The ICC World Cup 2019 kick-started yesterday and the meme experts have managed to extract some hilarious jokes and memes out of it.

And when it comes to Bollywood, references to popular movies make the memes all the funnier.

Out of all the memes flooding social media, Anil Kapoor shared one such meme on his Twitter handle which will leave you in splits.

The actor, who played the role of Majnu Bhai in the 2007 comedy film 'Welcome,'&nbsp;shared a meme dedicated to his character's epic horse painting, which also featured in the film.

Anil's character Majnu Bhai plays an underworld don in the film and aspires to be a painter.

The meme had the iconic painting hilariously photoshopped in a group photo of all the ten cricket captains of the participating teams in the Cricket World Cup and Queen Elizabeth.

Tagging the director Anees Bazmi, Anil shared the picture and wrote on Twitter, "Majnu Bhai's art has travelled far and wide. This is literally priceless."

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Majnu Bhai’s art has travelled far and wide <a href="https://twitter.com/BazmeeAnees?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@BazmeeAnees</a>! This is literally priceless! 😂😂😂 <a href="https://t.co/vI04OG5pAZ">pic.twitter.com/vI04OG5pAZ</a>
— Anil Kapoor (@AnilKapoor) <a href="https://twitter.com/AnilKapoor/status/1134411844146171904?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 31, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Well, the meme is indeed priceless! Indian cricket team Captain Virat Kohli shared pictures of the players'&nbsp;meeting with the Queen on his Instagram account yesterday.

Check out the original picture: Meanwhile, the netizens were having a field day by making `Kohinoor` diamond jokes.

The fans created memes and asked Virat to bring back the 'Kohinoor Hira'&nbsp;from the Buckingham Palace in England.

'Welcome`, which hit the theatres on December 21, 2007, also starred Akshay Kumar, Nana Patekar, Katrina Kaif and Mallika Sherawat, Feroz Khan and Paresh Rawal.

The film is&nbsp;a laugh riot and tells the story of a man (Akshay) who falls in love with a beautiful woman (Katrina) but later discovers that her brothers (Nana and Anil) are gangsters.&nbsp; 
 
&nbsp;

The ICC World Cup 2019 kick-started yesterday and the meme experts have managed to extract some hilarious jokes and memes out of it. And when it comes to Bollywood, references to popular movies make the memes all the funnier.

The ICC World Cup 2019 kick-started yesterday and the meme experts have managed to extract some hilarious jokes and memes out of it. And when it comes to Bollywood, references to popular movies make the memes all the funnier. Out of all the memes flooding social media, Anil Kapoor shared one such meme on his Twitter handle which will leave you in splits. The actor, who played the role of Majnu Bhai in the 2007 comedy film 'Welcome,' shared a meme dedicated to his character's epic horse painting, which also featured in the film. Anil's character Majnu Bhai plays an underworld don in the film and aspires to be a painter. The meme had the iconic painting hilariously photoshopped in a group photo of all the ten cricket captains of the participating teams in the Cricket World Cup and Queen Elizabeth. Tagging the director Anees Bazmi, Anil shared the picture and wrote on Twitter, "Majnu Bhai's art has travelled far and wide. This is literally priceless." Majnu Bhai’s art has travelled far and wide @BazmeeAnees! This is literally priceless! 😂😂😂 pic.twitter.com/vI04OG5pAZ — Anil Kapoor (@AnilKapoor) May 31, 2019 × Well, the meme is indeed priceless! Indian cricket team Captain Virat Kohli shared pictures of the players' meeting with the Queen on his Instagram account yesterday. Check out the original picture: Meanwhile, the netizens were having a field day by making `Kohinoor` diamond jokes. The fans created memes and asked Virat to bring back the 'Kohinoor Hira' from the Buckingham Palace in England. 'Welcome`, which hit the theatres on December 21, 2007, also starred Akshay Kumar, Nana Patekar, Katrina Kaif and Mallika Sherawat, Feroz Khan and Paresh Rawal. The film is a laugh riot and tells the story of a man (Akshay) who falls in love with a beautiful woman (Katrina) but later discovers that her brothers (Nana and Anil) are gangsters.

Actor Anil Kapoor turns Virat Kohli's group picture into a hilarious meme

In the opening match of the World Cup today, South African opener <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/south-africas-hashim-amla-is-hungrier-than-ever-before-ahead-of-world-cup-2019-220954&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjQr_P718LiAhXo_XMBHQ7iDngQFjAAegQIBhAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw0moMfXMOJ0TJycudxG3Buu">Hashim Amla</a> will aim to break Indian skipper Virat Kohli's long-standing ODI record of fastest 8,000 runs.

Amla is just 90 runs away from the mark and if he is able to achieve this feat against hosts England in the World Cup opener, he will replace Kohli at the top spot in the list of fastest batsmen to score 8000 runs in ODI format.

Kohli earned the accolade in 175 innings while Amla has played 171 innings in his ODI career, so far.

If Amla clocks the mammoth score, he will also better Kohli's record by three innings.

Amla currently holds the record for being the fastest batsman to go past 2000, 3000, 4000, 5000, 6000 and 7000 ODI runs.

Whenever he goes past the 8000 ODI runs mark, he will become the fourth Proteas batsmen to do so.

Jacques Kallis, AB de Villiers, and Herschelle Gibbs are the other <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-world-cup-2019-theres-a-lot-more-bigger-things-than-winning-and-losing-cricket-games-says-faf-du-plessis-222584">South African</a> batsmen to have cruised past the benchmark.

Kallis scored 11,550 runs in the ODI format whereas de Villiers and Gibbs scored 9427 and 8094 runs respectively in the ODI format.

<a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/off-form-hashim-amla-makes-south-africa-world-cup-squad-211566&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjQr_P718LiAhXo_XMBHQ7iDngQFjABegQIEBAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw1MbM2TC2z6o3xR8aKENITj">Amla</a> is also on the verge of achieving another feat as he is 37 runs away from becoming the second South African batsman to score 1000 ODI runs against England.

Kallis is the only other Proteas player who has managed the score against England.

Watch:&nbsp;Jamie Alter's report from ground zero ahead of the opening match between England and South Africa

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<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/six-players-to-watch-out-for-in-opening-clash-between-england-vs-south-africa-of-cricket-world-cup-2019-222213">South Africa takes on the hosts England</a> in the opening match of the World Cup today at the Oval in London.&nbsp;

In the opening match of the World Cup today, South African opener Hashim Amla will aim to break Indian skipper Virat Kohli's long-standing ODI record of fastest 8,000 runs.

In the opening match of the World Cup today, South African opener Hashim Amla will aim to break Indian skipper Virat Kohli's long-standing ODI record of fastest 8,000 runs. Amla is just 90 runs away from the mark and if he is able to achieve this feat against hosts England in the World Cup opener, he will replace Kohli at the top spot in the list of fastest batsmen to score 8000 runs in ODI format. Kohli earned the accolade in 175 innings while Amla has played 171 innings in his ODI career, so far. If Amla clocks the mammoth score, he will also better Kohli's record by three innings. Amla currently holds the record for being the fastest batsman to go past 2000, 3000, 4000, 5000, 6000 and 7000 ODI runs. Whenever he goes past the 8000 ODI runs mark, he will become the fourth Proteas batsmen to do so. Jacques Kallis, AB de Villiers, and Herschelle Gibbs are the other South African batsmen to have cruised past the benchmark. Kallis scored 11,550 runs in the ODI format whereas de Villiers and Gibbs scored 9427 and 8094 runs respectively in the ODI format. Amla is also on the verge of achieving another feat as he is 37 runs away from becoming the second South African batsman to score 1000 ODI runs against England. Kallis is the only other Proteas player who has managed the score against England. Watch: Jamie Alter's report from ground zero ahead of the opening match between England and South Africa × South Africa takes on the hosts England in the opening match of the World Cup today at the Oval in London.

Hashim Amla just 90 runs away from breaking Virat Kohli's ODI record

Cricket legend <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/bcci-ethics-officer-dismisses-conflict-of-interest-charge-against-sachin-tendulkar-222194&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwip-IPe1MLiAhUSfSsKHdG9B60QFjADegQIEBAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw1vhevCGHXTyPprW2BV34tb">Sachin Tendulkar</a> will make his debut as an on-air expert in the ICC ODI World Cup, starting Thursday in the United Kingdom.

The Master Blaster will take his place in the commentary box ahead of the tournament opener between hosts England and South Africa.

Tendulkar joins an illustrious panel of experts in the pre-show on Star Sports.

He will have his own segment 'Sachin Opens Again'.

Tendulkar has scored 2,278 runs in the six editions of the World Cup that he has appeared in.&nbsp;

The 46-year-old, who has represented India in six World Cups, holds the record for scoring the highest number of runs in a single edition of the World Cup, scoring 673 in 2003.

<a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/sachin-tendulkar-says-jasprit-bumrah-is-the-best-bowler-at-this-stage-218294&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwip-IPe1MLiAhUSfSsKHdG9B60QFjAEegQIBBAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw0Ip3bPE-mYlXaNowbhJCwR">Tendulkar </a>scored 2,278 runs in the six editions of the World Cup he played.&nbsp;

Here's the complete fixture of Cricket World Cup 2019:
<img alt="ICC World Cup 2019" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="4f1057d2-a373-4e54-9713-00b99df3a6c7" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/ICC%20World%20Cup%202019%20%281%29_8.jpg" />
India opens its campaign on June 5 against South Africa.

Cricket legend Sachin Tendulkar will make his debut as an on-air expert in the ICC ODI World Cup, starting Thursday in the United Kingdom. The Master Blaster will take his place in the commentary box ahead of the tournament opener between hosts England and South Africa.

Cricket legend Sachin Tendulkar will make his debut as an on-air expert in the ICC ODI World Cup, starting Thursday in the United Kingdom. The Master Blaster will take his place in the commentary box ahead of the tournament opener between hosts England and South Africa. Tendulkar joins an illustrious panel of experts in the pre-show on Star Sports. He will have his own segment 'Sachin Opens Again'. Tendulkar has scored 2,278 runs in the six editions of the World Cup that he has appeared in. The 46-year-old, who has represented India in six World Cups, holds the record for scoring the highest number of runs in a single edition of the World Cup, scoring 673 in 2003. Tendulkar scored 2,278 runs in the six editions of the World Cup he played. Here's the complete fixture of Cricket World Cup 2019: India opens its campaign on June 5 against South Africa.

'Sachin Opens Again' at the World Cup, this time as a commentator

Cricket World Cup 2019: Will Virat Kohli recreate Kapil's magic of 1983 at Lord's after 36 years?

Renowned wax museum Madame Tussauds on Wednesday unveiled <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/kl-rahuls-batting-at-no-4-is-big-positive-not-worried-about-dhawan-rohits-form-says-virat-kohli-222438">India captain Virat Kohli's</a> statue at Lord's Cricket Ground here to mark the launch of the ICC World Cup.

The wax statue of one of the world's leading batsmen will be on display at Madame Tussauds from Thursday until July 15,&nbsp;remaining at the museum for the duration of the World Cup.

Steve Davies, General Manager at Madame Tussauds London, said,&nbsp;"Cricket fever is set to sweep the nation in the coming weeks so what better way to unveil our new figure of Virat Kohli than with the help of our neighbours at Lord's.''

"We hope that cricket fans will enjoy not only watching their hero on the pitch but taking to the crease with him here at Madame Tussauds London," Davies added.

Pictured for the first time at the iconic Lord's, the statue is dressed in the official Indian kit as well as shoes and gloves donated by the sportsman himself.

From Thursday onwards, Kohli will sit alongside legends such as Usain Bolt, Sir Mo Farah and fellow Indian cricket star <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/sachin-opens-again-at-the-world-cup-this-time-as-a-commentator-222677">Sachin Tendulkar</a>.

Tarah Cunynghame, Head of Retail &amp; Tours at Lord's Cricket Ground, said,&nbsp;"Lord's is the perfect backdrop to reveal this fantastic figure of Virat Kohli on the eve of the Cricket World Cup.

The anticipation of the exciting summer of cricket has already started, with thousands of visitors coming to the Ground and enjoying a tour of Lord's and around the MCC Museum.

"The figure of the famous batsman will delight any cricket fans visiting Madame Tussauds London," Davies said.

Here's the complete fixture of Cricket World Cup 2019:

<img alt="World Cup 2019" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="52b03f5f-145d-4fd4-8f78-c76e330a1214" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/ICC%20World%20Cup%202019%20%281%29_9.jpg" />

India opens their&nbsp;campaign on June 5 against South Africa.

