Harbhajan Singh has hailed wrist spinners Kuldeep Yadav and Yuzvendra Chahal for their key role in India's recent one-day successes, saying the pair should be fixtures for the rest of the World Cup.

Wrist spinners generally get more turn than finger spinners, with left-armer <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/world-cup-getting-babar-azam-out-was-dream-delivery-says-indias-kuldeep-yadav-228191&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwiY9Puqz_XiAhULMI8KHc0CCMUQFjAAegQIBBAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw1PQP7UB7uwgxW_ku0mtQk3">Yadav striking twice</a> in India's 89-run hammering of arch-rivals Pakistan in Manchester on Sunday to prove his worth on English pitches that often favour the quicks at this stage of the season.&nbsp;

Chahal's leg-spinners did the damage in India's first World Cup outing against South Africa, with the bowler returning figures of 4-51.

Calls were made to replace Yadav with paceman Mohammed Shami against Pakistan but former India off-spinner Harbhajan said the team should stick with the spin twins.

"It is a very good combination," Harbhajan told AFP. "The results that India have got in the last two-and-a-half years, a lot of credit should be given to these guys.''

"I would like to see them playing together because none of the other teams have got two spinners and they don't have the habit of playing spin in the middle overs. It has worked for India to play two spinners, even in English conditions, because they are wrist spinners. If India are thinking about their best XI then these two will feature in all the games," Harbhajan said.

The two bowlers have 168 one-day international wickets between them in the three years since <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/world-cup-yuzvendra-chahal-terms-faf-du-plessis-wicket-as-favourite-224913&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwilo8i7z_XiAhUUk3AKHUKQAR0QFjAAegQIBBAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw1dLJhTNBJKqIy4l5rQ4opB">Chahal </a>made his international debut in 2016. Yadav played his first ODI the following year.

The 24-year-old Yadav is 10 away from a century of wickets with an impressive economy rate of 4.92 in 47 ODIs.

"He has definitely got the capabilities and the talent to be there for a long period of time," said the 38-year-old Harbhajan, who last played for India in a 2016 Twenty20 match.

"(India coach) Ravi Shastri said he is our number one bowler. So it's good that the team is backing him," said Harbhajan, one of India's finest off-spinners, who took 417 wickets in 103 Tests and 269 wickets in 236 ODIs.

India, second in the ODI rankings, have been hit by injuries to opening batsman Shikhar Dhawan - out of the rest of the World Cup -&nbsp;and paceman Bhuvneshwar Kumar.

India's strength 
 
But Harbhajan said Virat Kohli's side have strength in depth with Shami, who is yet to play at the World Cup, likely to replace Kumar in the next match against Afghanistan on Saturday.

"I think Shami is capable enough to win games on his own. He is one of those guys who has been a matchwinner on his own," said Harbhajan.

Harbhajan credited <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/world-cup-virat-kohli-out-tv-cameras-show-indian-captain-walked-as-pak-captain-sarfaraz-claimed-catch-227693&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwiUn9jPz_XiAhXFQo8KHTYHBBgQFjAEegQIABAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw2qweWUXFDFgW90TrfWK_kl">Kohli </a>for a fitness revolution that has improved all aspects of India's game, particularly their fielding.

"They are fit, agile, a proper fielding squad. All the credit must be given to Kohli for changing the face of Indian cricket in terms of fitness," said Harbhajan, a member of the 2011 World Cup-winning team.

"So if you have better fitness then your results always follow the way you want them to be," he said.

Harbhajan said England, holders Australia, New Zealand and India -&nbsp;the current top four -&nbsp;would qualify for the semi-finals, &nbsp;with Kohli's side the team to beat in the knockout phase.

"To beat India they (other teams) will have to bring their 'A' game on that day. India will be a very tough side to beat," Harbhajan&nbsp;said with a smile.

Harbhajan Singh has hailed wrist spinners Kuldeep Yadav and Yuzvendra Chahal for their key role in India's recent one-day successes, saying the pair should be fixtures for the rest of the World Cup.

Harbhajan Singh has hailed wrist spinners Kuldeep Yadav and Yuzvendra Chahal for their key role in India's recent one-day successes, saying the pair should be fixtures for the rest of the World Cup. Wrist spinners generally get more turn than finger spinners, with left-armer Yadav striking twice in India's 89-run hammering of arch-rivals Pakistan in Manchester on Sunday to prove his worth on English pitches that often favour the quicks at this stage of the season. Chahal's leg-spinners did the damage in India's first World Cup outing against South Africa, with the bowler returning figures of 4-51. Calls were made to replace Yadav with paceman Mohammed Shami against Pakistan but former India off-spinner Harbhajan said the team should stick with the spin twins. "It is a very good combination," Harbhajan told AFP. "The results that India have got in the last two-and-a-half years, a lot of credit should be given to these guys.'' "I would like to see them playing together because none of the other teams have got two spinners and they don't have the habit of playing spin in the middle overs. It has worked for India to play two spinners, even in English conditions, because they are wrist spinners. If India are thinking about their best XI then these two will feature in all the games," Harbhajan said. The two bowlers have 168 one-day international wickets between them in the three years since Chahal made his international debut in 2016. Yadav played his first ODI the following year. The 24-year-old Yadav is 10 away from a century of wickets with an impressive economy rate of 4.92 in 47 ODIs. "He has definitely got the capabilities and the talent to be there for a long period of time," said the 38-year-old Harbhajan, who last played for India in a 2016 Twenty20 match. "(India coach) Ravi Shastri said he is our number one bowler. So it's good that the team is backing him," said Harbhajan, one of India's finest off-spinners, who took 417 wickets in 103 Tests and 269 wickets in 236 ODIs. India, second in the ODI rankings, have been hit by injuries to opening batsman Shikhar Dhawan - out of the rest of the World Cup - and paceman Bhuvneshwar Kumar. India's strength But Harbhajan said Virat Kohli's side have strength in depth with Shami, who is yet to play at the World Cup, likely to replace Kumar in the next match against Afghanistan on Saturday. "I think Shami is capable enough to win games on his own. He is one of those guys who has been a matchwinner on his own," said Harbhajan. Harbhajan credited Kohli for a fitness revolution that has improved all aspects of India's game, particularly their fielding. "They are fit, agile, a proper fielding squad. All the credit must be given to Kohli for changing the face of Indian cricket in terms of fitness," said Harbhajan, a member of the 2011 World Cup-winning team. "So if you have better fitness then your results always follow the way you want them to be," he said. Harbhajan said England, holders Australia, New Zealand and India - the current top four - would qualify for the semi-finals, with Kohli's side the team to beat in the knockout phase. "To beat India they (other teams) will have to bring their 'A' game on that day. India will be a very tough side to beat," Harbhajan said with a smile.

Harbhajan tells Team India to stick with spin twins Kuldeep Yadav and Yuzvendra Chahal at World Cup

Shikhar Dhawan, who injured his left thumb during the World Cup 2019 league match with Australia, has been ruled out of the tournament. The left-hander suffered the injury when a rising delivery from Australian fast bowler Pat Cummins hit him awkwardly in the early phase of his match-winning innings of 117 off 109 balls.

Shikhar Dhawan ruled out of world Cup 2019, Rishabh Pant to replace

Afghanistan look in disarray on and off the field at the World Cup with coach Phil Simmons' Twitter outburst on Wednesday revealing signs of troubles within the team.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/world-cup-gulbadin-naib-defends-rashid-khan-says-he-is-a-star-it-was-just-not-his-day-228570">Gulbadin Naib</a>'s men suffered their fifth defeat in as many matches after losing to hosts <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/england-vs-afghanistan-records-galore-as-eoin-morgan-leads-the-way-228515">England </a>on Tuesday when they looked completely defenceless against home captain Eoin Morgan's astonishing six-hitting spree at Old Trafford.

Naib replaced Asghar Afghan as captain ahead of the World Cup in a last-minute leadership change that was criticised by senior players including Rashid Khan and Mohammad Nabi.

Former chief selector Dawlat Ahmadzai has blamed the coaching staff for the debacle which irked Simmons.

"I am in the middle of a World Cup and trying to get our team to perform to the level we expect but at the end of the World Cup I will tell the Afghanistan people about the part that Mr Dawlat Ahmadzai had to play in our preparation and his part in the dismissal of #AsgharAfghan," Simmons tweeted.

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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
I am in the middle of a World Cup and trying to get our team to perform to the level we expect but at the end of the World Cup I will tell the Afghanistan people about the part that Mr Dawlat Ahmadzai had to play in our preparation and his part in the dismissal of <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AsgharAfghan?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AsgharAfghan</a> <a href="https://t.co/TLhIbzqTU4">https://t.co/TLhIbzqTU4</a>
— Phil Simmons (@Coachsim13) <a href="https://twitter.com/Coachsim13/status/1141280755227725824?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 19, 2019</a></blockquote>
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"Me asking to renew my contract with ACB is absolutely untrue #FakeNews," he said in another tweet last week.

On the eve of the England match, some members of the Afghanistan team were involved in an altercation at a restaurant in Manchester, the BBC reported on Tuesday.

The report said the players involved were unhappy at being filmed and confronted a member of the public.

Greater Manchester Police officers attended the incident but no arrests were made.

Naib declined to elaborate on the incident after the loss against England and threatened to walk out of the news conference when pressed further about what happened.

The Afghan team also found themselves in an embarrassing situation earlier in the tournament when stumper-batsman <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/mohammad-shahzad-blames-afghanistan-cricket-board-for-his-withdrawal-from-world-cup-squad-226086&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwiDkZTwwfXiAhUKiXAKHdtkBoEQFjAAegQIBBAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw3CTohg_1YCvtI7mP7MeHPA">Mohammad Shehzad threatened to quit</a> cricket after being ruled out of the World Cup with a knee injury.

Shehzad played in Afghanistan's first two matches but the Afghanistan Cricket Board (ACB) cut him from the squad, saying his injury would not allow him to play any further part.

He said the medical advice he sought suggested he would have been fit in a few off days after having his knee drained.

ACB Chief Executive Asadullah Khan told the ESPNcricinfo website that the team's priority was picking match-fit players.

Afghanistan look in disarray on and off the field at the World Cup with coach Phil Simmons' Twitter outburst on Wednesday revealing signs of troubles within the team.

Afghanistan look in disarray on and off the field at the World Cup with coach Phil Simmons' Twitter outburst on Wednesday revealing signs of troubles within the team. Gulbadin Naib's men suffered their fifth defeat in as many matches after losing to hosts England on Tuesday when they looked completely defenceless against home captain Eoin Morgan's astonishing six-hitting spree at Old Trafford. Naib replaced Asghar Afghan as captain ahead of the World Cup in a last-minute leadership change that was criticised by senior players including Rashid Khan and Mohammad Nabi. Former chief selector Dawlat Ahmadzai has blamed the coaching staff for the debacle which irked Simmons. "I am in the middle of a World Cup and trying to get our team to perform to the level we expect but at the end of the World Cup I will tell the Afghanistan people about the part that Mr Dawlat Ahmadzai had to play in our preparation and his part in the dismissal of #AsgharAfghan," Simmons tweeted. I am in the middle of a World Cup and trying to get our team to perform to the level we expect but at the end of the World Cup I will tell the Afghanistan people about the part that Mr Dawlat Ahmadzai had to play in our preparation and his part in the dismissal of #AsgharAfghan https://t.co/TLhIbzqTU4 — Phil Simmons (@Coachsim13) June 19, 2019 × "Me asking to renew my contract with ACB is absolutely untrue #FakeNews," he said in another tweet last week. On the eve of the England match, some members of the Afghanistan team were involved in an altercation at a restaurant in Manchester, the BBC reported on Tuesday. The report said the players involved were unhappy at being filmed and confronted a member of the public. Greater Manchester Police officers attended the incident but no arrests were made. Naib declined to elaborate on the incident after the loss against England and threatened to walk out of the news conference when pressed further about what happened. The Afghan team also found themselves in an embarrassing situation earlier in the tournament when stumper-batsman Mohammad Shehzad threatened to quit cricket after being ruled out of the World Cup with a knee injury. Shehzad played in Afghanistan's first two matches but the Afghanistan Cricket Board (ACB) cut him from the squad, saying his injury would not allow him to play any further part. He said the medical advice he sought suggested he would have been fit in a few off days after having his knee drained. ACB Chief Executive Asadullah Khan told the ESPNcricinfo website that the team's priority was picking match-fit players.

