26). Naim's dismissal brought Mushfiqur Rahim out on the field. The duo kept the scoreboard running and provided their side with some momentum. They took visitors over the 100-run mark but soon after Khaleel Ahmed bowled Sarkar (39) in the 17th over. In the next over, bowled by Chahal, Krunal Pandya dropped Rahim's easy catch. Bangladesh brought the match to a point where they needed 22 runs from 12 balls with Rahim and Mahmudullah on the field. Khaleel Ahmed conceded 18 runs in the 19th over with Rahim smashing four boundaries in the over. Mahmudullah then struck a six in the last over and handed Bangladesh a massive victory. Rahim played an unbeaten knock of 60 runs during the chase. Earlier, after being sent to bat first, India suffered a major blow as Rohit Sharma was dismissed in the very first over of the innings. Sharma (9) was given LBW on the Shafiul Islam's delivery. However, despite early dismissal, Sharma managed to become the highest run-getter in the shortest format of the game as he has now 2,452 runs. Shikhar Dhawan's was then joined by KL Rahul on the field. Both added 26 runs on the board before Rahul (15) gave away an easy catch to Mahmudullah off Aminul Islam's delivery in the seventh over. Shreyas Iyer was the next batsman and played a quick knock of 22 runs off 13 balls before getting caught by Mohammad Naim on Aminul Islam's ball. Rishabh Pant then came out to bat and played cautiously with Dhawan. Both formed a 25-run partnership. However, in the 15th over, due to miscommunication Dhawan was run-out on 41 runs. Shivam Dube then took the field but failed to leave a mark as he was caught and bowled by Afif Hossain in the next over. The fall of wickets did not stop as Pant (27) too was sent back to the pavilion in the 19th over. Washington Sundar and Krunal Pandya then took the charge and helped India set a respectable total on the board. The second T20I between both teams will be played on November 7 in Gujarat.

T20I: Bangladesh trounce India, Mushfiqur shines

Rohit Sharma on Sunday surpassed Virat Kohli's record to become the highest run-getter in the T20I format of the game. 
 
Sharma played a knock of nine runs in the first T20I against Bangladesh at the Arun Jaitley stadium. 
 
By doing so, he took his run tally to 2,452 runs, going two runs ahead of Kohli's total. 
 
Sharma also became the most capped player for India in the shortest format of the game. He has now played 99 matches for the Men in Blue, breaking MS Dhoni's record of 98 appearances. 
 
India is&nbsp;currently playing on 75/3 after the conclusion of 12 overs after they were sent to bat first.

Rohit Sharma on Sunday surpassed Virat Kohli's record to become the highest run-getter in the T20I format of the game. Sharma played a knock of nine runs in the first T20I against Bangladesh at the Arun Jaitley stadium.

Rohit Sharma on Sunday surpassed Virat Kohli's record to become the highest run-getter in the T20I format of the game. Sharma played a knock of nine runs in the first T20I against Bangladesh at the Arun Jaitley stadium. By doing so, he took his run tally to 2,452 runs, going two runs ahead of Kohli's total. Sharma also became the most capped player for India in the shortest format of the game. He has now played 99 matches for the Men in Blue, breaking MS Dhoni's record of 98 appearances. India is currently playing on 75/3 after the conclusion of 12 overs after they were sent to bat first.

Rohit Sharma scores most runs in T20I, breaks Kohli's record

As concerns over pollution in the national capital continues to grow, Bangladesh`s players were seen training wearing marks at the Arun Jaitley Stadium on Friday.

Bangladesh and India are all set to play the first T20I of the three-match series here in Delhi on Sunday, November 3.

The <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/feeling-breathless-delhi-ncr-residents-complain-as-air-quality-turns-hazardous-259171">air quality in Delhi </a>continues to deteriorate and it has slipped into the `severe` category in several places across the city.

This has led many to urge the BCCI to shift the match from Delhi.

When ANI contacted the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB), a source replied: "It is up to the players, if they want to use the mask they can, it is their choice".

