<p>West Indies legend Brian Lara came in support of Virat Kohli, who is struggling for runs in the ongoing T20 World Cup, in West Indies and the USA. On Thursday (June 20), India faced Afghanistan in their first Super 8 encounter, at the Kensington Oval, Bridgetown, Barbados, where Kohli just managed a run-a-ball 24 during the Rohit Sharma-led side's convincing 47-run win in defence of 181/8. While there were a lot of positives for Team India, Kohli's form remains a worry. However, Lara feels the Indian team management and fans need to be patient with him as there are still a lot of games left in the 20-nation event.</p>

<p>So far, Kohli has just managed 29 runs in four outings in the tournament. He looked set versus Afghanistan before being removed by Rashid Khan, in an attempt to go for a big shot. Lara, however, feels 'he spent some time out there' and it will hold him in good stead going forward.</p>

<p>Lara said on Star Sports, "24 of 24, you can say that’s not great but the most important thing is that he spent some time out there. India has got one step closer to winning this trophy. I believe that Virat Kohli is just gonna go from strength to strength as he comes down to the Caribbean. He’s going to Antigua next, you’re gonna see him go out there and plough and plough, he’s gonna get runs. When he gets into full swing, it’s a different story. We just have to be very patient with him, we’re gonna see a lot of him there’s still a lot of games left in this World Cup."</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/17-players-60-rooms-former-pakistan-cricketer-slams-babar-co-for-holidaying-in-usa-post-t20-wc-debacle-733768">'17 players, 60 rooms': Former Pakistan cricketer SLAMS Babar &amp; Co for 'holidaying in USA' post T20 WC debacle</a></strong></p>

<p>Amid Kohli's poor run of form, South African legend AB de Villiers made a special request to the Indian team management before their Super 8 clash versus Afghanistan. ABD reckoned, on his YouTube channel, "I have always said please bat Virat at number three. Especially in better wickets that they will play now, Virat is the go-to guy at number three. He can play the attacking game and also pull back and absorb the pressure if necessary. He is the best player in the world in the middle overs. I do not see any reasons (for opening)."</p>

<p>Talking about India's Super 8 win versus the Afghans, Rohit Sharma-led Men in Blue posted 181 for 8 after deciding to bat first. Suryakumar Yadav's 53, Hardik Pandya's 24-ball 32 and Rishabh Pant's 11-ball 20 propelled India to a fighting total. In reply, Jasprit Bumrah's 3 for 7 and Arshdeep Singh's 3 for 36 dismissed Rashid Khan &amp; Co. for 134.</p>

<p>With this win, India remain one of the three unbeaten sides in the ongoing T20 WC. They will now lock horns with Bangladesh on Saturday (June 22) in Antigua. The one-time winners are in Group 1 along with Australia, Bangladesh and Afghanistan.</p>


West Indies legend Brian Lara came in support of Virat Kohli, who is struggling for runs in the ongoing T20 World Cup, in West Indies and the USA. On Thursday (June 20), India faced Afghanistan in their first Super 8 encounter, at the Kensington Oval, Bridgetown, Barbados, where Kohli just managed a run-a-ball 24 during the Rohit Sharma-led side's convincing 47-run win in defence of 181/8.

West Indies legend Brian Lara came in support of Virat Kohli, who is struggling for runs in the ongoing T20 World Cup, in West Indies and the USA. On Thursday (June 20), India faced Afghanistan in their first Super 8 encounter, at the Kensington Oval, Bridgetown, Barbados, where Kohli just managed a run-a-ball 24 during the Rohit Sharma-led side's convincing 47-run win in defence of 181/8. While there were a lot of positives for Team India, Kohli's form remains a worry. However, Lara feels the Indian team management and fans need to be patient with him as there are still a lot of games left in the 20-nation event. So far, Kohli has just managed 29 runs in four outings in the tournament. He looked set versus Afghanistan before being removed by Rashid Khan, in an attempt to go for a big shot. Lara, however, feels 'he spent some time out there' and it will hold him in good stead going forward. Lara said on Star Sports, "24 of 24, you can say that’s not great but the most important thing is that he spent some time out there. India has got one step closer to winning this trophy. I believe that Virat Kohli is just gonna go from strength to strength as he comes down to the Caribbean. He’s going to Antigua next, you’re gonna see him go out there and plough and plough, he’s gonna get runs. When he gets into full swing, it’s a different story. We just have to be very patient with him, we’re gonna see a lot of him there’s still a lot of games left in this World Cup." Also read: '17 players, 60 rooms': Former Pakistan cricketer SLAMS Babar & Co for 'holidaying in USA' post T20 WC debacle Amid Kohli's poor run of form, South African legend AB de Villiers made a special request to the Indian team management before their Super 8 clash versus Afghanistan. ABD reckoned, on his YouTube channel, "I have always said please bat Virat at number three. Especially in better wickets that they will play now, Virat is the go-to guy at number three. He can play the attacking game and also pull back and absorb the pressure if necessary. He is the best player in the world in the middle overs. I do not see any reasons (for opening)." Talking about India's Super 8 win versus the Afghans, Rohit Sharma-led Men in Blue posted 181 for 8 after deciding to bat first. Suryakumar Yadav's 53, Hardik Pandya's 24-ball 32 and Rishabh Pant's 11-ball 20 propelled India to a fighting total. In reply, Jasprit Bumrah's 3 for 7 and Arshdeep Singh's 3 for 36 dismissed Rashid Khan & Co. for 134. With this win, India remain one of the three unbeaten sides in the ongoing T20 WC. They will now lock horns with Bangladesh on Saturday (June 22) in Antigua. The one-time winners are in Group 1 along with Australia, Bangladesh and Afghanistan.

'That’s not great but...': West Indies legend Brian Lara on Virat Kohli's rut in T20 World Cup 2024

<p>Former South Africa pacer Morne Morkel has backed Virat Kohli to regain form ahead of India's Super 8 clash versus Afghanistan, at the Kensington Oval in Barbados on Thursday (June 20). Kohli has scored just five runs in three outings in the 20-nation tournament, being held in West Indies and the USA. However, Morkel feels Kohli is a 'class player' and will 'find ways to score runs at the right time'.</p>

<p>Ahead of the India-Afghanistan tie, Morkel told Star Sports, "Don’t worry about Virat. Class players find a way to score runs at the right time. If I was a bowler, I would be nervous to bowl to him upfront. He is a guy who can rotate the strike, put your good balls away from a four. I am excited to see how he goes. He always finds an answer and I just love watching him play."</p>

<p><strong>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/one-step-closer-former-aussie-captain-unfazed-by-virat-kohlis-lack-of-runs-in-t20-world-cup-733229">'One step closer...' - Former Aussie captain unfazed by Virat Kohli's lack of runs in T20 World Cup</a></strong></p>

<p>Kohli looked a pale shadow of himself in the group stage, where Rohit Sharma-led India beat Ireland, Pakistan and the USA before their Canada face-off got washed out. So far, he has managed just 1, 4 and 0 in three outings and will be desperate to get going in the Super 8s. He has a solid record versus Afghanistan in T20Is, amassing 201 runs in five innings at an average of 67 with a best of 122 not out.&nbsp;</p>

<p>India are placed in Group 1 in the Super 8s along with Afghanistan, Bangladesh and Australia.&nbsp;</p>


Former South Africa pacer Morne Morkel has backed Virat Kohli to regain form ahead of India's Super 8 clash versus Afghanistan, at the Kensington Oval in Barbados on Thursday (June 20).

Former South Africa pacer Morne Morkel has backed Virat Kohli to regain form ahead of India's Super 8 clash versus Afghanistan, at the Kensington Oval in Barbados on Thursday (June 20). Kohli has scored just five runs in three outings in the 20-nation tournament, being held in West Indies and the USA. However, Morkel feels Kohli is a 'class player' and will 'find ways to score runs at the right time'. Ahead of the India-Afghanistan tie, Morkel told Star Sports, "Don’t worry about Virat. Class players find a way to score runs at the right time. If I was a bowler, I would be nervous to bowl to him upfront. He is a guy who can rotate the strike, put your good balls away from a four. I am excited to see how he goes. He always finds an answer and I just love watching him play." Also read: 'One step closer...' - Former Aussie captain unfazed by Virat Kohli's lack of runs in T20 World Cup Kohli looked a pale shadow of himself in the group stage, where Rohit Sharma-led India beat Ireland, Pakistan and the USA before their Canada face-off got washed out. So far, he has managed just 1, 4 and 0 in three outings and will be desperate to get going in the Super 8s. He has a solid record versus Afghanistan in T20Is, amassing 201 runs in five innings at an average of 67 with a best of 122 not out. India are placed in Group 1 in the Super 8s along with Afghanistan, Bangladesh and Australia.

T20 WC: 'I would be nervous...' - Former SA pacer on Virat Kohli's poor run ahead of Ind vs Afg Super 8 clash

<p>Former Australian captain Michael Clarke has backed Virat Kohli despite the Indian star batter's rut in the ongoing T20 World Cup, in the West Indies and USA. In four games, Kohli has managed only five runs in three outings as he struggled to get going for the one-time winners in their USA leg. Ahead of India's Super 8 game versus Afghanistan, Clarke feels Kohli is 'one step closer to making a big one' in the mega tournament and he will step up in crunch games.</p>

<p>Speaking on ESPNCricinfo's Around The Wicket, the 43-year-old backed calls to promote Kohli as an opener, along with captain Rohit Sharma, at the expense of Yashasvi Jaiswal.</p>

<p>He stated, "He had a great IPL, so you can understand their reason for doing that. I wouldn't concerned about 3 low scores. All that means to me he is one step closer to making a big one. It's the most important stage as well where the best players usually stand up."</p>

<p><strong>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/whatever-he-touches-kamran-akmal-on-prospects-of-gautam-gambhir-becoming-indias-next-coach-733182">'Whatever he touches...' - Kamran Akmal on prospects of Gautam Gambhir becoming India's next coach</a></strong></p>

<p>Clarke further opined that India need not tinker with their opening combination due to Kohli's low returns.</p>

<p>In this regard, he added, "I think if they feel that's their best 11, then keep him there. He has been playing on a pitch that has been tough for opening batters. I don't think 3 low scores make any difference to Kohli. If India feels it is their best 11 by him opening the bat. Because there was a lot of talk throughout the IPL that Virat was going to bat at No. 3 in this Indian team."</p>

<p>Rohit-led India are placed in Group 1 of the Super 8s, along with Australia, Afghanistan and Bangladesh.</p>

<p>They face Rashid Khan-led Afghanistan at the Kensington Oval, Barbados on Thursday (June 20). So far, India are one of the unbeaten teams in the showpiece event and will hope to seal a semifinal spot soon.</p>


Former Australian captain Michael Clarke has backed Virat Kohli despite the Indian star batter's rut in the ongoing T20 World Cup, in the West Indies and USA. In four games, Kohli has managed only five runs in three outings as he struggled to get going for the one-time winners in their USA leg.

Former Australian captain Michael Clarke has backed Virat Kohli despite the Indian star batter's rut in the ongoing T20 World Cup, in the West Indies and USA. In four games, Kohli has managed only five runs in three outings as he struggled to get going for the one-time winners in their USA leg. Ahead of India's Super 8 game versus Afghanistan, Clarke feels Kohli is 'one step closer to making a big one' in the mega tournament and he will step up in crunch games. Speaking on ESPNCricinfo's Around The Wicket, the 43-year-old backed calls to promote Kohli as an opener, along with captain Rohit Sharma, at the expense of Yashasvi Jaiswal. He stated, "He had a great IPL, so you can understand their reason for doing that. I wouldn't concerned about 3 low scores. All that means to me he is one step closer to making a big one. It's the most important stage as well where the best players usually stand up." Also read: 'Whatever he touches...' - Kamran Akmal on prospects of Gautam Gambhir becoming India's next coach Clarke further opined that India need not tinker with their opening combination due to Kohli's low returns. In this regard, he added, "I think if they feel that's their best 11, then keep him there. He has been playing on a pitch that has been tough for opening batters. I don't think 3 low scores make any difference to Kohli. If India feels it is their best 11 by him opening the bat. Because there was a lot of talk throughout the IPL that Virat was going to bat at No. 3 in this Indian team." Rohit-led India are placed in Group 1 of the Super 8s, along with Australia, Afghanistan and Bangladesh. They face Rashid Khan-led Afghanistan at the Kensington Oval, Barbados on Thursday (June 20). So far, India are one of the unbeaten teams in the showpiece event and will hope to seal a semifinal spot soon.