World Cup: Coach Phil Simmons' outburst exposes troubles in Afghanistan team

Afghanistan's Hashmatullah Shahidi has said he disregarded medical advice and kept on batting after taking a bouncer to the helmet in Tuesday's World Cup defeat by England because he did not want his mother to worry.

The 24-year-old was struck by a delivery from <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/england-vs-afghanistan-records-galore-as-eoin-morgan-leads-the-way-228515">England's </a>Mark Wood that sent him crashing to the turf at Old Trafford but went on to top score for <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/world-cup-gulbadin-naib-defends-rashid-khan-says-he-is-a-star-it-was-just-not-his-day-228570">Afghanistan </a>with 76 in their otherwise disappointing 150-run defeat.

"I got up early because of my mum," Shahidi told reporters after Afghanistan's fifth loss in as many matches at the tournament. "I lost my father last year so I didn't want her to hurt.

"My whole family was watching, even my big brother was here in the ground watching. I didn't want them to be worried for me.

"(The medical staff) just told me, 'let's go'. I told them... my team needed me. I carried on. After the match I went to the ICC doctor and talked to them. They took care of me and said it will be fine, inshallah (God willing)."

Afghanistan's next match is against India in Southampton on Saturday.

Afghanistan's Hashmatullah Shahidi has said he disregarded medical advice and kept on batting after taking a bouncer to the helmet in Tuesday's World Cup defeat by England because he did not want his mother to worry.

Afghanistan's Hashmatullah Shahidi has said he disregarded medical advice and kept on batting after taking a bouncer to the helmet in Tuesday's World Cup defeat by England because he did not want his mother to worry. The 24-year-old was struck by a delivery from England's Mark Wood that sent him crashing to the turf at Old Trafford but went on to top score for Afghanistan with 76 in their otherwise disappointing 150-run defeat. "I got up early because of my mum," Shahidi told reporters after Afghanistan's fifth loss in as many matches at the tournament. "I lost my father last year so I didn't want her to hurt. "My whole family was watching, even my big brother was here in the ground watching. I didn't want them to be worried for me. "(The medical staff) just told me, 'let's go'. I told them... my team needed me. I carried on. After the match I went to the ICC doctor and talked to them. They took care of me and said it will be fine, inshallah (God willing)." Afghanistan's next match is against India in Southampton on Saturday.

Afghanistan's Shahidi kept batting after bouncer blow as he did not want to worry his mother

South pacer Lungi Ngidi has confirmed he is "100 per cent fit" to take the field in their World Cup match against New Zealand here on Wednesday.

South Africa's start to their World Cup campaign has been far from ideal, having lost three opening games and a wash-out tie, with a slew of injuries hampering their progress.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/injured-lungi-ngidi-out-of-india-game-hashim-amla-recovering-well-223793&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjClciArvLiAhUKk3AKHWsfAaEQFjAAegQIARAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw17IHJQttiUdE3q0HXlnNqZ">Ngidi </a>played just the two opening games before sustaining a left hamstring injury in a match against Bangladesh.&nbsp;

"It's been tough. Injuries are never nice, but with the support staff that I've had around me it's been pretty good and I've been alright," Ngidi was quoted as saying by the official website of the Cricket World Cup.&nbsp;

"It's just been frustrating not being able to play.&nbsp; I've just finished a fitness test today and passed that, so I'm match-fit ready. It's 100 per cent. That's how the fitness test goes and if you're not bowling at 100 per cent then you're not ready to play," the young fast bowler added.&nbsp;

South Africa had been forced to field a depleted pace attack with legendary fast bowler Dale Steyn ruled out of the entire tournament, while Ngidi sat out of three matches.&nbsp;

The 23-year-old pacer's return is expected to bolster <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/south-africa-beat-afghanistan-by-nine-wickets-in-cricket-world-cup-227470">South Africa</a>, who have only an outside chance to make it to the semi-finals after three losses from five games.&nbsp;

In their last match, South Africa finally managed to get a win under their belt after beating Afghanistan and now they would need to win the rest of the league stage matches in order to make the last four, and Ngidi feels New Zealand does have some weaknesses that could be exploited.&nbsp;

"I don't think their middle and lower order has been tested enough. They have got most of their runs at the top of the order, so if we can get one or two maybe we can test them. I think then you could be looking at a different situation with their batting," said Ngidi.

South pacer Lungi Ngidi has confirmed he is "100 per cent fit" to take the field in their World Cup match against New Zealand here on Wednesday. South Africa's start to their World Cup campaign has been far from ideal, having lost three opening games and a wash-out tie, with a slew of injuries hampering their progress.

South pacer Lungi Ngidi has confirmed he is "100 per cent fit" to take the field in their World Cup match against New Zealand here on Wednesday. South Africa's start to their World Cup campaign has been far from ideal, having lost three opening games and a wash-out tie, with a slew of injuries hampering their progress. Ngidi played just the two opening games before sustaining a left hamstring injury in a match against Bangladesh. "It's been tough. Injuries are never nice, but with the support staff that I've had around me it's been pretty good and I've been alright," Ngidi was quoted as saying by the official website of the Cricket World Cup. "It's just been frustrating not being able to play. I've just finished a fitness test today and passed that, so I'm match-fit ready. It's 100 per cent. That's how the fitness test goes and if you're not bowling at 100 per cent then you're not ready to play," the young fast bowler added. South Africa had been forced to field a depleted pace attack with legendary fast bowler Dale Steyn ruled out of the entire tournament, while Ngidi sat out of three matches. The 23-year-old pacer's return is expected to bolster South Africa, who have only an outside chance to make it to the semi-finals after three losses from five games. In their last match, South Africa finally managed to get a win under their belt after beating Afghanistan and now they would need to win the rest of the league stage matches in order to make the last four, and Ngidi feels New Zealand does have some weaknesses that could be exploited. "I don't think their middle and lower order has been tested enough. They have got most of their runs at the top of the order, so if we can get one or two maybe we can test them. I think then you could be looking at a different situation with their batting," said Ngidi.

'It's frustrating not being able to play, but I am 100% fit now', says South African pacer Lungi Ngidi

India's Kuldeep Yadav admitted bowling Pakistan batsman Babar Azam in the World Cup with a magical delivery that tossed and turned was a "dream" for any spinner.

Yadav returned figures of 2-32 with his left-arm wrist spin to play a key role in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-beat-pakistan-by-89-runs-at-world-cup-227784">India's 89-run victory</a> via DLS over arch-rivals Pakistan in Manchester on Sunday.

Yadav got Azam bowled through the gate -&nbsp;the ball nipping between bat and pad - for 48 to end a 104-run second wicket stand involving Fakhar Zaman, who top scored with 62.

"Getting Babar Azam out was the best delivery for me in this tournament. I got him out in the Asia Cup as well," Yadav told reporters.

"After the rain break, I went back and watched that delivery. It had drift and turn, so any spinner will love that delivery. It's a proper dream delivery and a proper Test delivery. Deceiving the batsman in the air and making him commit the mistake. A perfect delivery," he said with a smile.

He struck again in his next over to send the left-handed Fakhar packing after the batsman played against the spin to give away a catch at short fine leg.

Vijay Shankar and Hardik Pandya also took two wickets each to restrict Pakistan to 212 for six in a failed chase for their revised target of 302 in 40 overs.

"Both Babar Azam and Fakhar Zaman play spin well. They were rotating the strike and were attacking, so it was important to break that partnership," said Yadav.

"Getting Babar out and then another wicket put them under pressure and according to DLS they needed a very high run-rate and that was a plus point for us," he said.

Pundits had raised doubts about Yadav's performance in the World Cup after coming off an ordinary show in the Indian Premier League Twenty20 tournament.

But the 24-year-old spinner has held his own with 1-46 against South Africa and a breakthrough performance against Pakistan.

"Everyone is talking about my rhythm. I don't think I lost my rhythm. It happens when you don't pick wickets but the last three games I have bowled really well," he said.

"In the game against Australia they were struggling to hit me and that's important for any spinner," Yadav added.

India vice-captain <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/milestone-men-rohit-sharma-kl-rahul-ensure-indias-maiden-century-partnership-against-pakistan-in-world-cup-227611">Rohit Sharma </a>stood out with his 140 off 113 deliveries during India's 336 for five in 50 overs.

But Sharma was quick to praise Yadav for his key strikes in the Pakistan innings.

"He's our match-winning bowler in that middle over the phase, and today also you saw how important those crucial wickets were," said <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/indias-six-symbol-rohit-sharma-hits-most-sixes-beats-dhonis-record-227634">Sharma</a>.

"Both the batsmen were set. Of course, he didn't start the tournament the way he would like to, but for us as a group around him, our job is to just make sure that he gets that confidence, he gets that backing from the team," Sharma added.

Yadav has claimed 90 wickets from 47 ODI matches since his debut in 2017.

India's Kuldeep Yadav admitted bowling Pakistan batsman Babar Azam in the World Cup with a magical delivery that tossed and turned was a "dream" for any spinner.

India's Kuldeep Yadav admitted bowling Pakistan batsman Babar Azam in the World Cup with a magical delivery that tossed and turned was a "dream" for any spinner. Yadav returned figures of 2-32 with his left-arm wrist spin to play a key role in India's 89-run victory via DLS over arch-rivals Pakistan in Manchester on Sunday. Yadav got Azam bowled through the gate - the ball nipping between bat and pad - for 48 to end a 104-run second wicket stand involving Fakhar Zaman, who top scored with 62. "Getting Babar Azam out was the best delivery for me in this tournament. I got him out in the Asia Cup as well," Yadav told reporters. "After the rain break, I went back and watched that delivery. It had drift and turn, so any spinner will love that delivery. It's a proper dream delivery and a proper Test delivery. Deceiving the batsman in the air and making him commit the mistake. A perfect delivery," he said with a smile. He struck again in his next over to send the left-handed Fakhar packing after the batsman played against the spin to give away a catch at short fine leg. Vijay Shankar and Hardik Pandya also took two wickets each to restrict Pakistan to 212 for six in a failed chase for their revised target of 302 in 40 overs. "Both Babar Azam and Fakhar Zaman play spin well. They were rotating the strike and were attacking, so it was important to break that partnership," said Yadav. "Getting Babar out and then another wicket put them under pressure and according to DLS they needed a very high run-rate and that was a plus point for us," he said. Pundits had raised doubts about Yadav's performance in the World Cup after coming off an ordinary show in the Indian Premier League Twenty20 tournament. But the 24-year-old spinner has held his own with 1-46 against South Africa and a breakthrough performance against Pakistan. "Everyone is talking about my rhythm. I don't think I lost my rhythm. It happens when you don't pick wickets but the last three games I have bowled really well," he said. "In the game against Australia they were struggling to hit me and that's important for any spinner," Yadav added. India vice-captain Rohit Sharma stood out with his 140 off 113 deliveries during India's 336 for five in 50 overs. But Sharma was quick to praise Yadav for his key strikes in the Pakistan innings. "He's our match-winning bowler in that middle over the phase, and today also you saw how important those crucial wickets were," said Sharma. "Both the batsmen were set. Of course, he didn't start the tournament the way he would like to, but for us as a group around him, our job is to just make sure that he gets that confidence, he gets that backing from the team," Sharma added. Yadav has claimed 90 wickets from 47 ODI matches since his debut in 2017.

World Cup: Getting Babar Azam out was 'dream' delivery, says India's Kuldeep Yadav

From fun to life skills: How Team India's bonding enhanced over the years

"Stop looking for excuses and start finding solutions," said West Indies assistant coach Roddy Estwick, urging his side to stick together and come back stronger after suffering a crushing <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/live-updates-cricket-world-cup-2019-match-23-west-indies-vs-bangladesh-227892">seven-wicket defeat to Bangladesh</a> in the World Cup here.

Sent into bat, West Indies posted 321 for eight but a below-par bowling performance saw Bangladesh script the second highest successful run chase in World Cup history, knocking off the target of 322 with 8.3 overs to spare on Monday.

"If you look at it, I thought we were 60 runs short on that pitch and on that size field. We then didn't take the opportunities that came our way. We were always behind Bangladesh once they got through to 70/1," said Estwick after WI lost its third match on the trot in five games.

"The big players didn't kick on but saying that we made 321 runs and should have been able to defend that. But we can stand here, saying 'if this' and 'if that' - we didn't play well, we've lost the cricket game and that's that.&nbsp;We've got to come back stronger. We've still got four games left in the tournament and we can't point fingers or apportion blame to anyone. We have to stick together; that's how good teams pull through. Stop looking for excuses and start finding solutions,"&nbsp;&nbsp;Estwick said.