On Thursday, Bangladesh's batsman Liton Das was seen training with a mask on, while others like Mushfiqur Rahim and Mustafizur Rahman were seen without masks.

But on Friday, the situation seems to have changed as many Bangladesh players opted to train with masks.

However, when Liton Das was asked why he chose to wear a mask during training, the batsman replied: "I had some personal problem that`s why I was wearing it. I was not feeling well".

India's stand-in skipper Rohit Sharma also downplayed pollution concerns in Delhi on Thursday.

"I have just landed and didn`t get the time to see/assess what it`s like in Delhi. The information I have is that the match is scheduled for November 3 and it will happen on the same day," he had said.

Earlier, the<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/sourav-ganguly-takes-charge-as-president-of-board-for-control-of-cricket-in-india-257654"> BCCI President</a> Sourav Ganguly confirmed the match will go on as planned in the national capital.

"We have spoken to Delhi authorities in the last two days. They are expecting the match to go through but it was already scheduled so we could not cancel it at the last minute. We came in on October 28 and it was too late to do anything because a lot of preparations go in matches; tickets, crowd, and everything. So it is not possible to cancel things in the last minute," Ganguly had said.

As concerns over pollution in the national capital continues to grow, Bangladesh`s players were seen training wearing marks at the Arun Jaitley Stadium on Friday.

As concerns over pollution in the national capital continues to grow, Bangladesh`s players were seen training wearing marks at the Arun Jaitley Stadium on Friday. Bangladesh and India are all set to play the first T20I of the three-match series here in Delhi on Sunday, November 3. The air quality in Delhi continues to deteriorate and it has slipped into the `severe` category in several places across the city. This has led many to urge the BCCI to shift the match from Delhi. When ANI contacted the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB), a source replied: "It is up to the players, if they want to use the mask they can, it is their choice". On Thursday, Bangladesh's batsman Liton Das was seen training with a mask on, while others like Mushfiqur Rahim and Mustafizur Rahman were seen without masks. But on Friday, the situation seems to have changed as many Bangladesh players opted to train with masks. However, when Liton Das was asked why he chose to wear a mask during training, the batsman replied: "I had some personal problem that`s why I was wearing it. I was not feeling well". India's stand-in skipper Rohit Sharma also downplayed pollution concerns in Delhi on Thursday. "I have just landed and didn`t get the time to see/assess what it`s like in Delhi. The information I have is that the match is scheduled for November 3 and it will happen on the same day," he had said. Earlier, the BCCI President Sourav Ganguly confirmed the match will go on as planned in the national capital. "We have spoken to Delhi authorities in the last two days. They are expecting the match to go through but it was already scheduled so we could not cancel it at the last minute. We came in on October 28 and it was too late to do anything because a lot of preparations go in matches; tickets, crowd, and everything. So it is not possible to cancel things in the last minute," Ganguly had said.

Delhi T20I: Bangladesh players train with masks as air quality drops in national capital

Australia on Tuesday named Steve Smith and David Warner in their Twenty20 squad for home series against Sri Lanka and Pakistan as selectors firm up plans for next year's World Cup on home soil.

Australia host Sri Lanka in three T20 internationals starting in Adelaide on Oct. 27 before facing top-ranked Pakistan in three matches next month.

"It is almost a year to the day until Australia hosts the men's T20 World Cup and we have selected this squad with that in mind," selector Trevor Hohns said in a statement.

"The squad we have selected is quite role specific and we believe it gives us the flexibility to thrive in all match conditions.

"We're delighted to welcome Smith and Warner back ... Steve is a world-class batsman in all formats while Warner is Australia's highest ever T20I runs-scorer."

Smith is set to play his first T20 international since 2016 and will look to continue the fine form he has shown since his return from a one-year ban for his role in a ball-tampering scandal in South Africa.

The 30-year-old smashed 774 runs in four Ashes tests against England recently as Australia retained the urn.

Warner scored 692 runs in this year's IPL for Sunrisers Hyderabad and 647 runs in the 50-over World Cup in England as Australia reached the semi-finals.

