Germany's star footballer Thomas Muller shared a picture posing&nbsp;in the Indian cricket jersey, carrying a cricket bat in his left hand. He wished all the participants good luck for the Cricket World Cup 2019, which is underway in England and Wales.&nbsp;

He gave a special mention to the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/injury-scare-for-india-skipper-virat-kohli-hurts-thumb-during-training-223619">Indian cricket team skipper Virat Kohli</a> and extended good wishes to the 'Men in Blue'.

The 29-year-old, himself a world champion with Germany in 2014, took to social media on Monday to declare his support for India, who start their World Cup campaign against South Africa in Southampton on Wednesday.

Mueller revealed India captain Virat Kohli had often supported the German national football team in the past, so he has returned the favour by backing the two-time World Cup winners.

Muller took to Twitter and shared his picture with the&nbsp;good luck message. He wrote, "I wish all participants of the Cricket #WorldCup2019 good luck &amp; thrilling matches."

"Especially I cross my fingers for @imVkohli, the captain of the Indian team. He's a fan of @DFB_Team and supported it multiple times in the past," he added with a hashtag #GermanyCheersForIndia.&nbsp;

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I wish all participants of the Cricket <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WorldCup2019?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WorldCup2019</a> good luck &amp; thrilling matches. Especially I cross my fingers for <a href="https://twitter.com/imVkohli?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@imVkohli</a>, the captain of the Indian team. He`s a fan of <a href="https://twitter.com/DFB_Team?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@DFB_Team</a> and supported it multiple times in the past 🏏✊😃 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Cricket?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Cricket</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/GermanyCheersForIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#GermanyCheersForIndia</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/esmuellert?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#esmuellert</a> <a href="https://t.co/hwS4apAlIE">pic.twitter.com/hwS4apAlIE</a>
— Thomas Müller (@esmuellert_) <a href="https://twitter.com/esmuellert_/status/1135524238943764480?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 3, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Thomas Muller is a German professional footballer and he plays for Bundesliga club Bayern Munich.&nbsp;

Germany's star footballer Thomas Muller shared a picture posing in the Indian cricket jersey, carrying a cricket bat in his left hand. He wished all the participants good luck for the Cricket World Cup 2019, which is underway in England and Wales.

Germany's star footballer Thomas Muller shared a picture posing in the Indian cricket jersey, carrying a cricket bat in his left hand. He wished all the participants good luck for the Cricket World Cup 2019, which is underway in England and Wales. He gave a special mention to the Indian cricket team skipper Virat Kohli and extended good wishes to the 'Men in Blue'. The 29-year-old, himself a world champion with Germany in 2014, took to social media on Monday to declare his support for India, who start their World Cup campaign against South Africa in Southampton on Wednesday. Mueller revealed India captain Virat Kohli had often supported the German national football team in the past, so he has returned the favour by backing the two-time World Cup winners. Muller took to Twitter and shared his picture with the good luck message. He wrote, "I wish all participants of the Cricket #WorldCup2019 good luck & thrilling matches." "Especially I cross my fingers for @imVkohli, the captain of the Indian team. He's a fan of @DFB_Team and supported it multiple times in the past," he added with a hashtag #GermanyCheersForIndia. I wish all participants of the Cricket #WorldCup2019 good luck & thrilling matches. Especially I cross my fingers for @imVkohli, the captain of the Indian team. He`s a fan of @DFB_Team and supported it multiple times in the past 🏏✊😃 #Cricket #GermanyCheersForIndia #esmuellert pic.twitter.com/hwS4apAlIE — Thomas Müller (@esmuellert_) June 3, 2019 × Thomas Muller is a German professional footballer and he plays for Bundesliga club Bayern Munich.

German footballer Thomas Muller wishes Virat Kohli & team good luck for World Cup

Sri Lanka's batsmen must show more patience under pressure in Tuesday's "must-win" encounter against <a href="https://www.wionews.com/search?q=cricket+world+cup">World Cup</a> dark horses Afghanistan to put their crushing opening-round defeat behind them, pacer Lasith Malinga said on Monday.

New Zealand thumped Sri Lanka without losing a single wicket in Cardiff on Saturday to begin their campaign in style after seam bowlers Matt Henry and Lockie Ferguson skittled them out for 136.

Skipper Dimuth Karunaratne contributed an unbeaten 52 in that total as the Sri Lankan top-order's vulnerability in bowler-friendly conditions was exposed and Malinga said that a similar performance against Afghanistan would cost them dear.

"Patience is very important. We know these conditions, we can have someone get 60-70 runs and still the ball can move. Whoever the batsman is, he has to finish the game," Malinga told a news conference at the same venue.

"I feel players need to get confidence... we need to get mentally tough. The pressure is with us, yes, but we have to play free and do our best.

"At the moment we want to be concerned with our own skill and how we're going to play. (It is) a must-win game tomorrow. We'll try our best... in accuracy and tactically, everything hopefully will be there tomorrow."

Afghanistan fared only slightly better against defending champions Australia in their opener, losing by seven wickets, but Malinga is not taking them lightly.

"I think they have experienced players because most of them play in franchise cricket. They know how to accelerate and they have confidence," he added.

"The important thing is handling pressure... that's the big challenge for us."

Afghanistan captain Gulbadin Naib, meanwhile, said his team were targeting a morale-boosting victory against the former champions to get back on track.

"We have the opportunity to do well against them. I hope if we play 50 overs, batting, then definitely we can beat them," he said.

"If we play 50 overs, maybe (it will be) difficult for them... I saw the Sri Lankans play and they've lost a few games in the last two years... they're struggling in one-day matches."

Sri Lanka's batsmen must show more patience under pressure in Tuesday's "must-win" encounter against World Cup dark horses Afghanistan to put their crushing opening-round defeat behind them, pacer Lasith Malinga said on Monday.

Sri Lanka's batsmen must show more patience under pressure in Tuesday's "must-win" encounter against World Cup dark horses Afghanistan to put their crushing opening-round defeat behind them, pacer Lasith Malinga said on Monday. New Zealand thumped Sri Lanka without losing a single wicket in Cardiff on Saturday to begin their campaign in style after seam bowlers Matt Henry and Lockie Ferguson skittled them out for 136. Skipper Dimuth Karunaratne contributed an unbeaten 52 in that total as the Sri Lankan top-order's vulnerability in bowler-friendly conditions was exposed and Malinga said that a similar performance against Afghanistan would cost them dear. "Patience is very important. We know these conditions, we can have someone get 60-70 runs and still the ball can move. Whoever the batsman is, he has to finish the game," Malinga told a news conference at the same venue. "I feel players need to get confidence... we need to get mentally tough. The pressure is with us, yes, but we have to play free and do our best. "At the moment we want to be concerned with our own skill and how we're going to play. (It is) a must-win game tomorrow. We'll try our best... in accuracy and tactically, everything hopefully will be there tomorrow." Afghanistan fared only slightly better against defending champions Australia in their opener, losing by seven wickets, but Malinga is not taking them lightly. "I think they have experienced players because most of them play in franchise cricket. They know how to accelerate and they have confidence," he added. "The important thing is handling pressure... that's the big challenge for us." Afghanistan captain Gulbadin Naib, meanwhile, said his team were targeting a morale-boosting victory against the former champions to get back on track. "We have the opportunity to do well against them. I hope if we play 50 overs, batting, then definitely we can beat them," he said. "If we play 50 overs, maybe (it will be) difficult for them... I saw the Sri Lankans play and they've lost a few games in the last two years... they're struggling in one-day matches."

'Players need to get confidence,' says Lasith Malinga ahead of Afghanistan clash

Australia has warned Chris Gayle and company to be ready for 'chin music' when it takes on West Indies in its second ICC World Cup game at Trent Bridge, Nottingham on Thursday.&nbsp;

Australia pacer Nathan Coulter-Nile said they are ready to give West Indies a taste of its own medicine - bouncers - to keep Gayle and company in check.

"You've got to give it (bowl bouncers) to the Windies, otherwise they just get on the front foot and pogo you everywhere," said the right-arm quick after Australia's seven-wicket win over Afghanistan in its World Cup opener here on Saturday.

"We'll definitely give it to them - we give it to every team. You've got to use your two (permitted bouncers per over).

"The grounds are so small and the wickets are generally pretty flat, so you've got to use bouncers when you can," he added.

In Coulter-Nile, Mitchel Starc and Pat Cummins, Australia boast of a fiery pace battery.

Coulter-Nile's statement came close on the heels of West Indies' devastating fast-bowling display against Pakistan, bundling out the opposition for just 105 in 21.4 overs.&nbsp;

Coulter-Nile said Australian bowlers need to be aggressive upfront against a batsman of Gayle's calibre.

"Oh Starcy (Mitchell Starc) will knock his off pole out. It will be easy," he said jokingly about the 39-year-old Gayle.&nbsp;

"You know he's going to hit your good balls for four and hit your bad balls for six. Just keep as bowling as many good balls as you can we'll stick a few up him.

"I think you just need to be aggressive at him. He's still smacking them but he is getting older. I don't know if he's faced too much of Starcy and Paddy (Pat Cummins) recently but they're bowling quick. So we'll see how he handles that early," Coulter-Nile added.

Australia has warned Chris Gayle and company to be ready for 'chin music' when it takes on West Indies in its second ICC World Cup game at Trent Bridge, Nottingham on Thursday.

Australia has warned Chris Gayle and company to be ready for 'chin music' when it takes on West Indies in its second ICC World Cup game at Trent Bridge, Nottingham on Thursday. Australia pacer Nathan Coulter-Nile said they are ready to give West Indies a taste of its own medicine - bouncers - to keep Gayle and company in check. "You've got to give it (bowl bouncers) to the Windies, otherwise they just get on the front foot and pogo you everywhere," said the right-arm quick after Australia's seven-wicket win over Afghanistan in its World Cup opener here on Saturday. "We'll definitely give it to them - we give it to every team. You've got to use your two (permitted bouncers per over). "The grounds are so small and the wickets are generally pretty flat, so you've got to use bouncers when you can," he added. In Coulter-Nile, Mitchel Starc and Pat Cummins, Australia boast of a fiery pace battery. Coulter-Nile's statement came close on the heels of West Indies' devastating fast-bowling display against Pakistan, bundling out the opposition for just 105 in 21.4 overs. Coulter-Nile said Australian bowlers need to be aggressive upfront against a batsman of Gayle's calibre. "Oh Starcy (Mitchell Starc) will knock his off pole out. It will be easy," he said jokingly about the 39-year-old Gayle. "You know he's going to hit your good balls for four and hit your bad balls for six. Just keep as bowling as many good balls as you can we'll stick a few up him. "I think you just need to be aggressive at him. He's still smacking them but he is getting older. I don't know if he's faced too much of Starcy and Paddy (Pat Cummins) recently but they're bowling quick. So we'll see how he handles that early," Coulter-Nile added.

Nathan Coulter-Nile warns Windies, says be ready for chin music

Ahead of their <a href="https://www.wionews.com/search?q=cricket+world+cup">World Cup campaign</a> opener, Team India was seen honing their fielding skills as&nbsp;Yuzvendra Chahal, Jasprit Bumrah and Bhuvneshwar Kumar practised&nbsp;throws and catch including the skipper Virat Kohli and wicket-keeper MS Dhoni.&nbsp;

The head coach Ravi Shastri gave tips to the players and he was present during the practice sessions&nbsp;at the&nbsp;Rose Bowl stadium in Southampton.&nbsp;

India will open their World Cup campaign against South Africa on June 5.&nbsp;

This was the team's second practice session and it lasted for more than three hours.&nbsp;

Apart from enhancing fielding skills, openers&nbsp;Rohit Sharma and&nbsp;Shikhar Dhawan spent time batting in the nets along with KL Rahul, who is almost final to play for India at the number four spot.&nbsp;

Hardik Pandya was seen stretching his back due to some issue but later bowled in the nets.

Watch the video:

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Pace and spin in tandem in the nets 💪💪<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TeamIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TeamIndia</a> <a href="https://t.co/UUKTPwvV7H">pic.twitter.com/UUKTPwvV7H</a>
— BCCI (@BCCI) <a href="https://twitter.com/BCCI/status/1134760684112306176?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 1, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Caption this? 📸📸<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TeamIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TeamIndia</a> <a href="https://t.co/1anayWs7Gh">pic.twitter.com/1anayWs7Gh</a>
— BCCI (@BCCI) <a href="https://twitter.com/BCCI/status/1134825444824559616?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 1, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Also, Kuldeep Yadav also looked in good shape after he missed the first practice session and bowled to Dhoni in the nets.

Ahead of their World Cup campaign opener, Team India was seen honing their fielding skills as Yuzvendra Chahal, Jasprit Bumrah and Bhuvneshwar Kumar practised throws and catch including the skipper Virat Kohli and wicket-keeper MS Dhoni.

Ahead of their World Cup campaign opener, Team India was seen honing their fielding skills as Yuzvendra Chahal, Jasprit Bumrah and Bhuvneshwar Kumar practised throws and catch including the skipper Virat Kohli and wicket-keeper MS Dhoni. The head coach Ravi Shastri gave tips to the players and he was present during the practice sessions at the Rose Bowl stadium in Southampton. India will open their World Cup campaign against South Africa on June 5. This was the team's second practice session and it lasted for more than three hours. Apart from enhancing fielding skills, openers Rohit Sharma and Shikhar Dhawan spent time batting in the nets along with KL Rahul, who is almost final to play for India at the number four spot. Hardik Pandya was seen stretching his back due to some issue but later bowled in the nets. Watch the video: Pace and spin in tandem in the nets 💪💪#TeamIndia pic.twitter.com/UUKTPwvV7H — BCCI (@BCCI) June 1, 2019 × Caption this? 📸📸#TeamIndia pic.twitter.com/1anayWs7Gh — BCCI (@BCCI) June 1, 2019 × Also, Kuldeep Yadav also looked in good shape after he missed the first practice session and bowled to Dhoni in the nets.