Renowned wax museum Madame Tussauds on Wednesday unveiled India captain Virat Kohli's statue at Lord's Cricket Ground here to mark the launch of the ICC World Cup.

Renowned wax museum Madame Tussauds on Wednesday unveiled India captain Virat Kohli's statue at Lord's Cricket Ground here to mark the launch of the ICC World Cup. The wax statue of one of the world's leading batsmen will be on display at Madame Tussauds from Thursday until July 15, remaining at the museum for the duration of the World Cup. Steve Davies, General Manager at Madame Tussauds London, said, "Cricket fever is set to sweep the nation in the coming weeks so what better way to unveil our new figure of Virat Kohli than with the help of our neighbours at Lord's.'' "We hope that cricket fans will enjoy not only watching their hero on the pitch but taking to the crease with him here at Madame Tussauds London," Davies added. Pictured for the first time at the iconic Lord's, the statue is dressed in the official Indian kit as well as shoes and gloves donated by the sportsman himself. From Thursday onwards, Kohli will sit alongside legends such as Usain Bolt, Sir Mo Farah and fellow Indian cricket star Sachin Tendulkar. Tarah Cunynghame, Head of Retail & Tours at Lord's Cricket Ground, said, "Lord's is the perfect backdrop to reveal this fantastic figure of Virat Kohli on the eve of the Cricket World Cup. The anticipation of the exciting summer of cricket has already started, with thousands of visitors coming to the Ground and enjoying a tour of Lord's and around the MCC Museum. "The figure of the famous batsman will delight any cricket fans visiting Madame Tussauds London," Davies said. Here's the complete fixture of Cricket World Cup 2019: India opens their campaign on June 5 against South Africa.

Virat Kohli's wax statue unveiled at Lord's to mark ICC World Cup launch

On the eve of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/search?q=cricket+world+cup">Cricket World Cup 2019</a>, all the skippers of the participating countries met Queen Elizabeth and Prince Harry at the Buckingham Palace in London.&nbsp;

The tournament is hosted by England and Wales is scheduled to take place between from May 30 to July 14.&nbsp;

The format of the World Cup 2019 will be round-robin, which means, all countries will play each other once and the top four will enter the knockout stages.

Just after the visit, the opening ceremony held at the London Mall next to the Buckingham Palace and from Viv Richards to Anil Kumble, many cricketing legends attended the ceremony.&nbsp;

Team Pakistan was represented by Nobel peace prize winner Malala Yousafzai.&nbsp;

During the ceremony, a unique 60-second challenge was played&nbsp;in which all teams were given one minute to score the maximum runs.&nbsp;

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) shared the picture of the captains' meeting with the Queen. "The 10 #CWC19 Captains with the Queen," BCCI captioned one of the photos on Twitter.&nbsp;

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The 10 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CWC19?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CWC19</a> Captains with the Queen. <a href="https://t.co/cT42NfuPCv">pic.twitter.com/cT42NfuPCv</a>
— BCCI (@BCCI) <a href="https://twitter.com/BCCI/status/1133783155574550529?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 29, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Captains including <a href="https://twitter.com/Eoin16?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Eoin16</a> and <a href="https://twitter.com/imVkohli?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@imVkohli</a> met Her Majesty and His Royal Highness before joining a Garden Party at Buckingham Palace. <a href="https://t.co/AjS5eZBrVH">pic.twitter.com/AjS5eZBrVH</a>
— The Royal Family (@RoyalFamily) <a href="https://twitter.com/RoyalFamily/status/1133764856178446336?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 29, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Watch:&nbsp;Queen and Harry joke with world cricket captains

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England takes on South Africa in the opening match of the World cup today at the Oval in London.&nbsp;

On the eve of Cricket World Cup 2019, all the skippers of the participating countries met Queen Elizabeth and Prince Harry at the Buckingham Palace in London. The tournament is hosted by England and Wales is scheduled to take place between from May 30 to July 14.

On the eve of Cricket World Cup 2019, all the skippers of the participating countries met Queen Elizabeth and Prince Harry at the Buckingham Palace in London. The tournament is hosted by England and Wales is scheduled to take place between from May 30 to July 14. The format of the World Cup 2019 will be round-robin, which means, all countries will play each other once and the top four will enter the knockout stages. Just after the visit, the opening ceremony held at the London Mall next to the Buckingham Palace and from Viv Richards to Anil Kumble, many cricketing legends attended the ceremony. Team Pakistan was represented by Nobel peace prize winner Malala Yousafzai. During the ceremony, a unique 60-second challenge was played in which all teams were given one minute to score the maximum runs. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) shared the picture of the captains' meeting with the Queen. "The 10 #CWC19 Captains with the Queen," BCCI captioned one of the photos on Twitter. The 10 #CWC19 Captains with the Queen. pic.twitter.com/cT42NfuPCv — BCCI (@BCCI) May 29, 2019 × Captains including @Eoin16 and @imVkohli met Her Majesty and His Royal Highness before joining a Garden Party at Buckingham Palace. pic.twitter.com/AjS5eZBrVH — The Royal Family (@RoyalFamily) May 29, 2019 × Watch: Queen and Harry joke with world cricket captains × England takes on South Africa in the opening match of the World cup today at the Oval in London.

Captains meet Queen Elizabeth before the commencement of Cricket World Cup 2019

Skipper Virat Kohli, who is happy with <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/kl-rahul-answers-indias-number-four-conundrum-for-world-cup-with-cardiff-ton-222429">KL Rahul</a>'s timely hundred at No 4 slot is not overtly worried about Shikhar Dhawan and Rohit Sharma's patchy form in the two World Cup warm-up games ahead of the tournament proper.&nbsp;

The skipper gave enough indications that Rahul has sealed his spot at No 4 with a 99-ball-108 against Bangladesh in the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ms-dhoni-kl-rahul-hit-tons-as-india-beat-bangladesh-in-world-cup-warm-up-222416">final warm-up game which India won by 95 runs</a>.

"The biggest positive from today was the way KL (Rahul) batted at No. 4. Everyone else know their roles. It is important that he gets the runs as he is such a class player," Kohli said of Rahul who hit a 99-ball 108, after India's big win in their final World Cup warm-up game.

"MS (Dhoni) and Hardik were superb as well," he added. Dhoni also scored a hundred -- a 78-ball 113 -- while Hardik Pandya contributed 21 from 11 deliveries down the order.&nbsp;

The two senior openers, however, didn't get the kind of practice that they would have ideally liked before the first game against South Africa on June 5 in Southampton.

Dhawan had scores of 1 and 2 while Rahit scored 2 and 19 against New Zealand and Bangladesh respectively.

"We have had two good challenges in the two games while batting first. Shikhar and Rohit are quality players, they become stars in ICC events. Ideally, we would have liked to chase today. I understand if guys don't get going right away in this format. In warm-up games, at times, you don't get the motivation especially because the amount of cricket that we play. But I am glad with what we got out of these two games," Kohli came in defence of the opening duo.&nbsp;

He also praised the wrist spinners Kuldeep Yadav and Yuzvendra Chahal for picking six wickets amongst themselves.&nbsp;

"We were challenged by their batsmen as well but we bowled well and our spinners got wickets too. Bumrah got us the breakthrough and Chahal and Kuldeep got us six wickets," Kohli said.&nbsp;

He said in the World Cup matches the ball might turn a bit in the second half and swing and seam would be important in the first fifteen overs. He said most of the teams winning the toss would want to chase.&nbsp;

In warm-up games, often the side fielding second finds it a bit of a drag in the final overs like it happened against Bangladesh where the outcome was clear by the 35th over but match went on till the last over.&nbsp;

"The last 15 overs could be challenging on the field, especially when the game is not interesting and you have to go through the motions. But once the tournament starts nobody would find all these things long, which is what you expect from a world class tournament like the World Cup."&nbsp;

Bangladesh captain Mashrafe Mortaza said, "We have spent fours weeks here. So, a few players have some niggles.&nbsp;

"Looks alright (about his fitness), but we need to look after our bowlers. Our top-order is scoring some runs. Soumya batted well, Liton and Mushfiq did a good job. Overall, the top-order batsmen need to understand their role."

Skipper Virat Kohli, who is happy with KL Rahul's timely hundred at No 4 slot is not overtly worried about Shikhar Dhawan and Rohit Sharma's patchy form in the two World Cup warm-up games ahead of the tournament proper.

Skipper Virat Kohli, who is happy with KL Rahul's timely hundred at No 4 slot is not overtly worried about Shikhar Dhawan and Rohit Sharma's patchy form in the two World Cup warm-up games ahead of the tournament proper. The skipper gave enough indications that Rahul has sealed his spot at No 4 with a 99-ball-108 against Bangladesh in the final warm-up game which India won by 95 runs. "The biggest positive from today was the way KL (Rahul) batted at No. 4. Everyone else know their roles. It is important that he gets the runs as he is such a class player," Kohli said of Rahul who hit a 99-ball 108, after India's big win in their final World Cup warm-up game. "MS (Dhoni) and Hardik were superb as well," he added. Dhoni also scored a hundred -- a 78-ball 113 -- while Hardik Pandya contributed 21 from 11 deliveries down the order. The two senior openers, however, didn't get the kind of practice that they would have ideally liked before the first game against South Africa on June 5 in Southampton. Dhawan had scores of 1 and 2 while Rahit scored 2 and 19 against New Zealand and Bangladesh respectively. "We have had two good challenges in the two games while batting first. Shikhar and Rohit are quality players, they become stars in ICC events. Ideally, we would have liked to chase today. I understand if guys don't get going right away in this format. In warm-up games, at times, you don't get the motivation especially because the amount of cricket that we play. But I am glad with what we got out of these two games," Kohli came in defence of the opening duo. He also praised the wrist spinners Kuldeep Yadav and Yuzvendra Chahal for picking six wickets amongst themselves. "We were challenged by their batsmen as well but we bowled well and our spinners got wickets too. Bumrah got us the breakthrough and Chahal and Kuldeep got us six wickets," Kohli said. He said in the World Cup matches the ball might turn a bit in the second half and swing and seam would be important in the first fifteen overs. He said most of the teams winning the toss would want to chase. In warm-up games, often the side fielding second finds it a bit of a drag in the final overs like it happened against Bangladesh where the outcome was clear by the 35th over but match went on till the last over. "The last 15 overs could be challenging on the field, especially when the game is not interesting and you have to go through the motions. But once the tournament starts nobody would find all these things long, which is what you expect from a world class tournament like the World Cup." Bangladesh captain Mashrafe Mortaza said, "We have spent fours weeks here. So, a few players have some niggles. "Looks alright (about his fitness), but we need to look after our bowlers. Our top-order is scoring some runs. Soumya batted well, Liton and Mushfiq did a good job. Overall, the top-order batsmen need to understand their role."

KL Rahul's batting at No 4 is big positive, not worried about Dhawan, Rohit's form, says Virat Kohli

India eased to a 95-run victory over Bangladesh in their final World Cup warm-up match on Tuesday after centuries from Lokesh Rahul and Mahendra Singh Dhoni helped them post a mammoth total of 359.

Bangladesh won the toss and opted to field first but, despite removing openers Shikhar Dhawan and Rohit Sharma cheaply, they failed to take advantage of bowler-friendly conditions in the morning session in Cardiff.

Indian skipper <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-mohammad-saifuddin-dismisses-virat-kohli-with-a-stunning-yorker-in-warm-up-match-222319&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjB9arZ_7_iAhWg73MBHaTtBg8QFjACegQIDxAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw1vcvyZuVlyuGvxono7scX6">Virat Kohli</a> scored 47 off 46 balls with five boundaries before Rahul and <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/indias-coach-ravi-shastri-on-ms-dhonis-presence-and-tough-english-conditions-220420&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjZgbuw_7_iAhVGOSsKHQ9sChYQFjAFegQIBhAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw2QLJj6_Zf7KWeSM3YKt_o7">Dhoni </a>added 164 runs in a fifth-wicket stand.

The partnership came to an end with the dismissal of Rahul, who finished with 108 off 99 balls with 12 fours and four sixes.

Rahul made the squad as a back-up opener but he is also competing for the number four spot alongside all-rounder Vijay Shankar and wicketkeeper-batsman Dinesh Karthik.

"The biggest positive from today was the way KL batted at number four. He is such a class player,"&nbsp;Kohli said.