Australia dropped all-rounder Marcus Stoinis while Ashton Turner was preferred ahead of fellow spinner Nathan Lyon. They also included the big-hitting Glenn Maxwell.

The 14-man squad captained by Aaron Finch will travel to Adelaide on Oct. 24 before the first T20 against Sri Lanka.

Australia T20 squad: Aaron Finch (captain), Ashton Agar, Alex Carey, Pat Cummins, Glenn Maxwell, Ben McDermott, Kane Richardson, Steve Smith, Billy Stanlake, Mitchell Starc, Ashton Turner, Andrew Tye, David Warner, Adam Zampa. 
&nbsp;

Australia on Tuesday named Steve Smith and David Warner in their Twenty20 squad for home series against Sri Lanka and Pakistan as selectors firm up plans for next year's World Cup on home soil.

Australia on Tuesday named Steve Smith and David Warner in their Twenty20 squad for home series against Sri Lanka and Pakistan as selectors firm up plans for next year's World Cup on home soil. Australia host Sri Lanka in three T20 internationals starting in Adelaide on Oct. 27 before facing top-ranked Pakistan in three matches next month. "It is almost a year to the day until Australia hosts the men's T20 World Cup and we have selected this squad with that in mind," selector Trevor Hohns said in a statement. "The squad we have selected is quite role specific and we believe it gives us the flexibility to thrive in all match conditions. "We're delighted to welcome Smith and Warner back ... Steve is a world-class batsman in all formats while Warner is Australia's highest ever T20I runs-scorer." Smith is set to play his first T20 international since 2016 and will look to continue the fine form he has shown since his return from a one-year ban for his role in a ball-tampering scandal in South Africa. The 30-year-old smashed 774 runs in four Ashes tests against England recently as Australia retained the urn. Warner scored 692 runs in this year's IPL for Sunrisers Hyderabad and 647 runs in the 50-over World Cup in England as Australia reached the semi-finals. Australia dropped all-rounder Marcus Stoinis while Ashton Turner was preferred ahead of fellow spinner Nathan Lyon. They also included the big-hitting Glenn Maxwell. The 14-man squad captained by Aaron Finch will travel to Adelaide on Oct. 24 before the first T20 against Sri Lanka. Australia T20 squad: Aaron Finch (captain), Ashton Agar, Alex Carey, Pat Cummins, Glenn Maxwell, Ben McDermott, Kane Richardson, Steve Smith, Billy Stanlake, Mitchell Starc, Ashton Turner, Andrew Tye, David Warner, Adam Zampa.

Smith, Warner in Australia T20 squad for Sri Lanka, Pakistan series

Australia's Alyssa Healy smashed an unbeaten 148 off 61 balls to set a new world record for the highest individual score in women's Twenty20 internationals at the North Sydney Oval on Wednesday.

Healy reached her century in just 46 balls, the second-fastest in history, as Australia piled up 226 for two in the final game of the three-match series against Sri Lanka.

The 29-year-old opener reached the world record with a six in the penultimate over, eclipsing teammate Meg Lanning's previous mark of 133 not out set against England in July.

This time Lanning was cast in a supporting role as she admired the innings from the non-striker's end.

Having celebrated her 100th T20I two days ago, Healy knocked the stuffing out of Sri Lanka's bowling attack and finished with 19 fours and seven sixes.

"It was just one of those days where everything seemed to come out of the middle, so I'll take that," Healy told Fox Cricket.

Australia's Alyssa Healy smashed an unbeaten 148 off 61 balls to set a new world record for the highest individual score in women's Twenty20 internationals at the North Sydney Oval on Wednesday.