Watch: Indian team practice ahead of their campaign opener

Former Pakistan cricketer Shoaib Akhtar shared his opinion after <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/live-updates-cricket-world-cup-2019-match-2-pakistan-vs-west-indies-223120">West Indies defeated Pakistan by seven wickets</a> in their campaign opener of Cricket World Cup 2019.&nbsp;

After hostile fast bowling by the West Indies, Pakistan slump to just 105 in a mere 21.4 overs at Trent Bridge on Friday.&nbsp;

It was their second-lowest World Cup total since a paltry 74 against England at Adelaide in 1992, the year Imran Khan's team went on to lift their only 50-overs crown.&nbsp;

West Indies achieved the target in 13.4 overs with the help of Chris Gayle's 34-ball 50 which included six fours and three sixes.&nbsp;

Now, the former pacer&nbsp;Shoaib Akhtar&nbsp;shared a video criticising the performance of Pakistani players.&nbsp;

He said that the players played "cowardly" against West Indies and they looked&nbsp;uninterested and divided.&nbsp;

He further added that the performance was disappointing.&nbsp;

The Rawalpindi Express gave a special mention to the skipper Sarfaraz Ahmed's&nbsp;fitness&nbsp;and especially pointed out his belly fat.&nbsp;

Shoaib said, "When Sarfaraz Ahmed came for the toss, his stomach was sticking out and his face was so fat. He's the first captain I've seen who is so unfit. He's not able to move across and he's struggling with wicket-keeping."&nbsp;

He requested the team to be more focused and wished them good luck for the upcoming matches.&nbsp;

Watch his reaction:

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It's a disappointing performance of Team Pakistan, let's not 
disheart them more and back them up<a href="https://t.co/8cFvg7YqwK">https://t.co/8cFvg7YqwK</a>
— Shoaib Akhtar (@shoaib100mph) <a href="https://twitter.com/shoaib100mph/status/1134474599557734401?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 31, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Although,&nbsp;Shoaib Akhtar was impressed by Mohammad Amir, who took&nbsp;three wickets for just 26 runs.&nbsp;

Pakistan next play England at Trent Bridge on Monday.&nbsp;

Former Pakistan cricketer Shoaib Akhtar shared his opinion after West Indies defeated Pakistan by seven wickets in their campaign opener of Cricket World Cup 2019.

Former Pakistan cricketer Shoaib Akhtar shared his opinion after West Indies defeated Pakistan by seven wickets in their campaign opener of Cricket World Cup 2019. After hostile fast bowling by the West Indies, Pakistan slump to just 105 in a mere 21.4 overs at Trent Bridge on Friday. It was their second-lowest World Cup total since a paltry 74 against England at Adelaide in 1992, the year Imran Khan's team went on to lift their only 50-overs crown. West Indies achieved the target in 13.4 overs with the help of Chris Gayle's 34-ball 50 which included six fours and three sixes. Now, the former pacer Shoaib Akhtar shared a video criticising the performance of Pakistani players. He said that the players played "cowardly" against West Indies and they looked uninterested and divided. He further added that the performance was disappointing. The Rawalpindi Express gave a special mention to the skipper Sarfaraz Ahmed's fitness and especially pointed out his belly fat. Shoaib said, "When Sarfaraz Ahmed came for the toss, his stomach was sticking out and his face was so fat. He's the first captain I've seen who is so unfit. He's not able to move across and he's struggling with wicket-keeping." He requested the team to be more focused and wished them good luck for the upcoming matches. Watch his reaction: It's a disappointing performance of Team Pakistan, let's not disheart them more and back them uphttps://t.co/8cFvg7YqwK — Shoaib Akhtar (@shoaib100mph) May 31, 2019 × Although, Shoaib Akhtar was impressed by Mohammad Amir, who took three wickets for just 26 runs. Pakistan next play England at Trent Bridge on Monday.

Watch: Former Pakistan pacer Shoaib Akhtar calls Sarfaraz Ahmed 'fat and unfit'

Pakistan skipper Sarfaraz Ahmed said that <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/its-a-dream-come-true-says-pakistans-mohammad-amir-on-world-cup-debut-222898">pace sensation Mohammad Amir</a> is fit for his World Cup debut on Friday against West Indies at Nottingham's Trent Bridge stadium.&nbsp;

"Mohammad Amir is fully fit and available for selection," Sarfaraz told reporters.&nbsp;

Amir, who was initially not included in Pakistan's provisional squad after his not so impressive performance ahead of the World Cup.&nbsp;

However, he was later included as the selectors decided to include him in the final 15 for the twelfth edition of Cricket World Cup.&nbsp;

"It's a dream come true," Amir told AFP ahead of Pakistan's first match against West Indies.&nbsp;

In Pics:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/world-cup-six-players-to-watch-out-for-in-west-indies-vs-pakistan-match-222797#wahab-riaz-220832">Six players to watch out for in West Indies vs Pakistan match</a>

"Every cricketer dreams of representing his country in a World Cup so this is my chance," he added.&nbsp;

Sarfaraz said he was clear about his starting 11, with all his players fit.

"I think it's good to be unpredictable," Sarfaraz added Pakistan being unpredictable.&nbsp;

"At the end of the day, the Pakistan team is very dangerous," he added. &nbsp;

Pakistan skipper Sarfaraz Ahmed said that pace sensation Mohammad Amir is fit for his World Cup debut on Friday against West Indies at Nottingham's Trent Bridge stadium.

Pakistan skipper Sarfaraz Ahmed said that pace sensation Mohammad Amir is fit for his World Cup debut on Friday against West Indies at Nottingham's Trent Bridge stadium. "Mohammad Amir is fully fit and available for selection," Sarfaraz told reporters. Amir, who was initially not included in Pakistan's provisional squad after his not so impressive performance ahead of the World Cup. However, he was later included as the selectors decided to include him in the final 15 for the twelfth edition of Cricket World Cup. "It's a dream come true," Amir told AFP ahead of Pakistan's first match against West Indies. In Pics: Six players to watch out for in West Indies vs Pakistan match "Every cricketer dreams of representing his country in a World Cup so this is my chance," he added. Sarfaraz said he was clear about his starting 11, with all his players fit. "I think it's good to be unpredictable," Sarfaraz added Pakistan being unpredictable. "At the end of the day, the Pakistan team is very dangerous," he added.

Pakistan vs West Indies: Mohammad Amir is 'fully fit' for World Cup debut, says Sarfaraz Ahmed

Fans have gathered, the hosts are ready and the stage is set for the twelfth edition of Cricket World Cup, which will begin with the opening match between England and South Africa on May 30.&nbsp;

The warm-up matches are over and teams have done all necessary preparations for the big event, the participating countries will look to play a better game of cricket to win the tournament, clinching one of the most coveted trophies of the sporting world.&nbsp;

The format of the World Cup 2019 will be round-robin, which means, all countries will play each other once and the top four will enter the knockout stages.

England, South Africa, India, Australia, New Zealand, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Afghanistan and West Indies are the participating countries.&nbsp;

This is the fifth World Cup that will be held in England and Wales. The previous ones were in 1975, 1979, 1983 and 1999.&nbsp;

England launch the World Cup&nbsp;as favourites to bludgeon their way to victory for the first time but will fear a Virat Kohli-inspired India and a hungry Australia.

The host nation have never won the tournament, with the last of their three losing appearances in the final coming in 1992, but there is a growing sense their current crop of players can end 45 years of pain.

Boasting a plethora of big-hitting white-ball specialists, England are the top-ranked team in the 50-over game, while Kohli's India are also packed with superstars who have honed their skills in the Indian Premier League.

Reigning champions Australia, who won their fifth title in 2015, are boosted by the returns of star batsmen Smith and David Warner after both served bans for their role in a ball-tampering scandal.

New Zealand and South Africa will also harbour hopes of World Cup glory in the 10-team tournament, in which each side will play all the others to decide the semi-finalists.

Former winners Pakistan can never be ruled out and West Indies, featuring self-styled "Universe Boss" Chris Gayle for possibly the final time in ODIs, will fancy their chances of a first World Cup triumph since 1979.

In an age in which astonishing run-scoring feats have become commonplace, it may be the hard-pressed bowlers who determine the destiny of this year's title, depending on the conditions for the event, which runs from May 30 until July 14.

Here is the complete fixture of Cricket World Cup 2019:
<img alt="ICC World Cup 2019" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="199002da-69ec-4129-9162-f2166a372c8c" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/ICC%20World%20Cup%202019%20%281%29_5.jpg" />
And the all-play-all format guarantees nine pay-days each for the world's leading cricket nations.&nbsp;

Fans have gathered, the hosts are ready and the stage is set for the twelfth edition of Cricket World Cup, which will begin with the opening match between England and South Africa on May 30.

Fans have gathered, the hosts are ready and the stage is set for the twelfth edition of Cricket World Cup, which will begin with the opening match between England and South Africa on May 30. The warm-up matches are over and teams have done all necessary preparations for the big event, the participating countries will look to play a better game of cricket to win the tournament, clinching one of the most coveted trophies of the sporting world. The format of the World Cup 2019 will be round-robin, which means, all countries will play each other once and the top four will enter the knockout stages. England, South Africa, India, Australia, New Zealand, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Afghanistan and West Indies are the participating countries. This is the fifth World Cup that will be held in England and Wales. The previous ones were in 1975, 1979, 1983 and 1999. England launch the World Cup as favourites to bludgeon their way to victory for the first time but will fear a Virat Kohli-inspired India and a hungry Australia. The host nation have never won the tournament, with the last of their three losing appearances in the final coming in 1992, but there is a growing sense their current crop of players can end 45 years of pain. Boasting a plethora of big-hitting white-ball specialists, England are the top-ranked team in the 50-over game, while Kohli's India are also packed with superstars who have honed their skills in the Indian Premier League. Reigning champions Australia, who won their fifth title in 2015, are boosted by the returns of star batsmen Smith and David Warner after both served bans for their role in a ball-tampering scandal. New Zealand and South Africa will also harbour hopes of World Cup glory in the 10-team tournament, in which each side will play all the others to decide the semi-finalists. Former winners Pakistan can never be ruled out and West Indies, featuring self-styled "Universe Boss" Chris Gayle for possibly the final time in ODIs, will fancy their chances of a first World Cup triumph since 1979. In an age in which astonishing run-scoring feats have become commonplace, it may be the hard-pressed bowlers who determine the destiny of this year's title, depending on the conditions for the event, which runs from May 30 until July 14. Here is the complete fixture of Cricket World Cup 2019: And the all-play-all format guarantees nine pay-days each for the world's leading cricket nations.

One day to go before Cricket World Cup frenzy begins

South African pacer Dale Steyn has been ruled out of team's first match of Cricket World Cup 2019 against England on May 30.&nbsp;

The 35-year-old picked up a shoulder injury during his brief stint for Royal Challengers Bangalore in the recently concluded Indian Premier League 2019.&nbsp;

He is&nbsp;yet to recover from the injury and he has been under observation.&nbsp;

"He had been under observation and coach Ottis Gibson confirmed on Tuesday, 28 May, that he won't be fully fit in time for the tournament opener at The Oval on Thursday," stated the official website of World Cup 2019.&nbsp;

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Steyn is expected to be fit for South Africa's clash against India. <a href="https://t.co/evHv5Kj1Oy">https://t.co/evHv5Kj1Oy</a>
— Cricket World Cup (@cricketworldcup) <a href="https://twitter.com/cricketworldcup/status/1133358399134064642?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 28, 2019</a></blockquote>
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"He is getting closer everyday; we hope that if not by Sunday then by the India game," Gibson told presspersons on the sidelines of the team's training.

South Africa has been dealing with injury woes as Kagiso Rabada's fitness was also a major concern for the team. But the pacer quickly recovered to take part in the team's warm-up matches against Sri Lanka and West Indies.

South Africa defeated Sri Lanka in their first warm-up game by 87 runs whereas their second warm-up fixture against West Indies was abandoned due to rain.&nbsp;

South Africa will take on England in the opening fixture of the World Cup on May 30.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)
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South African pacer Dale Steyn has been ruled out of team's first match of Cricket World Cup 2019 against England on May 30. The 35-year-old picked up a shoulder injury during his brief stint for Royal Challengers Bangalore in the recently concluded Indian Premier League 2019.

South African pacer Dale Steyn has been ruled out of team's first match of Cricket World Cup 2019 against England on May 30. The 35-year-old picked up a shoulder injury during his brief stint for Royal Challengers Bangalore in the recently concluded Indian Premier League 2019. He is yet to recover from the injury and he has been under observation. "He had been under observation and coach Ottis Gibson confirmed on Tuesday, 28 May, that he won't be fully fit in time for the tournament opener at The Oval on Thursday," stated the official website of World Cup 2019. Steyn is expected to be fit for South Africa's clash against India. https://t.co/evHv5Kj1Oy — Cricket World Cup (@cricketworldcup) May 28, 2019 × "He is getting closer everyday; we hope that if not by Sunday then by the India game," Gibson told presspersons on the sidelines of the team's training. South Africa has been dealing with injury woes as Kagiso Rabada's fitness was also a major concern for the team. But the pacer quickly recovered to take part in the team's warm-up matches against Sri Lanka and West Indies. South Africa defeated Sri Lanka in their first warm-up game by 87 runs whereas their second warm-up fixture against West Indies was abandoned due to rain. South Africa will take on England in the opening fixture of the World Cup on May 30. (With inputs from agencies)

Dale Steyn ruled out of South Africa's opening World Cup fixture

England captain Eoin Morgan has urged his side to enjoy the pressure and expectation that comes with opening the World Cup.&nbsp;

Tournament hosts and favourites England launch the showpiece event <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/six-players-to-watch-out-for-in-opening-clash-between-england-vs-south-africa-of-cricket-world-cup-2019-222213">against South Africa at the Oval</a> on Thursday.&nbsp;

Their last warm-up match saw them rout Afghanistan by nine wickets at the south London venue on Monday, with England dismissing the outsiders for just 160 and then reaching their target in fewer than 18 overs.&nbsp;

The Dubliner was back in the side for this match after recovering from a finger injury but took no active part as he did not field and wasn't required to bat in an England innings where opener Jason Roy scored 89 not out on his Surrey home ground.