Odds are against West Indies now with just four games left to salvage any hopes of making it to the semi-finals in the 10-team tournament.

However, Estwick said his team will fight it out till the end.&nbsp;

"We're not down and out yet. We're going to fight and come back harder," he said.

"Give <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/bangladesh-beat-west-indies-by-seven-wickets-in-world-cup-228121">Bangladesh </a>credit. They played well and they're an improving side. They've played us now five times in the recent past and have beaten us every time. We just have to go away and put our heads together and find a solution," added&nbsp;Estwick.

"Stop looking for excuses and start finding solutions," said West Indies assistant coach Roddy Estwick, urging his side to stick together and come back stronger after suffering a crushing seven-wicket defeat to Bangladesh in the World Cup here.

"Stop looking for excuses and start finding solutions," said West Indies assistant coach Roddy Estwick, urging his side to stick together and come back stronger after suffering a crushing seven-wicket defeat to Bangladesh in the World Cup here. Sent into bat, West Indies posted 321 for eight but a below-par bowling performance saw Bangladesh script the second highest successful run chase in World Cup history, knocking off the target of 322 with 8.3 overs to spare on Monday. "If you look at it, I thought we were 60 runs short on that pitch and on that size field. We then didn't take the opportunities that came our way. We were always behind Bangladesh once they got through to 70/1," said Estwick after WI lost its third match on the trot in five games. "The big players didn't kick on but saying that we made 321 runs and should have been able to defend that. But we can stand here, saying 'if this' and 'if that' - we didn't play well, we've lost the cricket game and that's that. We've got to come back stronger. We've still got four games left in the tournament and we can't point fingers or apportion blame to anyone. We have to stick together; that's how good teams pull through. Stop looking for excuses and start finding solutions," Estwick said. Odds are against West Indies now with just four games left to salvage any hopes of making it to the semi-finals in the 10-team tournament. However, Estwick said his team will fight it out till the end. "We're not down and out yet. We're going to fight and come back harder," he said. "Give Bangladesh credit. They played well and they're an improving side. They've played us now five times in the recent past and have beaten us every time. We just have to go away and put our heads together and find a solution," added Estwick.

Stop looking for excuses and start finding solutions, says West Indies assistant coach Roddy Estwick

After a woeful run in the ICC Men's Cricket World Cup, South Africa finally managed to secure their first victory, and the team's spin bowling coach Claude Henderson said that they are eager to win.

"Very desperate. It means a lot to everyone in the camp; all the players and the support staff. There is a lot of pride in South African sport and in the country. They owe this to themselves and also to the supporters," Sport34.co.za quoted Henderson as saying.&nbsp;

When South Africa and Afghanistan came face-to-face, both were on a winless streak in the premier tournament but after the conclusion of the match, <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/south-africa-can-still-reach-world-cup-semis-without-steyn-says-faf-du-plessis-224351&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwiirrb26_LiAhWWf30KHX-pCpwQFjADegQIEBAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw07ytWcl2FgDLlBYGEAOiOH">South Africa</a> halted their streak as they trounced their competitor by nine-wickets.

However, their upcoming opponents are New Zealand, who are unbeaten in the tournament so far and sit on the second position on the points table, only behind Australia.

Henderson is aware of the danger ahead of them but is confident that they can beat New Zealand if they managed to play "solid cricket".

"We respect every opposition we play, and <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/world-cup-india-and-new-zealand-split-points-after-trent-bridge-washout-226923&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwiEgIWN7PLiAhVPWH0KHSMdAUsQFjAHegQIBBAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw2jkGn8aluHjRe_SAKUPpqa">New Zealand</a> is one of the better teams in world cricket. They have shown in the last decade how strong they can be, especially in big tournaments. I think we can beat them if we play solid cricket. We haven't started well, but the boys have really worked hard. There have been a lot of discussions and if we play good, basic, strong cricket then we`ve got a very good chance," he said.

<a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-beat-south-africa-by-six-wickets-in-cricket-world-cup-224756&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwiirrb26_LiAhWWf30KHX-pCpwQFjAEegQIARAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw2E-NLdOYHHMiw6o-A9MplO">South Africa</a> will now face New Zealand on June 19.

After a woeful run in the ICC Men's Cricket World Cup, South Africa finally managed to secure their first victory, and the team's spin bowling coach Claude Henderson said that they are eager to win.

After a woeful run in the ICC Men's Cricket World Cup, South Africa finally managed to secure their first victory, and the team's spin bowling coach Claude Henderson said that they are eager to win. "Very desperate. It means a lot to everyone in the camp; all the players and the support staff. There is a lot of pride in South African sport and in the country. They owe this to themselves and also to the supporters," Sport34.co.za quoted Henderson as saying. When South Africa and Afghanistan came face-to-face, both were on a winless streak in the premier tournament but after the conclusion of the match, South Africa halted their streak as they trounced their competitor by nine-wickets. However, their upcoming opponents are New Zealand, who are unbeaten in the tournament so far and sit on the second position on the points table, only behind Australia. Henderson is aware of the danger ahead of them but is confident that they can beat New Zealand if they managed to play "solid cricket". "We respect every opposition we play, and New Zealand is one of the better teams in world cricket. They have shown in the last decade how strong they can be, especially in big tournaments. I think we can beat them if we play solid cricket. We haven't started well, but the boys have really worked hard. There have been a lot of discussions and if we play good, basic, strong cricket then we`ve got a very good chance," he said. South Africa will now face New Zealand on June 19.

World Cup: 'Desperate' South Africa can beat New Zealand, says bowling coach Claude Henderson

After all-rounder <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/world-cup-marcus-stoinis-ruled-out-of-australias-clash-against-sri-lanka-226259&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwibi__g7_LiAhVBVH0KHUIrB10QFjAAegQIBhAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw1DGqRbkaHf9WZVW-Uxfy61">Marcus Stoinis'&nbsp;injury</a>, the Australian side are facing major challenges in choosing their playing XI as assistant coach Brad Haddin said that they are still finding their best.

"At the moment, we're still trying to find that best XI. Marcus'&nbsp;has thrown a spanner into everything there with his injury and how important an allrounder is. We're still trying to find what works best for us. Come later in the tournament, we'll start to understand what the conditions are like a lot better and what ... our best XI (is).

At the moment, we're not settled on our best XI," Cricket.com.au quoted Haddin as saying.

<a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/world-cup-australias-final-call-on-injured-marcus-stoinis-next-week-says-aaron-finch-227292&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwibi__g7_LiAhVBVH0KHUIrB10QFjABegQIDhAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw06u4KKFIccyJfy8xWyAXk_">Stoinis </a>picked a left side strain while bowling during his team's match against India on 9 June.

Keeping the seriousness of the injury in mind, the team has called Mitch Marsh to London, who will join the squad as cover.

Haddin further added that they are making sure that each and every player is ready to deliver whenever the team needs.

"One of the things we spoke to the squad about is we need to be a flexible squad to win a World Cup. The players understand that and we're training them accordingly. We make sure each and every player is ready for game day," he said.

Haddin also backed Usman Khawaja, who has not been able to leave a mark on the field so far, saying that he has been in a role where there are lesser opportunities.

"He's playing a different role. It's not that he's not having success, he's been in a role where he's had limited opportunities. Before he could go out and set the pace of the innings and now the innings is dictating the role he needs to play. He's been okay with it - he's a class act. He's had little cameos throughout ... We're pretty happy with where he's at. He's just got to bat (according to) the situation," &nbsp;said.

<a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/world-cup-allan-border-backs-defending-champs-australia-to-keep-building-momentum-226766&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwi96bmB8PLiAhXLro8KHZK8AjwQFjAEegQIDBAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw3HTjH_WabsBJ5GeqJS54_A">The defending champion</a>s will now face Bangladesh for their next World Cup clash on June 20.

After all-rounder Marcus Stoinis' injury, the Australian side are facing major challenges in choosing their playing XI as assistant coach Brad Haddin said that they are still finding their best.

After all-rounder Marcus Stoinis' injury, the Australian side are facing major challenges in choosing their playing XI as assistant coach Brad Haddin said that they are still finding their best. "At the moment, we're still trying to find that best XI. Marcus' has thrown a spanner into everything there with his injury and how important an allrounder is. We're still trying to find what works best for us. Come later in the tournament, we'll start to understand what the conditions are like a lot better and what ... our best XI (is). At the moment, we're not settled on our best XI," Cricket.com.au quoted Haddin as saying. Stoinis picked a left side strain while bowling during his team's match against India on 9 June. Keeping the seriousness of the injury in mind, the team has called Mitch Marsh to London, who will join the squad as cover. Haddin further added that they are making sure that each and every player is ready to deliver whenever the team needs. "One of the things we spoke to the squad about is we need to be a flexible squad to win a World Cup. The players understand that and we're training them accordingly. We make sure each and every player is ready for game day," he said. Haddin also backed Usman Khawaja, who has not been able to leave a mark on the field so far, saying that he has been in a role where there are lesser opportunities. "He's playing a different role. It's not that he's not having success, he's been in a role where he's had limited opportunities. Before he could go out and set the pace of the innings and now the innings is dictating the role he needs to play. He's been okay with it - he's a class act. He's had little cameos throughout ... We're pretty happy with where he's at. He's just got to bat (according to) the situation," said. The defending champions will now face Bangladesh for their next World Cup clash on June 20.

World Cup: Australia finding it hard to find their best XI after Marcus Stoinis' injury

Shakib Al Hasan: World's best all-rounder, now Bangladesh's big run-machine in World Cup

Ahead of the much-awaited <a href="v">India and Pakistan clash</a>, famous Indian supporter Sudhir Gautam is cheering for his team, blowing a conch shell.

"Whoever will play better cricket, will win the match and as a fan, I can only cheer for my team," Gautam told ANI.

According to Sudhir, India is the best team in the world.

Body painted in tri-colour, 'Miss-U <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/sachin-tendulkar-sues-australian-cricket-bat-maker-spartan-over-2-million-in-royalties-227062">Tendulkar </a>10'&nbsp;written on chest, India on forehead and Indian map on top of his head, this is how Gautam readies up for every match that India play.

The 38-year-old resident of Bihar's Muzaffarpur makes his presence at the venue of almost every match that India play.

Also known as Sudya, he is an ardent fan of Sachin Tendulkar.

After master-blasters retirement, he ensures to be at the stadium and flashes 'Miss you Tendulkar'&nbsp;on his chest and the digit 10, the jersey number that Tendulkar would wear.

In 50 over World Cup history, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/three-cricketers-who-have-played-for-both-india-and-pakistan-227143">India </a>had never lost to Pakistan and will look to continue the trend in the ongoing ICC Men's World Cup on Sunday.

India had not lost any game in the three matches played so far, the last match against New Zealand was got abandoned due to rain.

Virat Kohli led side will face Pakistan on June 16 at Old Trafford.

Ahead of the much-awaited India and Pakistan clash, famous Indian supporter Sudhir Gautam is cheering for his team, blowing a conch shell. "Whoever will play better cricket, will win the match and as a fan, I can only cheer for my team," Gautam told ANI.

Ahead of the much-awaited India and Pakistan clash, famous Indian supporter Sudhir Gautam is cheering for his team, blowing a conch shell. "Whoever will play better cricket, will win the match and as a fan, I can only cheer for my team," Gautam told ANI. According to Sudhir, India is the best team in the world. Body painted in tri-colour, 'Miss-U Tendulkar 10' written on chest, India on forehead and Indian map on top of his head, this is how Gautam readies up for every match that India play. The 38-year-old resident of Bihar's Muzaffarpur makes his presence at the venue of almost every match that India play. Also known as Sudya, he is an ardent fan of Sachin Tendulkar. After master-blasters retirement, he ensures to be at the stadium and flashes 'Miss you Tendulkar' on his chest and the digit 10, the jersey number that Tendulkar would wear. In 50 over World Cup history, India had never lost to Pakistan and will look to continue the trend in the ongoing ICC Men's World Cup on Sunday. India had not lost any game in the three matches played so far, the last match against New Zealand was got abandoned due to rain. Virat Kohli led side will face Pakistan on June 16 at Old Trafford.