Australia's Alyssa Healy smashed an unbeaten 148 off 61 balls to set a new world record for the highest individual score in women's Twenty20 internationals at the North Sydney Oval on Wednesday. Healy reached her century in just 46 balls, the second-fastest in history, as Australia piled up 226 for two in the final game of the three-match series against Sri Lanka. The 29-year-old opener reached the world record with a six in the penultimate over, eclipsing teammate Meg Lanning's previous mark of 133 not out set against England in July. This time Lanning was cast in a supporting role as she admired the innings from the non-striker's end. Having celebrated her 100th T20I two days ago, Healy knocked the stuffing out of Sri Lanka's bowling attack and finished with 19 fours and seven sixes. "It was just one of those days where everything seemed to come out of the middle, so I'll take that," Healy told Fox Cricket.

Alyssa Healy smashes record T20I score

Left-arm quick Beuran Hendricks led an inspired bowling attack as South Africa kept India to 134 for nine during Sunday's <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-opt-to-bat-in-third-south-africa-t20-251240">third Twenty20 international</a> in Bangalore.

Hendricks, who was the only change in the side from South Africa's previous loss, and spinner Bjorn Fortuin took two wickets each after Indian skipper Virat Kohli's surprising decision to bat first.

The hosts lost three of their top batsmen early, including Kohli for nine, on a pitch where teams usually opt to bat last.

Rohit Sharma was the first to go for nine, caught at slip off Hendricks while fellow opener Shikhar Dhawan returned to the dug out for 36.

Fast bowler Kagiso Rabada took Kohli's scalp after the star batsman was holed out at deep square leg boundary, with Andile Phehlukwayo completing a sharp running catch.

Rabada took three wickets, including two in the final over, but gave away 39 runs from his four overs.

Fortuin struck twice with his left-arm spin in the 13th over to take wickets from Rishabh Pant for 19 and Shreyas Iyer for five.

Hardik Pandya, who hit 14, and Ravindra Jadeja, who made 19 off 17 deliveries, made useful cameos in the end to leave the hosts with some respect.

India leads the three match series 1-0 after the opening game was washed out.&nbsp;

Left-arm quick Beuran Hendricks led an inspired bowling attack as South Africa kept India to 134 for nine during Sunday's third Twenty20 international in Bangalore.

Left-arm quick Beuran Hendricks led an inspired bowling attack as South Africa kept India to 134 for nine during Sunday's third Twenty20 international in Bangalore. Hendricks, who was the only change in the side from South Africa's previous loss, and spinner Bjorn Fortuin took two wickets each after Indian skipper Virat Kohli's surprising decision to bat first. The hosts lost three of their top batsmen early, including Kohli for nine, on a pitch where teams usually opt to bat last. Rohit Sharma was the first to go for nine, caught at slip off Hendricks while fellow opener Shikhar Dhawan returned to the dug out for 36. Fast bowler Kagiso Rabada took Kohli's scalp after the star batsman was holed out at deep square leg boundary, with Andile Phehlukwayo completing a sharp running catch. Rabada took three wickets, including two in the final over, but gave away 39 runs from his four overs. Fortuin struck twice with his left-arm spin in the 13th over to take wickets from Rishabh Pant for 19 and Shreyas Iyer for five. Hardik Pandya, who hit 14, and Ravindra Jadeja, who made 19 off 17 deliveries, made useful cameos in the end to leave the hosts with some respect. India leads the three match series 1-0 after the opening game was washed out.

South Africa restrict India to 134-9 in third T20

India skipper Virat Kohli won the toss and elected to bat first in Sunday's third Twenty20 international against South Africa.

The hosts, who lead the three-match series 1-0, are unchanged from their previous win on Wednesday. The opening game was washed out.

Most games at the Bangalore stadium have been won by the team batting second, but Kohli said his decision is aimed at getting battle ready for the T20 World Cup next year.

"I know it's a chasing ground, that's what teams do here in the IPL (Indian Premier League) too, but heading into the World Cup we want to strengthen areas and put ourselves under pressure," Kohli said at the toss.

"Of course results are always going to be a priority, but we need to push ourselves out of our comfort zone with the World Cup coming up."

South Africa have made one change in their bid to level the series, with left-arm paceman Beuran Hendricks coming in for Anrich Nortje.&nbsp;

"Whether we bat or bowl first we just have to make sure we come out here and compete," said skipper Quinton de Kock.