England, top of the one-day international rankings, won 4-0 at home to Pakistan in a recent series before a team missing several first-choice players suffered a 12-run warm-up defeat by world champions Australia in Southampton on Saturday.

"We have felt ready the last week or so, even if we didn't play these warm-up games," said Morgan. "As a whole I was very happy with the preparation.&nbsp;

"When you play as convincingly as that it builds confidence in the hard work you've done both in training and in the game and the other side of it is that it gives us the afternoon and evening to switch off -- not playing another close game against a strong side."

Now Morgan has urged England to relish the challenge of facing the Proteas first up in the World Cup.

"Everyone is going to feel that anticipation and excitement of playing the first game and it will be different than any other day and I will be encouraging guys to embrace it," he said.

As well as Morgan's clean bill of health, England were also boosted Monday by the news that fast bowler Mark Wood had been passed fit following fears over a possible recurrence of a longstanding left ankle injury.
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'All ready'

"It's the best possible news with both of them," said Morgan. "With Woody being a fast bowler it's inevitable we would have injuries but to come back with the scan as clear as it could be is great, so we are all ready."

The sight of Wood pulling up as he ran in early in his spell in Southampton was understandably concerning given his injury-plagued career, but the Durham quick insisted he had not feared his World Cup might be over before it started.

"I wasn't worried about the scan because I knew it was precautionary," he said.

"I probably could have carried on bowling but I didn't want to take any risks with it when I knew what was round the corner, especially with my background.

"I had a light bowl this (Monday) morning and felt fine, then I had a bit of a heavier bowl whilst the lads were playing football and that felt absolutely fine.&nbsp;

"If anything, I just need to get it on the ice machine 24/7 for the next couple of days. I will fully join in with practice on Wednesday and then be ready to go on Thursday if selected."

England have a trio of new-ball bowlers in their 15-man World Cup squad -- Chris Woakes, Jofra Archer and Wood.

But, having seen England rotate their attack in recent weeks, Wood was ready to wait his turn.&nbsp;

"It is a long tournament with a lot of games so I expect we will mix and match," he said.

England captain Eoin Morgan has urged his side to enjoy the pressure and expectation that comes with opening the World Cup. Tournament hosts and favourites England launch the showpiece event against South Africa at the Oval on Thursday.

England captain Eoin Morgan has urged his side to enjoy the pressure and expectation that comes with opening the World Cup. Tournament hosts and favourites England launch the showpiece event against South Africa at the Oval on Thursday. Their last warm-up match saw them rout Afghanistan by nine wickets at the south London venue on Monday, with England dismissing the outsiders for just 160 and then reaching their target in fewer than 18 overs. The Dubliner was back in the side for this match after recovering from a finger injury but took no active part as he did not field and wasn't required to bat in an England innings where opener Jason Roy scored 89 not out on his Surrey home ground. England, top of the one-day international rankings, won 4-0 at home to Pakistan in a recent series before a team missing several first-choice players suffered a 12-run warm-up defeat by world champions Australia in Southampton on Saturday. "We have felt ready the last week or so, even if we didn't play these warm-up games," said Morgan. "As a whole I was very happy with the preparation. "When you play as convincingly as that it builds confidence in the hard work you've done both in training and in the game and the other side of it is that it gives us the afternoon and evening to switch off -- not playing another close game against a strong side." Now Morgan has urged England to relish the challenge of facing the Proteas first up in the World Cup. "Everyone is going to feel that anticipation and excitement of playing the first game and it will be different than any other day and I will be encouraging guys to embrace it," he said. As well as Morgan's clean bill of health, England were also boosted Monday by the news that fast bowler Mark Wood had been passed fit following fears over a possible recurrence of a longstanding left ankle injury. 'All ready' "It's the best possible news with both of them," said Morgan. "With Woody being a fast bowler it's inevitable we would have injuries but to come back with the scan as clear as it could be is great, so we are all ready." The sight of Wood pulling up as he ran in early in his spell in Southampton was understandably concerning given his injury-plagued career, but the Durham quick insisted he had not feared his World Cup might be over before it started. "I wasn't worried about the scan because I knew it was precautionary," he said. "I probably could have carried on bowling but I didn't want to take any risks with it when I knew what was round the corner, especially with my background. "I had a light bowl this (Monday) morning and felt fine, then I had a bit of a heavier bowl whilst the lads were playing football and that felt absolutely fine. "If anything, I just need to get it on the ice machine 24/7 for the next couple of days. I will fully join in with practice on Wednesday and then be ready to go on Thursday if selected." England have a trio of new-ball bowlers in their 15-man World Cup squad -- Chris Woakes, Jofra Archer and Wood. But, having seen England rotate their attack in recent weeks, Wood was ready to wait his turn. "It is a long tournament with a lot of games so I expect we will mix and match," he said.

Eoin Morgan tells England to 'embrace' World Cup excitement

Fakhar Zaman was still establishing himself in the Pakistan team when Jasprit Bumrah's no-ball in the Champions Trophy final triggered his unlikely rise from navy sailor to World Cup talisman.

India appeared to have made the perfect start in the 2017 Champions Trophy showpiece when Zaman edged to wicketkeeper MS Dhoni off Bumrah.

However, the Indian fast bowler had overstepped the crease and Zaman, who had scored just three at the time, was given a reprieve that he made the most of, reaching his first one-day international century.

Fakhar changed the game with a crisp 114 to help Pakistan beat their bitter rivals by a 180-run margin at the Oval to lift the trophy.

Since then Fakhar has been the lynchpin of Pakistan's batting and will be expected to anchor the line-up when the World Cup gets underway in England on May 30.

"That no-ball made me. I had a dream before the final that I will be dismissed off a no-ball and it proved to be true," Fakhar said.

"Initially I was very sad as I had promised my parents to do well in that match." Fakhar's role in that famous victory against India came in just his fourth ODI and made him a household name in Pakistan.

But he said the recognition has not distracted him as he focuses on inspiring Pakistan's bid for a second World Cup win and first since 1992. 
"I was very lucky and ever since that century I have become famous," he said.

"But with that fame comes responsibility and I have become more mature and now I realise the importance of playing my part. That will be my top priority in the World Cup."&nbsp;

World Cup anchor

Luck has been on the unassuming left-hander's side since he defied his father's advice not to play cricket in his native Mardan.

Fakhar joined the Pakistan Navy but cricket remained his dream.

He kept his hand in by playing for the navy team and crucially benefited from a stroke of good fortune to fulfil his wish of playing for the national side.

Pakistan opener Sharjeel Khan was banned in a spot-fixing case during the second edition of the Pakistan Super League in 2017, just three months before the Champions Trophy.

Fakhar's aggressive batting had impressed head coach Mickey Arthur and chief selector Inzamam-ul-Haq.

They instantly selected Fakhar as an attacking option and he has paid them back by averaging a stunning 51.31 in his 36 ODIs.

"I saw a game changer in Fakhar," recalled Inzamam. "We had to find someone to replace Sharjeel and after watching Fakhar we thought 'here is our man'.

"He lived up to that promise and we see him as an anchor in the World Cup."

The 29-year-old, called "soldier" by his teammates for his navy connection, smashed Pakistan's first double century in a one-day match in Zimbabwe last year and knows what is required of him in his country's World Cup campaign.

"My job is to score runs and I am doing that so I know that hard work will pay off," he said.&nbsp;

Fakhar Zaman was still establishing himself in the Pakistan team when Jasprit Bumrah's no-ball in the Champions Trophy final triggered his unlikely rise from navy sailor to World Cup talisman.

Fakhar Zaman was still establishing himself in the Pakistan team when Jasprit Bumrah's no-ball in the Champions Trophy final triggered his unlikely rise from navy sailor to World Cup talisman. India appeared to have made the perfect start in the 2017 Champions Trophy showpiece when Zaman edged to wicketkeeper MS Dhoni off Bumrah. However, the Indian fast bowler had overstepped the crease and Zaman, who had scored just three at the time, was given a reprieve that he made the most of, reaching his first one-day international century. Fakhar changed the game with a crisp 114 to help Pakistan beat their bitter rivals by a 180-run margin at the Oval to lift the trophy. Since then Fakhar has been the lynchpin of Pakistan's batting and will be expected to anchor the line-up when the World Cup gets underway in England on May 30. "That no-ball made me. I had a dream before the final that I will be dismissed off a no-ball and it proved to be true," Fakhar said. "Initially I was very sad as I had promised my parents to do well in that match." Fakhar's role in that famous victory against India came in just his fourth ODI and made him a household name in Pakistan. But he said the recognition has not distracted him as he focuses on inspiring Pakistan's bid for a second World Cup win and first since 1992. "I was very lucky and ever since that century I have become famous," he said. "But with that fame comes responsibility and I have become more mature and now I realise the importance of playing my part. That will be my top priority in the World Cup." World Cup anchor Luck has been on the unassuming left-hander's side since he defied his father's advice not to play cricket in his native Mardan. Fakhar joined the Pakistan Navy but cricket remained his dream. He kept his hand in by playing for the navy team and crucially benefited from a stroke of good fortune to fulfil his wish of playing for the national side. Pakistan opener Sharjeel Khan was banned in a spot-fixing case during the second edition of the Pakistan Super League in 2017, just three months before the Champions Trophy. Fakhar's aggressive batting had impressed head coach Mickey Arthur and chief selector Inzamam-ul-Haq. They instantly selected Fakhar as an attacking option and he has paid them back by averaging a stunning 51.31 in his 36 ODIs. "I saw a game changer in Fakhar," recalled Inzamam. "We had to find someone to replace Sharjeel and after watching Fakhar we thought 'here is our man'. "He lived up to that promise and we see him as an anchor in the World Cup." The 29-year-old, called "soldier" by his teammates for his navy connection, smashed Pakistan's first double century in a one-day match in Zimbabwe last year and knows what is required of him in his country's World Cup campaign. "My job is to score runs and I am doing that so I know that hard work will pay off," he said.

Fakhar Zaman: Pakistan's World Cup weapon

Carlos Brathwaite sees himself as a versatile all-rounder, saying he is ready to perform whatever role is required in the ICC Men`s <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/winner-of-cricket-world-cup-2019-to-earn-highest-prize-money-in-history-of-tournament-219380">Cricket World Cup</a>.

"When chosen, my skillset suits bowling very tight in the middle, offering some support at the death and then with the bat picking up the slack. If I need to come in the last three or four overs to give us a boost to the total then fine... or the odd game where I can come in and play a longer knock, so I think it`s about working on all facets of my game so my versatility makes me an asset that can be chosen at any point during the tournament," Cricket West Indies (CWI) quoted Brathwaite, as saying.

The tall right-hander batted well last week when he scored 60 off 64 balls with five fours and three sixes against Australia in an unofficial pre-tournament fixture at the Nursery Ground.

"It`s another challenge and whatever situation presents itself is for me to use my versatility again and to adapt to it. We may need another knock like against Australia or we may need a knock where they only have three overs and I`m supporting one of the batters that are in, so it`s another good challenge for the team and puts us one step closer to the ultimate goal which is winning the tournament," he continued.

West Indies won the World Cup on two occasions under the leadership of Clive Lloyd - the first edition in 1975 when they beat Australia and again in 1979 when they beat England. The tournament will be played in England and Wales from May 30 to July 14. West Indies open their campaign on May 31 against Pakistan at Trent Bridge in Nottingham.

Carlos Brathwaite sees himself as a versatile all-rounder, saying he is ready to perform whatever role is required in the ICC Men`s Cricket World Cup. "When chosen, my skillset suits bowling very tight in the middle, offering some support at the death and then with the bat picking up the slack.

Carlos Brathwaite sees himself as a versatile all-rounder, saying he is ready to perform whatever role is required in the ICC Men`s Cricket World Cup. "When chosen, my skillset suits bowling very tight in the middle, offering some support at the death and then with the bat picking up the slack. If I need to come in the last three or four overs to give us a boost to the total then fine... or the odd game where I can come in and play a longer knock, so I think it`s about working on all facets of my game so my versatility makes me an asset that can be chosen at any point during the tournament," Cricket West Indies (CWI) quoted Brathwaite, as saying. The tall right-hander batted well last week when he scored 60 off 64 balls with five fours and three sixes against Australia in an unofficial pre-tournament fixture at the Nursery Ground. "It`s another challenge and whatever situation presents itself is for me to use my versatility again and to adapt to it. We may need another knock like against Australia or we may need a knock where they only have three overs and I`m supporting one of the batters that are in, so it`s another good challenge for the team and puts us one step closer to the ultimate goal which is winning the tournament," he continued. West Indies won the World Cup on two occasions under the leadership of Clive Lloyd - the first edition in 1975 when they beat Australia and again in 1979 when they beat England. The tournament will be played in England and Wales from May 30 to July 14. West Indies open their campaign on May 31 against Pakistan at Trent Bridge in Nottingham.