<a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/tendulkar-says-ms-dhoni-best-suited-at-no-5-for-india-at-the-icc-cricket-world-cup-220855&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjZgbuw_7_iAhVGOSsKHQ9sChYQFjACegQIEBAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw3dH6cn6nWXT8DNcdAxm6PV">Former captain Dhoni</a> reached his century off 73 balls and went on to score 113 before losing his wicket to left-arm spinner Shakib Al Hasan in the final over.

All-rounder Hardik Pandya made a 21-run cameo to take the total to 359-7.

Bangladesh openers Liton Das and Soumya Sarkar made a steady start to the run chase before they were rattled by Jasprit Bumrah's double strike in the 10th over.

Sarkar was caught behind for 25 and Shakib perished to a perfect yorker for a first-ball duck.

Das (73) and Mushfiqur Rahim (90) offered some resistance with a 120-run partnership for the third wicket but they failed to step up the scoring rate against India's wrist spinning duo of Yuzvendra Chahal and Kuldeep Yadav in the middle overs.

Das was dismissed by Chahal in the 32nd over, triggering a batting collapse as Bangladesh went from 169-2 to 216-8.

Both Chahal and Yadav finished with three wickets each as Bangladesh were bowled out for 264.

Kohli was pleased with his bowling unit ahead of their tournament opener against South Africa on June 5.

"Bumrah got us the breakthrough and Chahal and Kuldeep got us six wickets," he said.

"In the second half (in the coming matches), the ball might turn a little bit but initially the ball will swing and seam, which will be the most important phase," Kohli said.

India eased to a 95-run victory over Bangladesh in their final World Cup warm-up match on Tuesday after centuries from Lokesh Rahul and Mahendra Singh Dhoni helped them post a mammoth total of 359.

India eased to a 95-run victory over Bangladesh in their final World Cup warm-up match on Tuesday after centuries from Lokesh Rahul and Mahendra Singh Dhoni helped them post a mammoth total of 359. Bangladesh won the toss and opted to field first but, despite removing openers Shikhar Dhawan and Rohit Sharma cheaply, they failed to take advantage of bowler-friendly conditions in the morning session in Cardiff. Indian skipper Virat Kohli scored 47 off 46 balls with five boundaries before Rahul and Dhoni added 164 runs in a fifth-wicket stand. The partnership came to an end with the dismissal of Rahul, who finished with 108 off 99 balls with 12 fours and four sixes. Rahul made the squad as a back-up opener but he is also competing for the number four spot alongside all-rounder Vijay Shankar and wicketkeeper-batsman Dinesh Karthik. "The biggest positive from today was the way KL batted at number four. He is such a class player," Kohli said. Former captain Dhoni reached his century off 73 balls and went on to score 113 before losing his wicket to left-arm spinner Shakib Al Hasan in the final over. All-rounder Hardik Pandya made a 21-run cameo to take the total to 359-7. Bangladesh openers Liton Das and Soumya Sarkar made a steady start to the run chase before they were rattled by Jasprit Bumrah's double strike in the 10th over. Sarkar was caught behind for 25 and Shakib perished to a perfect yorker for a first-ball duck. Das (73) and Mushfiqur Rahim (90) offered some resistance with a 120-run partnership for the third wicket but they failed to step up the scoring rate against India's wrist spinning duo of Yuzvendra Chahal and Kuldeep Yadav in the middle overs. Das was dismissed by Chahal in the 32nd over, triggering a batting collapse as Bangladesh went from 169-2 to 216-8. Both Chahal and Yadav finished with three wickets each as Bangladesh were bowled out for 264. Kohli was pleased with his bowling unit ahead of their tournament opener against South Africa on June 5. "Bumrah got us the breakthrough and Chahal and Kuldeep got us six wickets," he said. "In the second half (in the coming matches), the ball might turn a little bit but initially the ball will swing and seam, which will be the most important phase," Kohli said.

MS Dhoni, KL Rahul hit tons as India beat Bangladesh in World Cup warm-up

Sachin Tendulkar believes the quality of India's batting is sufficient to make up for the deficiency of left-handed batsmen in the lineup, the cricketing great told Reuters in a wide-ranging interview ahead of the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/search?q=cricket+world+cup">World Cup</a>.

A left-right batting competition is of significant value in modern one-day internationals but two-time champions India&nbsp;have only one frontline southpaw in opener Shikhar Dhawan.

Spin-bowling all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja could make that two if he is picked in the playing side, but Tendulkar is confident the team have enough firepower to overcome the shortage of left-handed batsmen.

"Ideally left-right combination is something which disturbs the bowler's line and length and also the captain has to readjust his fielding," Tendulkar, 46, said in an interview ahead of the World Cup, which starts in England on Thursday.

"But if you have good quality batters, which we do, then it really doesn't matter whether it is a left-hand right-hand combination. We have some solid batters who can deliver the punch."

With the experienced partnership of Rohit Sharma and Dhawan locked in as openers and captain Virat Kohli coming in at first drop, the 1983 and 2011 champions have a top order the rival of any in the game.

But they will go into this year's World Cup with a soft underbelly having failed to settle on a number four, with KL Rahul the favourite to fill the position after his century in Tuesday's practice match against Bangladesh.

Following next in the batting order will be veteran wicketkeeper-batsman Mahendra Singh Dhoni, whose 341 ODI appearances makes him the most experienced player at this year's World Cup.

India's 2011 World Cup winning captain is considered the best finisher in contemporary cricket and his inputs from behind the stumps would be as important, said Tendulkar.

"It's important that someone who's standing behind the wickets has played for such a long time and has also led India and is in the best possible position to figure out what's happening off the surface," Tendulkar said.

"Whether the ball is stopping, bouncing, or skidding, whatever it is, he knows exactly how the ball is coming and he knows where the gaps are and how to close those gaps. His contribution and inputs are always going to be important.

"Other keepers also try and do the same thing but MS's experience is going to count a lot."

India boast of world's top-ranked ODI bowler in quick Jasprit Bumrah while wristspinners Kuldeep Yadav and Yuzvendra Chahal also feature in the top 10.

Tendulkar, who remains the only cricketer to score 100 centuries across formats, played six consecutive World Cups from 1992 and holds the records for most runs and centuries in the tournament's history.

He is confident India have a "complete" bowling attack to win their third 50-over title.

"We have someone like Bhuvneshwar (Kumar) who swings the ball, (Mohammed) Shami who is skiddy off the pitch, Bumrah who is the number one bowler in the world in this format," said Tendulkar, a member of India's 2011 World Cup triumph at home.

"We have someone like Chahal and Kuldeep who are wristspinners. So there is variety also in the middle overs. Ravindra Jadeja can keep things tight.

"And we have supporting bowlers in Hardik (Pandya), Vijay Shankar and Kedar Jadhav. So all in all a well-balanced bowling attack I would say."

2019 Edition

The World Cup returns to the 10-team format to maintain quality of the competition after featuring 14 in each of the last two editions.

The decision was criticised by former players and associate nations, who are upset at being denied the chance to rub shoulders with the top sides of the world.

"Ideally if it's called the World Cup then the world should be participating. We need to find ways to engage more teams yet keep that standard of playing high," Tendulkar said.

"It's not going to happen overnight. We need to find ways to do that. I will love to see more than 10 teams participating but also at the same time not compromise on the standard of playing.

"It's going to be a lengthy process. Lesser teams should get more exposure to get ready for big tournaments."

India suffered the ignominy of being eliminated in the opening round of the tournament in 2007 while 2019 hosts England met the same fate last time the showpiece event was held in Australia and New Zealand four years back.

But this year's format -- which will see all teams playing each other with the top four advancing to the semi-finals -- will ensure teams have a shot at redemption, according to Tendulkar.

"This format still gives you a chance to come back. You are not out even before you wake up," Tendulkar said.

Here is the complete fixture of Cricket World Cup 2019:
<img alt="ICC World Cup 2019" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="fd483eb7-56fe-42b5-9175-3d50880474cd" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/ICC%20World%20Cup%202019%20%281%29_6.jpg" />
"Sometimes it can be harsh. Since this is the World Cup, one would want to get another chance. If it's a bad day then you have time to recover and this format allows you to recover."

Sachin Tendulkar believes the quality of India's batting is sufficient to make up for the deficiency of left-handed batsmen in the lineup, the cricketing great told Reuters in a wide-ranging interview ahead of the World Cup.

Sachin Tendulkar believes the quality of India's batting is sufficient to make up for the deficiency of left-handed batsmen in the lineup, the cricketing great told Reuters in a wide-ranging interview ahead of the World Cup. A left-right batting competition is of significant value in modern one-day internationals but two-time champions India have only one frontline southpaw in opener Shikhar Dhawan. Spin-bowling all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja could make that two if he is picked in the playing side, but Tendulkar is confident the team have enough firepower to overcome the shortage of left-handed batsmen. "Ideally left-right combination is something which disturbs the bowler's line and length and also the captain has to readjust his fielding," Tendulkar, 46, said in an interview ahead of the World Cup, which starts in England on Thursday. "But if you have good quality batters, which we do, then it really doesn't matter whether it is a left-hand right-hand combination. We have some solid batters who can deliver the punch." With the experienced partnership of Rohit Sharma and Dhawan locked in as openers and captain Virat Kohli coming in at first drop, the 1983 and 2011 champions have a top order the rival of any in the game. But they will go into this year's World Cup with a soft underbelly having failed to settle on a number four, with KL Rahul the favourite to fill the position after his century in Tuesday's practice match against Bangladesh. Following next in the batting order will be veteran wicketkeeper-batsman Mahendra Singh Dhoni, whose 341 ODI appearances makes him the most experienced player at this year's World Cup. India's 2011 World Cup winning captain is considered the best finisher in contemporary cricket and his inputs from behind the stumps would be as important, said Tendulkar. "It's important that someone who's standing behind the wickets has played for such a long time and has also led India and is in the best possible position to figure out what's happening off the surface," Tendulkar said. "Whether the ball is stopping, bouncing, or skidding, whatever it is, he knows exactly how the ball is coming and he knows where the gaps are and how to close those gaps. His contribution and inputs are always going to be important. "Other keepers also try and do the same thing but MS's experience is going to count a lot." India boast of world's top-ranked ODI bowler in quick Jasprit Bumrah while wristspinners Kuldeep Yadav and Yuzvendra Chahal also feature in the top 10. Tendulkar, who remains the only cricketer to score 100 centuries across formats, played six consecutive World Cups from 1992 and holds the records for most runs and centuries in the tournament's history. He is confident India have a "complete" bowling attack to win their third 50-over title. "We have someone like Bhuvneshwar (Kumar) who swings the ball, (Mohammed) Shami who is skiddy off the pitch, Bumrah who is the number one bowler in the world in this format," said Tendulkar, a member of India's 2011 World Cup triumph at home. "We have someone like Chahal and Kuldeep who are wristspinners. So there is variety also in the middle overs. Ravindra Jadeja can keep things tight. "And we have supporting bowlers in Hardik (Pandya), Vijay Shankar and Kedar Jadhav. So all in all a well-balanced bowling attack I would say." 2019 Edition The World Cup returns to the 10-team format to maintain quality of the competition after featuring 14 in each of the last two editions. The decision was criticised by former players and associate nations, who are upset at being denied the chance to rub shoulders with the top sides of the world. "Ideally if it's called the World Cup then the world should be participating. We need to find ways to engage more teams yet keep that standard of playing high," Tendulkar said. "It's not going to happen overnight. We need to find ways to do that. I will love to see more than 10 teams participating but also at the same time not compromise on the standard of playing. "It's going to be a lengthy process. Lesser teams should get more exposure to get ready for big tournaments." India suffered the ignominy of being eliminated in the opening round of the tournament in 2007 while 2019 hosts England met the same fate last time the showpiece event was held in Australia and New Zealand four years back. But this year's format -- which will see all teams playing each other with the top four advancing to the semi-finals -- will ensure teams have a shot at redemption, according to Tendulkar. "This format still gives you a chance to come back. You are not out even before you wake up," Tendulkar said. Here is the complete fixture of Cricket World Cup 2019: "Sometimes it can be harsh. Since this is the World Cup, one would want to get another chance. If it's a bad day then you have time to recover and this format allows you to recover."

Southpaw shortage not a concern for India's batting: Sachin Tendulkar

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ms-dhoni-kl-rahul-hit-tons-as-india-beat-bangladesh-in-world-cup-warm-up-222416">KL Rahul's century</a> in Tuesday's warm-up match against Bangladesh suggested he could be the answer to India's search for a reliable number four batsman at the World Cup but the right-hander says he is happy to bat anywhere.