"I think the last game was up and down for our team but we spoke about it and we're going to try and correct our mistakes."

India: Virat Kohli (capt), Rohit Sharma, Shikhar Dhawan, Shreyas Iyer, Rishabh Pant, Hardik Pandya, Krunal Pandya, Ravindra Jadeja, Washington Sundar, Deepak Chahar, Navdeep Saini

South Africa: Quinton de Kock (capt), Reeza Hendricks, Temba Bavuma, Rassie van der Dussen, David Miller, Andile Phehlukwayo, Dwaine Pretorius, Bjorn Fortuin, Kagiso Rabada, Beuran Hendricks, Tabraiz Shamsi

Umpires: Nitin Menon (IND) and CK Nandan (IND)

TV umpire: Anil Chaudhary (IND)

Match referee:&nbsp;Sir Richie Richardson (WIS)

India skipper Virat Kohli won the toss and elected to bat first in Sunday's third Twenty20 international against South Africa. The hosts, who lead the three-match series 1-0, are unchanged from their previous win on Wednesday.

India skipper Virat Kohli won the toss and elected to bat first in Sunday's third Twenty20 international against South Africa. The hosts, who lead the three-match series 1-0, are unchanged from their previous win on Wednesday. The opening game was washed out. Most games at the Bangalore stadium have been won by the team batting second, but Kohli said his decision is aimed at getting battle ready for the T20 World Cup next year. "I know it's a chasing ground, that's what teams do here in the IPL (Indian Premier League) too, but heading into the World Cup we want to strengthen areas and put ourselves under pressure," Kohli said at the toss. "Of course results are always going to be a priority, but we need to push ourselves out of our comfort zone with the World Cup coming up." South Africa have made one change in their bid to level the series, with left-arm paceman Beuran Hendricks coming in for Anrich Nortje. "Whether we bat or bowl first we just have to make sure we come out here and compete," said skipper Quinton de Kock. "I think the last game was up and down for our team but we spoke about it and we're going to try and correct our mistakes." India: Virat Kohli (capt), Rohit Sharma, Shikhar Dhawan, Shreyas Iyer, Rishabh Pant, Hardik Pandya, Krunal Pandya, Ravindra Jadeja, Washington Sundar, Deepak Chahar, Navdeep Saini South Africa: Quinton de Kock (capt), Reeza Hendricks, Temba Bavuma, Rassie van der Dussen, David Miller, Andile Phehlukwayo, Dwaine Pretorius, Bjorn Fortuin, Kagiso Rabada, Beuran Hendricks, Tabraiz Shamsi Umpires: Nitin Menon (IND) and CK Nandan (IND) TV umpire: Anil Chaudhary (IND) Match referee: Sir Richie Richardson (WIS)

India opt to bat in third South Africa T20

Rain is likely to play spoilsport in the third and final T20I of the three-match series between India and South Africa.

The weather predictions show that thunderstorm and rain is likely in Bengaluru throughout the day, because of which the match may get curtailed.

The first match of the series was also abandoned due to rain at Dharamshala whereas the second T20I was won by India by seven wickets, owing to skipper Virat Kohli's match-winning knock of 72 runs.

Before the start of the second T20I, Proteas skipper Quinton de Kock had said that it is not ideal if matches get washed out as there are only a few games in the preparation for T20 World Cup next year in Australia.

"Obviously it is a bit of negative. We would have liked to play at Dharamshala. We would like to play as many matches heading into the 20-20 World Cup next year so losing out on one game is not ideal. But it is what it is. It is now a two-match series. It would be an exciting format so we will see how things go," de Kock had said.

The third match between India and South Africa is scheduled to begin later today at 7pm&nbsp;IST at M Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru.