Brathwaite ready to perform any role in World Cup

India's Vijay Shankar seemed all focussed on his preparation for the Cricket World Cup 2019, which is scheduled to kick-off from May 30.&nbsp;

"This year has been pretty good, I had a good 'A' series in New Zealand recently which got me the Indian team call-up and it changed after that. I'm not someone who expects things to happen, I focus hard on my preparation," ICC quoted Vijay Shankar as saying.&nbsp;

Vijay Shankar will make his World Cup debut and is one of the suitable candidates to play on the fourth spot for India.&nbsp;

"I will keep working hard on all aspects of my game, whenever the opportunity comes I will always try my best for the team. The last few years, from travelling, you see a lot of supporters all over the world, and they're definitely going to be there (in England), 50/50 sometimes," he added.&nbsp;

Shankar described representing his country as the 'best thing' and said that they will deliver based on what they have practiced and worked hard for. &nbsp;

"It's going to be really nice to experience that and I'm looking forward to that experience. Even if it is just one match that I win for the team, I'll be very happy about that," he said.&nbsp;

"The pressure is going to be there every game, but if we starting thinking about the bigger stage and how it is a World Cup it can affect your own instincts. Whatever we have practised and worked hard for, it is important to go in and react to whatever happens. You just have to be prepared for whenever you get the opportunity. You have to enjoy it, because it is the best thing to represent your country," he said.

India will start their World Cup campaign against South Africa on June 5.&nbsp;

India's Vijay Shankar seemed all focussed on his preparation for the Cricket World Cup 2019, which is scheduled to kick-off from May 30. "This year has been pretty good, I had a good 'A' series in New Zealand recently which got me the Indian team call-up and it changed after that.

India's Vijay Shankar seemed all focussed on his preparation for the Cricket World Cup 2019, which is scheduled to kick-off from May 30. "This year has been pretty good, I had a good 'A' series in New Zealand recently which got me the Indian team call-up and it changed after that. I'm not someone who expects things to happen, I focus hard on my preparation," ICC quoted Vijay Shankar as saying. Vijay Shankar will make his World Cup debut and is one of the suitable candidates to play on the fourth spot for India. "I will keep working hard on all aspects of my game, whenever the opportunity comes I will always try my best for the team. The last few years, from travelling, you see a lot of supporters all over the world, and they're definitely going to be there (in England), 50/50 sometimes," he added. Shankar described representing his country as the 'best thing' and said that they will deliver based on what they have practiced and worked hard for. "It's going to be really nice to experience that and I'm looking forward to that experience. Even if it is just one match that I win for the team, I'll be very happy about that," he said. "The pressure is going to be there every game, but if we starting thinking about the bigger stage and how it is a World Cup it can affect your own instincts. Whatever we have practised and worked hard for, it is important to go in and react to whatever happens. You just have to be prepared for whenever you get the opportunity. You have to enjoy it, because it is the best thing to represent your country," he said. India will start their World Cup campaign against South Africa on June 5.

Vijay Shankar focusing hard on his preparation for World Cup

Former cricketer Gautam Gambhir, who <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/gautam-gambhirs-successful-debut-in-political-innings-221074#support-by-fellow-cricketers-220998">won the Lok Sabha 2019 election</a> from East Delhi constituency, said losing two points by not playing against Pakistan is nothing compared to lives of our soldiers. &nbsp;

"We can’t play with the sentiments of our country," he told Zee News Hindi when asked if India should play the World Cup match against Pakistan.&nbsp;

"Two points are not important than the lives of our soldiers but for this, the entire country needs to be on&nbsp;the same page. We should have the courage to lose points even it's the first match or the finals," he added.&nbsp;

"Even if we boycott playing the World Cup final against Pakistan, the country must stand together, there can't be a difference of opinions," said Gambhir.&nbsp;

"There should not be any backlash for the decision taken," the former India opening batsman added.&nbsp;

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In the wake of the Pulwama terror attack in which 40 Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) personnel were killed, there have been calls for a complete cricketing boycott against Pakistan.&nbsp;

India and Pakistan have not played a full bilateral series after the Mumbai terror attacks in November 2008.&nbsp;

Reflecting on the same, Gambhir said, "There should not any conditional ban on Pakistan. If we want to play against Pakistan than it should be in every format as there's no room for conditional bans."&nbsp;

"Either we should ban Pakistan from all the formats or the should play cricket or other sports in all formats," he added. &nbsp;

India will play two warm-up matches against New Zealand and Bangladesh on May 25 and May 28 respectively before starting their World Cup campaign against South Africa on June 6.&nbsp;

The team is scheduled to play Pakistan on June 16 during the World Cup.&nbsp;

Ahead of the World Cup, Gambhir wished the Indian cricket team all the best. He said, "In 2011, we won the Cup and now again we have a chance to bring the Cup back."&nbsp;

Gambhir was part of the 2007 T20 World Cup winning squad and played a key role in India's triumph in the 2011 World Cup.&nbsp;

There is no bigger achievement than representing your country in the World Cup and I wish that the Cup comes back in India, he added.&nbsp;

Former cricketer Gautam Gambhir, who won the Lok Sabha 2019 election from East Delhi constituency, said losing two points by not playing against Pakistan is nothing compared to lives of our soldiers.

Former cricketer Gautam Gambhir, who won the Lok Sabha 2019 election from East Delhi constituency, said losing two points by not playing against Pakistan is nothing compared to lives of our soldiers. "We can’t play with the sentiments of our country," he told Zee News Hindi when asked if India should play the World Cup match against Pakistan. "Two points are not important than the lives of our soldiers but for this, the entire country needs to be on the same page. We should have the courage to lose points even it's the first match or the finals," he added. "Even if we boycott playing the World Cup final against Pakistan, the country must stand together, there can't be a difference of opinions," said Gambhir. "There should not be any backlash for the decision taken," the former India opening batsman added. #ResultsOnZee : पाकिस्तान के साथ वर्ल्ड कप खेलने को लेकर गंभीर का बड़ा बयान, मेरे लिए दो पॉइंट से ज्यादा जवानों की ज़िन्दगी ज्यादा मैटर करती है !@aditi_tyagi @GautamGambhir pic.twitter.com/tUMCA3LpUo — Zee News Hindi (@ZeeNewsHindi) May 24, 2019 × In the wake of the Pulwama terror attack in which 40 Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) personnel were killed, there have been calls for a complete cricketing boycott against Pakistan. India and Pakistan have not played a full bilateral series after the Mumbai terror attacks in November 2008. Reflecting on the same, Gambhir said, "There should not any conditional ban on Pakistan. If we want to play against Pakistan than it should be in every format as there's no room for conditional bans." "Either we should ban Pakistan from all the formats or the should play cricket or other sports in all formats," he added. India will play two warm-up matches against New Zealand and Bangladesh on May 25 and May 28 respectively before starting their World Cup campaign against South Africa on June 6. The team is scheduled to play Pakistan on June 16 during the World Cup. Ahead of the World Cup, Gambhir wished the Indian cricket team all the best. He said, "In 2011, we won the Cup and now again we have a chance to bring the Cup back." Gambhir was part of the 2007 T20 World Cup winning squad and played a key role in India's triumph in the 2011 World Cup. There is no bigger achievement than representing your country in the World Cup and I wish that the Cup comes back in India, he added.

'All the best to team India,' says Gautam Gambhir ahead of Cricket World Cup 2019

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

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

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

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

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

Jofra Archer's late bid for a&nbsp;World&nbsp;Cup&nbsp;place was rewarded when the Sussex fast bowler was named in hosts <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/icc-world-cup-2019-all-teams-and-their-squad-list-211495#england-211485">England's 15-man squad for the tournament</a> announced Tuesday.

Barbados-born Archer only became qualified for England in March and has played just three one-day internationals.

He edged out left-arm quick David Willey, a veteran of 46 ODIs, after both pacemen featured during England's 4-0 series win at home to Pakistan which concluded Sunday.

There was no place also in a squad again captained by Eoin Morgan for back-up spinner and batsman Joe Denly, with Hampshire slow left-arm Liam Dawson -- who did not feature against Pakistan -- recalled as cover for Adil Rashid and Moeen Ali.

James Vince came in for Alex Hales after England decided against picking the Nottinghamshire batsman following a ban for recreational drug use.

England, the&nbsp;world's top-ranked ODI side, are bidding to win the&nbsp;World&nbsp;Cup&nbsp;for the first time.

They launch the tournament against South Africa at The Oval on May 30.

England&nbsp;World&nbsp;Cup&nbsp;squad:

Eoin Morgan (c), Moeen Ali, Jofra Archer, Jonny Bairstow, Jos Buttler (wk), Tom Curran, Liam Dawson, Liam Plunkett, Adil Rashid, Joe Root, Jason Roy, Ben Stokes, James Vince, Chris Woakes, Mark Wood

Jofra Archer's late bid for a World Cup place was rewarded when the Sussex fast bowler was named in hosts England's 15-man squad for the tournament announced Tuesday.

Jofra Archer's late bid for a World Cup place was rewarded when the Sussex fast bowler was named in hosts England's 15-man squad for the tournament announced Tuesday. Barbados-born Archer only became qualified for England in March and has played just three one-day internationals. He edged out left-arm quick David Willey, a veteran of 46 ODIs, after both pacemen featured during England's 4-0 series win at home to Pakistan which concluded Sunday. There was no place also in a squad again captained by Eoin Morgan for back-up spinner and batsman Joe Denly, with Hampshire slow left-arm Liam Dawson -- who did not feature against Pakistan -- recalled as cover for Adil Rashid and Moeen Ali. James Vince came in for Alex Hales after England decided against picking the Nottinghamshire batsman following a ban for recreational drug use. England, the world's top-ranked ODI side, are bidding to win the World Cup for the first time. They launch the tournament against South Africa at The Oval on May 30. England World Cup squad: Eoin Morgan (c), Moeen Ali, Jofra Archer, Jonny Bairstow, Jos Buttler (wk), Tom Curran, Liam Dawson, Liam Plunkett, Adil Rashid, Joe Root, Jason Roy, Ben Stokes, James Vince, Chris Woakes, Mark Wood

Jofra Archer in England's World Cup squad as David Willey and Joe Denly miss out

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/jason-roy-ben-stokes-help-england-defeat-pakistan-in-fourth-odi-219557">England defeated Pakistan</a> in the fourth one-day international by three wickets&nbsp;on Friday&nbsp;at Trent Bridge.&nbsp;Now, England go in the last match of the series with an unassailable 3-0 lead.&nbsp;

Jason Roy smashed 114 and Ben Stokes finished on 71 not out as England chased down a target of 341 with three deliveries to spare.&nbsp;

However, Roy&nbsp;was at a loss to explain&nbsp;how he had scored&nbsp;the century following an overnight visit to the hospital with his baby daughter.&nbsp;

"It was a very emotional hundred. I didn't see it coming," Roy told BBC Radio's Test Match Special.

"I had a bit of a rough morning so this one is a special one for me and my family," added Roy, who returned to hospital after a three-wicket win, although his daughter's condition is not believed to be serious.

"It was my little one. We had to take her to hospital at 1:30 in the morning. I stayed there until 8:30 am, came back for a couple of hours sleep and got to the ground just before warm-up and cracked on."

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For his 75-ball century, Jason Roy is the Player of the Match! <a href="https://t.co/pqVfYAOwyc">pic.twitter.com/pqVfYAOwyc</a>
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He was given Man of the Match for his performance.&nbsp;

England defeated Pakistan in the fourth one-day international by three wickets on Friday at Trent Bridge. Now, England go in the last match of the series with an unassailable 3-0 lead.

England defeated Pakistan in the fourth one-day international by three wickets on Friday at Trent Bridge. Now, England go in the last match of the series with an unassailable 3-0 lead. Jason Roy smashed 114 and Ben Stokes finished on 71 not out as England chased down a target of 341 with three deliveries to spare. However, Roy was at a loss to explain how he had scored the century following an overnight visit to the hospital with his baby daughter. "It was a very emotional hundred. I didn't see it coming," Roy told BBC Radio's Test Match Special. "I had a bit of a rough morning so this one is a special one for me and my family," added Roy, who returned to hospital after a three-wicket win, although his daughter's condition is not believed to be serious. "It was my little one. We had to take her to hospital at 1:30 in the morning. I stayed there until 8:30 am, came back for a couple of hours sleep and got to the ground just before warm-up and cracked on." For his 75-ball century, Jason Roy is the Player of the Match! pic.twitter.com/pqVfYAOwyc — ICC (@ICC) May 17, 2019 × He was given Man of the Match for his performance.

'Emotional hundred': Jason Roy reveals baby daughter was hospitalised when he scored century

Cricket, a game of bat-and-ball played between two teams of eleven players on a field with plenty of guidelines and rules, requires sheer hard work. In spite of that, luck plays an important role.&nbsp;

Australia have been the most successful team in World Cup history after winning it five times but there have been teams which were down on their luck.&nbsp;

Pakistan, South Africa and England have been unlucky in their World Cup outings but in the upcoming tournament, all three will be looking to somehow beat the jinx associated with them.&nbsp;

Pakistan's jinx in Indo-Pak rivalry...

The India-Pakistan rivalry is one of the most celebrated rivalries in cricket and the fans go beyond all the boundaries to support their respective teams and when it comes to the bigger stage, the World Cup, the madness increases.&nbsp;

Since 1992, India and Pakistan have locked horns for a total of six times in Cricket World Cup but Pakistan have never defeated India.&nbsp;

However, Pakistan veteran Moin Khan believes this is going to end at this World Cup.&nbsp;

"This present team is very capable of recording a first win over India in a World Cup because there is talent, there are depth and variety and Sarfaraz Ahmed has now gelled the squad well," Moin said.&nbsp;

"I say this because our boys beat them (India) in the Champions Trophy two years back and I just feel that in English conditions in June we have better bowlers," Moin added.

In the upcoming World Cup, India and Pakistan will play again on June 16 at the Old Trafford.&nbsp;

South Africa and the World Cup pressure!