Tendulkar's iconic fan Sudhir is ready for India vs Pakistan clash

Centurion Rohit Sharma has now become India's No-1 six-hitter racking up <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/live-updates-cricket-world-cup-2019-match-22-india-vs-pakistan-227539">358 sixes </a>in ODIs, T20s and&nbsp;Tests&nbsp;surpassing another six-master Dhoni who had hit 355 sixes.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/milestone-men-rohit-sharma-kl-rahul-ensure-indias-maiden-century-partnership-against-pakistan-in-world-cup-227611">Also Read:&nbsp;Milestone men: Rohit Sharma, KL Rahul ensure India's maiden century partnership against Pakistan in World Cup</a>

India's original master blaster Sachin Tendulkar had hit 264 sixes in his career. Yuvraj Singh, India's legendary No-4 batsman had hit 251 sixes followed by Ganguly who hit 247 sixes and his opening partner Sehwag had hit 243 sixes.

India's opener was in his elements&nbsp;as he brought up a century stand with KL Rahul at the other end with the Pak bowlers wilting under pressure after choosing to bowl first in the crucial league encounter.

Rohit's fluency and six-hitting capability was on show at Manchester as the capacity crowd of 24,000 cheered his century. India's new master blaster finally fell&nbsp;to Hasan Ali after scoring 140 studded with 14 boundaries and three sixes breaking Indian hearts.

Rohit Sharma has already surpassed the&nbsp;highest score for India against Pakistan in the World Cup after he crossed 108. Virat Kohli had hit 107 against Pakistan at Manchester in the last World Cup at Adelaide in 2015.

Pakistan opener Saeed Anwar had hit&nbsp;101 against India in a losing cause at Centurion in the 2003 World Cup which was a milestone for Pakistan.

Centurion Rohit Sharma has now become India's No-1 six-hitter racking up 358 sixes in ODIs, T20s and Tests surpassing another six-master Dhoni who had hit 355 sixes.

Centurion Rohit Sharma has now become India's No-1 six-hitter racking up 358 sixes in ODIs, T20s and Tests surpassing another six-master Dhoni who had hit 355 sixes. Also Read: Milestone men: Rohit Sharma, KL Rahul ensure India's maiden century partnership against Pakistan in World Cup India's original master blaster Sachin Tendulkar had hit 264 sixes in his career. Yuvraj Singh, India's legendary No-4 batsman had hit 251 sixes followed by Ganguly who hit 247 sixes and his opening partner Sehwag had hit 243 sixes. India's opener was in his elements as he brought up a century stand with KL Rahul at the other end with the Pak bowlers wilting under pressure after choosing to bowl first in the crucial league encounter. Rohit's fluency and six-hitting capability was on show at Manchester as the capacity crowd of 24,000 cheered his century. India's new master blaster finally fell to Hasan Ali after scoring 140 studded with 14 boundaries and three sixes breaking Indian hearts. Rohit Sharma has already surpassed the highest score for India against Pakistan in the World Cup after he crossed 108. Virat Kohli had hit 107 against Pakistan at Manchester in the last World Cup at Adelaide in 2015. Pakistan opener Saeed Anwar had hit 101 against India in a losing cause at Centurion in the 2003 World Cup which was a milestone for Pakistan.

India's 'six symbol': Rohit Sharma hits most sixes; beats Dhoni's record

World Cup: India's new master blaster Rohit Sharma beats Dhoni, Tendulkar as records tumble

The cricket craze in India is since pre-independence era but Pakistan emerged as a cricket playing nation after the nation was created post-Indo-Pak division in 1947.&nbsp;

However, very few know that there are three players who have played for both India and Pakistan.

Amir Elahi 
Elahi was a leg break bowler who represented both India and Pakistan. Elahi played one Test for India and after Pakistan acquired Test match status in 1952, he went on to play Test matches for Pakistan.&nbsp;

He played for India in one test match against Australia at Sydney in 1947 and five test matches for Pakistan from 1952 till 1953.

Gul Mohammad&nbsp; 
Mohammad played eight matches for India and made a single appearance for Pakistan.&nbsp;He was a left-handed batsman and used to bowl medium pace.

He was also a brilliant fielder.

He represented India from 1946 to 1955 and Pakistan in one test against Australia at Karachi in 1956.

Mohammad played for India against Pakistan in Pakistan's first tour of India in 1951–52.

Abdul Hafeez Kardar&nbsp; 
Kardar, who started playing cricket in India later went on to become the first captain of the Pakistan cricket team in 1948.

Kardar is widely regarded as a father figure of Pakistan cricket.

He played for India from 1946 till 1948 and then for Pakistan from 1948 till 1958.

The cricket craze in India is since pre-independence era but Pakistan emerged as a cricket playing nation after the nation was created post-Indo-Pak division in 1947.

The cricket craze in India is since pre-independence era but Pakistan emerged as a cricket playing nation after the nation was created post-Indo-Pak division in 1947. However, very few know that there are three players who have played for both India and Pakistan. Amir Elahi Elahi was a leg break bowler who represented both India and Pakistan. Elahi played one Test for India and after Pakistan acquired Test match status in 1952, he went on to play Test matches for Pakistan. He played for India in one test match against Australia at Sydney in 1947 and five test matches for Pakistan from 1952 till 1953. Gul Mohammad Mohammad played eight matches for India and made a single appearance for Pakistan. He was a left-handed batsman and used to bowl medium pace. He was also a brilliant fielder. He represented India from 1946 to 1955 and Pakistan in one test against Australia at Karachi in 1956. Mohammad played for India against Pakistan in Pakistan's first tour of India in 1951–52. Abdul Hafeez Kardar Kardar, who started playing cricket in India later went on to become the first captain of the Pakistan cricket team in 1948. Kardar is widely regarded as a father figure of Pakistan cricket. He played for India from 1946 till 1948 and then for Pakistan from 1948 till 1958.

These three cricketers had played for both India and Pakistan

England captain Eoin Morgan heaped praise on batsman Joe Root whose polished century led the team to an emphatic eight-wicket Cricket World Cup victory over <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/trevor-bayliss-will-have-to-live-with-the-sheldon-salute-says-jason-holder-226942">West Indies</a> on Friday.

Root was pushed up the order to open after Jason Roy sustained a hamstring injury, and he responded with his second century of the tournament as the hosts secured their third win in four matches.

"Exceptionally pleased, I think he is now the highest run scorer in the tournament," Morgan told a news conference.

"He's scored two hundreds. He's such an important player for us. He is the glue that holds everything together," Morgan added.

Root struck 11 fours and faced only 94 balls in his 100 not out as England strolled to a target of 213 with nearly 17 overs to spare, fuelling their hopes of winning the World Cup for the first time.

"It's probably a side of his batting that has got better over the last two or three years that people haven't seen a lot of, his expansive game," Morgan said.

"He never seems to go at less than a run a ball. You look up, he is going at more than a run a ball and it is exceptionally good to watch. To see him come out and be in this form and continue it is brilliant," Morgan said.

Morgan was forced to leave the field after suffering a back spasm and could be a doubt for England's next game, against Afghanistan on Tuesday.

"It's sore," Morgan said. "I've had back spasms before. We think it is another back spasm. It normally takes a few days to settle down."

Roy also limped off, giving England another headache.

"He had a tight hamstring so he will go for a scan tomorrow and probably it will take 48 hours before we have the results," Morgan said.

England fast bowlers <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/eoin-morgan-knows-what-jofra-archers-feeling-ahead-of-clash-against-native-country-west-indies-227033">Jofra Archer</a> and Mark Wood took three wickets each as West Indies were dismissed for 212, and Morgan was delighted to have genuine quicks at his disposal.

"I think it's been one of the trends of the tournament," he said.

"A lot of the teams have bowlers who can bowl quite quickly. We are very fortunate we have three guys that can touch 90mph. It's something that we are going to use. It will be a strength of ours," Morgan said.

West Indies captain Jason Holder was left to rue another inconsistent performance from his team, who are sixth in the standings following their second loss and in danger of missing out on the semi-finals.

"We were showing glimpses of what we can produce here in this tournament so far and also in the recent past and in the past generally," Holder said.

"It is just a matter of bringing it together for long periods, stringing together a complete game and being consistent," Holder added.

England captain Eoin Morgan heaped praise on batsman Joe Root whose polished century led the team to an emphatic eight-wicket Cricket World Cup victory over West Indies on Friday.

England captain Eoin Morgan heaped praise on batsman Joe Root whose polished century led the team to an emphatic eight-wicket Cricket World Cup victory over West Indies on Friday. Root was pushed up the order to open after Jason Roy sustained a hamstring injury, and he responded with his second century of the tournament as the hosts secured their third win in four matches. "Exceptionally pleased, I think he is now the highest run scorer in the tournament," Morgan told a news conference. "He's scored two hundreds. He's such an important player for us. He is the glue that holds everything together," Morgan added. Root struck 11 fours and faced only 94 balls in his 100 not out as England strolled to a target of 213 with nearly 17 overs to spare, fuelling their hopes of winning the World Cup for the first time. "It's probably a side of his batting that has got better over the last two or three years that people haven't seen a lot of, his expansive game," Morgan said. "He never seems to go at less than a run a ball. You look up, he is going at more than a run a ball and it is exceptionally good to watch. To see him come out and be in this form and continue it is brilliant," Morgan said. Morgan was forced to leave the field after suffering a back spasm and could be a doubt for England's next game, against Afghanistan on Tuesday. "It's sore," Morgan said. "I've had back spasms before. We think it is another back spasm. It normally takes a few days to settle down." Roy also limped off, giving England another headache. "He had a tight hamstring so he will go for a scan tomorrow and probably it will take 48 hours before we have the results," Morgan said. England fast bowlers Jofra Archer and Mark Wood took three wickets each as West Indies were dismissed for 212, and Morgan was delighted to have genuine quicks at his disposal. "I think it's been one of the trends of the tournament," he said. "A lot of the teams have bowlers who can bowl quite quickly. We are very fortunate we have three guys that can touch 90mph. It's something that we are going to use. It will be a strength of ours," Morgan said. West Indies captain Jason Holder was left to rue another inconsistent performance from his team, who are sixth in the standings following their second loss and in danger of missing out on the semi-finals. "We were showing glimpses of what we can produce here in this tournament so far and also in the recent past and in the past generally," Holder said. "It is just a matter of bringing it together for long periods, stringing together a complete game and being consistent," Holder added.

World Cup: Joe Root is England's glue, says captain Eoin Morgan

When Jofra Archer returned for his second spell and took two wickets in two balls to leave West Indies reeling on Friday, the collective sighs of regret from Caribbean fans inside Southampton's Rose Bowl were almost audible.

West Indies dangerman Nicholas Pooran was doing his best to see his side to a defendable total and had reached 63 when paceman Archer got a lifting 90mph delivery to brush the glove before being caught by Jos Buttler.

Next ball and Archer had Sheldon Cottrell plumb lbw for a duck and suddenly the Barbados-born 24-year-old was on a World Cup hat-trick, not even the most inventive scriptwriter would have dared to pen a few months back.

It did not happen as Oshane Thomas survived the last ball of the over but minutes later Archer removed Carlos Brathwaite to become the first English bowler to take three three-wicket hauls in World Cup history.

He had gone wicket-less in his opening five overs when West Indies opener Chris Gayle dished out some punishment to the young upstart with a flurry of boundaries.

But he ended with figures of three for 30 as West Indies were all out for 212, offering further proof if it were needed, that West Indies have allowed a genuine game-changer to slip through their grasp.

"He is a pleasure to captain. He loves the challenge and to overcome it," England captain Eoin Morgan said of Archer after his three-wicket burst on Friday.

In a parallel universe, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/eoin-morgan-knows-what-jofra-archers-feeling-ahead-of-clash-against-native-country-west-indies-227033">Archer would have walked out of the West Indies</a> dressing room on Friday wearing burgundy not light blue and would have had Morgan in his sights.

That he did not can be traced back to the day he was left out of the West Indies squad for 2014 Under 19 World Cup despite having already shone for the age-group side.

"At the beginning, he really, really wanted to play for the West Indies. After being disappointed, his heart's desire changed and it became just a matter of playing international cricket," former teammate Zachary McCaskie told The Times.

Impetuous perhaps, but Archer was a man in a hurry and he recognised that a move to England could help him to earn more money and provide the platform for his talents to shine.

After impressing with county side Sussex as a quick bowler and aggressive batsman, he was signed in 2018 by Indian Premier League (IPL) outfit Rajasthan Royals for 800,000 pounds ($1.01 million).