South Africa squad for three-match T20I series against India: Quinton de Kock (c), Rassie van der Dussen (vc), Temba Bavuma, Junior Dala, Bjorn Fortuin, Beuran Hendricks, Reeza Hendricks, David Miller, Anrich Nortje, Andile Phehlukwayo, Dwaine Pretorius, Kagiso Rabada, Tabraiz Shamsi, George Linde.

India squad for the series: Virat Kohli (c), Rohit Sharma (vc), Shikhar Dhawan, KL Rahul, Shreyas Iyer, Manish Pandey, Rishabh Pant (wk), Hardik Pandya, Ravindra Jadeja, Krunal Pandya, Washington Sundar, Rahul Chahar, Khaleel Ahmed, Deepak Chahar, and Navdeep Saini.

The Men in Blue currently have a 1-0 lead in the series and after the T20I series, India will face South Africa in three-match Test series which will be part of World Test Championship (WTC).

It will be South Africa's first series under the WTC.&nbsp;

Rain is likely to play spoilsport in the third and final T20I of the three-match series between India and South Africa. The weather predictions show that thunderstorm and rain is likely in Bengaluru throughout the day, because of which the match may get curtailed.

Rain is likely to play spoilsport in the third and final T20I of the three-match series between India and South Africa. The weather predictions show that thunderstorm and rain is likely in Bengaluru throughout the day, because of which the match may get curtailed. The first match of the series was also abandoned due to rain at Dharamshala whereas the second T20I was won by India by seven wickets, owing to skipper Virat Kohli's match-winning knock of 72 runs. Before the start of the second T20I, Proteas skipper Quinton de Kock had said that it is not ideal if matches get washed out as there are only a few games in the preparation for T20 World Cup next year in Australia. "Obviously it is a bit of negative. We would have liked to play at Dharamshala. We would like to play as many matches heading into the 20-20 World Cup next year so losing out on one game is not ideal. But it is what it is. It is now a two-match series. It would be an exciting format so we will see how things go," de Kock had said. The third match between India and South Africa is scheduled to begin later today at 7pm IST at M Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru. South Africa squad for three-match T20I series against India: Quinton de Kock (c), Rassie van der Dussen (vc), Temba Bavuma, Junior Dala, Bjorn Fortuin, Beuran Hendricks, Reeza Hendricks, David Miller, Anrich Nortje, Andile Phehlukwayo, Dwaine Pretorius, Kagiso Rabada, Tabraiz Shamsi, George Linde. India squad for the series: Virat Kohli (c), Rohit Sharma (vc), Shikhar Dhawan, KL Rahul, Shreyas Iyer, Manish Pandey, Rishabh Pant (wk), Hardik Pandya, Ravindra Jadeja, Krunal Pandya, Washington Sundar, Rahul Chahar, Khaleel Ahmed, Deepak Chahar, and Navdeep Saini. The Men in Blue currently have a 1-0 lead in the series and after the T20I series, India will face South Africa in three-match Test series which will be part of World Test Championship (WTC). It will be South Africa's first series under the WTC.

Rain likely to play spoilsport in India vs South Africa third T20I

India captain Virat Kohli led from the front with an unbeaten 72 to help secure his team's comprehensive seven-wicket victory over South Africa in the second Twenty20 International on Wednesday.

After disciplined Indian bowling restricted the touring side to a below-par 149-5, Kohli and Shikhar Dhawan (40) helped the hosts chase down the target with an over to spare in the north Indian city of Mohali.

After the series opener in Dharamsala was washed out, Quinton de Kock made his debut as South Africa's Twenty20 captain as they explore leadership options before the 20-overs World Cup next year.

The left-hander top-scored with 52 and Temba Bavuma contributed 49 but the subsequent South African batsmen could not capitalise on the decent start.

Deepak Chahar drew first blood when he dismissed Reeza Hendricks for six after Kohli won the toss and elected to field.

De Kock and Bavuma helped South Africa overcome the early setback with a fluent partnership.

De Kock raced to his fifty before Kohli produced a magnificent piece of fielding, running to his left from mid-off to take a tumbling one-handed catch and send back the skipper.