'One step closer...' - Former Aussie captain unfazed by Virat Kohli's lack of runs in T20 World Cup

<p>Former Pakistan cricketer Mohammed Hafeez has yet again called Indian batters Virat Kohli and KL Rahul 'selfish' for playing for personal milestones during the 50-over World Cup last year.&nbsp;</p>

<p>After Kohli smashed an unbeaten 101 in India's 243-run win over South Africa at the Eden Gardens in Kolkata, Hafeez&nbsp;created controversy by calling the Indian batter 'selfish'. Nearly seven months later, Hafeez has doubled down on his version.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"I remember in the same tournament, KL Rahul played a fantastic shot over extra cover to finish the game off (vs Australia) and he was not happy that India won the game but was unhappy because he couldn't get his own hundred,"&nbsp;said Hafeez on the <em>Club Praire Fire Podcast </em>with Adam Gilchrist and Michael Vaughan.</p>

<p>"This is a selfish approach and then the same happened when Virat Kohli did the same thing when he was more into his 100 than adding value to the team (vs South Africa)," he added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Hafeez went ballistic and called out Kohli for not playing safe and consuming additional deliveries while nearing a milestone.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>"After 95, if someone is taking five balls to get to his hundred and not thinking of hitting off those three&nbsp;or four&nbsp;balls, and if the intention gets changed after scoring a 100, why can't I play the same shot on 95? So in that game (South Africa), Virat took a lot of balls to get to his 100 and he was not playing big shots," Hafeez added.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/this-is-utter-nonsense-michael-vaughan-slams-mohammad-hafeez-for-calling-virat-kohli-selfish-655978"><strong>Also read |&nbsp;'This is utter nonsense': Michael Vaughan SLAMS Mohammad Hafeez for calling Virat Kohli 'selfish'</strong></a></p>

<h2><strong>What Hafeez commented?</strong></h2>

<p>Kohli reached his 49th ton in the match to equal Sachin Tendulkar's long-standing record. Kohli reached his hundred in 121 deliveries while smashing 10 boundaries. It was his innings that helped India post a healthy target of 327 as South Africa collapsed on a lowly total of 83.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Hafeez, part of a Pakistani cricket panel, analysed the innings and said he saw 'selfishness' in the Indian no. 3.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"I saw a sense of selfishness in Virat Kohli's batting and this happened for the third time in this World Cup. In the 49th over, he was looking to take a single to reach his own hundred and he didn't put the team first. Rohit Sharma could have played selfish cricket too, but he didn't because he is playing for Team India and not for himself."</p>

<p>While India reached the final of the World Cup, Pakistan crashed out of the group stage of the tournament.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Former Pakistan cricketer Mohammed Hafeez has yet again called Indian batters Virat Kohli and KL Rahul 'selfish' for playing for personal milestones during the 50-over World Cup last year.

Former Pakistan cricketer Mohammed Hafeez has yet again called Indian batters Virat Kohli and KL Rahul 'selfish' for playing for personal milestones during the 50-over World Cup last year. After Kohli smashed an unbeaten 101 in India's 243-run win over South Africa at the Eden Gardens in Kolkata, Hafeez created controversy by calling the Indian batter 'selfish'. Nearly seven months later, Hafeez has doubled down on his version. "I remember in the same tournament, KL Rahul played a fantastic shot over extra cover to finish the game off (vs Australia) and he was not happy that India won the game but was unhappy because he couldn't get his own hundred," said Hafeez on the Club Praire Fire Podcast with Adam Gilchrist and Michael Vaughan. "This is a selfish approach and then the same happened when Virat Kohli did the same thing when he was more into his 100 than adding value to the team (vs South Africa)," he added. Hafeez went ballistic and called out Kohli for not playing safe and consuming additional deliveries while nearing a milestone. "After 95, if someone is taking five balls to get to his hundred and not thinking of hitting off those three or four balls, and if the intention gets changed after scoring a 100, why can't I play the same shot on 95? So in that game (South Africa), Virat took a lot of balls to get to his 100 and he was not playing big shots," Hafeez added. Also read | 'This is utter nonsense': Michael Vaughan SLAMS Mohammad Hafeez for calling Virat Kohli 'selfish' What Hafeez commented? Kohli reached his 49th ton in the match to equal Sachin Tendulkar's long-standing record. Kohli reached his hundred in 121 deliveries while smashing 10 boundaries. It was his innings that helped India post a healthy target of 327 as South Africa collapsed on a lowly total of 83. Hafeez, part of a Pakistani cricket panel, analysed the innings and said he saw 'selfishness' in the Indian no. 3. "I saw a sense of selfishness in Virat Kohli's batting and this happened for the third time in this World Cup. In the 49th over, he was looking to take a single to reach his own hundred and he didn't put the team first. Rohit Sharma could have played selfish cricket too, but he didn't because he is playing for Team India and not for himself." While India reached the final of the World Cup, Pakistan crashed out of the group stage of the tournament. (With inputs from agencies)

Ex-Pakistan player Mohammed Hafeez calls Virat Kohli, KL Rahul 'selfish' yet again

<p>Former South Africa captain AB de Villiers has urged the Indian team management to send Virat Kohli at No. 3 ahead of their Super 8 clash versus Afghanistan in the T20 World Cup. In the ongoing 20-nation tournament, in West Indies and the USA, Rohit Sharma-led Men in Blue will face Afghanistan in their opening Super 8 clash at the Kensington Oval in Barbados on Thursday (June 20). Before the tie, de Villiers requested India to not open with Kohli-Rohit and drop the former to No. 3, his original spot.</p>

<p>Kohli has been opening the innings for India in the ongoing ICC event. Riding on the back of a successful run in IPL 2024, where he ended as the Orange Cap winner by making 741 runs for Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) as an opener, Kohli was promoted up the order for India; resulting in Yashasvi Jaiswal's ouster. However, the 35-year-old only managed five runs in the three outings during the group stage of the T20 WC. Thus, ABD has reckoned that Kohli is ideal for No. 3 where he is the best in soaking pressure in the middle overs.</p>

<p>On his YouTube channel, De Villiers pointed out, "I have always said please bat Virat at number three. Especially in better wickets that they will play now, Virat is the go-to guy at number three. He can play the attacking game and also pull back and absorb the pressure if necessary. He is the best player in the world in the middle overs. I do not see any reasons (for opening)."</p>

<p><strong>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/t20-wc-i-would-be-nervous-former-sa-pacer-on-virat-kohlis-poor-run-ahead-of-ind-vs-afg-super-8-clash-733394">T20 WC: 'I would be nervous...' - Former SA pacer on Virat Kohli's poor run ahead of Ind vs Afg Super 8 clash</a></strong></p>

<p>The South African also feels that Rohit &amp; Co. need to be little more attacking to break their 11-year-jinx of not winning an ICC title.</p>

<p>ABD added, "Just make sure you throw the first punch. In the past World Cups, I think they have been a bit conservative, sort of feeling their way into a game. They are such a quality team that I feel they can take a bit of a risk early in the game to get the momentum because there is no looking back once they get the momentum."</p>

<p>India are placed in Group 1 in the Super 8s, also featuring Australia, Bangladesh and Afghanistan.</p>


Former South Africa captain AB de Villiers has urged the Indian team management to send Virat Kohli at No. 3 ahead of their Super 8 clash versus Afghanistan in the T20 World Cup.

Former South Africa captain AB de Villiers has urged the Indian team management to send Virat Kohli at No. 3 ahead of their Super 8 clash versus Afghanistan in the T20 World Cup. In the ongoing 20-nation tournament, in West Indies and the USA, Rohit Sharma-led Men in Blue will face Afghanistan in their opening Super 8 clash at the Kensington Oval in Barbados on Thursday (June 20). Before the tie, de Villiers requested India to not open with Kohli-Rohit and drop the former to No. 3, his original spot. Kohli has been opening the innings for India in the ongoing ICC event. Riding on the back of a successful run in IPL 2024, where he ended as the Orange Cap winner by making 741 runs for Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) as an opener, Kohli was promoted up the order for India; resulting in Yashasvi Jaiswal's ouster. However, the 35-year-old only managed five runs in the three outings during the group stage of the T20 WC. Thus, ABD has reckoned that Kohli is ideal for No. 3 where he is the best in soaking pressure in the middle overs. On his YouTube channel, De Villiers pointed out, "I have always said please bat Virat at number three. Especially in better wickets that they will play now, Virat is the go-to guy at number three. He can play the attacking game and also pull back and absorb the pressure if necessary. He is the best player in the world in the middle overs. I do not see any reasons (for opening)." Also read: T20 WC: 'I would be nervous...' - Former SA pacer on Virat Kohli's poor run ahead of Ind vs Afg Super 8 clash The South African also feels that Rohit & Co. need to be little more attacking to break their 11-year-jinx of not winning an ICC title. ABD added, "Just make sure you throw the first punch. In the past World Cups, I think they have been a bit conservative, sort of feeling their way into a game. They are such a quality team that I feel they can take a bit of a risk early in the game to get the momentum because there is no looking back once they get the momentum." India are placed in Group 1 in the Super 8s, also featuring Australia, Bangladesh and Afghanistan.

T20 World Cup: 'Please let Virat Kohli....' - De Villiers' request to India before Super 8 tie vs Afghanistan

<p>Ahead of India's first game in the Super 8s of the T20 World Cup, where they face&nbsp;Afghanistan on Thursday (June 20) in Kensington Oval, Barbados, Virat Kohli met West Indies legend Sir Wesley Hall. During India's practice session, the two greats met each other as Hall gifted the 35-year-old his autobiography&nbsp;named "Answering the Call -The Extraordinary Life of Sir Wesley Hall". The highlight of the meeting was when Hall told Kohli that he follows his career statistics and urged him to "get 100 international centuries".</p>

<p>In the clip, Hall can be heard saying, "Um, I know I follow your stats, so you're on 80, get to 100 centuries". <strong>Here is the video of Kohli-Hall's meetup in Barbados:</strong></p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">😍🙌🏻 Thank you Sir Wesley Hall for conveying our wish to King Kohli.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ViratKohli?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ViratKohli</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/T20WorldCup?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#T20WorldCup</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TeamIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TeamIndia</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BharatArmy?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BharatArmy</a> <a href="https://t.co/S5p3S54WUP">pic.twitter.com/S5p3S54WUP</a></p>
— The Bharat Army (@thebharatarmy) <a href="https://twitter.com/thebharatarmy/status/1803298546709413958?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 19, 2024</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>Kohli has 80 international tons, the second-most in the sport, behind only Master Blaster Sachin Tendulkar's 100.</p>

<p>Talking about WI great Hall, he played 48 Tests and claimed 192 wickets. The lanky pacer was a lethal weapon for WI and created enough fear in the batters' minds with the ball in hand.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/t20-wc-rishabh-pant-at-no-3-led-to-sanju-samsons-ouster-from-indias-playing-xi-opines-harbhajan-732889">T20 WC: Rishabh Pant at No. 3 led to Sanju Samson's ouster from India's playing XI, opines Harbhajan</a></strong></p>

<p>At present, Rohit Sharma-led India are gearing up for their Super 8 clash versus Afghanistan&nbsp;on Thursday. After topping their group, beating Ireland, Pakistan and the USA, the Men in Blue will face a stiff challenge versus Afghanistan -- who are riding high courtesy of their all-round show so far in the 20-nation tournament, being held in West Indies and the USA. The focus is on Kohli, who has managed just five runs in three games in the showpiece event. Will he turn it around in the Super 8s?&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>INDIA's SUPER 8 FIXTURES</strong></h2>

<p><strong>20 June:</strong>&nbsp;Afghanistan v India, Bridgetown, Barbados (8 PM IST)</p>

<p><strong>22 June</strong>: India v Bangladesh, North Sound, Antigua (8 PM IST)</p>

<p><strong>24 June:</strong>&nbsp;Australia v India, Gros Islet, St Lucia (8 PM IST)</p>


Ahead of India's first game in the Super 8s of the T20 World Cup, where they face Afghanistan on Thursday (June 20) in Kensington Oval, Barbados, Virat Kohli met West Indies legend Sir Wesley Hall.