There he was teammates with England all-rounder Ben Stokes and Buttler, although at the time his hopes of realising his ambition of playing for England seemed a long way off under the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) eligibility rules.

The door was still open to play for West Indies but for Archer, there was no going back and when, last November, the ECB reduced the residency rule from seven years to three, Archer suddenly came into contention for the World Cup.

Despite his inexperience at the international level, the clamour to include Archer in the squad grew louder day by day.

Once in, he has not disappointed which is probably no surprise at all to those who used to watch a teenaged Archer skittle opposition with his effortless pace and whack sixes into the cemetery bordering Bridgetown's Wildey Cricket Club.

It certainly has not surprised former coaches Corey Yearwood who recalls a "bony" 16-year-old Archer roughing up West Indies test player Shane Shillingford in a net session.

"Shane said to me afterwards,&nbsp;'It is unbelievable that his small frame could bowl that pace. This guy is going to play for the West Indies'," Yearwood told The Times.

Sadly for West Indies, whose World Cup hopes are hanging by a thread after Friday's thumping eight-wicket defeat, that never materialised. Instead, Archer has already taken nine wickets in the tournament for England -- one less than tournament leader Mohammad Amir of Pakistan.

Worryingly for England's future opponents, Archer appears to just be warming up.

When Jofra Archer returned for his second spell and took two wickets in two balls to leave West Indies reeling on Friday, the collective sighs of regret from Caribbean fans inside Southampton's Rose Bowl were almost audible.

When Jofra Archer returned for his second spell and took two wickets in two balls to leave West Indies reeling on Friday, the collective sighs of regret from Caribbean fans inside Southampton's Rose Bowl were almost audible. West Indies dangerman Nicholas Pooran was doing his best to see his side to a defendable total and had reached 63 when paceman Archer got a lifting 90mph delivery to brush the glove before being caught by Jos Buttler. Next ball and Archer had Sheldon Cottrell plumb lbw for a duck and suddenly the Barbados-born 24-year-old was on a World Cup hat-trick, not even the most inventive scriptwriter would have dared to pen a few months back. It did not happen as Oshane Thomas survived the last ball of the over but minutes later Archer removed Carlos Brathwaite to become the first English bowler to take three three-wicket hauls in World Cup history. He had gone wicket-less in his opening five overs when West Indies opener Chris Gayle dished out some punishment to the young upstart with a flurry of boundaries. But he ended with figures of three for 30 as West Indies were all out for 212, offering further proof if it were needed, that West Indies have allowed a genuine game-changer to slip through their grasp. "He is a pleasure to captain. He loves the challenge and to overcome it," England captain Eoin Morgan said of Archer after his three-wicket burst on Friday. In a parallel universe, Archer would have walked out of the West Indies dressing room on Friday wearing burgundy not light blue and would have had Morgan in his sights. That he did not can be traced back to the day he was left out of the West Indies squad for 2014 Under 19 World Cup despite having already shone for the age-group side. "At the beginning, he really, really wanted to play for the West Indies. After being disappointed, his heart's desire changed and it became just a matter of playing international cricket," former teammate Zachary McCaskie told The Times. Impetuous perhaps, but Archer was a man in a hurry and he recognised that a move to England could help him to earn more money and provide the platform for his talents to shine. After impressing with county side Sussex as a quick bowler and aggressive batsman, he was signed in 2018 by Indian Premier League (IPL) outfit Rajasthan Royals for 800,000 pounds ($1.01 million). There he was teammates with England all-rounder Ben Stokes and Buttler, although at the time his hopes of realising his ambition of playing for England seemed a long way off under the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) eligibility rules. The door was still open to play for West Indies but for Archer, there was no going back and when, last November, the ECB reduced the residency rule from seven years to three, Archer suddenly came into contention for the World Cup. Despite his inexperience at the international level, the clamour to include Archer in the squad grew louder day by day. Once in, he has not disappointed which is probably no surprise at all to those who used to watch a teenaged Archer skittle opposition with his effortless pace and whack sixes into the cemetery bordering Bridgetown's Wildey Cricket Club. It certainly has not surprised former coaches Corey Yearwood who recalls a "bony" 16-year-old Archer roughing up West Indies test player Shane Shillingford in a net session. "Shane said to me afterwards, 'It is unbelievable that his small frame could bowl that pace. This guy is going to play for the West Indies'," Yearwood told The Times. Sadly for West Indies, whose World Cup hopes are hanging by a thread after Friday's thumping eight-wicket defeat, that never materialised. Instead, Archer has already taken nine wickets in the tournament for England -- one less than tournament leader Mohammad Amir of Pakistan. Worryingly for England's future opponents, Archer appears to just be warming up.

World Cup: England's Jofra Archer reminds West Indies of what they let slip away

The "far better" Indian team has a much higher probability of winning against <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/will-not-beg-india-to-play-cricket-with-us-says-pakistan-cricket-board-chief-227066">Pakistan</a> in their forthcoming <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/icc-expects-india-pakistan-game-to-go-through-despite-tensions-198455">Cricket World Cup clash</a>, said former India captain Kapil Dev on Friday.

"The Indian team is definitely far better. I am not saying because I am Indian. But I feel when I was playing the Pakistan team was much better than us. Today I can say that if they play 10 matches, India will win seven. What will happen that day God knows. I hope the players play to the best of their potential," Dev told reporters.

Dev praised current India skipper <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/cricket-world-cup-2019-records-show-virat-rohit-root-will-dominate-175407#virat-kohli-175396">Virat Kohli.</a>"I do not think so that I can compare myself with him, he is really good, he is the number one player in the world and we are proud of our captain," he said.

Eulogising pacer Jasprit Bumrah, who is in impeccable form, Dev said he hopes that the 25-year-old remains fit for another five years.

"When I saw him (Bumrah) for the first time, I did not expect him to have such an ability. I changed my word and I say, God, he is really fantastic. From such a short run-up he can produce, with an awkward action, such pace. It is not easy. I just want him to be fit for the next five years," Dev said.

The 1983 World Cup-winning captain also expressed his views on the recent incident relating to MS Dhoni' s gloves and said that Dhoni just showed his passion and love for his country.

"It is not a controversy, he showed a feeling within him, he put a logo there and we have to go with the system. I don' t think he realised that it is going to be such a big thing. You have to go through the system or the law, whatever law ICC had made. Next day he said 'if you do not like, I will remove it'. I respect Dhoni and he showed passion and love for his country and Army people and that is nothing wrong," he said.

India will face Pakistan in the much-awaited World Cup clash on June 16.&nbsp;

The "far better" Indian team has a much higher probability of winning against Pakistan in their forthcoming Cricket World Cup clash, said former India captain Kapil Dev on Friday.

The "far better" Indian team has a much higher probability of winning against Pakistan in their forthcoming Cricket World Cup clash, said former India captain Kapil Dev on Friday. "The Indian team is definitely far better. I am not saying because I am Indian. But I feel when I was playing the Pakistan team was much better than us. Today I can say that if they play 10 matches, India will win seven. What will happen that day God knows. I hope the players play to the best of their potential," Dev told reporters. Dev praised current India skipper Virat Kohli."I do not think so that I can compare myself with him, he is really good, he is the number one player in the world and we are proud of our captain," he said. Eulogising pacer Jasprit Bumrah, who is in impeccable form, Dev said he hopes that the 25-year-old remains fit for another five years. "When I saw him (Bumrah) for the first time, I did not expect him to have such an ability. I changed my word and I say, God, he is really fantastic. From such a short run-up he can produce, with an awkward action, such pace. It is not easy. I just want him to be fit for the next five years," Dev said. The 1983 World Cup-winning captain also expressed his views on the recent incident relating to MS Dhoni' s gloves and said that Dhoni just showed his passion and love for his country. "It is not a controversy, he showed a feeling within him, he put a logo there and we have to go with the system. I don' t think he realised that it is going to be such a big thing. You have to go through the system or the law, whatever law ICC had made. Next day he said 'if you do not like, I will remove it'. I respect Dhoni and he showed passion and love for his country and Army people and that is nothing wrong," he said. India will face Pakistan in the much-awaited World Cup clash on June 16.

India far better than Pakistan, will beat them 7 out of 10 times: Kapil Dev

Key battles in India vs Pakistan Cricket World Cup clash

West Indies all-rounder Carlos Brathwaite has received an official reprimand and one demerit point for showing dissent to an umpire's decision during the World Cup match against England, the International Cricket Council (ICC) said on Saturday.

Brathwaite showed his displeasure after he was adjudged caught behind off <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/world-cup-englands-jofra-archer-reminds-west-indies-of-what-they-let-slip-away-227252">England fast bowler Jofra Archer</a> during the 44th over of the West Indies innings on Friday.

"Brathwaite admitted the offence and accepted the sanction proposed by David Boon of the Emirates Elite Panel of ICC Match Referees and, as such, there was no need for a formal hearing," the ICC said in a statement.

Four demerit points within a two-year period incurs a ban from one test or two one-dayers or two T20Is, whatever comes first for the player.

West Indies were bowled out for 212 before<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/world-cup-joe-root-is-englands-glue-says-captain-eoin-morgan-227247"> Joe Root's unbeaten century</a> ensured a comfortable eight-wicket victory for England in Southampton.

West Indies all-rounder Carlos Brathwaite has received an official reprimand and one demerit point for showing dissent to an umpire's decision during the World Cup match against England, the International Cricket Council (ICC) said on Saturday.

West Indies all-rounder Carlos Brathwaite has received an official reprimand and one demerit point for showing dissent to an umpire's decision during the World Cup match against England, the International Cricket Council (ICC) said on Saturday. Brathwaite showed his displeasure after he was adjudged caught behind off England fast bowler Jofra Archer during the 44th over of the West Indies innings on Friday. "Brathwaite admitted the offence and accepted the sanction proposed by David Boon of the Emirates Elite Panel of ICC Match Referees and, as such, there was no need for a formal hearing," the ICC said in a statement. Four demerit points within a two-year period incurs a ban from one test or two one-dayers or two T20Is, whatever comes first for the player. West Indies were bowled out for 212 before Joe Root's unbeaten century ensured a comfortable eight-wicket victory for England in Southampton.

World Cup: West Indies all-rounder Carlos Brathwaite reprimanded for showing dissent

From Miandad's on-field antics to Tendulkar's brilliance, throwback to India and Pakistan's World Cup history

Virat Kohli-led&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/harbhajan-singh-warns-india-stars-to-expect-sleepless-night-as-pakistan-loom-227275">India will take on Pakistan</a>&nbsp;in one of the most anticipated clashes in the Cricket World Cup 2019 tomorrow at Manchester cricket ground.&nbsp;

The ongoing edition of the World Cup&nbsp;has had the poorest weather. It&nbsp;has already created a record of becoming the most rain-affected World Cup with four matches, so far,&nbsp;being washed out.&nbsp; 
 
India's previous match against New Zealand&nbsp;was the most recent match to be called off due to rain at Trent Bridge, Nottingham. The match was abandoned without a single ball being bowled.&nbsp;

Now, all eyes will be on India's next clash which is&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-far-better-than-pakistan-will-beat-them-7-out-of-10-times-kapil-dev-227228">against arch-rivals Pakistan</a>&nbsp;and it is expected that it will&nbsp;also be affected by rain, as light showers are predicted in Manchester.&nbsp; 
 
The conditions are expected to be overcast through the day, with rain to disturb play at least a couple of times.

Showers are predicted at around 10:00 am GMT and between 3:00 to 5:00 pm GMT. 
 
A full 50-over a side game is unlikely but it's a sigh of relief for the fans as there will at least be a match played. 
 
The sun is expected to come out briefly, but the cloud cover will be seen throughout the day. 
 
Players, coaches and fans have slammed the ICC over no reserve days kept for the league stage matches but the ICC has responded saying it would have not been possible logistically.

Virat Kohli-led India will take on Pakistan in one of the most anticipated clashes in the Cricket World Cup 2019 tomorrow at Manchester cricket ground. The ongoing edition of the World Cup has had the poorest weather.