Ravindra Jadeja caught Rassie van der Dussen off his own bowling to peg back South Africa who found boundaries hard to come by.

Bavuma, making his Twenty20 debut along with Anrich Nortje and Bjorn Fortuin, fell just short of his fifty, foxed by Chahar's slower delivery.

The touring side milked 16 runs off the final over from Navdeep Saini but fell short of the 150-mark.

India's chase got off to a fast start as Rohit Sharma greeted Nortje with two sixes in the debutant's first over.

Andile Phehlukwayo dismissed Rohit before Kohli and Dhawan effectively killed off the contest, Kohli hitting three sixes in his 52-ball knock.

Bengaluru hosts the third and final match on Sunday before the teams clash in a three-test series next month.

India captain Virat Kohli led from the front with an unbeaten 72 to help secure his team's comprehensive seven-wicket victory over South Africa in the second Twenty20 International on Wednesday.

India captain Virat Kohli led from the front with an unbeaten 72 to help secure his team's comprehensive seven-wicket victory over South Africa in the second Twenty20 International on Wednesday. After disciplined Indian bowling restricted the touring side to a below-par 149-5, Kohli and Shikhar Dhawan (40) helped the hosts chase down the target with an over to spare in the north Indian city of Mohali. After the series opener in Dharamsala was washed out, Quinton de Kock made his debut as South Africa's Twenty20 captain as they explore leadership options before the 20-overs World Cup next year. The left-hander top-scored with 52 and Temba Bavuma contributed 49 but the subsequent South African batsmen could not capitalise on the decent start. Deepak Chahar drew first blood when he dismissed Reeza Hendricks for six after Kohli won the toss and elected to field. De Kock and Bavuma helped South Africa overcome the early setback with a fluent partnership. De Kock raced to his fifty before Kohli produced a magnificent piece of fielding, running to his left from mid-off to take a tumbling one-handed catch and send back the skipper. Ravindra Jadeja caught Rassie van der Dussen off his own bowling to peg back South Africa who found boundaries hard to come by. Bavuma, making his Twenty20 debut along with Anrich Nortje and Bjorn Fortuin, fell just short of his fifty, foxed by Chahar's slower delivery. The touring side milked 16 runs off the final over from Navdeep Saini but fell short of the 150-mark. India's chase got off to a fast start as Rohit Sharma greeted Nortje with two sixes in the debutant's first over. Andile Phehlukwayo dismissed Rohit before Kohli and Dhawan effectively killed off the contest, Kohli hitting three sixes in his 52-ball knock. Bengaluru hosts the third and final match on Sunday before the teams clash in a three-test series next month.

Virat Kohli leads India to T20 win over South Africa

Rain and a damp outfield forced the abandonment of the first Twenty20 international between India and South Africa without a ball being bowled in Dharamsala on Sunday.

The pitch and the square at the start of the three-match series remained covered throughout, with rain lashing the sleepy hill station in the Himalayan foothills.

Officials called off the match nearly 50 minutes after the official start time of 07:00 pm (1330 GMT).

"The rains continue and the match has officially been called off. See you in Chandigarh for the 2nd T20I," the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) said on its official Twitter handle.

South Africa, captained by wicketkeeper-batsman Quinton de Kock, are ranked third in T20s, one rung ahead of the Virat Kohli-led India.

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Match abandoned between India and South Africa. 
 
The rain proves too much in the end and so now the teams will look forward to the 2nd T20I in Mohali on Wednesday.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvSA?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDvSA</a> <a href="https://t.co/ahOgKBkRIS">pic.twitter.com/ahOgKBkRIS</a>
— ICC (@ICC) <a href="https://twitter.com/ICC/status/1173243694415265792?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 15, 2019</a></blockquote>
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The second match is scheduled for Wednesday.

Rain and a damp outfield forced the abandonment of the first Twenty20 international between India and South Africa without a ball being bowled in Dharamsala on Sunday.