Ahead of India's first game in the Super 8s of the T20 World Cup, where they face Afghanistan on Thursday (June 20) in Kensington Oval, Barbados, Virat Kohli met West Indies legend Sir Wesley Hall. During India's practice session, the two greats met each other as Hall gifted the 35-year-old his autobiography named "Answering the Call -The Extraordinary Life of Sir Wesley Hall". The highlight of the meeting was when Hall told Kohli that he follows his career statistics and urged him to "get 100 international centuries". In the clip, Hall can be heard saying, "Um, I know I follow your stats, so you're on 80, get to 100 centuries". Here is the video of Kohli-Hall's meetup in Barbados: 😍🙌🏻 Thank you Sir Wesley Hall for conveying our wish to King Kohli.#ViratKohli #T20WorldCup #TeamIndia #BharatArmy pic.twitter.com/S5p3S54WUP — The Bharat Army (@thebharatarmy) June 19, 2024 × Kohli has 80 international tons, the second-most in the sport, behind only Master Blaster Sachin Tendulkar's 100. Talking about WI great Hall, he played 48 Tests and claimed 192 wickets. The lanky pacer was a lethal weapon for WI and created enough fear in the batters' minds with the ball in hand. Also read: T20 WC: Rishabh Pant at No. 3 led to Sanju Samson's ouster from India's playing XI, opines Harbhajan At present, Rohit Sharma-led India are gearing up for their Super 8 clash versus Afghanistan on Thursday. After topping their group, beating Ireland, Pakistan and the USA, the Men in Blue will face a stiff challenge versus Afghanistan -- who are riding high courtesy of their all-round show so far in the 20-nation tournament, being held in West Indies and the USA. The focus is on Kohli, who has managed just five runs in three games in the showpiece event. Will he turn it around in the Super 8s? INDIA's SUPER 8 FIXTURES 20 June: Afghanistan v India, Bridgetown, Barbados (8 PM IST) 22 June: India v Bangladesh, North Sound, Antigua (8 PM IST) 24 June: Australia v India, Gros Islet, St Lucia (8 PM IST)

T20 WC: 'Get to 100 centuries', WI legend Wesley Hall tells Virat Kohli during meetup in Barbados - Watch

<p>India all-rounder Shivam Dube is confident of Virat Kohli hitting the form ahead of knockout stage of T20 World Cup 2024. Kohli has scored 4,1, and 0 in three league matches so far and doesn't feature in&nbsp;highest run getters of the ongoing T20 World Cup.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Kohli, who has opened alongside skipper Rohit Sharma in the tournament so far, however, has strong IPL 2024 behind him. Dube said that he's confident of Kohli scoring runs in upcoming matches.</p>

<p>"There is nothing I can say about Virat Kohli because I'm not Virat Kohli," said Dube as quoted by PTI.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/t20-world-cup-2024-thats-all-new-zealand-pacer-trent-boult-says-hes-playing-last-t20-world-cup-732048">T20 World Cup 2024: 'That's all,' New Zealand pacer Trent Boult says he's playing last T20 World Cup</a></p>

<p>"His bad patch means he got out cheaply a couple of times but will come back scoring hundreds in the next three matches. We all know his game and how he plays," the all-rounder added.</p>

<p>Dube himself found it hard to score runs in the ongoing tournament and match his IPL form of the last couple of seasons which got him in the squad. The all-rounder conceded that he was struggling with his form after batting failure against Ireland and Pakistan.</p>

<p>"I was struggling with my form and focusing on my process," said Dube.</p>

<p>The all-rounder, however, played an important innings of 31 off 35 balls against USA to see the team through in a tricky chase as India sealed a spot in the knockout stage.</p>

<p>"There was no pressure. All the support staff and coaches backed me and told me, 'It's difficult, but you have the ability to hit sixes, so apply it.'</p>

<p>"I've never doubted myself for what I've done in the past. I just think that these conditions do not demand what I've done at CSK. These conditions require a different approach, so I was batting differently," he added.</p>

<p>India's last league match is against Canada on Saturday (June 15) but there's around 85% chance of rain.</p>


India all-rounder Shivam Dube is confident of Virat Kohli hitting the form ahead of knockout stage of T20 World Cup 2024. Kohli has scored 4,1, and 0 in three league matches so far and doesn't feature in highest run getters of the ongoing T20 World Cup.

India all-rounder Shivam Dube is confident of Virat Kohli hitting the form ahead of knockout stage of T20 World Cup 2024. Kohli has scored 4,1, and 0 in three league matches so far and doesn't feature in highest run getters of the ongoing T20 World Cup. Kohli, who has opened alongside skipper Rohit Sharma in the tournament so far, however, has strong IPL 2024 behind him. Dube said that he's confident of Kohli scoring runs in upcoming matches. "There is nothing I can say about Virat Kohli because I'm not Virat Kohli," said Dube as quoted by PTI. Also Read: T20 World Cup 2024: 'That's all,' New Zealand pacer Trent Boult says he's playing last T20 World Cup "His bad patch means he got out cheaply a couple of times but will come back scoring hundreds in the next three matches. We all know his game and how he plays," the all-rounder added. Dube himself found it hard to score runs in the ongoing tournament and match his IPL form of the last couple of seasons which got him in the squad. The all-rounder conceded that he was struggling with his form after batting failure against Ireland and Pakistan. "I was struggling with my form and focusing on my process," said Dube. The all-rounder, however, played an important innings of 31 off 35 balls against USA to see the team through in a tricky chase as India sealed a spot in the knockout stage. "There was no pressure. All the support staff and coaches backed me and told me, 'It's difficult, but you have the ability to hit sixes, so apply it.' "I've never doubted myself for what I've done in the past. I just think that these conditions do not demand what I've done at CSK. These conditions require a different approach, so I was batting differently," he added. India's last league match is against Canada on Saturday (June 15) but there's around 85% chance of rain.

T20 World Cup 2024: 'His bad patch means...,' Shivam Dube on Virat Kohli's lack of runs in league stage

<p>USA have been making&nbsp;headlines in the T20 World Cup being played in the West Indies and the US. Their&nbsp;India-born pacer Saurabh Netravalkar,&nbsp;who even represented&nbsp;India in the 2010 U-19 World Cup before moving to the States, has been one of the heroes of their campaign so far, claiming four&nbsp;wickets in three games.&nbsp;Recently, he recalled dismissing Virat Kohli during his side's seven-wicket loss to Team India.</p>

<p>Talking to The Times of India, Netravalkar, who led USA to a thrilling Super Over win against Pakistan in the ongoing tournament, said, "I am just happy that I can pursue both my passions. It is all happening very fast and I am in the process of digesting it. These last two games were really high-profile. It was an emotional moment to get Virat's wicket. I was looking to hit off-stump and it worked out well."</p>

<p><strong>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/nothing-to-answer-to-anyone-bangladesh-star-shakib-al-hasan-reacts-to-virender-sehwags-criticism-731657">Nothing to answer to anyone: Bangladesh star Shakib Al Hasan reacts to Virender Sehwag's criticism</a></strong></p>

<p>Netravalkar, a left-arm pacer, exposed Kohli's weakness outside the off-stump as he found the edge of the star batter's blade. Kohli was, thus, dismissed for a golden duck in India's 111-run chase, which they eventually completed in 18.2 overs with seven wickets in hand courtesy of Suryakumar Yadav's 50 not out. In addition, the 32-year-old, who works as a software engineer for Oracle in the States, also dismissed Indian captain Rohit Sharma for 3 (6).</p>

<p>The Mumbai-born cricketer is good friends with Surya and even spoke on his relationship with him. In this regard, he opined, "I know Surya from my U-15, U-17 days, we were talking about our dressing-room banter. I didn't know Virat personally but he did congratulate me."</p>

<p>The US speedster has four wickets from three outings at an average of 13 and an impressive economy of 5.20.</p>

<p>Netravalkar-starrer USA are very much in contention to reach the Super 8s. They will lock horns with Ireland, in Florida on Friday (June 14) and even a washout will assure them a spot in the next round.</p>


USA have been making headlines in the T20 World Cup being played in the West Indies and the US. Their India-born pacer Saurabh Netravalkar, who even represented India in the 2010 U-19 World Cup before moving to the States, has been one of the heroes of their campaign so far, claiming four wickets in three games.

USA have been making headlines in the T20 World Cup being played in the West Indies and the US. Their India-born pacer Saurabh Netravalkar, who even represented India in the 2010 U-19 World Cup before moving to the States, has been one of the heroes of their campaign so far, claiming four wickets in three games. Recently, he recalled dismissing Virat Kohli during his side's seven-wicket loss to Team India. Talking to The Times of India, Netravalkar, who led USA to a thrilling Super Over win against Pakistan in the ongoing tournament, said, "I am just happy that I can pursue both my passions. It is all happening very fast and I am in the process of digesting it. These last two games were really high-profile. It was an emotional moment to get Virat's wicket. I was looking to hit off-stump and it worked out well." Also read: Nothing to answer to anyone: Bangladesh star Shakib Al Hasan reacts to Virender Sehwag's criticism Netravalkar, a left-arm pacer, exposed Kohli's weakness outside the off-stump as he found the edge of the star batter's blade. Kohli was, thus, dismissed for a golden duck in India's 111-run chase, which they eventually completed in 18.2 overs with seven wickets in hand courtesy of Suryakumar Yadav's 50 not out. In addition, the 32-year-old, who works as a software engineer for Oracle in the States, also dismissed Indian captain Rohit Sharma for 3 (6). The Mumbai-born cricketer is good friends with Surya and even spoke on his relationship with him. In this regard, he opined, "I know Surya from my U-15, U-17 days, we were talking about our dressing-room banter. I didn't know Virat personally but he did congratulate me." The US speedster has four wickets from three outings at an average of 13 and an impressive economy of 5.20. Netravalkar-starrer USA are very much in contention to reach the Super 8s. They will lock horns with Ireland, in Florida on Friday (June 14) and even a washout will assure them a spot in the next round.

T20 WC: 'It was an emotional moment' - USA pacer Saurabh Netravalkar recalls dismissing Virat Kohli

<p>Indian fans were shushed at the Nassau County International Cricket Stadium in New York on Sunday (Jun 9) as Pakistan pacers sent openers Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli back to the pavilion inside powerplay overs.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The match was delayed by more than 50 minutes due to rain as Pakistan skipper Babar Azam won the toss and opted to bowl first. With the conditions overcast and sporadic rain showers anticipated, Rohit rues that he would have liked&nbsp;to bowl first as well.&nbsp;</p>

<p><b>"</b>We would have done that (fielded). We have to assess as quickly as possible how the pitch plays and then try to get a decent score," said Rohit</p>

<p>"Obviously it can be challenging upfront but we've spoken of what needs to be done as a batting unit and then we'll try to defend that score. Every game is important. You're playing the World Cup, it's important you try and show up and show up pretty well," he added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>After the delayed start, both teams came out in the middle but had to return after the end of first over. Shaheen Afridi took the new ball and got the ball to jag around just a bit but Rohit imposed himself by flicking one off his pads over backward square leg for a massive six.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-pak-live-score-t20-world-cup-2024-india-vs-pakistan-minute-by-minute-updates-direct-from-nassau-stadium-730080"><strong>Also read |&nbsp;IND vs PAK, T20 World Cup 2024, Live Updates: India march towards 50 after poor start</strong></a></p>

<p>After another 30-min delay, Kohli started the proceedings with a boundary against Naseem Shah. However, the pacer held back his length and got the ball to hold on a bit, which forced Kohli to scythe one straight to backward point.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Rohit departed in the very next over as he attempted a repeat of the first six but could only find&nbsp;Haris Rauf who took a steep catch with relative ease.&nbsp;</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-captioned="" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/reel/C8AFbOEoU95/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="14" style=" background:#FFF; border:0; border-radius:3px; box-shadow:0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width:540px; min-width:326px; padding:0; width:99.375%; width:-webkit-calc(100% - 2px); width:calc(100% - 2px);">
<div style="padding:16px;">
<div style=" display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;">
<div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;">&nbsp;</div>

<div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;">
<div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;">&nbsp;</div>

<div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;">&nbsp;</div>
</div>
</div>