Virat Kohli-led India will take on Pakistan in one of the most anticipated clashes in the Cricket World Cup 2019 tomorrow at Manchester cricket ground. The ongoing edition of the World Cup has had the poorest weather. It has already created a record of becoming the most rain-affected World Cup with four matches, so far, being washed out. India's previous match against New Zealand was the most recent match to be called off due to rain at Trent Bridge, Nottingham. The match was abandoned without a single ball being bowled. Now, all eyes will be on India's next clash which is against arch-rivals Pakistan and it is expected that it will also be affected by rain, as light showers are predicted in Manchester. The conditions are expected to be overcast through the day, with rain to disturb play at least a couple of times. Showers are predicted at around 10:00 am GMT and between 3:00 to 5:00 pm GMT. A full 50-over a side game is unlikely but it's a sigh of relief for the fans as there will at least be a match played. The sun is expected to come out briefly, but the cloud cover will be seen throughout the day. Players, coaches and fans have slammed the ICC over no reserve days kept for the league stage matches but the ICC has responded saying it would have not been possible logistically.

World Cup: Manchester weather forecast for India vs Pakistan clash

Australia will take a final call on injured all-rounder Marcus Stoinis' fate in the World Cup ahead of their next week's match against Bangladesh.&nbsp;

Stoinis, who has suffered a side strain that is preventing him from bowling, will be travelling with the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/world-cup-beware-of-david-warner-as-he-is-nearing-his-best-says-ricky-ponting-227160">Australian </a>squad to Nottingham -&nbsp;the venue for their next match -&nbsp;and the final decision on whether he would remain in the World Cup would be taken there.&nbsp;

Skipper Aaron Finch said Mitchell Marsh, who is on standby and has started training, would be ready if he is included into the official squad.

"Yeah, that's why he's here ... But as a bit of a precaution more than anything, if <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/world-cup-marcus-stoinis-ruled-out-of-australias-clash-against-sri-lanka-226259&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjl_O_miOviAhWGN48KHYswCdkQFjAAegQIBRAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw1J0JJ-qhiGM7CN5EgRkOnW">Stoinis </a>doesn't recover well enough over the next couple of days," Finch was quoted as saying by Sydney Morning Herald.&nbsp;

"There is confidence that Mitch will come in and do well if selected if Stoinis doesn't recover properly," he added.

Finch admitted that injury to an all-rounder upsets the balance of a side.&nbsp;

"Yeah, it's tough when guys, especially all-rounders who balance out your side really well and give you that extra fast-bowling option, as well as a top-six batter, (are out). So it's a little bit difficult trying to decide whether you go the extra batter or the extra bowler, depending on conditions," Finch said.

"So I think it does make it a little bit tougher, a bit more of a challenge, no doubt. But we also did plan for that, if it did happen throughout the tournament. So it wasn't a total surprise. Obviously, it's not ideal, but it's not a surprise to us because we had already thought about things like that. But just game to game, it totally changes depending on the conditions," he added.

Australia will take a final call on injured all-rounder Marcus Stoinis' fate in the World Cup ahead of their next week's match against Bangladesh. Stoinis, who has suffered a side strain that is preventing him from bowling, will be travelling with the Australian squad to Nottingham - the venue for their next match - and the final decision on whether he would remain in the World Cup would be taken there.

Australia will take a final call on injured all-rounder Marcus Stoinis' fate in the World Cup ahead of their next week's match against Bangladesh. Stoinis, who has suffered a side strain that is preventing him from bowling, will be travelling with the Australian squad to Nottingham - the venue for their next match - and the final decision on whether he would remain in the World Cup would be taken there. Skipper Aaron Finch said Mitchell Marsh, who is on standby and has started training, would be ready if he is included into the official squad. "Yeah, that's why he's here ... But as a bit of a precaution more than anything, if Stoinis doesn't recover well enough over the next couple of days," Finch was quoted as saying by Sydney Morning Herald. "There is confidence that Mitch will come in and do well if selected if Stoinis doesn't recover properly," he added. Finch admitted that injury to an all-rounder upsets the balance of a side. "Yeah, it's tough when guys, especially all-rounders who balance out your side really well and give you that extra fast-bowling option, as well as a top-six batter, (are out). So it's a little bit difficult trying to decide whether you go the extra batter or the extra bowler, depending on conditions," Finch said. "So I think it does make it a little bit tougher, a bit more of a challenge, no doubt. But we also did plan for that, if it did happen throughout the tournament. So it wasn't a total surprise. Obviously, it's not ideal, but it's not a surprise to us because we had already thought about things like that. But just game to game, it totally changes depending on the conditions," he added.

World Cup: Australia's final call on injured Marcus Stoinis next week, says Aaron Finch

He is a proven match-winner with the ball but it is Jasprit Bumrah's tremendous work ethic that has made him one of the most improved Indian fielders over the last three years, said fielding coach R Sridhar.

Bumrah's unusually slinging action has caused sleepless nights to many batsmen across teams but he wasn't exactly the swiftest of movers across the turf when it came to fielding.

"Bumrah is probably one of the hardest workers as far as fielding goes. From when he joined the team in 2016 to what he is now, he's a massive improvement, although still a work in progress, a massive improvement," Sridhar told media persons during an interaction after <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/shikhar-will-be-in-a-plaster-hopefully-will-play-in-semi-finals-virat-kohli-227026">India's </a>match against New Zealand was <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/world-cup-india-and-new-zealand-split-points-after-trent-bridge-washout-226923">called off.</a>

Increased awareness and determination to raise his game has changed things for the Gujarat pacer, feels Sridhar.

"The mindset of the players combined with the increased levels of fitness, and then we can chip in with the technical aspect of fielding and the awareness and anticipation part. So combining all this definitely helps them improve their fielding skills," the former Hyderabad left-arm spinner said.

Sridhar said some of the guys who aren't naturally athletic like Bumrah, Kedar Jadhav and Yuzvendra Chahal, were keen to work hard on their fitness and attain a level which is at par with international standards.

"One area is we try to educate them with awareness with respect to fielding, and we try to work on fitness. Obviously, (Shankar) Basu (strength and conditioning coach), works a lot on their fitness as well. We've got a lead-up to this tournament to work with Chahal, Bumrah, Kedar, guys like this, who are willing to work really hard and to work on their skills. So that really helped," Sridhar said.

Sridhar said that at a personal level, he is very happy with the overall fielding standard of the Indian team.

"I think I'm -&nbsp;personally, I'm very happy with the kind of resources I have. We have a terrific slip catcher and a safe catcher in Rohit, and we have two guys, Virat (Kohli) and Jadeja, who are very intimidating to the position. They can intimidate any batsman, and they are prowling in the 30-yard range,'' Sridhar added.

"To complement that, we have a player in Hardik Pandya, who can really help when needed. We are safe catchers," the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ravi-shastri-sanjay-bangar-among-other-support-staff-granted-45-day-contract-extension-226789">coach </a>assessed.

The right attitude is always a key in a sporting arena and Sridhar said that's something that this current lot have in abundance.

"The biggest thing that came out to me was the attitude of the fielders, where they put the team ahead of themselves, but these are the qualities which you need when you want to go out and win championships," he said.

"This really came out in the last game (vs <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/world-cup-pat-cummins-silent-workhorse-in-australias-squad-while-others-hog-limelight-226914">Australia</a>), and that was good to see. So I think the biggest challenge is to stay consistent. To me, that is the biggest challenge, to reduce the time between the good days and bad days. That is integral,'' Sridhar said.

He is a proven match-winner with the ball but it is Jasprit Bumrah's tremendous work ethic that has made him one of the most improved Indian fielders over the last three years, said fielding coach R Sridhar.

He is a proven match-winner with the ball but it is Jasprit Bumrah's tremendous work ethic that has made him one of the most improved Indian fielders over the last three years, said fielding coach R Sridhar. Bumrah's unusually slinging action has caused sleepless nights to many batsmen across teams but he wasn't exactly the swiftest of movers across the turf when it came to fielding. "Bumrah is probably one of the hardest workers as far as fielding goes. From when he joined the team in 2016 to what he is now, he's a massive improvement, although still a work in progress, a massive improvement," Sridhar told media persons during an interaction after India's match against New Zealand was called off. Increased awareness and determination to raise his game has changed things for the Gujarat pacer, feels Sridhar. "The mindset of the players combined with the increased levels of fitness, and then we can chip in with the technical aspect of fielding and the awareness and anticipation part. So combining all this definitely helps them improve their fielding skills," the former Hyderabad left-arm spinner said. Sridhar said some of the guys who aren't naturally athletic like Bumrah, Kedar Jadhav and Yuzvendra Chahal, were keen to work hard on their fitness and attain a level which is at par with international standards. "One area is we try to educate them with awareness with respect to fielding, and we try to work on fitness. Obviously, (Shankar) Basu (strength and conditioning coach), works a lot on their fitness as well. We've got a lead-up to this tournament to work with Chahal, Bumrah, Kedar, guys like this, who are willing to work really hard and to work on their skills. So that really helped," Sridhar said. Sridhar said that at a personal level, he is very happy with the overall fielding standard of the Indian team. "I think I'm - personally, I'm very happy with the kind of resources I have. We have a terrific slip catcher and a safe catcher in Rohit, and we have two guys, Virat (Kohli) and Jadeja, who are very intimidating to the position. They can intimidate any batsman, and they are prowling in the 30-yard range,'' Sridhar added. "To complement that, we have a player in Hardik Pandya, who can really help when needed. We are safe catchers," the coach assessed. The right attitude is always a key in a sporting arena and Sridhar said that's something that this current lot have in abundance. "The biggest thing that came out to me was the attitude of the fielders, where they put the team ahead of themselves, but these are the qualities which you need when you want to go out and win championships," he said. "This really came out in the last game (vs Australia), and that was good to see. So I think the biggest challenge is to stay consistent. To me, that is the biggest challenge, to reduce the time between the good days and bad days. That is integral,'' Sridhar said.

Bumrah's determination has made him a match winner for India, says fielding coach R Sridhar

After the match between India and New Zealand got <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/world-cup-india-and-new-zealand-split-points-after-trent-bridge-washout-226923">abandoned</a> due to rain on Thursday, India&nbsp;skipper Virat Kohli provided an injury update about opener Shikhar Dhawan.

"<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/final-call-on-precious-shikhar-dhawan-only-after-10-12-days-sanjay-bangar-226591">Shikhar </a>will be in a plaster for a couple of weeks, we'll assess and see. Hopefully, he'll be available for the latter half and the semi-finals. He's motivated, we wanted to keep him back," Kohli said at the post-match ceremony.

Dhawan got hit between the index finger and thumb during India's match World Cup match against Australia on June 9.

The opener went on to play a match-winning knock of 117 runs.

After the match, the player went to Leeds for scans and soon after BCCI released an update saying, "Team India opening batsman <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-injured-shikhar-dhawan-at-practice-session-ahead-of-new-zealand-contest-226574">Shikhar Dhawan</a> is presently under the observation of the BCCI medical team. The team management has decided that Dhawan will continue to be in England and his progress will be monitored."

As standby for the injured Dhawan, wicket-keeper batsman Rishabh Pant was flown to England.

India is currently positioned at the third place in the standings of ICC Men's Cricket World Cup and the team next takes on arch-rivals Pakistan.

Kohli said playing against <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/world-cup-pakistan-must-bring-their-a-game-against-india-says-waqar-younis-226912">Pakistan </a>is a marquee event and the game brings out the best in everyone.

"As soon as you enter the field, it's calm and relaxed. The atmosphere from the outside, for the first time, it's a bit intimidating, but we'll look to execute well. It's been competitive for years, it's a marquee event all over the world, honour to be a part of the big game. Brings out the best in all of us," Kohli said.

India takes on <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/we-need-to-overcome-mistakes-to-beat-india-says-sarfaraz-after-australia-defeat-226683">Pakistan </a>in Manchester on June 16.

After the match between India and New Zealand got abandoned due to rain on Thursday, India skipper Virat Kohli provided an injury update about opener Shikhar Dhawan.

After the match between India and New Zealand got abandoned due to rain on Thursday, India skipper Virat Kohli provided an injury update about opener Shikhar Dhawan. "Shikhar will be in a plaster for a couple of weeks, we'll assess and see. Hopefully, he'll be available for the latter half and the semi-finals. He's motivated, we wanted to keep him back," Kohli said at the post-match ceremony. Dhawan got hit between the index finger and thumb during India's match World Cup match against Australia on June 9. The opener went on to play a match-winning knock of 117 runs. After the match, the player went to Leeds for scans and soon after BCCI released an update saying, "Team India opening batsman Shikhar Dhawan is presently under the observation of the BCCI medical team. The team management has decided that Dhawan will continue to be in England and his progress will be monitored." As standby for the injured Dhawan, wicket-keeper batsman Rishabh Pant was flown to England. India is currently positioned at the third place in the standings of ICC Men's Cricket World Cup and the team next takes on arch-rivals Pakistan. Kohli said playing against Pakistan is a marquee event and the game brings out the best in everyone. "As soon as you enter the field, it's calm and relaxed. The atmosphere from the outside, for the first time, it's a bit intimidating, but we'll look to execute well. It's been competitive for years, it's a marquee event all over the world, honour to be a part of the big game. Brings out the best in all of us," Kohli said. India takes on Pakistan in Manchester on June 16.