Two-time champions India continue to fret over the problematic batting position after a number of candidates failed their auditions in the buildup to the World Cup.

Chief selector MSK Prasad had made it clear that all-rounder Vijay Shankar was the first choice for the spot while Rahul, generally an opening batsman, was another option.

Batting at number four, Rahul managed only six in Saturday's warm-up match against New Zealand but followed it up with 108 off 99 balls in their 95-run victory in Cardiff.

Rahul's assured innings, which included 12 boundaries and four sixes, seems to have sealed the deal with Indian captain <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-mohammad-saifuddin-dismisses-virat-kohli-with-a-stunning-yorker-in-warm-up-match-222319">Virat Kohli</a> saying his contribution was the "biggest positive" from the game.

Here is the complete fixture of Cricket World Cup 2019:
<img alt="ICC World Cup 2019" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="2d3b2740-508d-4294-9381-5e07fe915b6f" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/ICC%20World%20Cup%202019%20%281%29_3.jpg" />
"I'm really happy with how I've bounced back and this gives me lots of confidence," Rahul told reporters after the game.

"Where I play is not for me to decide. It's a team game and you need to be flexible. You need to be ready to bat, whatever role you are given, you have to take what is thrown at you," Rahul said.

Rahul built a 164-run partnership for the fifth wicket with wicketkeeper Mahendra Singh Dhoni, who scored a century of his own, to give India a commanding total of 359.

"(Dhoni) just dominated the spinners and is striking the ball so well. It's a great sign for us and it's just a pleasure to watch him from the other end when he is playing like that," Rahul added.

India begin their quest for a third World Cup title on June 5 when they take on South Africa at The Rose Bowl. 
&nbsp;

KL Rahul's century in Tuesday's warm-up match against Bangladesh suggested he could be the answer to India's search for a reliable number four batsman at the World Cup but the right-hander says he is happy to bat anywhere.

KL Rahul's century in Tuesday's warm-up match against Bangladesh suggested he could be the answer to India's search for a reliable number four batsman at the World Cup but the right-hander says he is happy to bat anywhere. Two-time champions India continue to fret over the problematic batting position after a number of candidates failed their auditions in the buildup to the World Cup. Chief selector MSK Prasad had made it clear that all-rounder Vijay Shankar was the first choice for the spot while Rahul, generally an opening batsman, was another option. Batting at number four, Rahul managed only six in Saturday's warm-up match against New Zealand but followed it up with 108 off 99 balls in their 95-run victory in Cardiff. Rahul's assured innings, which included 12 boundaries and four sixes, seems to have sealed the deal with Indian captain Virat Kohli saying his contribution was the "biggest positive" from the game. Here is the complete fixture of Cricket World Cup 2019: "I'm really happy with how I've bounced back and this gives me lots of confidence," Rahul told reporters after the game. "Where I play is not for me to decide. It's a team game and you need to be flexible. You need to be ready to bat, whatever role you are given, you have to take what is thrown at you," Rahul said. Rahul built a 164-run partnership for the fifth wicket with wicketkeeper Mahendra Singh Dhoni, who scored a century of his own, to give India a commanding total of 359. "(Dhoni) just dominated the spinners and is striking the ball so well. It's a great sign for us and it's just a pleasure to watch him from the other end when he is playing like that," Rahul added. India begin their quest for a third World Cup title on June 5 when they take on South Africa at The Rose Bowl.

KL Rahul answers India's number four conundrum for World Cup with Cardiff ton

Before leaving for the Cricket World Cup 2019, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohli-on-indias-plans-for-cricket-world-cup-2019-220402">Indian team captain Virat Kohli</a> said that there ain't a&nbsp;bigger motivation that Indian Army after the former Indian cricketer Mohinder Amarnath had motivated the Indian cricketers to play the World Cup this year for the armed forces.&nbsp;

On being asked in this regard, Kohli said, "You get motivation from several sources. There's no bigger motivation than the Indian Army.

"If you want to dedicate it to the army, there can't be anything better," Kohli added.&nbsp;

"If we go in with that motivation that we can do something for the Army, you will see a different level of passion coming out of us. But that also depends on a lot of other factors. Every individual has a different motivation while playing in the World Cup.

"I think if everyone keeps the Indian Army in mind then we will get an extra boost from it," Virat Kohli added.&nbsp;

Indian will play two&nbsp;warm-up matches against New Zealand and Bangladesh on May 25 and May 28 respectively before&nbsp;starting their campaign against South Africa on June 5.&nbsp;

Recently, during the India-Australia series, the Indian cricket team paid tribute to Indian Army in the third ODI match&nbsp;after the ghastly Pulwama attack that killed over&nbsp;40 CRPF soldiers.&nbsp;

They also decided to contribute their match fees from that game to the National Defence Fund.&nbsp;

Even in the recently concluded Indian Premier League 2019,&nbsp;BCCI's contributed the entire budget earmarked for the league's opening ceremony to the funds of the Indian armed forces and Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF).

The BCCI has contributed a sum of Rs 20 crore.

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Despite the fourth-place-batsman conundrum, the Indian team boast of a strong batting unit in the presence of openers Rohit Sharma and Shikhar Dhawan along with Kohli, Dinesh Karthik, MS Dhoni and Hardik Pandya to follow.&nbsp;

Before leaving for the Cricket World Cup 2019, Indian team captain Virat Kohli said that there ain't a bigger motivation that Indian Army after the former Indian cricketer Mohinder Amarnath had motivated the Indian cricketers to play the World Cup this year for the armed forces.

Before leaving for the Cricket World Cup 2019, Indian team captain Virat Kohli said that there ain't a bigger motivation that Indian Army after the former Indian cricketer Mohinder Amarnath had motivated the Indian cricketers to play the World Cup this year for the armed forces. On being asked in this regard, Kohli said, "You get motivation from several sources. There's no bigger motivation than the Indian Army. "If you want to dedicate it to the army, there can't be anything better," Kohli added. "If we go in with that motivation that we can do something for the Army, you will see a different level of passion coming out of us. But that also depends on a lot of other factors. Every individual has a different motivation while playing in the World Cup. "I think if everyone keeps the Indian Army in mind then we will get an extra boost from it," Virat Kohli added. Indian will play two warm-up matches against New Zealand and Bangladesh on May 25 and May 28 respectively before starting their campaign against South Africa on June 5. Recently, during the India-Australia series, the Indian cricket team paid tribute to Indian Army in the third ODI match after the ghastly Pulwama attack that killed over 40 CRPF soldiers. They also decided to contribute their match fees from that game to the National Defence Fund. Even in the recently concluded Indian Premier League 2019, BCCI's contributed the entire budget earmarked for the league's opening ceremony to the funds of the Indian armed forces and Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF). The BCCI has contributed a sum of Rs 20 crore. × Despite the fourth-place-batsman conundrum, the Indian team boast of a strong batting unit in the presence of openers Rohit Sharma and Shikhar Dhawan along with Kohli, Dinesh Karthik, MS Dhoni and Hardik Pandya to follow.

'There's no bigger motivation than Indian Army,' says Virat Kohli ahead of Cricket World Cup 2019

India captain&nbsp;Virat&nbsp;Kohli said on Thursday it was a "big compliment" to be a target wicket for England newcomer Jofra Archer at the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/search?q=cricket+world+cup">upcoming World Cup</a>.

Barbados-born fast bowler Archer, who has impressed in the Indian Premier League, was included in England's 15-man squad for the tournament despite having played just three one-day internationals.&nbsp;

The 24-year-old Sussex quick, capable of bowling at 90 miles-an-hour (145 kmh), celebrated his inclusion by setting his sights on dismissing Kohli, long one of the world's leading batsmen, during the competition. &nbsp;

"I'd quite like to get&nbsp;Virat&nbsp;Kohli out because I wasn't able to in the IPL," Archer, who only qualified for England in March, told Sky Sports.

Kohli, who had been told of Archer's comments at a captains' press conference in London on Thursday, said: "That's news to me, news to Morgs (England skipper Eoin Morgan) as well. I don't really focus on these things.

"I take a lot of pride in performing well for the team and making a big impact on each game I play, so if Jofra said that it's a big compliment as he himself is a world-class bowler."

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'Intimidating'

Kohli added: "And the way he has come through in the IPL over the last couple of years, I have seen him and he's played all around the world and done well so there's a good reason why he's been fast-tracked into playing for England in a tournament like the World Cup.

"I think he's going to be the X-factor because he has all the skill-sets and he's very different from anyone else.

"He can generate a lot of pace, which can be intimidating, and you don't really expect that from his run-up."

England have climbed to the top of the ODI rankings since their humiliating group-stage exit at the 2015 World Cup and are threatening the smash the 500-run barrier, once considered all but impossible in 50 overs.

But Kohli predicted that some World Cup matches would be low-scoring affairs.&nbsp;

"They (England) seem to be obsessed with getting to 500 before anyone else," he said. "They smash it from ball one and for the full 50 overs."

"It could be pretty high scoring, but 260-270 is going to be as difficult to get as chasing 370, 380 in a World Cup," he added.

"When you get closer to the knockout phase that is going to bring greater pressure and no-one is going to go gung-ho from ball one," he said.

"Generally teams will find a way but I see pressure playing a massive role."

England launch the World Cup against South Africa at The Oval on May 30.

With all 10 teams playing each other in the group phase, England are scheduled to play India at Edgbaston on June 30.

India captain Virat Kohli said on Thursday it was a "big compliment" to be a target wicket for England newcomer Jofra Archer at the upcoming World Cup. Barbados-born fast bowler Archer, who has impressed in the Indian Premier League, was included in England's 15-man squad for the tournament despite having played just three one-day internationals.

India captain Virat Kohli said on Thursday it was a "big compliment" to be a target wicket for England newcomer Jofra Archer at the upcoming World Cup. Barbados-born fast bowler Archer, who has impressed in the Indian Premier League, was included in England's 15-man squad for the tournament despite having played just three one-day internationals. The 24-year-old Sussex quick, capable of bowling at 90 miles-an-hour (145 kmh), celebrated his inclusion by setting his sights on dismissing Kohli, long one of the world's leading batsmen, during the competition. "I'd quite like to get Virat Kohli out because I wasn't able to in the IPL," Archer, who only qualified for England in March, told Sky Sports. Kohli, who had been told of Archer's comments at a captains' press conference in London on Thursday, said: "That's news to me, news to Morgs (England skipper Eoin Morgan) as well. I don't really focus on these things. "I take a lot of pride in performing well for the team and making a big impact on each game I play, so if Jofra said that it's a big compliment as he himself is a world-class bowler." × 'Intimidating' Kohli added: "And the way he has come through in the IPL over the last couple of years, I have seen him and he's played all around the world and done well so there's a good reason why he's been fast-tracked into playing for England in a tournament like the World Cup. "I think he's going to be the X-factor because he has all the skill-sets and he's very different from anyone else. "He can generate a lot of pace, which can be intimidating, and you don't really expect that from his run-up." England have climbed to the top of the ODI rankings since their humiliating group-stage exit at the 2015 World Cup and are threatening the smash the 500-run barrier, once considered all but impossible in 50 overs. But Kohli predicted that some World Cup matches would be low-scoring affairs. "They (England) seem to be obsessed with getting to 500 before anyone else," he said. "They smash it from ball one and for the full 50 overs." "It could be pretty high scoring, but 260-270 is going to be as difficult to get as chasing 370, 380 in a World Cup," he added. "When you get closer to the knockout phase that is going to bring greater pressure and no-one is going to go gung-ho from ball one," he said. "Generally teams will find a way but I see pressure playing a massive role." England launch the World Cup against South Africa at The Oval on May 30. With all 10 teams playing each other in the group phase, England are scheduled to play India at Edgbaston on June 30.

Virat Kohli honoured to be World Cup target for 'X-factor' Jofra Archer

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/indias-coach-ravi-shastri-on-ms-dhonis-presence-and-tough-english-conditions-220420">India </a>need to space out their experienced batsmen at the World Cup in England and veteran Mahendra Singh Dhoni is best suited at number five, according to batting great Sachin Tendulkar.

Skipper Virat Kohli joins openers Shikhar Dhawan and Rohit Sharma to complete India's stable top three while all-rounder <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/how-i-prepare-myself-for-world-cup-will-be-real-challenge-for-me-vijay-shankar-219589">Vijay Shankar</a> is set to bat at number four in the earlier games.