Rain and a damp outfield forced the abandonment of the first Twenty20 international between India and South Africa without a ball being bowled in Dharamsala on Sunday. The pitch and the square at the start of the three-match series remained covered throughout, with rain lashing the sleepy hill station in the Himalayan foothills. Officials called off the match nearly 50 minutes after the official start time of 07:00 pm (1330 GMT). "The rains continue and the match has officially been called off. See you in Chandigarh for the 2nd T20I," the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) said on its official Twitter handle. South Africa, captained by wicketkeeper-batsman Quinton de Kock, are ranked third in T20s, one rung ahead of the Virat Kohli-led India. Match abandoned between India and South Africa. The rain proves too much in the end and so now the teams will look forward to the 2nd T20I in Mohali on Wednesday.#INDvSA pic.twitter.com/ahOgKBkRIS — ICC (@ICC) September 15, 2019 × The second match is scheduled for Wednesday.

Rain washes out first India-South Africa T20

West Indies all-rounder Kieron Pollard has been named as the new captain of their one-day international and Twenty20 teams, the country's cricket board (CWI) said on Monday.

Pollard, who has not played an ODI for West Indies since October 2016, replaces Jason Holder at the helm. Holder, who led the team at the last two 50-over World Cups, will continue to lead the side in Test cricket.

"We believe Kieron Pollard is the right person at the right time now to lead the West Indies team in white ball cricket," CWI President Ricky Skerritt said at a news conference.

"Jason Holder is a very important force and he is still going to be our red ball captain."

Pollard will begin his captaincy by travelling to India for a series against Afghanistan. They will play three T20s followed by three ODI matches in November.

"In the short term as captain, the immediate aim is to defend the T20 World Cup," Pollard, 32, said. West Indies will be defending their T20 World Cup title next year in Australia.

"One of the discussions I hope to have is to bring back the idea of specialists playing in their best positions," he added.

"I've played all over the world and I hope to use this experience to help the West Indies in my role as captain."

The once mighty West Indies, who won the first two editions of the World Cup during the 1970s, finished ninth in the 10-team standings at this year's tournament, winning only two of their nine matches.

Skerritt said that the CWI had reviewed a flawed selection policy and will now pick players based on various criteria such as form, fitness, performance, team balance and commitment.

"One of the things we found in our one-day team shortcomings is over 50 players were picked between the 2015 and 2019 World Cups," Skerritt added. "It made little sense and the results showed."

West Indies all-rounder Kieron Pollard has been named as the new captain of their one-day international and Twenty20 teams, the country's cricket board (CWI) said on Monday.

West Indies all-rounder Kieron Pollard has been named as the new captain of their one-day international and Twenty20 teams, the country's cricket board (CWI) said on Monday. Pollard, who has not played an ODI for West Indies since October 2016, replaces Jason Holder at the helm. Holder, who led the team at the last two 50-over World Cups, will continue to lead the side in Test cricket. "We believe Kieron Pollard is the right person at the right time now to lead the West Indies team in white ball cricket," CWI President Ricky Skerritt said at a news conference. "Jason Holder is a very important force and he is still going to be our red ball captain." Pollard will begin his captaincy by travelling to India for a series against Afghanistan. They will play three T20s followed by three ODI matches in November. "In the short term as captain, the immediate aim is to defend the T20 World Cup," Pollard, 32, said. West Indies will be defending their T20 World Cup title next year in Australia. "One of the discussions I hope to have is to bring back the idea of specialists playing in their best positions," he added. "I've played all over the world and I hope to use this experience to help the West Indies in my role as captain." The once mighty West Indies, who won the first two editions of the World Cup during the 1970s, finished ninth in the 10-team standings at this year's tournament, winning only two of their nine matches. Skerritt said that the CWI had reviewed a flawed selection policy and will now pick players based on various criteria such as form, fitness, performance, team balance and commitment. "One of the things we found in our one-day team shortcomings is over 50 players were picked between the 2015 and 2019 World Cups," Skerritt added. "It made little sense and the results showed."

Kieron Pollard named new West Indies captain for ODIs and T20s

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