When it comes to the South African team's run at mega tournaments like the ICC Cricket World Cup, history has proven how inconsistent they have been when it comes to handling the pressure.&nbsp;

The last time the Proteas had managed to win any big tournament was way back in 1998 when South Africa lifted the inaugural ICC Champions Trophy.&nbsp;

However, the South African paceman Dale Steyn is confident that his side can end their Cricket World Cup jinx and get to the final in this edition. 
&nbsp; 
"If you're not going to the World Cup expecting to win, then you probably shouldn't go. But I'm not going to lie, we have some fantastic players. We just need to go there and hope (for) a bit of luck - weather, a missed no-ball - goes your way, and you could win the tournament", &nbsp;said Steyn.

Will England lift the World Cup trophy?

England, boasting a plethora of big-hitting white-ball specialists, are the top-ranked team in the 50-over game and will undoubtedly start the tournament as favourites.&nbsp;

England have never won a men's World Cup, with the last of their three losing appearances in the final coming in 1992.

A limp first-round departure at the 2015 World Cup in Australia and New Zealand was the catalyst for a transformation in England's white-ball game based on aggressive batting, as exemplified by the likes of Jonny Bairstow and Jos Buttler.

England are now even threatening to smash the 500-run barrier for the first time in an ODI innings, having set a new record total of 481 for six against Australia in Nottingham last year.&nbsp;

England have hosted the World Cup four times previously, and this will be the fifth Cup to be hosted by them.&nbsp;

Their best performances were in 1979, 1987 and 1992 when they ended up being the runner-ups. &nbsp;

Former captain Alastair Cook believes England have an "outstanding chance" to lift the World Cup on home soil.&nbsp;

"There are match winners throughout the squad, there are batsmen that can win games on their own, and over the last six or eight months the bowling has really come on. I think they are going to win it", Cook said.

Cricket, a game of bat-and-ball played between two teams of eleven players on a field with plenty of guidelines and rules, requires sheer hard work. In spite of that, luck plays an important role.

Cricket, a game of bat-and-ball played between two teams of eleven players on a field with plenty of guidelines and rules, requires sheer hard work. In spite of that, luck plays an important role. Australia have been the most successful team in World Cup history after winning it five times but there have been teams which were down on their luck. Pakistan, South Africa and England have been unlucky in their World Cup outings but in the upcoming tournament, all three will be looking to somehow beat the jinx associated with them. Pakistan's jinx in Indo-Pak rivalry... The India-Pakistan rivalry is one of the most celebrated rivalries in cricket and the fans go beyond all the boundaries to support their respective teams and when it comes to the bigger stage, the World Cup, the madness increases. Since 1992, India and Pakistan have locked horns for a total of six times in Cricket World Cup but Pakistan have never defeated India. However, Pakistan veteran Moin Khan believes this is going to end at this World Cup. "This present team is very capable of recording a first win over India in a World Cup because there is talent, there are depth and variety and Sarfaraz Ahmed has now gelled the squad well," Moin said. "I say this because our boys beat them (India) in the Champions Trophy two years back and I just feel that in English conditions in June we have better bowlers," Moin added. In the upcoming World Cup, India and Pakistan will play again on June 16 at the Old Trafford. South Africa and the World Cup pressure! When it comes to the South African team's run at mega tournaments like the ICC Cricket World Cup, history has proven how inconsistent they have been when it comes to handling the pressure. The last time the Proteas had managed to win any big tournament was way back in 1998 when South Africa lifted the inaugural ICC Champions Trophy. However, the South African paceman Dale Steyn is confident that his side can end their Cricket World Cup jinx and get to the final in this edition. "If you're not going to the World Cup expecting to win, then you probably shouldn't go. But I'm not going to lie, we have some fantastic players. We just need to go there and hope (for) a bit of luck - weather, a missed no-ball - goes your way, and you could win the tournament", said Steyn. Will England lift the World Cup trophy? England, boasting a plethora of big-hitting white-ball specialists, are the top-ranked team in the 50-over game and will undoubtedly start the tournament as favourites. England have never won a men's World Cup, with the last of their three losing appearances in the final coming in 1992. A limp first-round departure at the 2015 World Cup in Australia and New Zealand was the catalyst for a transformation in England's white-ball game based on aggressive batting, as exemplified by the likes of Jonny Bairstow and Jos Buttler. England are now even threatening to smash the 500-run barrier for the first time in an ODI innings, having set a new record total of 481 for six against Australia in Nottingham last year. England have hosted the World Cup four times previously, and this will be the fifth Cup to be hosted by them. Their best performances were in 1979, 1987 and 1992 when they ended up being the runner-ups. Former captain Alastair Cook believes England have an "outstanding chance" to lift the World Cup on home soil. "There are match winners throughout the squad, there are batsmen that can win games on their own, and over the last six or eight months the bowling has really come on. I think they are going to win it", Cook said.

Pakistan's World Cup jinx against India & England, South Africa's horror history

India's spinner Kuldeep Yadav believes he wouldn't have been successful at the world stage had it not been for skipper Virat Kohli, who gave him the freedom to attack.&nbsp;

"You need a skipper who backs you and believes in your ability to shine on the big stage. You think we could have been so successful if Kohli bhai had not given us the freedom to attack? I don't think so," Kuldeep told PTI in an interview.&nbsp;

Kuldeep, who played for Kolkata Knight Riders, was badly let down by the batting-friendly conditions at Eden Gardens in this year's IPL as he returned with just four wickets from nine matches before being dropped by his franchise in the business end of the tournament.&nbsp;

The 24-year-old said he is looking forward to put the IPL disappointment behind with a spectacular performance in the upcoming World Cup beginning May 30.&nbsp;

"IPL is very different than World Cup. There are players who have done well in IPL but have struggled to make a mark for the country. I've matured as a bowler and by no means it will affect my performance in the World Cup," Kuldeep said.&nbsp;

"It's (T20) such a format, you may have a bad day where you're hit for runs. I'm not a magician who will do well in every match. You cannot say I will take so many wickets."&nbsp;

By his own standard, an average of 71.50 in IPL is something he would look to forget. &nbsp;

"If I'm not getting wickets it does not mean I'm not bowling well. Now I play as a mature cricketer and think more about the team," Kuldeep said.&nbsp;

Kuldeep also spoke about the recent controversy about his comments on Mahendra Singh Dhoni that sometimes the former skipper "goes wrong" with his tips.&nbsp;

"How can a youngster like me make such comments on a senior member of the side? My comments had been misinterpreted by media to create a controversy," he said.&nbsp;

"There is no doubt that his tips have been invaluable not only for me but for the entire team. His presence behind the stumps makes our job easy and nobody can change that fact. We wouldn't have been half as effective without his inputs."&nbsp;

Andre Russell was a terror in the IPL with his batting exploits and single-handedly turned KKR's fortunes before they failed to make the playoffs.&nbsp;

Kuldeep said he has learnt a few tricks which he would employ against the West Indian in the World Cup.&nbsp;

"He has some problems facing a turning ball. If the ball is turning, then he has a weakness. It's not just this, I've different plans to unleash against him in the World Cup. I know how to stop him and I'm very clear in my mind," he signed off. &nbsp;

India's spinner Kuldeep Yadav believes he wouldn't have been successful at the world stage had it not been for skipper Virat Kohli, who gave him the freedom to attack.

India's spinner Kuldeep Yadav believes he wouldn't have been successful at the world stage had it not been for skipper Virat Kohli, who gave him the freedom to attack. "You need a skipper who backs you and believes in your ability to shine on the big stage. You think we could have been so successful if Kohli bhai had not given us the freedom to attack? I don't think so," Kuldeep told PTI in an interview. Kuldeep, who played for Kolkata Knight Riders, was badly let down by the batting-friendly conditions at Eden Gardens in this year's IPL as he returned with just four wickets from nine matches before being dropped by his franchise in the business end of the tournament. The 24-year-old said he is looking forward to put the IPL disappointment behind with a spectacular performance in the upcoming World Cup beginning May 30. "IPL is very different than World Cup. There are players who have done well in IPL but have struggled to make a mark for the country. I've matured as a bowler and by no means it will affect my performance in the World Cup," Kuldeep said. "It's (T20) such a format, you may have a bad day where you're hit for runs. I'm not a magician who will do well in every match. You cannot say I will take so many wickets." By his own standard, an average of 71.50 in IPL is something he would look to forget. "If I'm not getting wickets it does not mean I'm not bowling well. Now I play as a mature cricketer and think more about the team," Kuldeep said. Kuldeep also spoke about the recent controversy about his comments on Mahendra Singh Dhoni that sometimes the former skipper "goes wrong" with his tips. "How can a youngster like me make such comments on a senior member of the side? My comments had been misinterpreted by media to create a controversy," he said. "There is no doubt that his tips have been invaluable not only for me but for the entire team. His presence behind the stumps makes our job easy and nobody can change that fact. We wouldn't have been half as effective without his inputs." Andre Russell was a terror in the IPL with his batting exploits and single-handedly turned KKR's fortunes before they failed to make the playoffs. Kuldeep said he has learnt a few tricks which he would employ against the West Indian in the World Cup. "He has some problems facing a turning ball. If the ball is turning, then he has a weakness. It's not just this, I've different plans to unleash against him in the World Cup. I know how to stop him and I'm very clear in my mind," he signed off.

'IPL is very different than World Cup,' says Kuldeep Yadav on his performance

Australia's cricketers were headed to the battlefields of Gallipoli for inspiration to kick off a gruelling four-month tour taking in the defence of their World Cup crown and an Ashes series.&nbsp;

The team, led by Justin Langer, flew out of Australia late Friday for a multi-day stop in Turkey before arriving in England for three warm-up games ahead of their opening World Cup clash on June 1.&nbsp;

"Where we are right now, on the way to England for a long campaign representing our country, hopefully it will be a real catalyst for gelling together and success," Langer said about visiting the World War I site.&nbsp;

Australia and New Zealand lost more than 10,000 men in 1915 when British and French troops landed on the Gallipoli peninsula in the Dardanelles Strait in Germany-allied Ottoman Turkey.&nbsp;

It became a defining event for both nations, marking the first time these newly independent countries fought under their own flags.&nbsp;

The Steve Waugh-led 2001 Ashes-winning side made a similar pilgrimage, but Langer missed the trip, something he has called "one of the regrets of my career".&nbsp;

Last year, he took the squad to the WWI battlefields of northern France ahead of his first series in charge following the ball-tampering scandal that rattled Australian cricket.&nbsp;

He said the players learned about "humility and perspective and understanding how lucky we are".&nbsp;&nbsp;

"It's very sobering, and it was an incredible life experience for the boys, and also it gelled the team together with different experiences and interpretations of our history," he said.&nbsp;

"We talk a lot about our history and the humility of times before."&nbsp;

Since his appointment, Langer has worked hard in restoring faith in Australian cricket after the "Sandpaper-gate" affair in South Africa that led to bans for then captain Steve Smith, his deputy David Warner and opener Cameron Bancroft.&nbsp;

Cricket Australia on Thursday hailed the team's once-notorious behaviour as significantly improved as Langer's new less-abrasive attitude beds in.&nbsp;

Aussie spirit

Smith and Warner's one-year suspensions are now over and they were welcomed back to the Australian fold for three warm-up games against New Zealand over the past week.&nbsp;

Former skipper Ricky Ponting, who will be Langer's assistant at the World Cup, was on the 2001 visit to Gallipoli and told cricket.com.au it was a motivating experience.&nbsp;

"The thing that was really rammed home to us on that trip was what the ANZAC spirit is all about," he said, referring to the Australian and New Zealand Army Corps.&nbsp;

"It really does typify even the modern Australian person.&nbsp;

"I've been lucky enough to travel around the world and play cricket against a lot of opposition teams in a lot of different countries and you just don't see that same sort of spirit in a lot of people from other countries.&nbsp;

"The will to want to do whatever you can for your mate, to help your mate in a time of crisis."&nbsp;

Australia head to the World Cup in top form. They won eight straight one-dayers against India and Pakistan before winning their "unofficial" three-game series against New Zealand in Brisbane this week 2-1.&nbsp;

While their starting XI is firming up, the batting order remains in flux.&nbsp;

Aaron Finch, Usman Khawaja and Warner all opened against New Zealand. It is Warner's favoured position, but he made just 0 and 2 in his two knocks there since returning from suspension.&nbsp;

Smith fared much better, hitting 89 not out at number four, then 91 not out at three.&nbsp;

The pace attack will almost certainly feature Pat Cummins, Mitchell Starc, Nathan Coulter-Nile and Jason Behrendorff, but questions remain as to whether Nathan Lyon or Adam Zampa will claim the spinner's spot.&nbsp;

Australia's cricketers were headed to the battlefields of Gallipoli for inspiration to kick off a gruelling four-month tour taking in the defence of their World Cup crown and an Ashes series.