Having Dhoni, whose 341 ODI appearances makes him the most experienced player at this year's World Cup, at number five would ensure the former India captain could nudge along before exploding in the final overs, believes <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/sachin-tendulkar-says-jasprit-bumrah-is-the-best-bowler-at-this-stage-218294&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjQi-bjhbHiAhXM_XMBHT6qBvAQFjACegQIDhAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw2F5wk0k7uAwWI_lkpFFqMM">Tendulkar</a>.

"My personal opinion is Dhoni should be batting (at) five," Tendulkar, part of the Dhoni-led squad who won the 2011 World Cup on home soil, told ESPNcricinfo.

"I still don't know what the team combination would be, but if you are going Rohit and Shikhar as openers, to <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohli-on-indias-plans-for-cricket-world-cup-2019-220402">Virat at No. 3</a> and whoever at No. 4 then Dhoni could be No. 5. Then Hardik Pandya, an explosive player, follows them'', Tendulkar said.

"That way the experienced batsmen are well spaced out and <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/kohli-needs-ms-dhoni-in-2019-world-cup-says-sunil-gavaskar-174415&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjV4u2DhrHiAhWKPo8KHdLkDsU4ChAWMAN6BAgOEAI&amp;usg=AOvVaw1mpLLYAel5FcZKB5KiPtPD">Dhoni </a>can stretch the game towards the end where he himself can be explosive along with Hardik. From No 5-8 you are looking at finishers, who stay till the end and soak in that pressure. I feel we are well equipped to do that", he added.

Dhawan is the lone left-hander in India's strong batting lineup and Tendulkar said the opener must bat deep into the matches to help dominate the bowlers, especially the leg-spinners.

"A left-right combination always helps because that means the bowler has to adjust his line every now and then and the (bowling) captain has also to keep thinking," said Tendulkar, who remains the only cricketer with 100 international centuries against his name'', Sachin said.

"And if there is a partnership, the job becomes even tougher. So, yes, it is important for a left-hander to be there to put pressure on the legspinner or for that matter any bowler", Sachin added.

England's home series against Pakistan has convinced Tendulkar that it would be a high-scoring World Cup played on flat tracks and with two new balls which negate reverse swing.

"I believe if you have quality spinners to bowl in the middle overs they would end up picking wickets'', Tendulkar said.

"It is all about bowling in partnerships - if quality bowlers could bowl in tandem and create pressure on the batting line-up, that is one way of countering all these factors (that) I feel are not in favour of the bowlers", Tendulkar concluded.

India need to space out their experienced batsmen at the World Cup in England and veteran Mahendra Singh Dhoni is best suited at number five, according to batting great Sachin Tendulkar.

India need to space out their experienced batsmen at the World Cup in England and veteran Mahendra Singh Dhoni is best suited at number five, according to batting great Sachin Tendulkar. Skipper Virat Kohli joins openers Shikhar Dhawan and Rohit Sharma to complete India's stable top three while all-rounder Vijay Shankar is set to bat at number four in the earlier games. Having Dhoni, whose 341 ODI appearances makes him the most experienced player at this year's World Cup, at number five would ensure the former India captain could nudge along before exploding in the final overs, believes Tendulkar. "My personal opinion is Dhoni should be batting (at) five," Tendulkar, part of the Dhoni-led squad who won the 2011 World Cup on home soil, told ESPNcricinfo. "I still don't know what the team combination would be, but if you are going Rohit and Shikhar as openers, to Virat at No. 3 and whoever at No. 4 then Dhoni could be No. 5. Then Hardik Pandya, an explosive player, follows them'', Tendulkar said. "That way the experienced batsmen are well spaced out and Dhoni can stretch the game towards the end where he himself can be explosive along with Hardik. From No 5-8 you are looking at finishers, who stay till the end and soak in that pressure. I feel we are well equipped to do that", he added. Dhawan is the lone left-hander in India's strong batting lineup and Tendulkar said the opener must bat deep into the matches to help dominate the bowlers, especially the leg-spinners. "A left-right combination always helps because that means the bowler has to adjust his line every now and then and the (bowling) captain has also to keep thinking," said Tendulkar, who remains the only cricketer with 100 international centuries against his name'', Sachin said. "And if there is a partnership, the job becomes even tougher. So, yes, it is important for a left-hander to be there to put pressure on the legspinner or for that matter any bowler", Sachin added. England's home series against Pakistan has convinced Tendulkar that it would be a high-scoring World Cup played on flat tracks and with two new balls which negate reverse swing. "I believe if you have quality spinners to bowl in the middle overs they would end up picking wickets'', Tendulkar said. "It is all about bowling in partnerships - if quality bowlers could bowl in tandem and create pressure on the batting line-up, that is one way of countering all these factors (that) I feel are not in favour of the bowlers", Tendulkar concluded.

Sachin Tendulkar says, MS Dhoni best suited at No 5 for India at the Cricket World Cup 2019

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/indias-coach-ravi-shastri-on-ms-dhonis-presence-and-tough-english-conditions-220420">Team India</a> has&nbsp;arrived in London to participate in the International Cricket Council (ICC) Men's Cricket World Cup, beginning May 30.

Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) shared the picture of the team and staff on Twitter with a caption, reading, "Touchdown London #TeamIndia".

Ahead of the World Cup, warm-up matches will take place.

Each team will get an opportunity to play two games.

India will face New Zealand on May 25 in its first warm-up followed by a match against Bangladesh on May 28.

At a pre-departure press conference held at the BCCI headquarters in Mumbai on Tuesday, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/theres-no-bigger-motivation-than-indian-army-virat-kohli-ahead-of-cricket-world-cup-2019-220427">Kohli </a>opined that they are entering in the tournament with a balanced and a strong side.

"We are going into the World Cup as a balanced and strong side. You saw in the IPL as well. All the players in the squad are in great form and playing really well. I think from that point of view, we just expect ourselves to play the best cricket we can," the Indian captain said.

All the 10 teams will face each other in a Round Robin format.

Calling it the most challenging World Cup, Kohli said, "It`s the most challenging one of all three that I've been part of because of the format. Looking at the strength of all the sides as well. If you look at Afghanistan from 2015 to now, they are completely different side. Any team can upset anyone on their given day. That's one thing we have in our mind."

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Following is India's&nbsp;15-man squad: 

Virat Kohli (c), Rohit Sharma (vc), Shikhar Dhawan, KL Rahul, Vijay Shankar, MS Dhoni (wk), Kedar Jadhav, Dinesh Kartik, Yuzvendra Chahal, Kuldeep Yadav, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Jasprit Bumrah, Hardik Pandya, Ravindra Jadeja, Mohammad Shami.

India will kick-off its World Cup campaign against South Africa at Hampshire Bowl. Southampton on June 5.

Team India has arrived in London to participate in the International Cricket Council (ICC) Men's Cricket World Cup, beginning May 30. Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) shared the picture of the team and staff on Twitter with a caption, reading, "Touchdown London #TeamIndia".

Team India has arrived in London to participate in the International Cricket Council (ICC) Men's Cricket World Cup, beginning May 30. Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) shared the picture of the team and staff on Twitter with a caption, reading, "Touchdown London #TeamIndia". Ahead of the World Cup, warm-up matches will take place. Each team will get an opportunity to play two games. India will face New Zealand on May 25 in its first warm-up followed by a match against Bangladesh on May 28. At a pre-departure press conference held at the BCCI headquarters in Mumbai on Tuesday, Kohli opined that they are entering in the tournament with a balanced and a strong side. "We are going into the World Cup as a balanced and strong side. You saw in the IPL as well. All the players in the squad are in great form and playing really well. I think from that point of view, we just expect ourselves to play the best cricket we can," the Indian captain said. All the 10 teams will face each other in a Round Robin format. Calling it the most challenging World Cup, Kohli said, "It`s the most challenging one of all three that I've been part of because of the format. Looking at the strength of all the sides as well. If you look at Afghanistan from 2015 to now, they are completely different side. Any team can upset anyone on their given day. That's one thing we have in our mind." Touchdown London #TeamIndia pic.twitter.com/mWihuGrnjw — BCCI (@BCCI) May 22, 2019 × Following is India's 15-man squad: Virat Kohli (c), Rohit Sharma (vc), Shikhar Dhawan, KL Rahul, Vijay Shankar, MS Dhoni (wk), Kedar Jadhav, Dinesh Kartik, Yuzvendra Chahal, Kuldeep Yadav, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Jasprit Bumrah, Hardik Pandya, Ravindra Jadeja, Mohammad Shami. India will kick-off its World Cup campaign against South Africa at Hampshire Bowl. Southampton on June 5.

Team India arrives in London ahead of the ICC World Cup

Stacking up staggering numbers with monotonic regularity may have become a day job for <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohli-on-indias-plans-for-cricket-world-cup-2019-220402">Virat Kohli</a>, but he can in "no way" win a World Cup without support from his teammates, feels <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/sachin-tendulkar-says-jasprit-bumrah-is-the-best-bowler-at-this-stage-218294">Sachin Tendulkar</a>.

In an exclusive interview with the PTI, Tendulkar spoke about a range of topics including Kuldeep Yadav and Yuzvendra Chahal's role, the contentious No. 4 slot and how flat pitches in England are taking bowlers out of the equation.

"I think you will always have a couple of individuals stepping up every game but without team support, you can't do much. Just because of one individual, you can't win a tournament. No way. Unless others chip in at every crucial stage. If that doesn't happen, there will be a disappointment," Tendulkar said when asked if Kohli will carry the same burden as he did, specifically during 1996, 1999 and 2003 editions.

Tendulkar is hardly worried that India doesn't have a settled No. 4, saying the slot can be kept flexible as per requirement and match situation.

"I think we have batsmen, who can do the job. Number four is just a number and it can be adjusted. I particularly don't see No 4 as a problem. Our boys have played enough cricket to know their roles whether it is No 4, 6 or 8. Situational awareness is the key," the world's highest run-getter in Tests and ODIs said.

However, Tendulkar is not entirely happy with how the balance of ODIs is skewed towards batsmen, taking bowlers out of the equation in white ball cricket with every passing day.

"It's become one-sided with the introduction of two new balls and flat pitches have made lives of bowlers much more difficult. One team is scoring 350 and the other is chasing down inside 45 overs," Tendulkar said in reference to recent England versus Pakistan series where bowlers had a nightmarish time.

What Tendulkar finds even more disappointing is that reverse swing had been taken out of the equation with two new balls.

"The ball is staying hard. I mean when was the last time you saw a reverse swing in ODIs?" questioned the iconic batsman.

"When we played and there was one new ball, it would start reversing from 28th or 30th over. Some teams could get it to reverse even earlier. At the death, the ball would go soft, even get discoloured. These were challenges that batsmen faced. But now the ball remains hard and the bats are getting better," lamented Tendulkar, who played six World Cups.

Quality of the balls (white kookaburra in question) has also become a factor, felt Tendulkar, who sees no lateral movement on flat tracks to challenge the batsmen.

What's the solution then? He responded,&nbsp;"I think some thought needs to go into this. Either prepare helpful tracks if you have two new balls so that there is some help up front. Or else go back to the old one new ball system which aids reverse swing. Whatever but do something for the bowlers."

According to him, wrist spinners are the one breed of bowlers who will do well, and India have two in Kuldeep and Chahal.

The Australians read the duo quite well during the home series in India but the maestro said that it won't matter much in England.

"Let's understand this. There are a number of bowlers who have been read well by batters but yet they end up getting a lot of wickets. So Kuldeep and Chahal shouldn't be too worried about Australia series," he said, adding both will play a massive role during the middle overs.

"Agreed the Aussies read them well but does that mean they wouldn't be committing mistakes or can't be forced to commit mistakes."

For Tendulkar, the perfect example was Muttiah Muralitharan.

"Murali basically bowled two deliveries - traditional off-breaks and doosra. It's not that batsmen never read Murali but he still ended up getting wickets," the 46-year-old said.

"There is a thing called error in judgement and that can happen with best of batsmen. You may think the ball would turn four inches but there is eight-inch turn. The distance between middling the ball and edging it is a mere deviation of fewer than two inches. Even when you know that an outswinger had been bowled, you still edge it," he said.

What Tendulkar liked about the composition of the World Cup-bound India team is the blend of youth and experience.

"There is a good balance in the side. We have a number of guys with 8-10 years of experience and at the same time, we have talented youngsters like Kuldeep, Rahul, Chahal, Hardik (Pandya) and Jasprit (Bumrah) with a couple of years of international cricket. So it's a perfect blend with all the makings of a wonderful team. I rate our chances very high," concluded Tendulkar.&nbsp;

Stacking up staggering numbers with monotonic regularity may have become a day job for Virat Kohli, but he can in "no way" win a World Cup without support from his teammates, feels Sachin Tendulkar.