Shikhar will be in a plaster, hopefully will play in semi-finals: Virat Kohli

World Cup: Key players to watch out for in India vs Pakistan clash

David Warner has overcome the challenges of reintegrating himself into the Australian team and with the explosive opener nearing his best, he could well end up as top scorer in this World Cup, feels assistant coach Ricky Ponting.

After struggling for rhythm in early matches, Warner came close to his damaging best in a match-winning knock of 107 off 111 balls against Pakistan on Wednesday in his fourth game back in Australian colours.

The 32-year-old right-handed batsman sat out for one year, serving a ban imposed by the ICC on ball tampering charges in South Africa last year.

He came out of that ban on March 29, along with his former captain Steve Smith.

Asked if other sides will now be more fearful of Warner, including Sri Lankans whom <a href="http://cms.wionews.com/sports/world-cup-pat-cummins-silent-workhorse-in-australias-squad-while-others-hog-limelight-226914">Australia </a>face on Friday, Ponting said,&nbsp;"I think they should. You know with David Warner at his best, if you miss your line and length then he's going to make you pay.''

"Every game is a different set of challenges for every player. Davey capitalised on Pakistan not executing as well as they could have. We know against Sri Lanka, they'll be well-planned. But <a href="http://cms.wionews.com/sports/this-century-means-a-lot-as-a-batsman-david-warner-226679">Warner </a>at his best is difficult to bowl to and I think he was back to somewhere near his best," Ponting was quoted as saying by 'cricket.Com.Au'

Ponting said the handbrake is off for a rejuvenated Warner and if "he keeps playing like that (against Pakistan) for the rest of the tournament, he's probably going to be the leading run scorer" in this World Cup.

The assistant coach, however, conceded that the challenges of reintegrating himself back into a team after being out of it for over a year weighed on Warner.

"We'd all seen that he (Warner) probably had not been batting as fluently as we're used to seeing. It was more of a mental thing than anything, he was just holding back a little bit and not playing with the freedom we're used to seeing him play with," Ponting said.

"It was just about being a bit freer in everything he did. I think he was just trying a bit too hard, making a statement coming back in a World Cup. Wanting to do everything right and impress everybody rather than just going out and hitting the ball and scoring runs like we've seen him do for 10 years," he said.&nbsp;

Ponting said Warner in earlier matches (before the match against Pakistan) seemed a little bit more worried about getting out than scoring runs but he was told by the <a href="http://cms.wionews.com/sports/world-cup-allan-border-backs-defending-champs-australia-to-keep-building-momentum-226766">Australian </a>support staff to just go out, see the ball and hit the ball.

"We said to him after the last game, 'mate, just go out and see the ball, hit the ball.' He got off to a good start (against Pakistan) and continued on for 30 or 40 overs," Ponting, who spoke to Warner after Australia's 36-run defeat to India on June 9, said.&nbsp;

"You could see by the way he moved into his shots and picking up the length early, he hit a lot of pull shots early in his innings, which is always a good sign for him. He'd taken the handbrake off which has allowed himself to play with a bit more freedom," the former captain said of Warner's innings against Pakistan.

David Warner has overcome the challenges of reintegrating himself into the Australian team and with the explosive opener nearing his best, he could well end up as top scorer in this World Cup, feels assistant coach Ricky Ponting.

David Warner has overcome the challenges of reintegrating himself into the Australian team and with the explosive opener nearing his best, he could well end up as top scorer in this World Cup, feels assistant coach Ricky Ponting. After struggling for rhythm in early matches, Warner came close to his damaging best in a match-winning knock of 107 off 111 balls against Pakistan on Wednesday in his fourth game back in Australian colours. The 32-year-old right-handed batsman sat out for one year, serving a ban imposed by the ICC on ball tampering charges in South Africa last year. He came out of that ban on March 29, along with his former captain Steve Smith. Asked if other sides will now be more fearful of Warner, including Sri Lankans whom Australia face on Friday, Ponting said, "I think they should. You know with David Warner at his best, if you miss your line and length then he's going to make you pay.'' "Every game is a different set of challenges for every player. Davey capitalised on Pakistan not executing as well as they could have. We know against Sri Lanka, they'll be well-planned. But Warner at his best is difficult to bowl to and I think he was back to somewhere near his best," Ponting was quoted as saying by 'cricket.Com.Au' Ponting said the handbrake is off for a rejuvenated Warner and if "he keeps playing like that (against Pakistan) for the rest of the tournament, he's probably going to be the leading run scorer" in this World Cup. The assistant coach, however, conceded that the challenges of reintegrating himself back into a team after being out of it for over a year weighed on Warner. "We'd all seen that he (Warner) probably had not been batting as fluently as we're used to seeing. It was more of a mental thing than anything, he was just holding back a little bit and not playing with the freedom we're used to seeing him play with," Ponting said. "It was just about being a bit freer in everything he did. I think he was just trying a bit too hard, making a statement coming back in a World Cup. Wanting to do everything right and impress everybody rather than just going out and hitting the ball and scoring runs like we've seen him do for 10 years," he said. Ponting said Warner in earlier matches (before the match against Pakistan) seemed a little bit more worried about getting out than scoring runs but he was told by the Australian support staff to just go out, see the ball and hit the ball. "We said to him after the last game, 'mate, just go out and see the ball, hit the ball.' He got off to a good start (against Pakistan) and continued on for 30 or 40 overs," Ponting, who spoke to Warner after Australia's 36-run defeat to India on June 9, said. "You could see by the way he moved into his shots and picking up the length early, he hit a lot of pull shots early in his innings, which is always a good sign for him. He'd taken the handbrake off which has allowed himself to play with a bit more freedom," the former captain said of Warner's innings against Pakistan.

World Cup: Beware of David Warner as he is nearing his best, says Ricky Ponting

Former captain Mohammad Yousuf is furious with the <a href="http://cms.wionews.com/sports/will-not-beg-india-to-play-cricket-with-us-says-pakistan-cricket-board-chief-227066">Pakistan Cricket Board </a>for allowing families of the players to stay with them ahead of the much-awaited match against <a href="http://cms.wionews.com/sports/shikhar-will-be-in-a-plaster-hopefully-will-play-in-semi-finals-virat-kohli-227026">India </a>in the World Cup.

Wives and children of the <a href="http://cms.wionews.com/sports/world-cup-pakistan-must-bring-their-a-game-against-india-says-waqar-younis-226912">Pakistani </a>players have joined them in Manchester ahead of the clash against India on Sunday.

"I was part of the 1999, 2003 and 2007 World Cups but the board never allowed players to have their families with them during the tournament," Yousuf said.

"In 1999 we had such a big team with so many big names that if we had pressurized the board to give permission to have our wives and children stay with us in team hotel they would have done so.&nbsp;

"But we didn't because the World Cup is high-pressure event and players need to just be focussed on cricket and reaching the final. That is what happened in 99' in England," Yousuf said.

Yousuf, who played 90 Tests and 288 one-day internationals, recalled that the board didn't even give permission to players in one-day series or tournaments to have their families stay with them in those days.

"I remember we were allowed to have our wives and children with us only during Test matches as it made sense as we stayed in one city for at least a week," Yousuf said.

The former Pakistan batsman said he couldn't understand the logic behind PCB's decision to allow the wives and children to join players before the all-important <a href="http://cms.wionews.com/sports/world-cup-high-pressure-india-game-a-must-win-for-pakistan-says-imam-ul-haq-226750">match against India.</a>

"If it was necessary to appease the players they could have been allowed to have their wives and children at the start of the tournament, not at the business end of the World Cup," Yousuf said.

Yousuf said with their families around it was a big distraction for the players and with important matches coming up he was worried about the results.

The PCB initially had refused to give permission to the players to have their families with them in the World Cup but it later changed its mind and said families could stay in the team hotel after the match against Australia which <a href="http://cms.wionews.com/sports/we-need-to-overcome-mistakes-to-beat-india-says-sarfaraz-after-australia-defeat-226683">Pakistan </a>lost.

Former captain Mohammad Yousuf is furious with the Pakistan Cricket Board for allowing families of the players to stay with them ahead of the much-awaited match against India in the World Cup.

Former captain Mohammad Yousuf is furious with the Pakistan Cricket Board for allowing families of the players to stay with them ahead of the much-awaited match against India in the World Cup. Wives and children of the Pakistani players have joined them in Manchester ahead of the clash against India on Sunday. "I was part of the 1999, 2003 and 2007 World Cups but the board never allowed players to have their families with them during the tournament," Yousuf said. "In 1999 we had such a big team with so many big names that if we had pressurized the board to give permission to have our wives and children stay with us in team hotel they would have done so. "But we didn't because the World Cup is high-pressure event and players need to just be focussed on cricket and reaching the final. That is what happened in 99' in England," Yousuf said. Yousuf, who played 90 Tests and 288 one-day internationals, recalled that the board didn't even give permission to players in one-day series or tournaments to have their families stay with them in those days. "I remember we were allowed to have our wives and children with us only during Test matches as it made sense as we stayed in one city for at least a week," Yousuf said. The former Pakistan batsman said he couldn't understand the logic behind PCB's decision to allow the wives and children to join players before the all-important match against India. "If it was necessary to appease the players they could have been allowed to have their wives and children at the start of the tournament, not at the business end of the World Cup," Yousuf said. Yousuf said with their families around it was a big distraction for the players and with important matches coming up he was worried about the results. The PCB initially had refused to give permission to the players to have their families with them in the World Cup but it later changed its mind and said families could stay in the team hotel after the match against Australia which Pakistan lost.

World Cup: Mohammad Yousuf slams PCB ahead of Pakistan's clash against India

Former captain Sourav Ganguly has described John Wright as his favourite coach who was more of a friend to him during the New Zealander's stint with the Indian team.

"My first overseas coach and my favourite coach so far," said Ganguly while talking about Wright, under whom India had reached the finals of the 2003 World Cup.

"I met him first time in Kent when Rahul (Dravid) came in and said he's our coach. I said, 'I'd love to work with him'. We have a great relationship, actually, we're genuine friends,'' <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/sourav-ganguly-picks-his-favourites-for-semi-finals-in-icc-world-cup-2019-213479&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjKx_Gq4-jiAhUKrI8KHb9zDdEQFjAAegQIAxAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw2v_pNFrkAHZ9yOvSLXQWoF">Ganguly </a>said.

"We had a great world cup and he was responsible because there were some strong headed players in that side. As we grew together, we got better friends and he was more of a friend than a coach, he understood me and I understood him," said Ganguly.

In a video posted on the official Twitter handle of the Cricket World Cup, Ganguly and Wright -&nbsp;part of the commentary team - went down memory lane ahead of washout game between India and New Zealand at Trent Bridge Friday.

Wright, who was India's first foreign coach for five years from 2000 to 2005, said, "I always thought it was the greatest privilege to have the opportunity to work in India.

"I never expected it. It was a hard start, for both of us. You were a new captain and I was the foreign coach. You remember the good times but it was also tough times," he added.

<a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/sourav-ganguly-backs-shikhar-dhawan-to-shine-at-world-cup-210042&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjKx_Gq4-jiAhUKrI8KHb9zDdEQFjADegQIDhAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw2PugEqXK2gGl2FCR6Nf9JP">Ganguly </a>and Wright had guided India to some memorable performances in international cricket, including the unforgettable 2002 NatWest series final against England at Lord's, a home test series win against Australia, drawing a test series against Australia in Australia, winning a series against arch-rivals, Pakistan

Former captain Sourav Ganguly has described John Wright as his favourite coach who was more of a friend to him during the New Zealander's stint with the Indian team.