<div style="padding: 19% 0;">&nbsp;</div>

<div style="display:block; height:50px; margin:0 auto 12px; width:50px;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/reel/C8AFbOEoU95/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" background:#FFFFFF; line-height:0; padding:0 0; text-align:center; text-decoration:none; width:100%;" target="_blank"><svg height="50px" version="1.1" viewbox="0 0 60 60" width="50px" xmlns="https://www.w3.org/2000/svg" xmlns:xlink="https://www.w3.org/1999/xlink"><g fill="none" fill-rule="evenodd" stroke="none" stroke-width="1"><g fill="#000000" transform="translate(-511.000000, -20.000000)"><g><path d="M556.869,30.41 C554.814,30.41 553.148,32.076 553.148,34.131 C553.148,36.186 554.814,37.852 556.869,37.852 C558.924,37.852 560.59,36.186 560.59,34.131 C560.59,32.076 558.924,30.41 556.869,30.41 M541,60.657 C535.114,60.657 530.342,55.887 530.342,50 C530.342,44.114 535.114,39.342 541,39.342 C546.887,39.342 551.658,44.114 551.658,50 C551.658,55.887 546.887,60.657 541,60.657 M541,33.886 C532.1,33.886 524.886,41.1 524.886,50 C524.886,58.899 532.1,66.113 541,66.113 C549.9,66.113 557.115,58.899 557.115,50 C557.115,41.1 549.9,33.886 541,33.886 M565.378,62.101 C565.244,65.022 564.756,66.606 564.346,67.663 C563.803,69.06 563.154,70.057 562.106,71.106 C561.058,72.155 560.06,72.803 558.662,73.347 C557.607,73.757 556.021,74.244 553.102,74.378 C549.944,74.521 548.997,74.552 541,74.552 C533.003,74.552 532.056,74.521 528.898,74.378 C525.979,74.244 524.393,73.757 523.338,73.347 C521.94,72.803 520.942,72.155 519.894,71.106 C518.846,70.057 518.197,69.06 517.654,67.663 C517.244,66.606 516.755,65.022 516.623,62.101 C516.479,58.943 516.448,57.996 516.448,50 C516.448,42.003 516.479,41.056 516.623,37.899 C516.755,34.978 517.244,33.391 517.654,32.338 C518.197,30.938 518.846,29.942 519.894,28.894 C520.942,27.846 521.94,27.196 523.338,26.654 C524.393,26.244 525.979,25.756 528.898,25.623 C532.057,25.479 533.004,25.448 541,25.448 C548.997,25.448 549.943,25.479 553.102,25.623 C556.021,25.756 557.607,26.244 558.662,26.654 C560.06,27.196 561.058,27.846 562.106,28.894 C563.154,29.942 563.803,30.938 564.346,32.338 C564.756,33.391 565.244,34.978 565.378,37.899 C565.522,41.056 565.552,42.003 565.552,50 C565.552,57.996 565.522,58.943 565.378,62.101 M570.82,37.631 C570.674,34.438 570.167,32.258 569.425,30.349 C568.659,28.377 567.633,26.702 565.965,25.035 C564.297,23.368 562.623,22.342 560.652,21.575 C558.743,20.834 556.562,20.326 553.369,20.18 C550.169,20.033 549.148,20 541,20 C532.853,20 531.831,20.033 528.631,20.18 C525.438,20.326 523.257,20.834 521.349,21.575 C519.376,22.342 517.703,23.368 516.035,25.035 C514.368,26.702 513.342,28.377 512.574,30.349 C511.834,32.258 511.326,34.438 511.181,37.631 C511.035,40.831 511,41.851 511,50 C511,58.147 511.035,59.17 511.181,62.369 C511.326,65.562 511.834,67.743 512.574,69.651 C513.342,71.625 514.368,73.296 516.035,74.965 C517.703,76.634 519.376,77.658 521.349,78.425 C523.257,79.167 525.438,79.673 528.631,79.82 C531.831,79.965 532.853,80.001 541,80.001 C549.148,80.001 550.169,79.965 553.369,79.82 C556.562,79.673 558.743,79.167 560.652,78.425 C562.623,77.658 564.297,76.634 565.965,74.965 C567.633,73.296 568.659,71.625 569.425,69.651 C570.167,67.743 570.674,65.562 570.82,62.369 C570.966,59.17 571,58.147 571,50 C571,41.851 570.966,40.831 570.82,37.631"></path></g></g></g></svg></a></div>

<div style="padding-top: 8px;">
<div style=" color:#3897f0; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:550; line-height:18px;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/reel/C8AFbOEoU95/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" background:#FFFFFF; line-height:0; padding:0 0; text-align:center; text-decoration:none; width:100%;" target="_blank">View this post on Instagram</a></div>
</div>

<div style="padding: 12.5% 0;">&nbsp;</div>

<div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; margin-bottom: 14px; align-items: center;">
<div>
<div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(0px) translateY(7px);">&nbsp;</div>

<div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; height: 12.5px; transform: rotate(-45deg) translateX(3px) translateY(1px); width: 12.5px; flex-grow: 0; margin-right: 14px; margin-left: 2px;">&nbsp;</div>

<div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(9px) translateY(-18px);">&nbsp;</div>
</div>

<div style="margin-left: 8px;">
<div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 20px; width: 20px;">&nbsp;</div>

<div style=" width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 2px solid transparent; border-left: 6px solid #f4f4f4; border-bottom: 2px solid transparent; transform: translateX(16px) translateY(-4px) rotate(30deg)">&nbsp;</div>
</div>

<div style="margin-left: auto;">
<div style=" width: 0px; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-right: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(16px);">&nbsp;</div>

<div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; flex-grow: 0; height: 12px; width: 16px; transform: translateY(-4px);">&nbsp;</div>

<div style=" width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-left: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(-4px) translateX(8px);">&nbsp;</div>
</div>
</div>

<div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center; margin-bottom: 24px;">
<div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 224px;">&nbsp;</div>

<div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 144px;">&nbsp;</div>
</div>

<p style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px; margin-bottom:0; margin-top:8px; overflow:hidden; padding:8px 0 7px; text-align:center; text-overflow:ellipsis; white-space:nowrap;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/reel/C8AFbOEoU95/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px; text-decoration:none;" target="_blank">A post shared by ICC (@icc)</a></p>
</div>
</blockquote>
<script async src="//www.instagram.com/embed.js"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>After the two quick wickets, Indian team management sent Axar Patel and Rishabh Pant into the middle, pushing Suryakumar Yadav, down the order.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Teams: </strong></p>

<p><strong>India (Playing XI): </strong>Rohit Sharma(c), Virat Kohli, Rishabh Pant(w), Suryakumar Yadav, Shivam Dube, Hardik Pandya, Ravindra Jadeja, Axar Patel, Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Siraj, Arshdeep Singh</p>

<p><strong>Pakistan (Playing XI):</strong> Mohammad Rizwan(w), Babar Azam(c), Usman Khan, Fakhar Zaman, Shadab Khan, Iftikhar Ahmed, Imad Wasim, Shaheen Afridi, Haris Rauf, Naseem Shah, Mohammad Amir</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Indian fans were shushed at the Nassau County International Cricket Stadium in New York on Sunday (Jun 9) as Pakistan pacers sent openers Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli back to the pavilion inside powerplay overs.

Indian fans were shushed at the Nassau County International Cricket Stadium in New York on Sunday (Jun 9) as Pakistan pacers sent openers Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli back to the pavilion inside powerplay overs. The match was delayed by more than 50 minutes due to rain as Pakistan skipper Babar Azam won the toss and opted to bowl first. With the conditions overcast and sporadic rain showers anticipated, Rohit rues that he would have liked to bowl first as well. "We would have done that (fielded). We have to assess as quickly as possible how the pitch plays and then try to get a decent score," said Rohit "Obviously it can be challenging upfront but we've spoken of what needs to be done as a batting unit and then we'll try to defend that score. Every game is important. You're playing the World Cup, it's important you try and show up and show up pretty well," he added. After the delayed start, both teams came out in the middle but had to return after the end of first over. Shaheen Afridi took the new ball and got the ball to jag around just a bit but Rohit imposed himself by flicking one off his pads over backward square leg for a massive six. Also read | IND vs PAK, T20 World Cup 2024, Live Updates: India march towards 50 after poor start After another 30-min delay, Kohli started the proceedings with a boundary against Naseem Shah. However, the pacer held back his length and got the ball to hold on a bit, which forced Kohli to scythe one straight to backward point. Rohit departed in the very next over as he attempted a repeat of the first six but could only find Haris Rauf who took a steep catch with relative ease. View this post on Instagram A post shared by ICC (@icc) × After the two quick wickets, Indian team management sent Axar Patel and Rishabh Pant into the middle, pushing Suryakumar Yadav, down the order. Teams: India (Playing XI): Rohit Sharma(c), Virat Kohli, Rishabh Pant(w), Suryakumar Yadav, Shivam Dube, Hardik Pandya, Ravindra Jadeja, Axar Patel, Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Siraj, Arshdeep Singh Pakistan (Playing XI): Mohammad Rizwan(w), Babar Azam(c), Usman Khan, Fakhar Zaman, Shadab Khan, Iftikhar Ahmed, Imad Wasim, Shaheen Afridi, Haris Rauf, Naseem Shah, Mohammad Amir (With inputs from agencies)

T20 World Cup: Watch - Virat, Rohit depart inside powerplay as Pakistan strike early

<p>As the Nassau County Cricket Stadium in New York is ready to play host to the marquee India vs Pakistan match in the 2024 T20 World Cup, all eyes will be on the head-to-head battle between stars Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli versus Shaheen Afridi and Mohammad Amir. Those who followed this development over the years know how much of a mouth-watering clash this is. So what should India do to curb their effect early on with the new ball?</p>

<p>India opened with Rohit and Virat in the first game against Ireland in New York&nbsp; but the&nbsp;experiment failed&nbsp;big time as Kohli departed on a rare one inside the third over.</p>

<p>Though another experiment of playing Rishabh Pant at number three, which helps accommodate all-rounder Shivam Dube in the playing XI, worked wonders as he scored an unbeaten 36, India must find a solid and long-term solution to having a fixed top three.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/t20-wc-rohit-sharma-hit-on-thumb-in-nets-dismisses-injury-scare-ahead-of-marquee-pakistan-clash-729887">T20 WC: Rohit Sharma hit on thumb in nets, dismisses injury scare ahead of marquee Pakistan clash</a></strong></p>

<p>Considering both stalwarts have had trouble facing the left-arm seamers earlier, with the inswinging delivery working as a catalyst for the bowlers, the team management must take a brave call on deciding the batting order. While India walks into this contest as a batting-heavy side, their arch-rivals will have their chin up&nbsp;knowing the four-man seam attack&nbsp;guard&nbsp;their pride every time.&nbsp;</p>

<p>From Shaheen and Naseem Shah - good with the new ball, to Amir and Haris Rauf - better choices for the first and second-change seamers, Pakistan have their bases covered against India. Although their latest result against the USA (where they lost in the super-over) doesn’t help the cause, looking back at their performances in the past two editions might boost their confidence.</p>

<h2>What should India’s Plan B be?</h2>

<p>India might actually go ahead with Rohit and Virat at the top without bothering much about Pakistan’s bowling order. Alternatively, they can make a few amends to their XI to avoid facing any hiccups earlier, just in case.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Now that Pakistan is sure of playing at least three seamers if not four, against India and going ahead with Shadab Khan as the lone spinner, the Indian Team can drop Dube for this tie (who is known to spin well), bringing in Yashasvi Jaiswal instead, dropping Kohli to his usual number three position, with Pant playing at five.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Although this calls for too many changes in the XI, the Men in Blue can at least try bringing more balance to the side to ensure they have better chances.&nbsp;</p>


As the Nassau County Cricket Stadium in New York is ready to play host to the marquee India vs Pakistan match in the 2024 T20 World Cup, all eyes will be on the head-to-head battle between stars Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli versus Shaheen Afridi and Mohammad Amir.

As the Nassau County Cricket Stadium in New York is ready to play host to the marquee India vs Pakistan match in the 2024 T20 World Cup, all eyes will be on the head-to-head battle between stars Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli versus Shaheen Afridi and Mohammad Amir. Those who followed this development over the years know how much of a mouth-watering clash this is. So what should India do to curb their effect early on with the new ball? India opened with Rohit and Virat in the first game against Ireland in New York but the experiment failed big time as Kohli departed on a rare one inside the third over. Though another experiment of playing Rishabh Pant at number three, which helps accommodate all-rounder Shivam Dube in the playing XI, worked wonders as he scored an unbeaten 36, India must find a solid and long-term solution to having a fixed top three. ALSO READ: T20 WC: Rohit Sharma hit on thumb in nets, dismisses injury scare ahead of marquee Pakistan clash Considering both stalwarts have had trouble facing the left-arm seamers earlier, with the inswinging delivery working as a catalyst for the bowlers, the team management must take a brave call on deciding the batting order. While India walks into this contest as a batting-heavy side, their arch-rivals will have their chin up knowing the four-man seam attack guard their pride every time. From Shaheen and Naseem Shah - good with the new ball, to Amir and Haris Rauf - better choices for the first and second-change seamers, Pakistan have their bases covered against India. Although their latest result against the USA (where they lost in the super-over) doesn’t help the cause, looking back at their performances in the past two editions might boost their confidence. What should India’s Plan B be? India might actually go ahead with Rohit and Virat at the top without bothering much about Pakistan’s bowling order. Alternatively, they can make a few amends to their XI to avoid facing any hiccups earlier, just in case. Now that Pakistan is sure of playing at least three seamers if not four, against India and going ahead with Shadab Khan as the lone spinner, the Indian Team can drop Dube for this tie (who is known to spin well), bringing in Yashasvi Jaiswal instead, dropping Kohli to his usual number three position, with Pant playing at five. Although this calls for too many changes in the XI, the Men in Blue can at least try bringing more balance to the side to ensure they have better chances.

T20 World Cup: What could be India’s Plan B  against Shaheen and Amir in New York showdown?