Stacking up staggering numbers with monotonic regularity may have become a day job for Virat Kohli, but he can in "no way" win a World Cup without support from his teammates, feels Sachin Tendulkar. In an exclusive interview with the PTI, Tendulkar spoke about a range of topics including Kuldeep Yadav and Yuzvendra Chahal's role, the contentious No. 4 slot and how flat pitches in England are taking bowlers out of the equation. "I think you will always have a couple of individuals stepping up every game but without team support, you can't do much. Just because of one individual, you can't win a tournament. No way. Unless others chip in at every crucial stage. If that doesn't happen, there will be a disappointment," Tendulkar said when asked if Kohli will carry the same burden as he did, specifically during 1996, 1999 and 2003 editions. Tendulkar is hardly worried that India doesn't have a settled No. 4, saying the slot can be kept flexible as per requirement and match situation. "I think we have batsmen, who can do the job. Number four is just a number and it can be adjusted. I particularly don't see No 4 as a problem. Our boys have played enough cricket to know their roles whether it is No 4, 6 or 8. Situational awareness is the key," the world's highest run-getter in Tests and ODIs said. However, Tendulkar is not entirely happy with how the balance of ODIs is skewed towards batsmen, taking bowlers out of the equation in white ball cricket with every passing day. "It's become one-sided with the introduction of two new balls and flat pitches have made lives of bowlers much more difficult. One team is scoring 350 and the other is chasing down inside 45 overs," Tendulkar said in reference to recent England versus Pakistan series where bowlers had a nightmarish time. What Tendulkar finds even more disappointing is that reverse swing had been taken out of the equation with two new balls. "The ball is staying hard. I mean when was the last time you saw a reverse swing in ODIs?" questioned the iconic batsman. "When we played and there was one new ball, it would start reversing from 28th or 30th over. Some teams could get it to reverse even earlier. At the death, the ball would go soft, even get discoloured. These were challenges that batsmen faced. But now the ball remains hard and the bats are getting better," lamented Tendulkar, who played six World Cups. Quality of the balls (white kookaburra in question) has also become a factor, felt Tendulkar, who sees no lateral movement on flat tracks to challenge the batsmen. What's the solution then? He responded, "I think some thought needs to go into this. Either prepare helpful tracks if you have two new balls so that there is some help up front. Or else go back to the old one new ball system which aids reverse swing. Whatever but do something for the bowlers." According to him, wrist spinners are the one breed of bowlers who will do well, and India have two in Kuldeep and Chahal. The Australians read the duo quite well during the home series in India but the maestro said that it won't matter much in England. "Let's understand this. There are a number of bowlers who have been read well by batters but yet they end up getting a lot of wickets. So Kuldeep and Chahal shouldn't be too worried about Australia series," he said, adding both will play a massive role during the middle overs. "Agreed the Aussies read them well but does that mean they wouldn't be committing mistakes or can't be forced to commit mistakes." For Tendulkar, the perfect example was Muttiah Muralitharan. "Murali basically bowled two deliveries - traditional off-breaks and doosra. It's not that batsmen never read Murali but he still ended up getting wickets," the 46-year-old said. "There is a thing called error in judgement and that can happen with best of batsmen. You may think the ball would turn four inches but there is eight-inch turn. The distance between middling the ball and edging it is a mere deviation of fewer than two inches. Even when you know that an outswinger had been bowled, you still edge it," he said. What Tendulkar liked about the composition of the World Cup-bound India team is the blend of youth and experience. "There is a good balance in the side. We have a number of guys with 8-10 years of experience and at the same time, we have talented youngsters like Kuldeep, Rahul, Chahal, Hardik (Pandya) and Jasprit (Bumrah) with a couple of years of international cricket. So it's a perfect blend with all the makings of a wonderful team. I rate our chances very high," concluded Tendulkar.

Virat alone can't win World Cup, others will need to step up: Sachin Tendulkar 

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/icc-world-cup-2019-all-teams-and-their-squad-list-211495#india-211481">Indian cricket team</a> captain Virat Kohli and the head coach Ravi Shastri addressed a press conference before leaving for the World Cup,&nbsp;which is scheduled to kick off from May 30.&nbsp;

During the press conference, Kohli said, "Handling pressure is the most important thing in the World Cup and not necessarily the conditions. All our bowlers are fresh, no one looks fatigued."

"I think the only expectation we have is to play really good cricket and that's been our focus," Kohli added.&nbsp;

"The team has been together for past four-five years and bowled together as unit. All players complement each other and can adjust accordingly," said Kohli on the Indian squad.&nbsp;

The skipper also reflected his thoughts on England's pitches.&nbsp;

"Our mantra is to be flexible in the last 10 overs, pitches are going to be flat but overcast conditions will also have to be taken into consideration. It will also depend on venue to venue, so you have to be prepared for that and be flexible," Kohli said.&nbsp;

On the other hand, coach Ravi Shastri said, "World Cup might be a stage but the stage is to be enjoyed, if we play to our potential then the Cup might be back here."

On the changed format of the World Cup, Shastri said, "Format is also challenging, the gap between team is also very close. It's a very strong competition. It will be fantastic. The plus side is you have nine games."

"It's a strong competition, even Bangladesh and Afghanistan are much stronger than in 2015," Shastri added.&nbsp;

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On MS Dhoni, Shastri said, "He has a massive role. There is no one better than him in this format especially in those little moments which can change the game. He will be a big player in this World Cup."

Indian will play two&nbsp;warm-up matches against New Zealand and Bangladesh on May 25 and May 28 respectively before&nbsp;starting their campaign against South Africa on June 6.&nbsp;

Despite the fourth-place-batsman conundrum, the Indian team boast of a strong batting unit in the presence of openers Rohit Sharma and Shikhar Dhawan along with Kohli, Dinesh Karthik, MS Dhoni and Hardik Pandya to follow.&nbsp;

<img alt="Team Indian World Cup squad" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="0a623d9f-9a07-49c1-add9-b2b2f70210eb" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/India%2011.jpg" />

The BCCI Selection Committee added KL Rahul and Vijay Shankar and it is expected that they might be considered for the number four spot.&nbsp;

MS Dhoni and Dinesh Karthik are the two wicketkeepers the management has picked.&nbsp;

Kedar Jadhav, Hardik Pandya and Ravindra Jadeja are the three all-rounders of Team India.&nbsp;

Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Shami, Bhuvneshwar Kumar are the three crucial pacers for the side. Kuldeep Yadav and Yuzvendra Chahal were included as specialist spinners.&nbsp;

Indian cricket team captain Virat Kohli and the head coach Ravi Shastri addressed a press conference before leaving for the World Cup, which is scheduled to kick off from May 30.

Indian cricket team captain Virat Kohli and the head coach Ravi Shastri addressed a press conference before leaving for the World Cup, which is scheduled to kick off from May 30. During the press conference, Kohli said, "Handling pressure is the most important thing in the World Cup and not necessarily the conditions. All our bowlers are fresh, no one looks fatigued." "I think the only expectation we have is to play really good cricket and that's been our focus," Kohli added. "The team has been together for past four-five years and bowled together as unit. All players complement each other and can adjust accordingly," said Kohli on the Indian squad. The skipper also reflected his thoughts on England's pitches. "Our mantra is to be flexible in the last 10 overs, pitches are going to be flat but overcast conditions will also have to be taken into consideration. It will also depend on venue to venue, so you have to be prepared for that and be flexible," Kohli said. On the other hand, coach Ravi Shastri said, "World Cup might be a stage but the stage is to be enjoyed, if we play to our potential then the Cup might be back here." On the changed format of the World Cup, Shastri said, "Format is also challenging, the gap between team is also very close. It's a very strong competition. It will be fantastic. The plus side is you have nine games." "It's a strong competition, even Bangladesh and Afghanistan are much stronger than in 2015," Shastri added. × On MS Dhoni, Shastri said, "He has a massive role. There is no one better than him in this format especially in those little moments which can change the game. He will be a big player in this World Cup." Indian will play two warm-up matches against New Zealand and Bangladesh on May 25 and May 28 respectively before starting their campaign against South Africa on June 6. Despite the fourth-place-batsman conundrum, the Indian team boast of a strong batting unit in the presence of openers Rohit Sharma and Shikhar Dhawan along with Kohli, Dinesh Karthik, MS Dhoni and Hardik Pandya to follow. The BCCI Selection Committee added KL Rahul and Vijay Shankar and it is expected that they might be considered for the number four spot. MS Dhoni and Dinesh Karthik are the two wicketkeepers the management has picked. Kedar Jadhav, Hardik Pandya and Ravindra Jadeja are the three all-rounders of Team India. Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Shami, Bhuvneshwar Kumar are the three crucial pacers for the side. Kuldeep Yadav and Yuzvendra Chahal were included as specialist spinners.

Virat Kohli: No fatigue due to IPL, World Cup conditions not a challenge

Major takeaways from Virat Kohli and Ravi Shastri's press conference ahead of Cricket World Cup 2019

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-general-elections-2019/this-is-nonsense-says-supreme-court-dismissing-pil-seeking-100-vvpat-verification-220408">'This is nonsense,' says Supreme Court dismissing PIL seeking 100% VVPAT verification</a> 
 
A vacation bench headed by Justice Arun Mishra refused to entertain the plea, saying that a larger bench headed by Chief Justice Ranjan Gogoi had already dealt with the matter and passed an order.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/theres-no-bigger-motivation-than-indian-army-virat-kohli-ahead-of-cricket-world-cup-2019-220427">'There's no bigger motivation than Indian Army,' says Virat Kohli ahead of Cricket World Cup 2019</a> 
 
'If we go in with that motivation that we can do something for the Army, you will see a different level of passion coming out of us,' said Kohli

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/huawei-accuses-us-of-bullying-says-working-with-google-to-counter-ban-220421">Huawei accuses US of bullying, says working with Google to counter ban</a> 
 
The US government said it imposed the restrictions because of Huawei's involvement in activities contrary to national security or foreign policy interests.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-general-elections-2019/reports-of-alleged-evm-tampering-are-absolutely-false-election-commission-220417">Reports of alleged EVM tampering are 'absolutely false': Election Commission</a> 
 
The top poll body also stated that any lapse in the handling of reserve EVMs will be investigated and action will be taken against those responsible.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-amit-shah-meet-union-ministers-thank-them-for-service-to-nation-220445">PM Modi, Amit Shah meet Union ministers, thank them for 'service to nation'</a> 
 
Union ministers Rajnath Singh, Nitin Gadkari, Arun Jaitley, JP Nadda and Prakash Javadekar were among the key leaders from the BJP at the meeting.

'This is nonsense,' says Supreme Court dismissing PIL seeking 100% VVPAT verification A vacation bench headed by Justice Arun Mishra refused to entertain the plea, saying that a larger bench headed by Chief Justice Ranjan Gogoi had already dealt with the matter and passed an order.

'This is nonsense,' says Supreme Court dismissing PIL seeking 100% VVPAT verification A vacation bench headed by Justice Arun Mishra refused to entertain the plea, saying that a larger bench headed by Chief Justice Ranjan Gogoi had already dealt with the matter and passed an order. 'There's no bigger motivation than Indian Army,' says Virat Kohli ahead of Cricket World Cup 2019 'If we go in with that motivation that we can do something for the Army, you will see a different level of passion coming out of us,' said Kohli Huawei accuses US of bullying, says working with Google to counter ban The US government said it imposed the restrictions because of Huawei's involvement in activities contrary to national security or foreign policy interests. Reports of alleged EVM tampering are 'absolutely false': Election Commission The top poll body also stated that any lapse in the handling of reserve EVMs will be investigated and action will be taken against those responsible. PM Modi, Amit Shah meet Union ministers, thank them for 'service to nation' Union ministers Rajnath Singh, Nitin Gadkari, Arun Jaitley, JP Nadda and Prakash Javadekar were among the key leaders from the BJP at the meeting.

News brief: Big stories of the day

Indian cricket team captain Virat Kohli and head coach Ravi Shastri held a press conference before leaving for the World Cup, which is scheduled to kick off from May 30.

Indian all-rounder Vijay Shankar was recently named in the fifteen-member World Cup squad and the player is likely to bat at number four position for the team.

Shankar believes how he prepares will be the key factor going into the tournament.

At the time of announcing the squad, chief selector MSK Prasad said that Shankar is being viewed as a number four batsman.