Former captain Sourav Ganguly has described John Wright as his favourite coach who was more of a friend to him during the New Zealander's stint with the Indian team. "My first overseas coach and my favourite coach so far," said Ganguly while talking about Wright, under whom India had reached the finals of the 2003 World Cup. "I met him first time in Kent when Rahul (Dravid) came in and said he's our coach. I said, 'I'd love to work with him'. We have a great relationship, actually, we're genuine friends,'' Ganguly said. "We had a great world cup and he was responsible because there were some strong headed players in that side. As we grew together, we got better friends and he was more of a friend than a coach, he understood me and I understood him," said Ganguly. In a video posted on the official Twitter handle of the Cricket World Cup, Ganguly and Wright - part of the commentary team - went down memory lane ahead of washout game between India and New Zealand at Trent Bridge Friday. Wright, who was India's first foreign coach for five years from 2000 to 2005, said, "I always thought it was the greatest privilege to have the opportunity to work in India. "I never expected it. It was a hard start, for both of us. You were a new captain and I was the foreign coach. You remember the good times but it was also tough times," he added. Ganguly and Wright had guided India to some memorable performances in international cricket, including the unforgettable 2002 NatWest series final against England at Lord's, a home test series win against Australia, drawing a test series against Australia in Australia, winning a series against arch-rivals, Pakistan

John Wright is my favourite coach and a genuine friend: Sourav Ganguly

The bond between MS Dhoni and Karachi-born Mohammad Bashir aka 'Chacha Chicago' blossomed during the 2011 World Cup semifinal between India and<a href="http://cms.wionews.com/sports/will-not-beg-india-to-play-cricket-with-us-says-pakistan-cricket-board-chief-227066"> Pakistan </a>and it has only grown stronger since then.

Such is the bond that Bashir has flown in to Manchester from Chicago (approximately 6000 km) for Sunday's high-octane Indo-Pak contest without a match ticket.

He knows that Dhoni will ensure that he is it at the Old Trafford when the first ball is bowled.

"I arrived here yesterday and saw that people are ready to pay as much as 800-900 pounds for a ticket. A return ticket from Chicago costs the same. Thanks to Dhoni, I don't have to struggle for a match ticket," the 63-year-old, who owns a restaurant in Chicago and is an American passport holder, told PTI.

The connection goes back to 2011.

Bashir was bowled over by Dhoni's benevolence when India's World Cup-winning captain went out of his way to arrange a ticket for him for the marquee clash in Mohali, a showdown for which most fans would pay an arm and a leg to watch in person.

Eight years later, the heartwarming story of Bashir and Dhoni continues.

It is not a surprise anymore that Bashir supports Dhoni's team over the country of his birth whenever the two sides clash.&nbsp;

Dhoni might not be easily accessible for even his teammates at times but has never disappointed Bashir.&nbsp;

"I don't call him as he is so busy. I keep in touch only through text messages. Long before I came here, Dhoni assured me of the ticket. He is a great human being. I can't think of anyone else doing what he has done for me since that 2011 game in Mohali,'' Bashir said.

"Imagine I get the ticket for free when most would pay a fortune for it. I have got a surprise gift for him this time and I hope to give it to him later today," said Bashir.

After arriving in Manchester, he checked into <a href="http://cms.wionews.com/sports/world-cup-high-pressure-india-game-a-must-win-for-pakistan-says-imam-ul-haq-226750">Pakistan's </a>team hotel where he met most of the squad members including captain <a href="http://cms.wionews.com/sports/we-need-to-overcome-mistakes-to-beat-india-says-sarfaraz-after-australia-defeat-226683">Sarfaraz Ahmed</a>, Mohammad Amir, Mohammad Amir and Hassan Ali.

One of his selfies was with Shoaib Malik and Indian tennis star wife Sania Mirza, an Indo-Pak union just like him and his wife.

He checks into the Indian team hotel later on Friday.&nbsp;

His love for his homeland is understandable but the reason for his affinity towards India is his Hyderbadi wife, besides Dhoni of course.

His match-day uniform has both India and <a href="http://cms.wionews.com/sports/world-cup-pakistan-must-bring-their-a-game-against-india-says-waqar-younis-226912">Pakistan </a>colours and Bashir calls himself an ambassador of peace.

While watching Indo-Pak games all-around the World, Bashir has made lifelong Indian friends and one them is the well-known superfan Sudhir, who mainly relies on funding from cricketers to support the team from stands. In fact, both are staying together in Manchester.

"Sudhir abhi apni body pe tri-colour paint karwane gaya hain (Sudhir has gone outside to get the Indian tri-colour painted on his body),'' Bashir said.

"I book the room and we stay together. Thanks to Allah, I am doing okay (financially) and that is the least I can do for a friend. I just gifted Sudhir a phone and it made him really happy. These are the little things in life that give you happiness," he added.

Bashir, who has overcome three heart attacks, carries as many 12 medicines when he is travelling. Before coming to the UK, he was in Saudi Arabia with his grandson during the holy month of Ramadan.

"It is not easy with my medical condition. Ab toh aisa lagta hain jab tak cricket chal rahi tab tak saasen chal rahi hain (May be I am alive only for cricket)," Bashir added.&nbsp;

No prizes for guessing that he is backing <a href="http://cms.wionews.com/sports/shikhar-will-be-in-a-plaster-hopefully-will-play-in-semi-finals-virat-kohli-227026">India </a>to maintain their unbeaten run over Pakistan on Sunday.

The bond between MS Dhoni and Karachi-born Mohammad Bashir aka 'Chacha Chicago' blossomed during the 2011 World Cup semifinal between India and Pakistan and it has only grown stronger since then.

The bond between MS Dhoni and Karachi-born Mohammad Bashir aka 'Chacha Chicago' blossomed during the 2011 World Cup semifinal between India and Pakistan and it has only grown stronger since then. Such is the bond that Bashir has flown in to Manchester from Chicago (approximately 6000 km) for Sunday's high-octane Indo-Pak contest without a match ticket. He knows that Dhoni will ensure that he is it at the Old Trafford when the first ball is bowled. "I arrived here yesterday and saw that people are ready to pay as much as 800-900 pounds for a ticket. A return ticket from Chicago costs the same. Thanks to Dhoni, I don't have to struggle for a match ticket," the 63-year-old, who owns a restaurant in Chicago and is an American passport holder, told PTI. The connection goes back to 2011. Bashir was bowled over by Dhoni's benevolence when India's World Cup-winning captain went out of his way to arrange a ticket for him for the marquee clash in Mohali, a showdown for which most fans would pay an arm and a leg to watch in person. Eight years later, the heartwarming story of Bashir and Dhoni continues. It is not a surprise anymore that Bashir supports Dhoni's team over the country of his birth whenever the two sides clash. Dhoni might not be easily accessible for even his teammates at times but has never disappointed Bashir. "I don't call him as he is so busy. I keep in touch only through text messages. Long before I came here, Dhoni assured me of the ticket. He is a great human being. I can't think of anyone else doing what he has done for me since that 2011 game in Mohali,'' Bashir said. "Imagine I get the ticket for free when most would pay a fortune for it. I have got a surprise gift for him this time and I hope to give it to him later today," said Bashir. After arriving in Manchester, he checked into Pakistan's team hotel where he met most of the squad members including captain Sarfaraz Ahmed, Mohammad Amir, Mohammad Amir and Hassan Ali. One of his selfies was with Shoaib Malik and Indian tennis star wife Sania Mirza, an Indo-Pak union just like him and his wife. He checks into the Indian team hotel later on Friday. His love for his homeland is understandable but the reason for his affinity towards India is his Hyderbadi wife, besides Dhoni of course. His match-day uniform has both India and Pakistan colours and Bashir calls himself an ambassador of peace. While watching Indo-Pak games all-around the World, Bashir has made lifelong Indian friends and one them is the well-known superfan Sudhir, who mainly relies on funding from cricketers to support the team from stands. In fact, both are staying together in Manchester. "Sudhir abhi apni body pe tri-colour paint karwane gaya hain (Sudhir has gone outside to get the Indian tri-colour painted on his body),'' Bashir said. "I book the room and we stay together. Thanks to Allah, I am doing okay (financially) and that is the least I can do for a friend. I just gifted Sudhir a phone and it made him really happy. These are the little things in life that give you happiness," he added. Bashir, who has overcome three heart attacks, carries as many 12 medicines when he is travelling. Before coming to the UK, he was in Saudi Arabia with his grandson during the holy month of Ramadan. "It is not easy with my medical condition. Ab toh aisa lagta hain jab tak cricket chal rahi tab tak saasen chal rahi hain (May be I am alive only for cricket)," Bashir added. No prizes for guessing that he is backing India to maintain their unbeaten run over Pakistan on Sunday.

Pakistan-born India fan who receives match tickets from MS Dhoni arrives in Manchester

The ongoing ICC Men's Cricket World Cup has been bogged down by poor English weather and former English batsman Kevin Pietersen on Friday posted a <a href="http://cms.wionews.com/sports/india-vs-new-zealand-washout-frustrated-fans-come-up-with-funny-memes-226940">hilarious picture</a> on Instagram taking a jibe at the tournament.

So far, four matches have been <a href="http://cms.wionews.com/sports/world-cup-india-and-new-zealand-split-points-after-trent-bridge-washout-226923">abandoned due to rain</a> in the ongoing Cricket World Cup.

This is the most number of matches that have been called off due to rain in a single edition.

The matches between Sri Lanka-Pakistan, Sri Lanka-Bangladesh, South Africa-West Indies and India-New Zealand have gotten abandoned due to rain in the ongoing World Cup.

Three matches were washed out without a single ball bowled and in the South Africa-West Indies match, only 7.2 overs were bowled.

The scheduling of the Cricket World Cup has come under scrutiny as the matches keep on getting abandoned and the teams are being awarded one point each.

No reserve days have been put in place for the round-robin stage.

The reserve days are just in place for the semi-finals and finals.

In the picture that Pietersen posted, people can be seen playing cricket underwater and the image caption reads as 'Cricket World Cup final 2019'.

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<a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/ByreSQRlhXt/" style=" color:#000; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px; text-decoration:none; word-wrap:break-word;" target="_blank">😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂</a>

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When asked about reserve days, <a href="http://cms.wionews.com/sports/world-cup-icc-defends-no-reserve-day-decision-blames-unseasonable-weather-226400">ICC CEO David Richardson</a> had said,&nbsp;"factoring in a reserve day for every match at the ICC Men's Cricket World Cup would significantly increase the length of the tournament and practically would be extremely complex to deliver."

"Up to 1,200 people are on site to deliver a match and everything associated with it including getting it broadcast and a proportion of them are moving around the country so reserve days in the group stage would require a significant uplift in the number of staff," Richardson further stated.

The upcoming week in the Cricket World Cup 2019 also does not order well for the organisers as weather predictions for the ensuing week also indicate rain.

The ongoing ICC Men's Cricket World Cup has been bogged down by poor English weather and former English batsman Kevin Pietersen on Friday posted a hilarious picture on Instagram taking a jibe at the tournament.

The ongoing ICC Men's Cricket World Cup has been bogged down by poor English weather and former English batsman Kevin Pietersen on Friday posted a hilarious picture on Instagram taking a jibe at the tournament. So far, four matches have been abandoned due to rain in the ongoing Cricket World Cup. This is the most number of matches that have been called off due to rain in a single edition. The matches between Sri Lanka-Pakistan, Sri Lanka-Bangladesh, South Africa-West Indies and India-New Zealand have gotten abandoned due to rain in the ongoing World Cup. Three matches were washed out without a single ball bowled and in the South Africa-West Indies match, only 7.2 overs were bowled. The scheduling of the Cricket World Cup has come under scrutiny as the matches keep on getting abandoned and the teams are being awarded one point each. No reserve days have been put in place for the round-robin stage. The reserve days are just in place for the semi-finals and finals. In the picture that Pietersen posted, people can be seen playing cricket underwater and the image caption reads as 'Cricket World Cup final 2019'. View this post on Instagram 😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂 A post shared by Kevin Pietersen (@kp24) on Jun 13, 2019 at 10:57pm PDT × When asked about reserve days, ICC CEO David Richardson had said, "factoring in a reserve day for every match at the ICC Men's Cricket World Cup would significantly increase the length of the tournament and practically would be extremely complex to deliver." "Up to 1,200 people are on site to deliver a match and everything associated with it including getting it broadcast and a proportion of them are moving around the country so reserve days in the group stage would require a significant uplift in the number of staff," Richardson further stated. The upcoming week in the Cricket World Cup 2019 also does not order well for the organisers as weather predictions for the ensuing week also indicate rain.

Kevin Pietersen posts hilarious picture on washed out World Cup matches

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