<p>Indian batting great Virat Kohli is the most recognisable cricketer worldwide, with his popularity breaking barriers across borders. Currently in the USA for the ongoing 2024 T20 World Cup, Kohli is not only praised and worshipped by billions in his country but looked up to as a cult figure in Pakistan also, with former captain Rashid Latif admitting that Virat's popularity in his country is at par with the late Hindi cinema veteran Dilip Kumar and star celebrities like Amitabh Bachchan and Shah Rukh Khan.</p>

<p>Considering social media’s rise in the past decade, Virat’s popularity on top applications like Instagram, Facebook and X (formerly Twitter) has gone off the roof, with more than 380 million followers combined on these three platforms.</p>

<p>Outside of these numbers, the legacy he carved with unparalleled numbers and unmatched success as a batter is grander than one thinks.</p>

<p>Amid India gearing up to take on arch-rivals Pakistan in the marquee T20 World Cup clash in New York, two former Pakistan captains, Azhar Ali and Latif, explain Virat’s craze across the border.&nbsp;</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="rtl" lang="ur">ویرات کولی ءِ اکس گْوادر ءِ تیاب ءَ<br />
<br />
ساچان بلوچ ءِ سینڈ آرٹ، ویرات کولی ءِ اکس۔ گْوادر ءِ تیاب دپ ءَ۔ <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Gwadar?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Gwadar</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Balochistan?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Balochistan</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ViratKohli%F0%93%83%B5?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ViratKohli𓃵</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/imVkohli?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@imVkohli</a> @AsiaCup_23 <a href="https://twitter.com/ICC?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ICC</a> <a href="https://t.co/MIvvNNkI53">pic.twitter.com/MIvvNNkI53</a></p>
— Gwadar_e_Tawar (@gwadar_e_tawar) <a href="https://twitter.com/gwadar_e_tawar/status/1698205982600401023?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 3, 2023</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/t20-wc-focus-remains-on-real-time-action-as-rohit-kirsten-play-it-simple-ahead-of-india-pakistan-match-730093">T20 WC: Focus remains on real-time action as Rohit, Kirsten ‘play it simple’ ahead of India-Pakistan match</a></strong></p>

<p>In an exclusive chat with the Indian Express, Latif said despite several differences on countless grounds, Pakistani fans love Virat Kohli like anything.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“It’s not like that Virat is the first one with such a big fan base in Pakistan,” Latif said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“If you go back, Dilip Kumar had a massive fan following in Pakistan. Sunil Gavaskar became a cult in Pakistan. Young batsmen were told to copy Gavaskar Saab’s technique. Then Amitabh Bachchan’s ‘Angry Young Man’ movies used to get sold out. Then came Kapil Dev, Sachin Tendulkar, Shah Rukh Khan, MS Dhoni. When Dhoni came here his long locks became a trend.</p>

<p>“But Virat’s popularity in Pakistan is on par with Dilip Saab, Mr Bachchan and Shah Rukh. Like in India, you guys loved our bowlers – Wasim Akram, Waqar Younis, and Shoaib Akhtar became household names. Here in Pakistan, we adored Gavaskar Saab, Tendulkar, then Dhoni and now Kohli – they are all icons. Yuvraj Singh and Virender Sehwag too have a good fan following in Pakistan,” Latif added.</p>

<h2>Virat led a fitness revolution</h2>

<p>Although Sourav Ganguly and MS Dhoni are considered two great Indian captains who changed their cricket for good, Azhar Ali said how Virat led the fitness revolution among the Asian fraternity is fantastic. &nbsp;</p>

<p>“First and foremost, he has changed Indian cricket. You can debate that Sourav Ganguly and MS Dhoni have also played a role. But when it comes to fitness, there is no one like Virat Kohli. He has led by example. He is a role model to all the youths.</p>

<p>“Now, in our part of the world, we have someone who is the most fit athlete. Earlier, we used to give examples of athletes from the West. Now Virat has set that bar. The Pakistani youths are fascinated by the sacrifices he has made. You see his interviews where he is talking about how he quit having his favourite food (Chole Bhature) for cricket,” Azhar continued.&nbsp;</p>


Indian batting great Virat Kohli is the most recognisable cricketer worldwide, with his popularity breaking barriers across borders. Currently in the USA for the ongoing 2024 T20 World Cup, Kohli is not only praised and worshipped by billions in his country but looked up to as a cult figure in Pakistan also, with former captain Rashid Latif admitting that Virat's popularity in his country is at par with the late Hindi cinema veteran Dilip Kumar and star celebrities like Amitabh Bachchan and Shah Rukh Khan.

Indian batting great Virat Kohli is the most recognisable cricketer worldwide, with his popularity breaking barriers across borders. Currently in the USA for the ongoing 2024 T20 World Cup, Kohli is not only praised and worshipped by billions in his country but looked up to as a cult figure in Pakistan also, with former captain Rashid Latif admitting that Virat's popularity in his country is at par with the late Hindi cinema veteran Dilip Kumar and star celebrities like Amitabh Bachchan and Shah Rukh Khan. Considering social media’s rise in the past decade, Virat’s popularity on top applications like Instagram, Facebook and X (formerly Twitter) has gone off the roof, with more than 380 million followers combined on these three platforms. Outside of these numbers, the legacy he carved with unparalleled numbers and unmatched success as a batter is grander than one thinks. Amid India gearing up to take on arch-rivals Pakistan in the marquee T20 World Cup clash in New York, two former Pakistan captains, Azhar Ali and Latif, explain Virat’s craze across the border. ویرات کولی ءِ اکس گْوادر ءِ تیاب ءَ ساچان بلوچ ءِ سینڈ آرٹ، ویرات کولی ءِ اکس۔ گْوادر ءِ تیاب دپ ءَ۔ #Gwadar #Balochistan #ViratKohli𓃵 @imVkohli @AsiaCup_23 @ICC pic.twitter.com/MIvvNNkI53 — Gwadar_e_Tawar (@gwadar_e_tawar) September 3, 2023 × ALSO READ: T20 WC: Focus remains on real-time action as Rohit, Kirsten ‘play it simple’ ahead of India-Pakistan match In an exclusive chat with the Indian Express, Latif said despite several differences on countless grounds, Pakistani fans love Virat Kohli like anything. “It’s not like that Virat is the first one with such a big fan base in Pakistan,” Latif said. “If you go back, Dilip Kumar had a massive fan following in Pakistan. Sunil Gavaskar became a cult in Pakistan. Young batsmen were told to copy Gavaskar Saab’s technique. Then Amitabh Bachchan’s ‘Angry Young Man’ movies used to get sold out. Then came Kapil Dev, Sachin Tendulkar, Shah Rukh Khan, MS Dhoni. When Dhoni came here his long locks became a trend. “But Virat’s popularity in Pakistan is on par with Dilip Saab, Mr Bachchan and Shah Rukh. Like in India, you guys loved our bowlers – Wasim Akram, Waqar Younis, and Shoaib Akhtar became household names. Here in Pakistan, we adored Gavaskar Saab, Tendulkar, then Dhoni and now Kohli – they are all icons. Yuvraj Singh and Virender Sehwag too have a good fan following in Pakistan,” Latif added. Virat led a fitness revolution Although Sourav Ganguly and MS Dhoni are considered two great Indian captains who changed their cricket for good, Azhar Ali said how Virat led the fitness revolution among the Asian fraternity is fantastic. “First and foremost, he has changed Indian cricket. You can debate that Sourav Ganguly and MS Dhoni have also played a role. But when it comes to fitness, there is no one like Virat Kohli. He has led by example. He is a role model to all the youths. “Now, in our part of the world, we have someone who is the most fit athlete. Earlier, we used to give examples of athletes from the West. Now Virat has set that bar. The Pakistani youths are fascinated by the sacrifices he has made. You see his interviews where he is talking about how he quit having his favourite food (Chole Bhature) for cricket,” Azhar continued.

Virat Kohli’s fan following in Pakistan is on par with Amitabh Bachchan and Shah Rukh Khan, says Rashid Latif

<p>Former Pakistan cricketer Danish Kaneria has dismissed the comparisons being made between Virat Kohli and Babar Azam. Ahead of the hotly-anticipated India-Pakistan T20 World Cup clash, Kaneria said, Babar, the current men's senior team captain was not comparable to 'Kohli's shoes'.&nbsp;</p>

<p>India vs Pakistan square off against each other at the Nassau County International&nbsp;Cricket Stadium in New York on Sunday (Jun 9), with a spot in the Super 8 on the lines.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"As soon as Babar Azam scores&nbsp;a hundred, the next day you’ll see comparisons with Virat Kohli. <em>Virat ke jute k barabar bhi nahi hai </em>(He's not even comparable to&nbsp;Kohli's shoes)", Kaneria was quoted as saying by news wire agency&nbsp;<em>IANS</em>.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Kaneria cited the example of Babar's struggles against USA bowlers during Pakistan's first match of the tournament.</p>

<p>"USA bowlers had him stuck, he was unable to play the bowlers. As soon as he reached 40 odd runs he got out. He should have stayed and won the game. Pakistan should have won the game one sided," Kaneria&nbsp;added.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-vs-pakistan-at-2024-t20-world-cup-match-preview-and-result-prediction-730069"><strong>Also read |&nbsp;India vs Pakistan at 2024 T20 World Cup – Match preview and result prediction</strong></a></p>

<h2><strong>Babar's slow innings&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>Babar played an attritional 43-ball 44-run innings, batting first as Pakistan failed to show intent in the powerplay phase. Babar looked passive and failed to capitalise&nbsp;on the fielding restrictions which eventually cost Pakistan the match.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Pakistan skipper also came under heavy scrutiny for his decisions on the field as USA emerged victorious in the Super Over.&nbsp;</p>

<p>While Pakistan come into Sunday's clash with a disappointing result, India on the other hand completed a thumping win against Ireland. The bowlers, led by Jasprit Bumrah and Hardik Pandya skittled the Irish batting lineup on the paltry total of 96 before the batters made a short work of the chase.&nbsp;</p>

<p>While&nbsp;Babar and Kohli failed to lit up the tournament in the first match, both will take the opportunity to show their prowess on the big stage, in perhaps one of the biggest sporting events of the year.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Squads: </strong></p>

<p><strong>India</strong>: Rohit Sharma(c), Virat Kohli, Rishabh Pant(w), Suryakumar Yadav, Shivam Dube, Hardik Pandya, Ravindra Jadeja, Axar Patel, Jasprit Bumrah, Arshdeep Singh, Mohammed Siraj, Yuzvendra Chahal, Sanju Samson, Kuldeep Yadav, Yashasvi Jaiswal</p>

<p><strong>Pakistan</strong>: Mohammad Rizwan(w), Babar Azam(c), Usman Khan, Fakhar Zaman, Shadab Khan, Azam Khan, Iftikhar Ahmed, Shaheen Afridi, Haris Rauf, Naseem Shah, Mohammad Amir, Imad Wasim, Abrar Ahmed, Saim Ayub, Abbas Afridi</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Former Pakistan cricketer Danish Kaneria has dismissed the comparisons being made between Virat Kohli and Babar Azam. Ahead of the hotly-anticipated India-Pakistan T20 World Cup clash, Kaneria said, Babar, the current men's senior team captain was not comparable to 'Kohli's shoes'.

Former Pakistan cricketer Danish Kaneria has dismissed the comparisons being made between Virat Kohli and Babar Azam. Ahead of the hotly-anticipated India-Pakistan T20 World Cup clash, Kaneria said, Babar, the current men's senior team captain was not comparable to 'Kohli's shoes'. India vs Pakistan square off against each other at the Nassau County International Cricket Stadium in New York on Sunday (Jun 9), with a spot in the Super 8 on the lines. "As soon as Babar Azam scores a hundred, the next day you’ll see comparisons with Virat Kohli. Virat ke jute k barabar bhi nahi hai (He's not even comparable to Kohli's shoes)", Kaneria was quoted as saying by news wire agency IANS. Kaneria cited the example of Babar's struggles against USA bowlers during Pakistan's first match of the tournament. "USA bowlers had him stuck, he was unable to play the bowlers. As soon as he reached 40 odd runs he got out. He should have stayed and won the game. Pakistan should have won the game one sided," Kaneria added. Also read | India vs Pakistan at 2024 T20 World Cup – Match preview and result prediction Babar's slow innings Babar played an attritional 43-ball 44-run innings, batting first as Pakistan failed to show intent in the powerplay phase. Babar looked passive and failed to capitalise on the fielding restrictions which eventually cost Pakistan the match. The Pakistan skipper also came under heavy scrutiny for his decisions on the field as USA emerged victorious in the Super Over. While Pakistan come into Sunday's clash with a disappointing result, India on the other hand completed a thumping win against Ireland. The bowlers, led by Jasprit Bumrah and Hardik Pandya skittled the Irish batting lineup on the paltry total of 96 before the batters made a short work of the chase. While Babar and Kohli failed to lit up the tournament in the first match, both will take the opportunity to show their prowess on the big stage, in perhaps one of the biggest sporting events of the year. Squads: India: Rohit Sharma(c), Virat Kohli, Rishabh Pant(w), Suryakumar Yadav, Shivam Dube, Hardik Pandya, Ravindra Jadeja, Axar Patel, Jasprit Bumrah, Arshdeep Singh, Mohammed Siraj, Yuzvendra Chahal, Sanju Samson, Kuldeep Yadav, Yashasvi Jaiswal Pakistan: Mohammad Rizwan(w), Babar Azam(c), Usman Khan, Fakhar Zaman, Shadab Khan, Azam Khan, Iftikhar Ahmed, Shaheen Afridi, Haris Rauf, Naseem Shah, Mohammad Amir, Imad Wasim, Abrar Ahmed, Saim Ayub, Abbas Afridi (With inputs from agencies)