Ambati Rayudu was seen as a potential number four batsman, but Shankar was given a nod ahead of him in the final squad due to his three-dimensional abilities.

"There's a difference between batting at number four position and batting in the lower order. How I prepare myself will the real challenge for me. I need to be in good shape, the most important thing will be how I play according to the situation. I should be equipped to play in any condition," Shankar told ANI.

"Number four slot, there have many been speculations about that slot. It is really important for me to keep things simple. Other things are not in my control, I should try to control what I can control," he added.

Shankar will be playing for the first time in the World Cup.

The player said being part of the World Cup-bound team is really special as the tournament happens once every four years.

"Everyone's dream is to first play for the country. Whenever you step in, you are wearing the Indian jersey and it is very special. The World Cup experience is all the more special as it happens once in four years and being named in the fifteen-member Indian squad, I am very happy about it," Shankar said.

Shankar who has been bogged down by injuries in the past said he has learnt a lot from those hiccups and he has come back stronger.

"It is a very good journey, to be honest. The most important thing is that I had many injuries in the past and I missed a lot of cricket. But these injuries taught me a lot of things, how I should focus when I was in the rehab and lot of many other things," Shankar said.

The 28-year-old Shankar played for the Hyderabad in the recently concluded Indian Premier League (IPL).

The player said he plays every match with the same intensity and looks to take something out from the match.

"So wherever I play, I try to play with the same intensity. Every game I play, I try to make sure I get something out of that match. So as a cricketer I feel, you have to move forward and keep believing in your ability," Shankar said.

Shankar believes that it is his duty to learn from the senior players in the team as they have more experience of playing in every type of situations.

"Someone like him (MS Dhoni)&nbsp;has done a lot for the country, He has won many matches for the team. It is important for me to learn many things from him. Everyone in our team has achieved a lot of things and I should learn from everyone. Mahi bhai, has played in every type of situations, so it's my duty to learn from him," Shankar said.

Indian all-rounder Vijay Shankar was recently named in the fifteen-member World Cup squad and the player is likely to bat at number four position for the team. Shankar believes how he prepares will be the key factor going into the tournament.

Indian all-rounder Vijay Shankar was recently named in the fifteen-member World Cup squad and the player is likely to bat at number four position for the team. Shankar believes how he prepares will be the key factor going into the tournament. At the time of announcing the squad, chief selector MSK Prasad said that Shankar is being viewed as a number four batsman. Ambati Rayudu was seen as a potential number four batsman, but Shankar was given a nod ahead of him in the final squad due to his three-dimensional abilities. "There's a difference between batting at number four position and batting in the lower order. How I prepare myself will the real challenge for me. I need to be in good shape, the most important thing will be how I play according to the situation. I should be equipped to play in any condition," Shankar told ANI. "Number four slot, there have many been speculations about that slot. It is really important for me to keep things simple. Other things are not in my control, I should try to control what I can control," he added. Shankar will be playing for the first time in the World Cup. The player said being part of the World Cup-bound team is really special as the tournament happens once every four years. "Everyone's dream is to first play for the country. Whenever you step in, you are wearing the Indian jersey and it is very special. The World Cup experience is all the more special as it happens once in four years and being named in the fifteen-member Indian squad, I am very happy about it," Shankar said. Shankar who has been bogged down by injuries in the past said he has learnt a lot from those hiccups and he has come back stronger. "It is a very good journey, to be honest. The most important thing is that I had many injuries in the past and I missed a lot of cricket. But these injuries taught me a lot of things, how I should focus when I was in the rehab and lot of many other things," Shankar said. The 28-year-old Shankar played for the Hyderabad in the recently concluded Indian Premier League (IPL). The player said he plays every match with the same intensity and looks to take something out from the match. "So wherever I play, I try to play with the same intensity. Every game I play, I try to make sure I get something out of that match. So as a cricketer I feel, you have to move forward and keep believing in your ability," Shankar said. Shankar believes that it is his duty to learn from the senior players in the team as they have more experience of playing in every type of situations. "Someone like him (MS Dhoni) has done a lot for the country, He has won many matches for the team. It is important for me to learn many things from him. Everyone in our team has achieved a lot of things and I should learn from everyone. Mahi bhai, has played in every type of situations, so it's my duty to learn from him," Shankar said.

How I prepare myself for World Cup will be real challenge for me: Vijay Shankar

India leg-spinner Yuzvendra Chahal is "excited" to play in his first <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/photos/throwback-to-icc-cricket-world-cup-2011-india-becomes-first-team-to-win-final-on-home-soil-219190&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjq0eCUs6LiAhUM73MBHYIGDS84FBAWMAB6BAgFEAE&amp;usg=AOvVaw1_ZuRr1JffyOZTGhLpjeEQ">ICC Men's Cricket World Cup</a>, starting May 30 in the England and Wales.

"Really excited, it will be my first World Cup. Everyone wants to be part of the World Cup to play for the country," the 28-year-old told ANI.

On being asked what he thinks about the wicket, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-pacer-jasprit-bumrah-to-spinner-rashid-khan-bowlers-who-can-push-batsmen-on-the-backfoot-in-cricket-world-cup-2019-219355">Chahal</a> said, "Last year when we played in England, the wicket was slow so we have prepared accordingly but can only decide once we reach there.''

The middle-order, expect the presence of MS Dhoni, has worried the nation for quite some time now.

Reflecting on the same, the leg-spinner said, "One should support and back all the 15 players. Consider the team is strong."

India will take on New Zealand and Bangladesh on May 25 and 28 in the warm-up matches before opening its World Cup campaign against South Africa on June 5 at the Hampshire Bowl, Southampton.

India leg-spinner Yuzvendra Chahal is "excited" to play in his first ICC Men's Cricket World Cup, starting May 30 in the England and Wales. "Really excited, it will be my first World Cup.

India leg-spinner Yuzvendra Chahal is "excited" to play in his first ICC Men's Cricket World Cup, starting May 30 in the England and Wales. "Really excited, it will be my first World Cup. Everyone wants to be part of the World Cup to play for the country," the 28-year-old told ANI. On being asked what he thinks about the wicket, Chahal said, "Last year when we played in England, the wicket was slow so we have prepared accordingly but can only decide once we reach there.'' The middle-order, expect the presence of MS Dhoni, has worried the nation for quite some time now. Reflecting on the same, the leg-spinner said, "One should support and back all the 15 players. Consider the team is strong." India will take on New Zealand and Bangladesh on May 25 and 28 in the warm-up matches before opening its World Cup campaign against South Africa on June 5 at the Hampshire Bowl, Southampton.

Excited for my first World Cup, says Indian leg-spinner Yuzvendra Chahal

<a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/gautam-gambhirs-comments-on-indias-best-wicketkeeper-upset-ms-dhoni-fans-206683&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwily-iDnaDiAhWLsI8KHZ-SDIsQFjABegQIEBAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw1NQVcv3ve3mMO2pX37iwFj">Former Indian cricketer Gautam Gambhir</a> on Thursday said India's fifteen-member World Cup squad needs an additional quality pacer.

"I feel Indian team lacks one more quality fast bowler. Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Shami and Bhuvneshwar Kumar need more support. You may argue that India has two fast bowling all-rounders in Hardik (Pandya) and Vijay Shankar but I am not convinced," International Cricket Council (ICC) quoted <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/india-general-elections-2019/gautam-gambhir-voter-id-case-atishi-to-record-her-statement-matter-fixed-for-may-31-218487&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwily-iDnaDiAhWLsI8KHZ-SDIsQFjAAegQIAxAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw1bxjJ8EH-Gmi0YzgkVoJ0F">Gambhir</a>, as saying.

Bumrah has been the key weapon in the bowling scheme of things for India and Gambhir reckons the bowler will once again be the trump card for India and his form will be crucial for its chances in the World Cup.

"The wickets are going to be very flat and it's going to be hot. So how Jasprit Bumrah bowls will decide where India reaches because it's going to be a high-scoring World Cup," Gambhir said.

The selectors did not pick Ambati Rayudu in the fifteen-member team.

Chief selector MSK Prasad at the time of announcing the squad had said Vijay Shankar will most likely play at number four position, with KL Rahul being the backup option for that spot.

However, Gambhir is of the view that Rahul is the best-suited batsman to play at number four position, considering his technique.

"I feel Rahul is best suited for No.4 spot because he has got the technique, he has got the ability to win you games. I know that is not the position you would have preferred, but I have always believed one thing you only put yourself in the playing XI ultimately it is the team management who decide," Gambhir said.

Gambhir played a key role in <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-among-favourites-to-win-world-cup-says-kapil-dev-217038&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwiuyKO-naDiAhXEfX0KHRpnA38QFjACegQIDhAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw0jZ_LnIo30U85PZFp09nVS">India's World Cup</a> triumph in 2011 as he scored a knock of 97 runs in the finals against Sri Lanka.

The player said that Australia has one of the best bowling attacks going into the World Cup this time around.

The left-handed batsman also praised the tournament's format this time as the World Cup will be played between the top ten teams.

The tournament will be played in a round-robin format with every team taking on each other before the semi-finals stage.

"With Mitchell Starc, Pat Cummins, David Warner, and Steve Smith coming back, they're probably the side to beat. In any ICC tournament, if you beat Australia, you're right up there because they know how to play big matches," Gambhir said.

"This will be a well-contested tournament as all the teams play each other. This format will give us the real world champion and I think ICC should stick to this format for all future World Cups," he added.

India will take&nbsp;on New Zealand (May 25) and Bangladesh (May 28) in the warm-up matches before the World Cup.

The 50-over World Cup will take place in England and Wales from May 30 to July 14.&nbsp;India will open its World Cup campaign against South Africa on June 5.

India's&nbsp;fifteen-member squad for World Cup:

Virat Kohli (c), Rohit Sharma (vc), Shikhar Dhawan, KL Rahul, Vijay Shankar, MS Dhoni (wk), Kedar Jadhav, Dinesh Kartik, Yuzvendra Chahal, Kuldeep Yadav, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Bumrah , Hardik Pandya, Ravindra Jadeja, Mohammad Shami.

&nbsp;

Former Indian cricketer Gautam Gambhir on Thursday said India's fifteen-member World Cup squad needs an additional quality pacer. "I feel Indian team lacks one more quality fast bowler.

Former Indian cricketer Gautam Gambhir on Thursday said India's fifteen-member World Cup squad needs an additional quality pacer. "I feel Indian team lacks one more quality fast bowler. Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Shami and Bhuvneshwar Kumar need more support. You may argue that India has two fast bowling all-rounders in Hardik (Pandya) and Vijay Shankar but I am not convinced," International Cricket Council (ICC) quoted Gambhir, as saying. Bumrah has been the key weapon in the bowling scheme of things for India and Gambhir reckons the bowler will once again be the trump card for India and his form will be crucial for its chances in the World Cup. "The wickets are going to be very flat and it's going to be hot. So how Jasprit Bumrah bowls will decide where India reaches because it's going to be a high-scoring World Cup," Gambhir said. The selectors did not pick Ambati Rayudu in the fifteen-member team. Chief selector MSK Prasad at the time of announcing the squad had said Vijay Shankar will most likely play at number four position, with KL Rahul being the backup option for that spot. However, Gambhir is of the view that Rahul is the best-suited batsman to play at number four position, considering his technique. "I feel Rahul is best suited for No.4 spot because he has got the technique, he has got the ability to win you games. I know that is not the position you would have preferred, but I have always believed one thing you only put yourself in the playing XI ultimately it is the team management who decide," Gambhir said. Gambhir played a key role in India's World Cup triumph in 2011 as he scored a knock of 97 runs in the finals against Sri Lanka. The player said that Australia has one of the best bowling attacks going into the World Cup this time around. The left-handed batsman also praised the tournament's format this time as the World Cup will be played between the top ten teams. The tournament will be played in a round-robin format with every team taking on each other before the semi-finals stage. "With Mitchell Starc, Pat Cummins, David Warner, and Steve Smith coming back, they're probably the side to beat. In any ICC tournament, if you beat Australia, you're right up there because they know how to play big matches," Gambhir said. "This will be a well-contested tournament as all the teams play each other. This format will give us the real world champion and I think ICC should stick to this format for all future World Cups," he added. India will take on New Zealand (May 25) and Bangladesh (May 28) in the warm-up matches before the World Cup. The 50-over World Cup will take place in England and Wales from May 30 to July 14. India will open its World Cup campaign against South Africa on June 5. India's fifteen-member squad for World Cup: Virat Kohli (c), Rohit Sharma (vc), Shikhar Dhawan, KL Rahul, Vijay Shankar, MS Dhoni (wk), Kedar Jadhav, Dinesh Kartik, Yuzvendra Chahal, Kuldeep Yadav, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Bumrah , Hardik Pandya, Ravindra Jadeja, Mohammad Shami.