Australia's cricketers were headed to the battlefields of Gallipoli for inspiration to kick off a gruelling four-month tour taking in the defence of their World Cup crown and an Ashes series. The team, led by Justin Langer, flew out of Australia late Friday for a multi-day stop in Turkey before arriving in England for three warm-up games ahead of their opening World Cup clash on June 1. "Where we are right now, on the way to England for a long campaign representing our country, hopefully it will be a real catalyst for gelling together and success," Langer said about visiting the World War I site. Australia and New Zealand lost more than 10,000 men in 1915 when British and French troops landed on the Gallipoli peninsula in the Dardanelles Strait in Germany-allied Ottoman Turkey. It became a defining event for both nations, marking the first time these newly independent countries fought under their own flags. The Steve Waugh-led 2001 Ashes-winning side made a similar pilgrimage, but Langer missed the trip, something he has called "one of the regrets of my career". Last year, he took the squad to the WWI battlefields of northern France ahead of his first series in charge following the ball-tampering scandal that rattled Australian cricket. He said the players learned about "humility and perspective and understanding how lucky we are". "It's very sobering, and it was an incredible life experience for the boys, and also it gelled the team together with different experiences and interpretations of our history," he said. "We talk a lot about our history and the humility of times before." Since his appointment, Langer has worked hard in restoring faith in Australian cricket after the "Sandpaper-gate" affair in South Africa that led to bans for then captain Steve Smith, his deputy David Warner and opener Cameron Bancroft. Cricket Australia on Thursday hailed the team's once-notorious behaviour as significantly improved as Langer's new less-abrasive attitude beds in. Aussie spirit Smith and Warner's one-year suspensions are now over and they were welcomed back to the Australian fold for three warm-up games against New Zealand over the past week. Former skipper Ricky Ponting, who will be Langer's assistant at the World Cup, was on the 2001 visit to Gallipoli and told cricket.com.au it was a motivating experience. "The thing that was really rammed home to us on that trip was what the ANZAC spirit is all about," he said, referring to the Australian and New Zealand Army Corps. "It really does typify even the modern Australian person. "I've been lucky enough to travel around the world and play cricket against a lot of opposition teams in a lot of different countries and you just don't see that same sort of spirit in a lot of people from other countries. "The will to want to do whatever you can for your mate, to help your mate in a time of crisis." Australia head to the World Cup in top form. They won eight straight one-dayers against India and Pakistan before winning their "unofficial" three-game series against New Zealand in Brisbane this week 2-1. While their starting XI is firming up, the batting order remains in flux. Aaron Finch, Usman Khawaja and Warner all opened against New Zealand. It is Warner's favoured position, but he made just 0 and 2 in his two knocks there since returning from suspension. Smith fared much better, hitting 89 not out at number four, then 91 not out at three. The pace attack will almost certainly feature Pat Cummins, Mitchell Starc, Nathan Coulter-Nile and Jason Behrendorff, but questions remain as to whether Nathan Lyon or Adam Zampa will claim the spinner's spot.

'Humble' Aussies head to Gallipoli for World Cup inspiration

ICC World Cup 2019: All teams and their squad list

The Afghan cricket team will soon be sporting a logo of an Indian company on their jerseys. India's well-known dairy brand, Amul will be sponsoring Afghan cricket team for upcoming <a href="https://www.wionews.com/search?q=ICC+Cricket+World+Cup">ICC Cricket World Cup</a> in England and Wales, which is scheduled to kick off from May 30.&nbsp;

MD of Amul RS Sodhi&nbsp;speaking to WION on the announcement said, "Amul is the main sponsor. On the arm and jersey, we will have Amul logo. It's our first sponsorship of a cricket team. We have high hopes. Let us see how it goes."

Thanking, Amul, India and the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI),&nbsp;Asadullah Khan, the CEO of Afghan cricket board told WION, "You know, cricket is number one sports in Afghanistan. Everyone love and likes cricket. Its good sign of peace. BCCI is helping us, and also the govt, it's a good opportunity. It will help in peace."

Amul is the first sponsor from India of an Afghan cricket team.

Asked about India's role in supporting Afghan cricket Asadullah said, "India has helped us. Embassy of India has helped us. They are making grounds. They making ground in Kandahar. They promised us, they will make a rehab center in Kabul for Afghan cricket."&nbsp;

India is helping building Kandahar cricket stadium. With a capacity of 14,000, the stadium is being built with $1million grant from India. New Delhi is also building a stadium in Mazar-e-Sharif.&nbsp;

Other than this, India is providing two "home grounds"&nbsp;in Greater Noida and Dehradun for Afghan team and also, technical and logistical support for players and the Afghanistan Cricket Board.&nbsp;

Afghan team will play a warm-up match with Pakistan on May 24 with England on May 27.&nbsp;

The schedule of World Cup matches of Afghanistan team is as follows:&nbsp;

VS Australia on June 1 
VS Sri Lanka on June 4 
VS New Zealand on June 8 
VS South Africa on June 15 
VS England on June 18 
VS India on June 22 
VS Bangladesh on June 24 
VS Pakistan on June 29 
VS West Indes on July 4

The Afghan cricket team will soon be sporting a logo of an Indian company on their jerseys. India's well-known dairy brand, Amul will be sponsoring Afghan cricket team for upcoming ICC Cricket World Cup in England and Wales, which is scheduled to kick off from May 30.

The Afghan cricket team will soon be sporting a logo of an Indian company on their jerseys. India's well-known dairy brand, Amul will be sponsoring Afghan cricket team for upcoming ICC Cricket World Cup in England and Wales, which is scheduled to kick off from May 30. MD of Amul RS Sodhi speaking to WION on the announcement said, "Amul is the main sponsor. On the arm and jersey, we will have Amul logo. It's our first sponsorship of a cricket team. We have high hopes. Let us see how it goes." Thanking, Amul, India and the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), Asadullah Khan, the CEO of Afghan cricket board told WION, "You know, cricket is number one sports in Afghanistan. Everyone love and likes cricket. Its good sign of peace. BCCI is helping us, and also the govt, it's a good opportunity. It will help in peace." Amul is the first sponsor from India of an Afghan cricket team. Asked about India's role in supporting Afghan cricket Asadullah said, "India has helped us. Embassy of India has helped us. They are making grounds. They making ground in Kandahar. They promised us, they will make a rehab center in Kabul for Afghan cricket." India is helping building Kandahar cricket stadium. With a capacity of 14,000, the stadium is being built with $1million grant from India. New Delhi is also building a stadium in Mazar-e-Sharif. Other than this, India is providing two "home grounds" in Greater Noida and Dehradun for Afghan team and also, technical and logistical support for players and the Afghanistan Cricket Board. Afghan team will play a warm-up match with Pakistan on May 24 with England on May 27. The schedule of World Cup matches of Afghanistan team is as follows: VS Australia on June 1 VS Sri Lanka on June 4 VS New Zealand on June 8 VS South Africa on June 15 VS England on June 18 VS India on June 22 VS Bangladesh on June 24 VS Pakistan on June 29 VS West Indes on July 4

'Good sign of peace,' says Afghanistan cricket board on getting Indian sponsor for ICC World Cup 2019

India batting great Sunil Gavaskar believes England are a transformed one-day international side since their shock exit from the 2015 World Cup and rates them as favourites to win their maiden crown on home soil in July.

Eoin Morgan's side, whose quest for a first 50-overs title begins against South Africa at The Oval on May 30, top the world rankings enter the tournament as the one of the most consistent teams in the format.

"England are the favourites. Simply because of the way they are playing cricket, the complete turnaround in their cricketing attitude and approach after their disastrous 2015 World Cup," Gavaskar told Reuters in an interview.

"England have got a very good team, they have got lots of confidence. You have seen them in all the recent matches and they have been playing outstanding cricket."

Morgan's men have played a fearless brand of cricket in the recent years and since the start of 2018 have come out on top in bilateral ODI series against World Cup holders Australia, New Zealand, Sri Lanka and India.

Gavaskar believes having home advantage could also be telling after Australia won as hosts in 2015 and India did the same four years earlier.

"If you go by what has happened in the last couple of World Cups, the host team has won," he added.

"But, of course, in cricket anything can happen. While England start the favourites, there are other teams which are also playing some good cricket."

Gavaskar was speaking after pledging to sponsor 34 paediatric heart surgeries for economically deprived children at the Sri Sathya Sai Sanjeevani International Centre for Child Heart Care at the satellite city of Navi Mumbai.

The semi-rural setting was a far cry from the glamorous environs of Gavaskar's normal workplace as a TV media pundit and rather than former cricketers, he was surrounded by medical professionals who treat children for free.

His study of the game from the commentary box has convinced him that holders Australia, with Steve Smith and David Warner back in the fold after their ball-tampering bans, and a resurgent West Indies are other title contenders.

Virat Kohli's India side will also post a big challenge, the 69-year-old felt.

"I think these are the four teams that can really stand out," added former India captain and opening batsman Gavaskar, who once held the record for most test runs and centuries in the longest format.

Gavaskar said a hot English summer could add to the excitement of the World Cup as the pitches would be drier and make shot-making easier for the batsmen.

The format for the May 30-July 14 tournament has also seen a change from the previous years with all 10 teams playing each other before the top four advance to the semi-finals.

"This should be a very, very interesting tournament and I think the format is the best you can have because you are playing every team unlike in two groups," said Gavaskar, who was part of the Indian team that beat the mighty West Indies to win the 1983 World Cup.

"You can have a bogey team with whom you lose in bilateral matches but they could be in another group and you might never play them.

"So you can win without having played your bogey team (in the past) while this format, where each team plays each other, I think is the best."

India batting great Sunil Gavaskar believes England are a transformed one-day international side since their shock exit from the 2015 World Cup and rates them as favourites to win their maiden crown on home soil in July.

India batting great Sunil Gavaskar believes England are a transformed one-day international side since their shock exit from the 2015 World Cup and rates them as favourites to win their maiden crown on home soil in July. Eoin Morgan's side, whose quest for a first 50-overs title begins against South Africa at The Oval on May 30, top the world rankings enter the tournament as the one of the most consistent teams in the format. "England are the favourites. Simply because of the way they are playing cricket, the complete turnaround in their cricketing attitude and approach after their disastrous 2015 World Cup," Gavaskar told Reuters in an interview. "England have got a very good team, they have got lots of confidence. You have seen them in all the recent matches and they have been playing outstanding cricket." Morgan's men have played a fearless brand of cricket in the recent years and since the start of 2018 have come out on top in bilateral ODI series against World Cup holders Australia, New Zealand, Sri Lanka and India. Gavaskar believes having home advantage could also be telling after Australia won as hosts in 2015 and India did the same four years earlier. "If you go by what has happened in the last couple of World Cups, the host team has won," he added. "But, of course, in cricket anything can happen. While England start the favourites, there are other teams which are also playing some good cricket." Gavaskar was speaking after pledging to sponsor 34 paediatric heart surgeries for economically deprived children at the Sri Sathya Sai Sanjeevani International Centre for Child Heart Care at the satellite city of Navi Mumbai. The semi-rural setting was a far cry from the glamorous environs of Gavaskar's normal workplace as a TV media pundit and rather than former cricketers, he was surrounded by medical professionals who treat children for free. His study of the game from the commentary box has convinced him that holders Australia, with Steve Smith and David Warner back in the fold after their ball-tampering bans, and a resurgent West Indies are other title contenders. Virat Kohli's India side will also post a big challenge, the 69-year-old felt. "I think these are the four teams that can really stand out," added former India captain and opening batsman Gavaskar, who once held the record for most test runs and centuries in the longest format. Gavaskar said a hot English summer could add to the excitement of the World Cup as the pitches would be drier and make shot-making easier for the batsmen. The format for the May 30-July 14 tournament has also seen a change from the previous years with all 10 teams playing each other before the top four advance to the semi-finals. "This should be a very, very interesting tournament and I think the format is the best you can have because you are playing every team unlike in two groups," said Gavaskar, who was part of the Indian team that beat the mighty West Indies to win the 1983 World Cup. "You can have a bogey team with whom you lose in bilateral matches but they could be in another group and you might never play them. "So you can win without having played your bogey team (in the past) while this format, where each team plays each other, I think is the best."

Transformed England favourites to win World Cup, says Sunil Gavaskar

Just 24 days to go!

ICC Cricket World Cup is arriving soon and the teams are preparing to display their best performance to clinch the coveted trophy. Squads have been announced for the cricket war but before it begins, let's analyse how the teams have been stacked up. &nbsp;

Oldest squad 
In the upcoming ICC Cricket World Cup, Sri Lankan contingent is the oldest with an average age of 29.9. Jeevan Mendis, who has not played a single One-Day-International match since 2015, is included along with Lasith Malinga, 35, and Suranga Lakmal, 32.&nbsp;

Batsman Lahiru Thirimanne, leg-spinner Jeffrey Vandersay and all-rounders Milinda Siriwardana got places.&nbsp;

Opening batsman Avishka Fernando and paceman Nuwan Pradeep were also included in the squad for the tournament.&nbsp;

South Africa posses the tournament's oldest player, the leg-spinner Imran Tahir, who is 40-year-old.&nbsp;

Besides Sri Lanka, South Africa and England also have a mix of veteran and young guns, with average squad ages of 29.5.&nbsp;

The 1996 champions kick off their campaign against New Zealand in Cardiff on June 1.

Sri Lanka's complete squad: 
Dimuth Karunaratne (capt), Lasith Malinga, Angelo Mathews, Thisara Perera, Kusal Perera, Dhananjaya de Silva, Kusal Mendis, Isuru Udana, Milinda Siriwardana, Avishka Fernando, Jeevan Mendis, Lahiru Thirimanne, Jeffrey Vandersay, Nuwan Pradeep, Suranga Lakmal.&nbsp;

Youngest squad 
On the other hand, with an average of 27.3, Pakistan's squad is the youngest squad at this summer's Cricket World Cup. It is followed very closely by Afghanistan (27.4).&nbsp;

Pakistan will enter the tournament with 19-year-old pacers Shaheen Shah Afridi and Mohammad Hasnain.&nbsp;

While Afghanistan's 18-year-old Mujeeb Ur Rahman is the youngest player at the tournament.&nbsp;

Mohammad Hafeez was included in the World Cup squad subject to fully recovering from a fractured thumb he sustained during the Pakistan Super League (PSL) in February this year.&nbsp;

Pakistan selectors&nbsp;left out pacer spearhead Mohammad Amir from the preliminary 15-man squad but he is included in the 17-man squad,&nbsp;as one of two additions to the 15-man Cup squad, for the five-match one-day series against England from May 5-19 and can regain a place for the World Cup if he performs well.