'He's not even comparable to Virat's shoes': Former Pakistan player slams Babar Azam ahead of match vs India

<p>Former Pakistan captain Rashid Latif has hyped the Indian Team ahead of the showdown clash at the Nassau County Cricket Stadium in New York on Sunday (June 9), saying they hold the advantage over the Men in Green. While mentioning everyone’s attention would be on this high-octane clash, Latif pointed out that Pakistan captain Babar Azam will be under utmost pressure, more so for going up against India than performing well in the ongoing 2024 T20 World Cup.</p>

<p>Latif said Babar is far from learning the art of absorbing pressure in such games, suggesting he must take a few tips from Indian veterans like Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli. He added Babar is ahead of his contemporaries as a batter but still has a long way to go as a leader.</p>

<p>"...the focus is on the game on June 9 against India. Babar (Pakistan captain) will be under a lot of pressure because of the game against India rather than performing in the World Cup," Latif said in a chat with PTI.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"But he has to learn to carry pressure; he should learn that from Virat and Rohit. They know how to carry the game. As a batter, Babar is one of the best, but as a captain and leader, there's a lot that he needs to learn," the former Pakistan keeper-batter further said.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/icc-not-in-favour-of-shifting-matches-from-nassau-county-stadium-despite-pitch-concerns-729417">ICC not in favour of shifting matches from Nassau County Stadium despite pitch concerns</a></strong></p>

<p>India won their first game of the&nbsp;tournament against Ireland by eight wickets without their x-factor Kuldeep Yadav, probably saving him for the marquee clash against Pakistan. Latif thinks along the same lines,&nbsp;considering the pitches on offer in the USA, mainly in New York, would assist&nbsp;Kuldeep's style of bowling.</p>

<p>"Kuldeep Yadav is that one player who, if he remains fit for India throughout the World Cup, can cause trouble for batters. He is India's key bowler and also a key to success. Given the current form and stats, definitely, India have an advantage ahead of June 9," he said.</p>

<h2>Pakistan Team doesn’t look prepared</h2>

<p>Unlike how up and ready they looked in the previous two editions (in 2021 and 2022), Pakistan is not prepared enough for this edition, and Latif feels the reason behind that is the damage they suffered with the results at last year’s 50-over World Cup.</p>

<p>“The Pakistan team plays well in the ICC tournaments, but the team doesn't look as prepared as they were in 2021 and 2022. The damage happened after the last ODI World Cup with changes in captaincy, the selection committee and players,” Latif explained.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“The team doesn't know who their openers will be, and what they have tried has failed miserably,” Latif added.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from PTI)</em></p>


Former Pakistan captain Rashid Latif has hyped the Indian Team ahead of the showdown clash at the Nassau County Cricket Stadium in New York on Sunday (June 9), saying they hold the advantage over the Men in Green.

Former Pakistan captain Rashid Latif has hyped the Indian Team ahead of the showdown clash at the Nassau County Cricket Stadium in New York on Sunday (June 9), saying they hold the advantage over the Men in Green. While mentioning everyone’s attention would be on this high-octane clash, Latif pointed out that Pakistan captain Babar Azam will be under utmost pressure, more so for going up against India than performing well in the ongoing 2024 T20 World Cup. Latif said Babar is far from learning the art of absorbing pressure in such games, suggesting he must take a few tips from Indian veterans like Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli. He added Babar is ahead of his contemporaries as a batter but still has a long way to go as a leader. "...the focus is on the game on June 9 against India. Babar (Pakistan captain) will be under a lot of pressure because of the game against India rather than performing in the World Cup," Latif said in a chat with PTI. "But he has to learn to carry pressure; he should learn that from Virat and Rohit. They know how to carry the game. As a batter, Babar is one of the best, but as a captain and leader, there's a lot that he needs to learn," the former Pakistan keeper-batter further said. ALSO READ: ICC not in favour of shifting matches from Nassau County Stadium despite pitch concerns India won their first game of the tournament against Ireland by eight wickets without their x-factor Kuldeep Yadav, probably saving him for the marquee clash against Pakistan. Latif thinks along the same lines, considering the pitches on offer in the USA, mainly in New York, would assist Kuldeep's style of bowling. "Kuldeep Yadav is that one player who, if he remains fit for India throughout the World Cup, can cause trouble for batters. He is India's key bowler and also a key to success. Given the current form and stats, definitely, India have an advantage ahead of June 9," he said. Pakistan Team doesn’t look prepared Unlike how up and ready they looked in the previous two editions (in 2021 and 2022), Pakistan is not prepared enough for this edition, and Latif feels the reason behind that is the damage they suffered with the results at last year’s 50-over World Cup. “The Pakistan team plays well in the ICC tournaments, but the team doesn't look as prepared as they were in 2021 and 2022. The damage happened after the last ODI World Cup with changes in captaincy, the selection committee and players,” Latif explained. “The team doesn't know who their openers will be, and what they have tried has failed miserably,” Latif added. (With inputs from PTI)

T20 WC: Pakistan legend hypes India ahead of showdown clash in New York; rings warning bells for Babar Azam

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

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


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

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

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

<p>The International Cricket Council (ICC) has presented India batting great Virat Kohli with the ICC ODI Player of the Year 2023 award for his massive year with the bat. Taking to their social media handles, the ICC posted a video presenting veteran Kohli with the deserving accolade as the Men in Blue prepares for the 2024 T20 World Cup in the Americas.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Ahead of the tournament opener between co-host USA and neighbours Canada in Dallas, Texas, the ICC shared the video and picked him in the ICC Team of the Year 2023.</p>

<p><strong>You can watch it here –</strong></p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-captioned="" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/reel/C7sLRldPcxw/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="14" style=" background:#FFF; border:0; border-radius:3px; box-shadow:0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width:540px; min-width:326px; padding:0; width:99.375%; width:-webkit-calc(100% - 2px); width:calc(100% - 2px);">
<div style="padding:16px;">
<div style=" display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;">
<div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;">&nbsp;</div>

<div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;">
<div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;">&nbsp;</div>

<div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;">&nbsp;</div>
</div>
</div>

<div style="padding: 19% 0;">&nbsp;</div>

<div style="display:block; height:50px; margin:0 auto 12px; width:50px;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/reel/C7sLRldPcxw/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" background:#FFFFFF; line-height:0; padding:0 0; text-align:center; text-decoration:none; width:100%;" target="_blank"><svg height="50px" version="1.1" viewbox="0 0 60 60" width="50px" xmlns="https://www.w3.org/2000/svg" xmlns:xlink="https://www.w3.org/1999/xlink"><g fill="none" fill-rule="evenodd" stroke="none" stroke-width="1"><g fill="#000000" transform="translate(-511.000000, -20.000000)"><g><path d="M556.869,30.41 C554.814,30.41 553.148,32.076 553.148,34.131 C553.148,36.186 554.814,37.852 556.869,37.852 C558.924,37.852 560.59,36.186 560.59,34.131 C560.59,32.076 558.924,30.41 556.869,30.41 M541,60.657 C535.114,60.657 530.342,55.887 530.342,50 C530.342,44.114 535.114,39.342 541,39.342 C546.887,39.342 551.658,44.114 551.658,50 C551.658,55.887 546.887,60.657 541,60.657 M541,33.886 C532.1,33.886 524.886,41.1 524.886,50 C524.886,58.899 532.1,66.113 541,66.113 C549.9,66.113 557.115,58.899 557.115,50 C557.115,41.1 549.9,33.886 541,33.886 M565.378,62.101 C565.244,65.022 564.756,66.606 564.346,67.663 C563.803,69.06 563.154,70.057 562.106,71.106 C561.058,72.155 560.06,72.803 558.662,73.347 C557.607,73.757 556.021,74.244 553.102,74.378 C549.944,74.521 548.997,74.552 541,74.552 C533.003,74.552 532.056,74.521 528.898,74.378 C525.979,74.244 524.393,73.757 523.338,73.347 C521.94,72.803 520.942,72.155 519.894,71.106 C518.846,70.057 518.197,69.06 517.654,67.663 C517.244,66.606 516.755,65.022 516.623,62.101 C516.479,58.943 516.448,57.996 516.448,50 C516.448,42.003 516.479,41.056 516.623,37.899 C516.755,34.978 517.244,33.391 517.654,32.338 C518.197,30.938 518.846,29.942 519.894,28.894 C520.942,27.846 521.94,27.196 523.338,26.654 C524.393,26.244 525.979,25.756 528.898,25.623 C532.057,25.479 533.004,25.448 541,25.448 C548.997,25.448 549.943,25.479 553.102,25.623 C556.021,25.756 557.607,26.244 558.662,26.654 C560.06,27.196 561.058,27.846 562.106,28.894 C563.154,29.942 563.803,30.938 564.346,32.338 C564.756,33.391 565.244,34.978 565.378,37.899 C565.522,41.056 565.552,42.003 565.552,50 C565.552,57.996 565.522,58.943 565.378,62.101 M570.82,37.631 C570.674,34.438 570.167,32.258 569.425,30.349 C568.659,28.377 567.633,26.702 565.965,25.035 C564.297,23.368 562.623,22.342 560.652,21.575 C558.743,20.834 556.562,20.326 553.369,20.18 C550.169,20.033 549.148,20 541,20 C532.853,20 531.831,20.033 528.631,20.18 C525.438,20.326 523.257,20.834 521.349,21.575 C519.376,22.342 517.703,23.368 516.035,25.035 C514.368,26.702 513.342,28.377 512.574,30.349 C511.834,32.258 511.326,34.438 511.181,37.631 C511.035,40.831 511,41.851 511,50 C511,58.147 511.035,59.17 511.181,62.369 C511.326,65.562 511.834,67.743 512.574,69.651 C513.342,71.625 514.368,73.296 516.035,74.965 C517.703,76.634 519.376,77.658 521.349,78.425 C523.257,79.167 525.438,79.673 528.631,79.82 C531.831,79.965 532.853,80.001 541,80.001 C549.148,80.001 550.169,79.965 553.369,79.82 C556.562,79.673 558.743,79.167 560.652,78.425 C562.623,77.658 564.297,76.634 565.965,74.965 C567.633,73.296 568.659,71.625 569.425,69.651 C570.167,67.743 570.674,65.562 570.82,62.369 C570.966,59.17 571,58.147 571,50 C571,41.851 570.966,40.831 570.82,37.631"></path></g></g></g></svg></a></div>

<div style="padding-top: 8px;">
<div style=" color:#3897f0; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:550; line-height:18px;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/reel/C7sLRldPcxw/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" background:#FFFFFF; line-height:0; padding:0 0; text-align:center; text-decoration:none; width:100%;" target="_blank">View this post on Instagram</a></div>
</div>

<div style="padding: 12.5% 0;">&nbsp;</div>

<div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; margin-bottom: 14px; align-items: center;">
<div>
<div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(0px) translateY(7px);">&nbsp;</div>

<div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; height: 12.5px; transform: rotate(-45deg) translateX(3px) translateY(1px); width: 12.5px; flex-grow: 0; margin-right: 14px; margin-left: 2px;">&nbsp;</div>

<div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(9px) translateY(-18px);">&nbsp;</div>
</div>

<div style="margin-left: 8px;">
<div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 20px; width: 20px;">&nbsp;</div>

<div style=" width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 2px solid transparent; border-left: 6px solid #f4f4f4; border-bottom: 2px solid transparent; transform: translateX(16px) translateY(-4px) rotate(30deg)">&nbsp;</div>
</div>

<div style="margin-left: auto;">
<div style=" width: 0px; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-right: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(16px);">&nbsp;</div>

<div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; flex-grow: 0; height: 12px; width: 16px; transform: translateY(-4px);">&nbsp;</div>

<div style=" width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-left: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(-4px) translateX(8px);">&nbsp;</div>
</div>
</div>

<div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center; margin-bottom: 24px;">
<div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 224px;">&nbsp;</div>

<div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 144px;">&nbsp;</div>
</div>