Indian World Cup team lacks one more quality fast bowler: Gautam Gambhir

Former Indian cricketer Sourav Ganguly picked Pakistan alongside India, Australia and England as the four semifinalists in the upcoming World Cup, saying their records in world tournaments in England is remarkable.&nbsp;

England has been a 'lucky' venue for Pakistan, who had won the 2017 Champions Trophy beating India and had also bagged their maiden World Twenty20 title in 2009.

"Pakistan's record in world tournaments in England is remarkable. They won the Champions Trophy two years ago, they won the 2009 World T20 in England", the former captain added.

He also cited the recent example of Pakistan's second ODI against England, in which they almost chased down a mammoth 374 before going down by only 12 runs.

"Pakistan always play well in England. You see the last game in England. England got 374 and Pakistan just lost by 12 runs. They also beat England in England in Test matches there because of their bowling lineup", Ganguly said.

Ganguly, however, was quick to add that Virat Kohli's men should not be wary of Pakistan and they would prove to be strong contenders.&nbsp;

"I don't believe in records. Both of them will have to play well on that particular day. India will be a very good side. They will be very hard to beat. A team which has the likes of Kohli, Rohit, Shikhar Dhawan can't be weak", Ganguly said.

Asked to compare this team with that of his team of 2003 that lost to Australia in the final, Ganguly said, "Both the teams are of different generations. We played the final in 2003. I hope they play the final and win it.''

"Indian cricket is so strong. And we have been strong for the last 25-30 years. Every world competition that we play, we will have a chance. This team has as much chance as we had in 2003", he added.&nbsp;

Starting as one of the favourites, India would be under tremendous pressure but Ganguly felt it would bring out the best from Kohli and Co.

"So it's good that India is under pressure, every other team in the World Cup will be under pressure. You don't want to turn up like a Nepal or an Ireland where the entire world thinks that you're not going to win'', the former captain said.

"You rather turn up like an India or an Australia or an England where everybody says this team is going to win the World Cup. So Virat, probably being the best player of the world at the moment, is as much under pressure as anybody else and that will be good for him because he will turn up, work hard, he will be pumped and get India going", Ganguly added.&nbsp;

Ganguly said it would be an interesting World Cup as all 10 teams will play each other before the best four qualify for the knockouts.&nbsp;

"This team has as much as an opportunity. It's a great World Cup because all 10 teams play against each other and the best four qualify. There are strong teams and you realise England, Pakistan, West Indies all can win'', Ganguly said.

"So it's good that India is under pressure because it will help them perform and it's going to be exciting 55 days of cricket," Ganguly added. 
&nbsp;

Former Indian cricketer Sourav Ganguly picked Pakistan alongside India, Australia and England as the four semifinalists in the upcoming World Cup, saying their records in world tournaments in England is remarkable.

Former Indian cricketer Sourav Ganguly picked Pakistan alongside India, Australia and England as the four semifinalists in the upcoming World Cup, saying their records in world tournaments in England is remarkable. England has been a 'lucky' venue for Pakistan, who had won the 2017 Champions Trophy beating India and had also bagged their maiden World Twenty20 title in 2009. "Pakistan's record in world tournaments in England is remarkable. They won the Champions Trophy two years ago, they won the 2009 World T20 in England", the former captain added. He also cited the recent example of Pakistan's second ODI against England, in which they almost chased down a mammoth 374 before going down by only 12 runs. "Pakistan always play well in England. You see the last game in England. England got 374 and Pakistan just lost by 12 runs. They also beat England in England in Test matches there because of their bowling lineup", Ganguly said. Ganguly, however, was quick to add that Virat Kohli's men should not be wary of Pakistan and they would prove to be strong contenders. "I don't believe in records. Both of them will have to play well on that particular day. India will be a very good side. They will be very hard to beat. A team which has the likes of Kohli, Rohit, Shikhar Dhawan can't be weak", Ganguly said. Asked to compare this team with that of his team of 2003 that lost to Australia in the final, Ganguly said, "Both the teams are of different generations. We played the final in 2003. I hope they play the final and win it.'' "Indian cricket is so strong. And we have been strong for the last 25-30 years. Every world competition that we play, we will have a chance. This team has as much chance as we had in 2003", he added. Starting as one of the favourites, India would be under tremendous pressure but Ganguly felt it would bring out the best from Kohli and Co. "So it's good that India is under pressure, every other team in the World Cup will be under pressure. You don't want to turn up like a Nepal or an Ireland where the entire world thinks that you're not going to win'', the former captain said. "You rather turn up like an India or an Australia or an England where everybody says this team is going to win the World Cup. So Virat, probably being the best player of the world at the moment, is as much under pressure as anybody else and that will be good for him because he will turn up, work hard, he will be pumped and get India going", Ganguly added. Ganguly said it would be an interesting World Cup as all 10 teams will play each other before the best four qualify for the knockouts. "This team has as much as an opportunity. It's a great World Cup because all 10 teams play against each other and the best four qualify. There are strong teams and you realise England, Pakistan, West Indies all can win'', Ganguly said. "So it's good that India is under pressure because it will help them perform and it's going to be exciting 55 days of cricket," Ganguly added.

Ganguly picks Pakistan as favourites for World Cup, says England's a 'lucky' venue for them

Rohit Sharma, the skipper of Mumbai team, lifted the Indian Premier League trophy for the fourth time and became the most successful captain in the IPL history. Along with the trophy, Mumbai team got INR 20 crore as prize money.

Rohit Sharma, the skipper of Mumbai team, lifted the Indian Premier League trophy for the fourth time and became the most successful captain in the IPL history. Along with the trophy, Mumbai team got INR 20 crore as prize money. David Warner got the Orange Cap as he ended the tournament as the highest run-getter. While the 40-year-old Imran Tahir won the Purple Cap of the tournament as he pipped compatriot Kagiso Rabada to emerge as the highest wicket-taker. From controversy to special moments, the way the entire season unfolded, it will not be forgotten anytime soon by the fans and experts alike. Here's look back at some of the bittersweet moments of IPL 2019: 1- A better opening ceremony The twelfth edition of IPL stated with BCCI's warm gesture when they contributed the entire budget earmarked for the league's opening ceremony to the funds of the Indian armed forces and Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF). The BCCI has contributed a sum of Rs 20 crore. 2- Fresh face from Kashmir The 17-year-old Rasikh Salam, who was picked at his base price of Rs 20 lakh by Mumbai, made his debut for Mumbai team against Delhi on March 24. He received his maiden cap from former Indian cricketer Zaheer Khan, who is Mumbai's Director of Cricket. 3- 'How are you?' Chennai's skipper MS Dhoni was asking Ziva "how are you” in six different languages: Tamil, Bengali, Gujarati, Bhojpuri, Punjabi, and Urdu. Watch the video to see how effortlessly Ziva responded to the questions in all the languages. View this post on Instagram A post shared by M S Dhoni (@mahi7781) on Mar 24, 2019 at 6:19am PDT × 4- Warner hits a cameraman David Warner, the Orange Cap winner, put behind the embarrassing ball-tampering scandal that kept him out last year, and rocked in the IPL 2019. He scored a total of 692 runs that included 21 sixers. One of the sixes really caught spectators' eye when he launched it over the ropes only for it to crash into a cameraman but luckily he was unhurt. Watch: 🧐https://t.co/eX25CKDPvF — CricBoll (@mycricboll) March 24, 2019 × 5- 'Spirit of Game' Punjab skipper Ravichandran Ashwin ran out Rajasthan's Jos Buttler, who was at the non-strikers' end, without giving him any warning. Buttler's dismissal during a league match between Rajasthan and Punjab triggered a spirit of game debate and left the cricket world divided. 6- First Super Over of edition Delhi defeated Kolkata in season's first Super Over as Kagiso Rabada defended 10 runs to steer Delhi to a thrilling victory on March 31. 7- Sam Curran's bhangra moves When Punjab defeated Delhi by 14 runs on April 1 in league matches, England's pacer Sam Curran celebrated his match-winning performance by doing some bhangra skills with team owner Preity Zinta. Watch: 🕺🕺🕺 Some bhangra moves there, courtesy @realpreityzinta & @CurranSM 😎😎 pic.twitter.com/VAeXq3I07o — IndianPremierLeague (@IPL) April 1, 2019 × 8- 'Man with a golden heart' An elderly woman had come to the Wankhede stadium not to watch the game but to meet the former Indian skipper. She was caught on camera holding a placard with her wish written on it - "I am here only for Dhoni". After the match got over on, Dhoni made his way down the stairs from the team's dressing room and met the woman and the young girl who accompanied her. A series of the #Yellove Peranbu! #Thala 💛💛! #WhistlePodu 🦁 pic.twitter.com/ZIC3e3f7RG — Chennai Super Kings (@ChennaiIPL) April 4, 2019 × 9- Virat Kohli leads the tally Bangalore skipper Virat Kohli overtook Chennai's Suresh Raina to become the leading run-getter in the Indian Premier League. 10- Go Green! In one of their league matches, Bangalore came out wearing green jerseys, instead of their regular red one, to spread a message on environmental conservation. 11- Andre Russell or a superhero? With his match-winning and entertaining knocks, Russell has become a cricket sensation among Indian fans and Twitter users have compared him with several Bollywood's reel icons. Russell was even compared to Thanos, who is the villain in Marvel's Avengers series. 12- IPL's tight schedule leads to this... Dhoni and his wife Sakhi Dhoni were found sleeping on the floor of an airport. The Indian wicket-keeper batsman shared the picture with a witty caption on his official Instagram account and the image immediately went viral on social platforms. Dhoni wrote, "After getting used to IPL timing this is what happens if u have a morning flight." View this post on Instagram After getting used to IPL timing this is what happens if u have a morning flight A post shared by M S Dhoni (@mahi7781) on Apr 9, 2019 at 9:36pm PDT × 13- Haircutting? Chennai's Dwayne Bravo and Rajasthan's Ben Stokes tried their hands on hair cutting besides showing off their cricketing skills. Stokes was seen giving a haircut to Ish Sodhi ahead of the crucial tie against Chennai. The television thing to do on a match day! Catch #TheSuperKingsShow on @StarSportsIndia from 11 AM today! #WhistlePodu #Yellove #RRvCSK 🦁💛 pic.twitter.com/mSUJdCg5JA — Chennai Super Kings (@ChennaiIPL) April 11, 2019 × 14- Angry MS Dhoni Chennai's skipper MS Dhoni was seen extremely angry at the umpires in the last over while chasing 152-run target against Ajinkya Rahane-led Rajasthan team on April 12. The confusion emerged when the umpire, for a moment, indicated a no-ball but the leg-umpire said he never signalled for it. Ravindra Jadeja and Mitchell Santner started questioning the on-field umpires and amid that, Dhoni walked onto the ground to talk to the umpires. Umpires, however, denied it and eventually signalled it as a legitimate delivery. 15- Ducks and Golden Ducks Australia all-rounder Ashton Turner became the first batsman to register five straight ducks in Twenty20 cricket. 16- Dhoni's record 111-metre long sixer Chennai skipper MS Dhoni created a record while playing against Bangalore team on April 21. First, he became the first Indian batsman to hit 200 sixes in Indian Premier League, besides he also hit the biggest six in the history of IPL. In his 84-run knock, Dhoni hit five fours and seven sixes, including the record-breaking giant 111-metre long sixer over wide long-on. He broke Hardik Pandya's record of 104-metre long six. 17- A record they did not want Virat Kohli-led Bangalore team created an unwanted record of most consecutive defeats in Indian Premier League. The team have suffered seven consecutive defeats from May 19, 2018, to April 7, 2019. 18- Were they glued? From Dhawal Kulkarni to Jofra Archer, bowlers have been denied a clean wicket just because the stubborn bails refused to come off the stumps. Rajasthan team were shadowed by the poor luck as they have been denied wickets three times just because the bails did not remove. WATCH: Thala Dhoni effect? When even bails refused to fall 📹📹https://t.co/ccTyMBLToc #CSKvRR — IndianPremierLeague (@IPL) March 31, 2019 × 19- The winner! Rohit Sharma-led Mumbai defeated Chennai by one run to lift their record fourth IPL title.

19 bittersweet moments of Indian Premier League 2019

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