There was a surprise World Cup call-up for 19-year-old rookie fast bowler Mohammad Hasnain who bowled at 150kph in the PSL earlier this year.&nbsp;

Pakistan's complete squad: 
Sarfaraz Ahmed (capt), Fakhar Zaman, Imam-Ul-Haq, Babar Azam, Shadab Khan, Shoaib Malik, Faheem Ashraf, Shaheen Afridi, Hassan Ali, Abid Ali, Mohammad Hafeez, Imad Wasim, Junaid Khan, Mohammad Hasnain, Haris Sohail.&nbsp;

Just 24 days to go! ICC Cricket World Cup is arriving soon and the teams are preparing to display their best performance to clinch the coveted trophy. Squads have been announced for the cricket war but before it begins, let's analyse how the teams have been stacked up.

Just 24 days to go! ICC Cricket World Cup is arriving soon and the teams are preparing to display their best performance to clinch the coveted trophy. Squads have been announced for the cricket war but before it begins, let's analyse how the teams have been stacked up. Oldest squad In the upcoming ICC Cricket World Cup, Sri Lankan contingent is the oldest with an average age of 29.9. Jeevan Mendis, who has not played a single One-Day-International match since 2015, is included along with Lasith Malinga, 35, and Suranga Lakmal, 32. Batsman Lahiru Thirimanne, leg-spinner Jeffrey Vandersay and all-rounders Milinda Siriwardana got places. Opening batsman Avishka Fernando and paceman Nuwan Pradeep were also included in the squad for the tournament. South Africa posses the tournament's oldest player, the leg-spinner Imran Tahir, who is 40-year-old. Besides Sri Lanka, South Africa and England also have a mix of veteran and young guns, with average squad ages of 29.5. The 1996 champions kick off their campaign against New Zealand in Cardiff on June 1. Sri Lanka's complete squad: Dimuth Karunaratne (capt), Lasith Malinga, Angelo Mathews, Thisara Perera, Kusal Perera, Dhananjaya de Silva, Kusal Mendis, Isuru Udana, Milinda Siriwardana, Avishka Fernando, Jeevan Mendis, Lahiru Thirimanne, Jeffrey Vandersay, Nuwan Pradeep, Suranga Lakmal. Youngest squad On the other hand, with an average of 27.3, Pakistan's squad is the youngest squad at this summer's Cricket World Cup. It is followed very closely by Afghanistan (27.4). Pakistan will enter the tournament with 19-year-old pacers Shaheen Shah Afridi and Mohammad Hasnain. While Afghanistan's 18-year-old Mujeeb Ur Rahman is the youngest player at the tournament. Mohammad Hafeez was included in the World Cup squad subject to fully recovering from a fractured thumb he sustained during the Pakistan Super League (PSL) in February this year. Pakistan selectors left out pacer spearhead Mohammad Amir from the preliminary 15-man squad but he is included in the 17-man squad, as one of two additions to the 15-man Cup squad, for the five-match one-day series against England from May 5-19 and can regain a place for the World Cup if he performs well. There was a surprise World Cup call-up for 19-year-old rookie fast bowler Mohammad Hasnain who bowled at 150kph in the PSL earlier this year. Pakistan's complete squad: Sarfaraz Ahmed (capt), Fakhar Zaman, Imam-Ul-Haq, Babar Azam, Shadab Khan, Shoaib Malik, Faheem Ashraf, Shaheen Afridi, Hassan Ali, Abid Ali, Mohammad Hafeez, Imad Wasim, Junaid Khan, Mohammad Hasnain, Haris Sohail.

Old or young? How squads stack up in Cricket World Cup 2019

India all-rounder Kedar Jadhav sustained a shoulder injury during the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2019-kl-rahul-chris-gayle-shine-as-punjab-defeat-chennai-by-six-wickets-216149">clash between Chennai and Punjab</a> in the ongoing edition of the Indian Premier League (IPL).

The player has been ruled out for the remainder of the IPL and his participation in the upcoming World Cup hangs in the balance, raising alarm bells in the Indian camp.

"Kedar Jadhav's getting an x-ray and a scan tomorrow. I don't think we'll see him again in this tournament for us. He's in some discomfort. Fingers crossed that it is nothing too serious, but it didn't look that good,"

Chennai coach Stephen Fleming told reporters after the match between Punjab and Chennai on Sunday.

Jadhav sustained the injury while attempting to stop an overthrow during Punjab's innings. The player was visibly uncomfortable and he left the field after the 14th over.

The player is all set to undergo scans today, and the Indian team would hope nothing serious comes out from the reports as he is considered as a vital cog in the Indian setup.

Jadhav has had a history with injuries. The player was ruled out of the previous year's IPL due to a hamstring tear.

After recovering from the injury, he made his comeback for the Asia Cup 2018, but immediately after that, he once again sustained an injury.

He is one of four all-rounders in India's 15-man squad for the upcoming World Cup.

If the player is not able to make it to the tournament, India might have to consider calling the likes of Rishabh Pant or Ambati Rayudu, who missed out on entering the squad.

India's 15-member team for the upcoming World Cup: Virat Kohli (c), Rohit Sharma (vc), Shikhar Dhawan, KL Rahul, Vijay Shankar, MS Dhoni (wk), Kedar Jadhav, Dinesh Kartik, Yuzvendra Chahal, Kuldeep Yadav, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Bumrah, Hardik Pandya, Ravindra Jadeja, Mohammad Shami.

India takes on New Zealand (May 25) and Bangladesh (May 28) in the warm-up matches before the World Cup.

The 50-over tournament will take place in England and Wales from May 30 to July 14. India will open their World Cup campaign against South Africa on June 5.&nbsp;

India all-rounder Kedar Jadhav sustained a shoulder injury during the clash between Chennai and Punjab in the ongoing edition of the Indian Premier League (IPL).

India all-rounder Kedar Jadhav sustained a shoulder injury during the clash between Chennai and Punjab in the ongoing edition of the Indian Premier League (IPL). The player has been ruled out for the remainder of the IPL and his participation in the upcoming World Cup hangs in the balance, raising alarm bells in the Indian camp. "Kedar Jadhav's getting an x-ray and a scan tomorrow. I don't think we'll see him again in this tournament for us. He's in some discomfort. Fingers crossed that it is nothing too serious, but it didn't look that good," Chennai coach Stephen Fleming told reporters after the match between Punjab and Chennai on Sunday. Jadhav sustained the injury while attempting to stop an overthrow during Punjab's innings. The player was visibly uncomfortable and he left the field after the 14th over. The player is all set to undergo scans today, and the Indian team would hope nothing serious comes out from the reports as he is considered as a vital cog in the Indian setup. Jadhav has had a history with injuries. The player was ruled out of the previous year's IPL due to a hamstring tear. After recovering from the injury, he made his comeback for the Asia Cup 2018, but immediately after that, he once again sustained an injury. He is one of four all-rounders in India's 15-man squad for the upcoming World Cup. If the player is not able to make it to the tournament, India might have to consider calling the likes of Rishabh Pant or Ambati Rayudu, who missed out on entering the squad. India's 15-member team for the upcoming World Cup: Virat Kohli (c), Rohit Sharma (vc), Shikhar Dhawan, KL Rahul, Vijay Shankar, MS Dhoni (wk), Kedar Jadhav, Dinesh Kartik, Yuzvendra Chahal, Kuldeep Yadav, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Bumrah, Hardik Pandya, Ravindra Jadeja, Mohammad Shami. India takes on New Zealand (May 25) and Bangladesh (May 28) in the warm-up matches before the World Cup. The 50-over tournament will take place in England and Wales from May 30 to July 14. India will open their World Cup campaign against South Africa on June 5.

Kedar Jadhav's injury raises alarm bells in India camp

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/search?q=Steve+Smith">Steve Smith</a> and <a href="https://www.wionews.com/search?q=David+Warner">David Warner</a> are set to&nbsp;don the Australian colours this week for the first time since their ball-tampering bans despite struggling with illness.

The pair were welcomed back into the national fold last week for a pre-World Cup camp in Brisbane after serving year-long suspensions for their part in the "sandpapergate" scandal in Cape Town that rocked the sport. &nbsp;

Both have been hampered by viruses since returning from the Indian Premier League but took part in net sessions on Sunday ahead of the first of three practice games against New Zealand beginning on Monday.

Allrounder Glenn Maxwell said he was confident they will be fit to play.

"I assume so. They have been sick the last couple of days so, hopefully, they are up and running," he told reporters.

"But I am pretty sure most of the guys will be ready to go."

The duo have enjoyed a solid comeback in the Twenty20 IPL, with Warner in blistering form, topping the competition batting rankings with 692 runs from 12 innings.

Coach Justin Langer on Friday insisted there was "no tension" between the pair and the rest of the squad, adding: "They're back in the team now. They've been selected, which is brilliant."

Maxwell also denied any awkward moments, saying it had been "business as usual".&nbsp;

"The way they came in (to the dressing room), we wanted to hear how they had enjoyed the IPL; wanted to hear how Davey enjoyed his time opening the batting with (England's Jonny) Bairstow (for Sunrisers Hyderabad)," he said.

"And they are both superstars. I watched both of them go about it (in IPL) and they were both absolutely brilliant over there.

"There will be no worries about them coming back into the team."

With Australia's defence of their World Cup crown less than a month away, Langer will use the three warm-up games to fine-tune his plans.

The team has been in red-hot form, winning eight one-day internationals on the trot, against India and Pakistan, built on a flourishing opening partnership between Aaron Finch and Usman Khawaja.

A key decision for Langer is whether to retain that combination or move one of them down to make way for Warner, who traditionally opens the batting, with the line-up for Monday's game potentially answering that question.

Steve Smith and David Warner are set to don the Australian colours this week for the first time since their ball-tampering bans despite struggling with illness. The pair were welcomed back into the national fold last week for a pre-World Cup camp in Brisbane after serving year-long suspensions for their part in the "sandpapergate" scandal in Cape Town that rocked the sport.

Steve Smith and David Warner are set to don the Australian colours this week for the first time since their ball-tampering bans despite struggling with illness. The pair were welcomed back into the national fold last week for a pre-World Cup camp in Brisbane after serving year-long suspensions for their part in the "sandpapergate" scandal in Cape Town that rocked the sport. Both have been hampered by viruses since returning from the Indian Premier League but took part in net sessions on Sunday ahead of the first of three practice games against New Zealand beginning on Monday. Allrounder Glenn Maxwell said he was confident they will be fit to play. "I assume so. They have been sick the last couple of days so, hopefully, they are up and running," he told reporters. "But I am pretty sure most of the guys will be ready to go." The duo have enjoyed a solid comeback in the Twenty20 IPL, with Warner in blistering form, topping the competition batting rankings with 692 runs from 12 innings. Coach Justin Langer on Friday insisted there was "no tension" between the pair and the rest of the squad, adding: "They're back in the team now. They've been selected, which is brilliant." Maxwell also denied any awkward moments, saying it had been "business as usual". "The way they came in (to the dressing room), we wanted to hear how they had enjoyed the IPL; wanted to hear how Davey enjoyed his time opening the batting with (England's Jonny) Bairstow (for Sunrisers Hyderabad)," he said. "And they are both superstars. I watched both of them go about it (in IPL) and they were both absolutely brilliant over there. "There will be no worries about them coming back into the team." With Australia's defence of their World Cup crown less than a month away, Langer will use the three warm-up games to fine-tune his plans. The team has been in red-hot form, winning eight one-day internationals on the trot, against India and Pakistan, built on a flourishing opening partnership between Aaron Finch and Usman Khawaja. A key decision for Langer is whether to retain that combination or move one of them down to make way for Warner, who traditionally opens the batting, with the line-up for Monday's game potentially answering that question.

Steve Smith, David Warner prepare for Australian return

We are just 25 days away from the ICC World Cup 2019 but before we enter the tournament, let's take a look back at some of the best bowling and fielding records made in previous World Cups.&nbsp;

Australian pacer Glenn McGrath, who appeared in four World Cups, dominates the individual bowling records.&nbsp;

He holds the record of the best strike rate and economy rate among any other bowler.&nbsp;

He also is the highest wicket-taker in the history of the tournament and has the best individual bowling figures.&nbsp;

Former Australians Ricky Ponting and Adam Gilchrist have the best individual fielding records, along with Sri Lankan Kumar Sangakkara.&nbsp;

Ponting has taken the highest catches in World Cup history, on the other hand, wicketkeeper Gilchrist has made the most dismissals in a single match and the record of most dismissals by a wicketkeeper overall is held by Sangakkara.&nbsp;

Here's a list of some significant bowling and fielding records:

Most wickets- 71 
Australia's Glenn McGrath is the highest wicket-taker in World Cup history. With a total of 68 wickets, Sri Lanka's Muttiah Muralitharan is at number spot. &nbsp;

Average- 18.19 
McGrath also holds the record of best bowling average. Pakistan's Imran Khan has the second best bowling average. &nbsp;

Economy Rate- 3.24 
West Indies Andy Roberts holds the record for the best economy rate in the World Cup history. Ian Botham of England is at second spot with 3.43.&nbsp;

Strike Rate- 23.8 
Sri Lankan pacer Lasith Malinga has the best strike rate and he has the chance to better it in the upcoming World Cup. Former Indian pacer Zaheer Khan has the second best strike rate. &nbsp;

Best bowling figures- 7/15 
Australia's McGrath also holds the record of best bowling figure. He created the record against Namibia in World Cup 2003.&nbsp;

Most wickets in consecutive balls- 4 vs South Africa&nbsp; 
Malinga made another record of taking most wickets in consecutive balls. In World Cup 2007, Malinga created a unique record against South Africa.&nbsp;

In the last 2 balls of the 45th over and first 2 balls of the 47th over- Malinga picked up the wickets of Pollock, Hall, Kallis &amp; Ntini making it 4 wickets in 4 consecutive deliveries.&nbsp;

Most dismissals (wicketkeeper)- 54 
Kumar Sangakkara holds the record of most dismissals by a wicketkeeper in World Cup.