<p style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px; margin-bottom:0; margin-top:8px; overflow:hidden; padding:8px 0 7px; text-align:center; text-overflow:ellipsis; white-space:nowrap;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/reel/C7sLRldPcxw/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px; text-decoration:none;" target="_blank">A post shared by ICC (@icc)</a></p>
</div>
</blockquote>
<script async src="//www.instagram.com/embed.js"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>Meanwhile, Virat had a superb last year with the bat in hand, scoring 1377 runs in 27 ODIs played, at an average of 72.47 and a strike rate of nearly 100 (99.13), including six centuries and eight fifties.&nbsp;</p>

<p>India’s batting mainstay made headlines at the 2023 Asia Cup, helping the team win the six-team tournament co-hosted by Pakistan and Sri Lanka. His best of 122* came against arch-rivals Pakistan in the crucial Super Four stage game in Colombo.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/t20-world-cup-tighten-security-web-headlines-indias-warm-up-tie-amid-threat-from-terror-groups-727982">T20 World Cup: Tighten security web headlines India’s warm-up tie amid threat from terror groups</a></strong></p>

<p>Later, during the home World Cup, Virat surpassed the great Sachin Tendulkar for most runs by a batter in a single edition, amassing 765 runs in 11 innings at an average of 95.62. Virat slammed three WC tons in that edition and six half-centuries, with his best being 117. Although he completed a fifty against Australia in the Final, India failed to cross the winning line, losing by six wickets.</p>

<p>During the tournament, he also got past the Master Blaster's tally of 49 hundreds, with his record 50th ODI century against New Zealand at the Wankhede in the semis.</p>

<h2>Virat in the USA</h2>

<p>Following another massive IPL with the bat, scoring the most runs (741 runs) in an IPL edition for the nth time, Virat landed in the USA for the 20-team tournament. Since he arrived on the eve of India’s only warm-up match against Bangladesh, he was left out of the squad.</p>

<p>Besides, Virat will play a vital role in India’s campaign, where they are placed in Group A alongside USA, Canada, Ireland and arch-rivals Pakistan. They play their opener against Ireland on June 5 in New York and take on Pakistan in the marquee tie on Sunday (June 9).</p>

<p>Although there was a lot of talk about Virat’s strike rate in the shortest format, questions about his batting position continue to make headlines. Given his form at the top could propel Rohit to open with him, history suggests he did extremely well at his favourite position of number three.&nbsp;</p>


The International Cricket Council (ICC) has presented India batting great Virat Kohli with the ICC ODI Player of the Year 2023 award for his massive year with the bat.

The International Cricket Council (ICC) has presented India batting great Virat Kohli with the ICC ODI Player of the Year 2023 award for his massive year with the bat. Taking to their social media handles, the ICC posted a video presenting veteran Kohli with the deserving accolade as the Men in Blue prepares for the 2024 T20 World Cup in the Americas. Ahead of the tournament opener between co-host USA and neighbours Canada in Dallas, Texas, the ICC shared the video and picked him in the ICC Team of the Year 2023. You can watch it here – View this post on Instagram A post shared by ICC (@icc) × Meanwhile, Virat had a superb last year with the bat in hand, scoring 1377 runs in 27 ODIs played, at an average of 72.47 and a strike rate of nearly 100 (99.13), including six centuries and eight fifties. India’s batting mainstay made headlines at the 2023 Asia Cup, helping the team win the six-team tournament co-hosted by Pakistan and Sri Lanka. His best of 122* came against arch-rivals Pakistan in the crucial Super Four stage game in Colombo. ALSO READ: T20 World Cup: Tighten security web headlines India’s warm-up tie amid threat from terror groups Later, during the home World Cup, Virat surpassed the great Sachin Tendulkar for most runs by a batter in a single edition, amassing 765 runs in 11 innings at an average of 95.62. Virat slammed three WC tons in that edition and six half-centuries, with his best being 117. Although he completed a fifty against Australia in the Final, India failed to cross the winning line, losing by six wickets. During the tournament, he also got past the Master Blaster's tally of 49 hundreds, with his record 50th ODI century against New Zealand at the Wankhede in the semis. Virat in the USA Following another massive IPL with the bat, scoring the most runs (741 runs) in an IPL edition for the nth time, Virat landed in the USA for the 20-team tournament. Since he arrived on the eve of India’s only warm-up match against Bangladesh, he was left out of the squad. Besides, Virat will play a vital role in India’s campaign, where they are placed in Group A alongside USA, Canada, Ireland and arch-rivals Pakistan. They play their opener against Ireland on June 5 in New York and take on Pakistan in the marquee tie on Sunday (June 9). Although there was a lot of talk about Virat’s strike rate in the shortest format, questions about his batting position continue to make headlines. Given his form at the top could propel Rohit to open with him, history suggests he did extremely well at his favourite position of number three.

ICC presents Virat Kohli with ODI Player of the Year 2023 award – WATCH VIDEO

<p>Star Indian batter Virat Kohli has finally landed in the United States as he gets ready for the T20 World Cup which starts on Saturday (June 1). Virat, who did not travel with&nbsp;first batch of squad&nbsp;last week was spotted at the team hotel and the airport on Friday (May 31). Having arrived late in the United States, it is unlikely that Virat will participate in the warm-up match against Bangladesh on Saturday.</p>

<h2><strong>Virat arrives in the US</strong></h2>

<p>"Virat Kohli has checked in at the team hotel and after a long flight, he will be taking a rest," a senior BCCI source confirmed his arrival.</p>

<p>After a 16-hour flight, Virat arrived in New York and rushed to the team hotel to take&nbsp;rest. The former Indian captain has been in superb form in big tournaments. He was the Highest run scorer in the ODI World Cup back in November while he also bagged the Orange Cap at the recently concluded Indian Premier League (IPL 2024). In 15 matches he scored 741 runs highlighting his importance to the side.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/football/spain-authorities-seize-11-tonnes-of-fake-champions-league-and-euro-kits-727466">Spain authorities seize 11 tonnes of fake Champions League and Euro kits</a></p>

<p>The former India captain was given an extra break after the IPL and was with his family before linking up with the squad. This is not the first time Virat has arrived late for Team India, having also taken a break during the South Africa series. He arrived in South Africa from India before leaving for England and then again returning to the Rainbow Nation.</p>

<p>India will have huge expectations from the former skipper who is bidding to win his first T20 World Cup. He finished runners-up in the 2014 edition when India lost to Sri Lanka. Suspense still surrounds what position Virat will play at the T20 World Cup as he is rumoured to&nbsp;open the batting while few have suggested he bat at No.3.</p>


Star Indian batter Virat Kohli has finally landed in the United States as he gets ready for the T20 World Cup which starts on Saturday (June 1). Virat, who did not travel with first batch of squad last week was spotted at the team hotel and the airport on Friday (May 31).

Star Indian batter Virat Kohli has finally landed in the United States as he gets ready for the T20 World Cup which starts on Saturday (June 1). Virat, who did not travel with first batch of squad last week was spotted at the team hotel and the airport on Friday (May 31). Having arrived late in the United States, it is unlikely that Virat will participate in the warm-up match against Bangladesh on Saturday. Virat arrives in the US "Virat Kohli has checked in at the team hotel and after a long flight, he will be taking a rest," a senior BCCI source confirmed his arrival. After a 16-hour flight, Virat arrived in New York and rushed to the team hotel to take rest. The former Indian captain has been in superb form in big tournaments. He was the Highest run scorer in the ODI World Cup back in November while he also bagged the Orange Cap at the recently concluded Indian Premier League (IPL 2024). In 15 matches he scored 741 runs highlighting his importance to the side. ALSO READ | Spain authorities seize 11 tonnes of fake Champions League and Euro kits The former India captain was given an extra break after the IPL and was with his family before linking up with the squad. This is not the first time Virat has arrived late for Team India, having also taken a break during the South Africa series. He arrived in South Africa from India before leaving for England and then again returning to the Rainbow Nation. India will have huge expectations from the former skipper who is bidding to win his first T20 World Cup. He finished runners-up in the 2014 edition when India lost to Sri Lanka. Suspense still surrounds what position Virat will play at the T20 World Cup as he is rumoured to open the batting while few have suggested he bat at No.3.

T20 World Cup 2024: Virat Kohli lands in United States, unlikely to participate in warm-up match

<p>The craze for cricket in the USA is spreading like wildfire, and India great Virat Kohli feels, with the United States co-hosting the ninth edition alongside West Indies, the game is moving in the right direction. America is hosting the first major cricket tournament starting June 2, with three venues – New York, Texas and Florida, to host 16 games combined, including the marquee match between India and Pakistan on June 9.</p>

<p>The USA playing host to a 20-team ICC tournament is a testament to how far cricket has come, with the West accepting it with open arms. A more pre-dominant South Asian sport, with India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka and Afghanistan among the powerhouses, cricket is now recognised worldwide, with the Olympic Committee including it in their LA28 programme.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/gautam-gambhir-receives-backing-from-former-captain-as-india-head-coach-talks-get-intense-727763">Gautam Gambhir receives backing from former captain as India head coach talks get intense</a></strong></p>

<p>Speaking on cricket’s rise, Virat admitted he never thought the USA would host a multi-team cricket tournament. However, with this becoming a reality, Virat said it shows the impact of this sport in the world. In a video posted by the US Consulate Mumbai on the microblogging website X (previously known as Twitter), Virat said,</p>

<p>“Honestly, I never thought we would be playing cricket in any form in the States (USA), but now it’s a reality. That tells you about the growing impact of the sport in the world, and the United States is more than willing to accept the change and be probably the first ones on a global scale to accept it, in a way, with the World Cup,” Kohli said in a pre-recorded video.</p>

<p>“It’s a great start. It’s the ideal way to begin, and it’s going to have a huge impact. In starting off, a kind of a domino effect, and I hope it carries on for a long period of time,” the former India captain continued.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH THE VIDEO -</strong></p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/DYK?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#DYK</a>, the upcoming T20 World Cup is the first major cricket tournament in the United States? Indian cricket legend Virat Kohli talks about why this is a historical moment for the sport, and his aspirations for its growing impact in the United States and across the world.… <a href="https://t.co/KlzWmLYbbn">pic.twitter.com/KlzWmLYbbn</a></p>
— U.S. Consulate Mumbai (@USAndMumbai) <a href="https://twitter.com/USAndMumbai/status/1796523995065631062?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 31, 2024</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<h2>The rise of cricket in the West</h2>

<p>With America and Canada participating in their maiden T20 World Cups, Virat said the growing population of South Asians in the West has helped cricket make some space in the lesser-explored territory.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“We have enough people from our regions to keep the game up and alive in the States and make the others more aware about what it feels like to play and watch cricket. It’s got great potential, with the MLC (Major League Cricket) as well. There is already franchise cricket happening there. It’s moving in the right direction,” Kohli said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Meanwhile, Kohli will hog all the limelight in this tournament, with India playing Pakistan, USA, Canada and Ireland in the group stages. India will play Bangladesh in their only warm-up game on June 1, and open their campaign against Ireland on June 5.&nbsp;</p>


The craze for cricket in the USA is spreading like wildfire, and India great Virat Kohli feels, with the United States co-hosting the ninth edition alongside West Indies, the game is moving in the right direction.

The craze for cricket in the USA is spreading like wildfire, and India great Virat Kohli feels, with the United States co-hosting the ninth edition alongside West Indies, the game is moving in the right direction. America is hosting the first major cricket tournament starting June 2, with three venues – New York, Texas and Florida, to host 16 games combined, including the marquee match between India and Pakistan on June 9. The USA playing host to a 20-team ICC tournament is a testament to how far cricket has come, with the West accepting it with open arms. A more pre-dominant South Asian sport, with India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka and Afghanistan among the powerhouses, cricket is now recognised worldwide, with the Olympic Committee including it in their LA28 programme. ALSO READ: Gautam Gambhir receives backing from former captain as India head coach talks get intense Speaking on cricket’s rise, Virat admitted he never thought the USA would host a multi-team cricket tournament. However, with this becoming a reality, Virat said it shows the impact of this sport in the world. In a video posted by the US Consulate Mumbai on the microblogging website X (previously known as Twitter), Virat said, “Honestly, I never thought we would be playing cricket in any form in the States (USA), but now it’s a reality. That tells you about the growing impact of the sport in the world, and the United States is more than willing to accept the change and be probably the first ones on a global scale to accept it, in a way, with the World Cup,” Kohli said in a pre-recorded video. “It’s a great start. It’s the ideal way to begin, and it’s going to have a huge impact. In starting off, a kind of a domino effect, and I hope it carries on for a long period of time,” the former India captain continued. WATCH THE VIDEO - #DYK, the upcoming T20 World Cup is the first major cricket tournament in the United States? Indian cricket legend Virat Kohli talks about why this is a historical moment for the sport, and his aspirations for its growing impact in the United States and across the world.… pic.twitter.com/KlzWmLYbbn — U.S. Consulate Mumbai (@USAndMumbai) May 31, 2024 × The rise of cricket in the West With America and Canada participating in their maiden T20 World Cups, Virat said the growing population of South Asians in the West has helped cricket make some space in the lesser-explored territory. “We have enough people from our regions to keep the game up and alive in the States and make the others more aware about what it feels like to play and watch cricket. It’s got great potential, with the MLC (Major League Cricket) as well. There is already franchise cricket happening there. It’s moving in the right direction,” Kohli said. Meanwhile, Kohli will hog all the limelight in this tournament, with India playing Pakistan, USA, Canada and Ireland in the group stages. India will play Bangladesh in their only warm-up game on June 1, and open their campaign against Ireland on June 5.

USA hosting T20 World Cup indicates cricket is moving in the right direction, says Virat Kohli

<p>Former India all-rounder Suresh Raina has suggested Virat Kohli to bat at No.3 as the Men in Blue prepare for the T20 World Cup in the USA and West Indies.&nbsp;Virat, who is yet to taste success in the T20 World Cup will be determined to help India clinch their second title having gone winless since the inaugural tournament in South Africa in 2007. According to Raina, Virat Kohli should bat at one-down which gives him time to assess the pitch as conditions in India and the USA will be completely different.</p>

<h2><strong>Raina suggests Virat to bat at No.3</strong></h2>

<p>“I think despite his success in the Indian Premier League (IPL 2024), he should revert back at No.3. He has a great temperament, but pitches in India and the USA will be completely different. He has the ability to change the game when whenever India has needed him. The Pakistan match in Melbourne was a great example why he is still one of the best in the business,” Raina said while speaking to WION.</p>

<p>Virat Kohli&nbsp;at the IPL 2024 scored 741 runs in 15 matches and won the Orange Cap. His performances helped Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) to clinch a place in the playoffs of the IPL at the expense of Chennai Super Kings (CSK). He will be an important weapon for India in the World Cup having also been the top scorer in the 2022 edition with 296 runs down under.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/eng-vs-pak-babar-azam-becomes-second-batter-after-virat-kohli-to-complete-4k-runs-in-mens-t20is-727309">Eng vs Pak: Babar Azam becomes second batter after Virat Kohli to complete 4k runs in men's T20Is</a></p>

<p>“Standing alongside the Indian greats is both inspiring and a testament to the enduring legacy of our cricketing tradition and heritage. Additionally, England evokes a profound sense of nostalgia and passion within us, intricately woven with the essence of our team’s spirit and reflective of our brand’s fundamental values.</p>

<p>“As we eagerly anticipate the opportunity to grace this hallowed ground, our objective will be to exhibit and embrace cricketing excellence, thereby reaffirming our position as champions and ambassadors of Indian cricket,” Raina added during the jersey unveiling of World Championship of Legends side India Champions.</p>


Former India all-rounder Suresh Raina has suggested Virat Kohli to bat at No.3 as the Men in Blue prepare for the T20 World Cup in the USA and West Indies. Virat, who is yet to taste success in the T20 World Cup will be determined to help India clinch their second title having gone winless since the inaugural tournament in South Africa in 2007.

Former India all-rounder Suresh Raina has suggested Virat Kohli to bat at No.3 as the Men in Blue prepare for the T20 World Cup in the USA and West Indies. Virat, who is yet to taste success in the T20 World Cup will be determined to help India clinch their second title having gone winless since the inaugural tournament in South Africa in 2007. According to Raina, Virat Kohli should bat at one-down which gives him time to assess the pitch as conditions in India and the USA will be completely different. Raina suggests Virat to bat at No.3 “I think despite his success in the Indian Premier League (IPL 2024), he should revert back at No.3. He has a great temperament, but pitches in India and the USA will be completely different. He has the ability to change the game when whenever India has needed him. The Pakistan match in Melbourne was a great example why he is still one of the best in the business,” Raina said while speaking to WION. Virat Kohli at the IPL 2024 scored 741 runs in 15 matches and won the Orange Cap. His performances helped Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) to clinch a place in the playoffs of the IPL at the expense of Chennai Super Kings (CSK). He will be an important weapon for India in the World Cup having also been the top scorer in the 2022 edition with 296 runs down under. ALSO READ | Eng vs Pak: Babar Azam becomes second batter after Virat Kohli to complete 4k runs in men's T20Is “Standing alongside the Indian greats is both inspiring and a testament to the enduring legacy of our cricketing tradition and heritage. Additionally, England evokes a profound sense of nostalgia and passion within us, intricately woven with the essence of our team’s spirit and reflective of our brand’s fundamental values. “As we eagerly anticipate the opportunity to grace this hallowed ground, our objective will be to exhibit and embrace cricketing excellence, thereby reaffirming our position as champions and ambassadors of Indian cricket,” Raina added during the jersey unveiling of World Championship of Legends side India Champions.

'Virat Kohli should bat at No.3 in T20 World Cup': Suresh Raina opines on former skipper's batting position

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


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

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

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

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


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

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

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

<p>Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) mentor Gautam Gambhir has commented on the alleged rift with Virat Kohli, saying it wasn't their duty to change the perception of how people viewed the relationship of former Indian teammates.</p>

<p>Despite the rumours about their frosty relationship, the duo shared a heartwarming moment during the just-concluded Indian Premier League (IPL) season. After the KKR vs RCB match at Eden Gardens, the duo shared a warm embrace and talked animatedly.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"The perception is far away from the reality. My relation with Virat Kohli is something this country doesn't need to know,"&nbsp;Gambhir told <em>Sportskeeda.</em></p>

<p>"He has as much right as I do to express himself and help our respective teams win. Our relation is not to give masala to the public."</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Things we love to see 😊<br />
<br />
VK 🤝 GG<br />
<br />
Follow the Match ▶️<a href="https://t.co/CJLmcs7aNa">https://t.co/CJLmcs7aNa</a><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TATAIPL?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TATAIPL</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RCBvKKR?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RCBvKKR</a> <a href="https://t.co/jAOCLDslsZ">pic.twitter.com/jAOCLDslsZ</a></p>
— IndianPremierLeague (@IPL) <a href="https://twitter.com/IPL/status/1773743444495667591?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 29, 2024</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<h2><strong>'People are disappointed'</strong></h2>

<p>Last month, Kohli also revealed that he had buried the hatchet with Gambhir as well as Afghanistan pace bowler Naveen-ul-Haq, much to the dismay of people who liked to sensationalise everything.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>"People are very disappointed with my behaviour. I hugged Naveen, and then the other day, Gauti bhai (Gautam Gambhir) came and hugged me. Your masala is over so you're booing. We're not kids anymore," said Kohli.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2024-virat-kohli-says-people-disappointed-after-he-hugged-gautam-gambhir-naveen-ul-haq-710138"><strong>Also read |&nbsp;IPL 2024: Virat Kohli says people disappointed after he hugged Gautam Gambhir, Naveen-ul-Haq</strong></a></p>

<p>Notably, in last year's IPL, Naveen and Kohli had exchanged some words in the middle which angered Gambhir who sided with his then Lucknow Super Giants team member, leading to players from both camps coming out to separate the former Indian teammates.&nbsp;</p>

<p>After the spat, the three cricketers were handed heavy fines. Kohli and Gambhir were fined 100 per cent of their match fees while Naveen had to forego 50 per cent of his match fee. IPL also released a statement conveying that Kohli and Gambhir confessed to having committed a Level 2 offence.</p>

<p>Kohli and Gambhir being back on good terms augurs well for Indian cricket as reports indicate that BCCI was seriously considering KKR mentor to replace Rahul&nbsp;Dravid as the head coach.&nbsp;</p>

<p>BCCI secretary Jay Shah has seemingly held a discussion with Gambhir regarding the job with the&nbsp;latter keen to get on board to end India's ICC trophy drought of more than a decade.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) mentor Gautam Gambhir has commented on the alleged rift with Virat Kohli, saying it wasn't their duty to change the perception of how people viewed the relationship of former Indian teammates.

Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) mentor Gautam Gambhir has commented on the alleged rift with Virat Kohli, saying it wasn't their duty to change the perception of how people viewed the relationship of former Indian teammates. Despite the rumours about their frosty relationship, the duo shared a heartwarming moment during the just-concluded Indian Premier League (IPL) season. After the KKR vs RCB match at Eden Gardens, the duo shared a warm embrace and talked animatedly. "The perception is far away from the reality. My relation with Virat Kohli is something this country doesn't need to know," Gambhir told Sportskeeda. "He has as much right as I do to express himself and help our respective teams win. Our relation is not to give masala to the public." Things we love to see 😊 VK 🤝 GG Follow the Match ▶️https://t.co/CJLmcs7aNa#TATAIPL | #RCBvKKR pic.twitter.com/jAOCLDslsZ — IndianPremierLeague (@IPL) March 29, 2024 × 'People are disappointed' Last month, Kohli also revealed that he had buried the hatchet with Gambhir as well as Afghanistan pace bowler Naveen-ul-Haq, much to the dismay of people who liked to sensationalise everything. "People are very disappointed with my behaviour. I hugged Naveen, and then the other day, Gauti bhai (Gautam Gambhir) came and hugged me. Your masala is over so you're booing. We're not kids anymore," said Kohli. Also read | IPL 2024: Virat Kohli says people disappointed after he hugged Gautam Gambhir, Naveen-ul-Haq Notably, in last year's IPL, Naveen and Kohli had exchanged some words in the middle which angered Gambhir who sided with his then Lucknow Super Giants team member, leading to players from both camps coming out to separate the former Indian teammates. After the spat, the three cricketers were handed heavy fines. Kohli and Gambhir were fined 100 per cent of their match fees while Naveen had to forego 50 per cent of his match fee. IPL also released a statement conveying that Kohli and Gambhir confessed to having committed a Level 2 offence. Kohli and Gambhir being back on good terms augurs well for Indian cricket as reports indicate that BCCI was seriously considering KKR mentor to replace Rahul Dravid as the head coach. BCCI secretary Jay Shah has seemingly held a discussion with Gambhir regarding the job with the latter keen to get on board to end India's ICC trophy drought of more than a decade. (With inputs from agencies)

'Our relation is...': Gautam Gambhir opens up on alleged rift with Virat Kohli

<p>Former Indian opener Wasim Jaffer has suggested Virat Kohli and Yashasvi Jaiswal should open for India in the forthcoming 2024 T20 World Cup, to be held in West Indies and USA in June. Captain Rohit Sharma and Jaiswal were India's openers in their last T20I series in the run-up to the T20 WC, however, Jaffer feels Rohit can bat at No. 4 as he plays spin really well and backed Kohli to replace him at the top. Meanwhile, the former cricketer feels Suryakumar Yadav can bat at No. 3 in the mega event.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Jaffer wrote on X, formerly Twitter, "Kohli and Jaiswal should open in the World Cup imo. Rohit &amp; SKY should bat 3 and 4 depending on the start we get. Rohit plays spin really well so batting at 4 shouldn't be a concern."</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Kohli &amp; Jaiswal should open in the World Cup imo. Rohit &amp; SKY should bat 3&amp;4 depending on the start we get. Rohit plays spin really well so batting at 4 shouldn't be a concern. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/T20WorldCup?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#T20WorldCup</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvPAK?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDvPAK</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvIRE?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDvIRE</a> <a href="https://t.co/nMgwwaDNXb">pic.twitter.com/nMgwwaDNXb</a></p>
— Wasim Jaffer (@WasimJaffer14) <a href="https://twitter.com/WasimJaffer14/status/1795716168868938019?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 29, 2024</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p><strong>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/t20-world-cup-virat-kohli-remains-the-only-missing-face-as-indian-players-undergo-training-726650">T20 World Cup: Virat Kohli remains the only missing face as Indian players undergo training</a></strong></p>

<p>It is to be noted that Rohit has a decent record&nbsp;while batting at No. 3 and 4. In 12 T20Is batting in those positions, the Indian captain has 315 runs at an average of 39.37 with four half-centuries under his belt. Nonetheless, he has batted as an opener for majority part of his T20I career and has all his four T20I centuries while batting at the top. On the other hand, Kohli has been India's best batter at No. 3, in white-ball formats, for a very long time. However, he has a good record as a T20I opener as well. The right-hander had 400 runs from nine games at an average of 57.14 with a top score of 122 not out (which came against Afghanistan during 2022 Asia Cup 2022). Meanwhile,&nbsp;Jaiswal&nbsp;has a solitary T20I hundred as an opener, which came&nbsp;against Nepal in the 2023 Asian Games.</p>

<p>India are placed in Group A in the T20 WC, along with arch-rivals Pakistan, USA, Ireland and Canada. They open their campaign on June 5 versus Ireland in New York before their marquee face-off versus Pakistan on June 9.</p>


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

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

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

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


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

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

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

virat-kohli

Virat Kohli, News on Virat Kohli, stories on Virat Kohli, articles on Virat Kohli, Virat Kohli stories at Wion, Virat Kohli news, Virat Kohli latest news

virat kohli