Most catches (fielder)- 28 
Ricky Ponting created the records of taking most catches in the World Cup.

We are just 25 days away from the ICC World Cup 2019 but before we enter the tournament, let's take a look back at some of the best bowling and fielding records made in previous World Cups.

We are just 25 days away from the ICC World Cup 2019 but before we enter the tournament, let's take a look back at some of the best bowling and fielding records made in previous World Cups. Australian pacer Glenn McGrath, who appeared in four World Cups, dominates the individual bowling records. He holds the record of the best strike rate and economy rate among any other bowler. He also is the highest wicket-taker in the history of the tournament and has the best individual bowling figures. Former Australians Ricky Ponting and Adam Gilchrist have the best individual fielding records, along with Sri Lankan Kumar Sangakkara. Ponting has taken the highest catches in World Cup history, on the other hand, wicketkeeper Gilchrist has made the most dismissals in a single match and the record of most dismissals by a wicketkeeper overall is held by Sangakkara. Here's a list of some significant bowling and fielding records: Most wickets- 71 Australia's Glenn McGrath is the highest wicket-taker in World Cup history. With a total of 68 wickets, Sri Lanka's Muttiah Muralitharan is at number spot. Average- 18.19 McGrath also holds the record of best bowling average. Pakistan's Imran Khan has the second best bowling average. Economy Rate- 3.24 West Indies Andy Roberts holds the record for the best economy rate in the World Cup history. Ian Botham of England is at second spot with 3.43. Strike Rate- 23.8 Sri Lankan pacer Lasith Malinga has the best strike rate and he has the chance to better it in the upcoming World Cup. Former Indian pacer Zaheer Khan has the second best strike rate. Best bowling figures- 7/15 Australia's McGrath also holds the record of best bowling figure. He created the record against Namibia in World Cup 2003. Most wickets in consecutive balls- 4 vs South Africa Malinga made another record of taking most wickets in consecutive balls. In World Cup 2007, Malinga created a unique record against South Africa. In the last 2 balls of the 45th over and first 2 balls of the 47th over- Malinga picked up the wickets of Pollock, Hall, Kallis & Ntini making it 4 wickets in 4 consecutive deliveries. Most dismissals (wicketkeeper)- 54 Kumar Sangakkara holds the record of most dismissals by a wicketkeeper in World Cup. Most catches (fielder)- 28 Ricky Ponting created the records of taking most catches in the World Cup.

Best bowling and fielding figures in World Cup history

Every cricketer dream to put on&nbsp;the national jersey and play for their country in the World Cup but there are also players who&nbsp;have donned jerseys of two different countries and played in the World Cup. Here's a list of players who have played for two nations in the ICC cricket World Cup.&nbsp;

Kepler Wessels- Australia and South Africa

Wessels played the 1983 World Cup for Australia, but due to inconsistent form, he was soon out of the side. He shifted from Australia back to his native country South Africa.&nbsp;

He was named the captain of the 'new' South Africa who were back after being 22 years away from the game due to the apartheid. The RSA team was inexperienced going into the World Cup and he led them to the semifinals.&nbsp;

Anderson Cummins - West Indies and Canada&nbsp;

Former West Indian pacer Anderson Cummins has also played World Cup for two different countries. He was a part of the West Indian team in the 1992 World Cup and after 15 years, he represented Canada in the 2007 World Cup that took place in the West Indies.&nbsp;

Ed Joyce - Ireland and England

Regarded as one of the best cricketers produced by Ireland and former England opener Ed Joyce&nbsp;represented the English side in the 2007 World Cup and four years later, he turned out in the Irish outfit in the 2011 World Cup.&nbsp;

Eoin Morgan - Ireland and England&nbsp;

Morgan was named in Ireland's 15-man squad for the 2007 World Cup.&nbsp;

Although Ireland performed well in the tournament, Morgan struggled personally. He then shifted to the English side.&nbsp;

Morgan was not initially named in England's squad for the 2011 World Cup as he was suffering from a fractured finger but was later called up following an injury to Kevin Pietersen.&nbsp;

In 2015 Morgan was named the captain of the England team going to the World Cup. This was his second World Cup appearance for England and first as a captain.&nbsp;

In the 2019 World Cup, he will again be leading the England side. This will be his fourth overall appearance and third for England.

Every cricketer dream to put on the national jersey and play for their country in the World Cup but there are also players who have donned jerseys of two different countries and played in the World Cup.

Every cricketer dream to put on the national jersey and play for their country in the World Cup but there are also players who have donned jerseys of two different countries and played in the World Cup. Here's a list of players who have played for two nations in the ICC cricket World Cup. Kepler Wessels- Australia and South Africa Wessels played the 1983 World Cup for Australia, but due to inconsistent form, he was soon out of the side. He shifted from Australia back to his native country South Africa. He was named the captain of the 'new' South Africa who were back after being 22 years away from the game due to the apartheid. The RSA team was inexperienced going into the World Cup and he led them to the semifinals. Anderson Cummins - West Indies and Canada Former West Indian pacer Anderson Cummins has also played World Cup for two different countries. He was a part of the West Indian team in the 1992 World Cup and after 15 years, he represented Canada in the 2007 World Cup that took place in the West Indies. Ed Joyce - Ireland and England Regarded as one of the best cricketers produced by Ireland and former England opener Ed Joyce represented the English side in the 2007 World Cup and four years later, he turned out in the Irish outfit in the 2011 World Cup. Eoin Morgan - Ireland and England Morgan was named in Ireland's 15-man squad for the 2007 World Cup. Although Ireland performed well in the tournament, Morgan struggled personally. He then shifted to the English side. Morgan was not initially named in England's squad for the 2011 World Cup as he was suffering from a fractured finger but was later called up following an injury to Kevin Pietersen. In 2015 Morgan was named the captain of the England team going to the World Cup. This was his second World Cup appearance for England and first as a captain. In the 2019 World Cup, he will again be leading the England side. This will be his fourth overall appearance and third for England.

Players who have played for two nations in ICC cricket World Cup

Australia captain Aaron Finch believes David Warner will enter this year's World Cup desperate to prove himself as the disgraced batsman prepares to rejoin his teammates after a ball-tampering ban.

Warner has been in red-hot form in the India Premier League after completing a 12-month suspension for cheating, averaging 69.20 in 12 innings, including a century and eight fifties.

Finch expected the fiery batsman to also dominate on the international stage, providing a massive boost for Australia as the reigning champions chase a sixth World Cup trophy.

"He's coming back with a huge hunger, not just to perform well for his franchise, but to dominate international cricket again," Finch told Melbourne commercial radio Wednesday. &nbsp;

"When you have your dream taken away from you for 12 months, I can imagine there's something inside you that burns really strongly."

Finch said the ban, imposed after Warner masterminded the "Sandpaper-gate" scandal in Cape Town last year, had given the 32-year-old a chance to refresh his game.

"He's a super player, we know how destructive he can be," he said.

"I think having time off to spend with his family and get away from the game (was important)."

Warner and former Australian captain Steve Smith, who was also banned over the cheating scandal, will officially rejoin the Australian squad for the first time at a training camp in Brisbane on Friday.

Finch did not expect any problems re-integrating them into the team, even though the former captain and deputy will have to defer to a new leadership team.

He said he would consult the pair about on-field tactics.

"I'll be using them as much as I can tactically because they've both captained a lot of cricket and are very good captains on the field," he said.&nbsp;

"It would be really naive of me not to lean on them."

Finch also revealed he feared for his own spot on the team after a recent barren run, although he believed he had now returned to form.

"In the back of your mind you're thinking, 'Gee, the World Cup isn't far away, as a captain I could be left out of the squad'," he said.

"Then you start putting unrealistic pressure on yourself to perform."

Finch had an unsuccessful spell in the Test side last year, averaging 27.80 in five matches, and conceded that at 32 his career in the long-form game was over.

"My chances to play Test cricket again have probably slipped away," he said.

"I'm still very grateful for the opportunity... I'm OK with that because I gave it everything I could."

Australia captain Aaron Finch believes David Warner will enter this year's World Cup desperate to prove himself as the disgraced batsman prepares to rejoin his teammates after a ball-tampering ban.

Australia captain Aaron Finch believes David Warner will enter this year's World Cup desperate to prove himself as the disgraced batsman prepares to rejoin his teammates after a ball-tampering ban. Warner has been in red-hot form in the India Premier League after completing a 12-month suspension for cheating, averaging 69.20 in 12 innings, including a century and eight fifties. Finch expected the fiery batsman to also dominate on the international stage, providing a massive boost for Australia as the reigning champions chase a sixth World Cup trophy. "He's coming back with a huge hunger, not just to perform well for his franchise, but to dominate international cricket again," Finch told Melbourne commercial radio Wednesday. "When you have your dream taken away from you for 12 months, I can imagine there's something inside you that burns really strongly." Finch said the ban, imposed after Warner masterminded the "Sandpaper-gate" scandal in Cape Town last year, had given the 32-year-old a chance to refresh his game. "He's a super player, we know how destructive he can be," he said. "I think having time off to spend with his family and get away from the game (was important)." Warner and former Australian captain Steve Smith, who was also banned over the cheating scandal, will officially rejoin the Australian squad for the first time at a training camp in Brisbane on Friday. Finch did not expect any problems re-integrating them into the team, even though the former captain and deputy will have to defer to a new leadership team. He said he would consult the pair about on-field tactics. "I'll be using them as much as I can tactically because they've both captained a lot of cricket and are very good captains on the field," he said. "It would be really naive of me not to lean on them." Finch also revealed he feared for his own spot on the team after a recent barren run, although he believed he had now returned to form. "In the back of your mind you're thinking, 'Gee, the World Cup isn't far away, as a captain I could be left out of the squad'," he said. "Then you start putting unrealistic pressure on yourself to perform." Finch had an unsuccessful spell in the Test side last year, averaging 27.80 in five matches, and conceded that at 32 his career in the long-form game was over. "My chances to play Test cricket again have probably slipped away," he said. "I'm still very grateful for the opportunity... I'm OK with that because I gave it everything I could."

David Warner is coming back with a huge hunger, says Aaron Finch

ICC World Cup is a dream of every aspiring cricketer but very few get the chance to chance to play in the tournament and represent their country.

Here's a list of prominent players who will play their first World Cup and will look to leave an impact in the mega event.&nbsp;

Jhye Richardson 
Australian pacer Jhye Richardson made his ODI debut in 2018 against England and has gained recognition ever since with his skilful bowling. &nbsp;

Jhye has the ability to swing the ball both ways throwing at speeds up to 140 kph. He will even get additional support from the English pitch.&nbsp;

The 22-year-old has played just 12 ODIs so far and took 24 wickets. It is expected that he will partner Mitchell Starc with the new ball in the tournament.&nbsp;

Shimron Hetmyer 
Windies batsman Shimron Hetmyer has been added in the team's 15-member squad and he will be a vital cog in the middle batting order.&nbsp;

Hetmyer made his debut in 2017 against New Zealand and is close to 900 runs in 25 ODIs, at an average of 40.86, including four centuries.&nbsp;

He was also one of West Indies' most consistent performers in the Qualifiers last year.&nbsp;

Jasprit Bumrah 
India's Jasprit Bumrah made his international debut in 2016 and became an integral part of the Indian cricket team. He is currently placed at number one on the ICC Men's ODI Bowling Rankings.&nbsp;

In 2018, Bumrah picked up 22 wickets in 13 ODIs, at an average of 16.63 and an economy of just 3.62.&nbsp;

The death bowler specialist is just 15 scalps away from 100 ODI wickets.&nbsp;

Babar Azam 
Pakistan's Babar Azam will bolster his side's batting order in the upcoming World Cup.&nbsp;

Azam made his ODI debut in 2015, has scored close to 2500 runs in 59 matches playing at an impressive average of 51.29.&nbsp;

He is currently placed at number seven in the ICC Men's ODI Batting Rankings.&nbsp;

He is the only player to have scored his first three ODI centuries in successive innings.&nbsp;

Rashid Khan 
Afghanistan spin sensation Rashid Khan is an important element of the team with his wicket taking abilities.&nbsp;

Rashid made his debut in 2015 and earned recognition with his outstanding spin talent.&nbsp;

In 57 ODIs, Rashid has 123 scalps at an average of just 15.&nbsp;

Yuzvendra Chahal 
India's&nbsp;Yuzvendra Chahal will be the part of the spin attack in India's Playing XI in England and Wales.&nbsp;

Chahal has played 41 matches and took 72 wickets in ODI format so far, with an economy rate of 4.89.&nbsp;

Chahal is at number eight in ICC's ODI bowling ranking in ODI format.&nbsp;

Mustafizur Rahman 
Bangladesh's fast bowler will strengthen his side's bowling attack, because of his wicket-taking skills, he will pose threats to the opposition in the death overs.&nbsp;

Mustafizur made his One-day debut against Indian in 2015.&nbsp;

So far he has taken, 77 wickets in 43 matches with an economy of 4.71 his quality bowling in the death overs makes him an important player for his team.&nbsp;

Hardik Pandya 
Indian all-rounder Hardik Pandya as also been included in the World Cup squad.&nbsp;

Pandya is at number 60 with 470 points in ICC bowling ranking.&nbsp;

He has also scored 731 runs in 45 ODI matches he played so far.

Nathan Lyon 
Australian Nathan Lyon has been included in Australia's 15-member squad and he is currently one of the best spinners in the international arena.&nbsp;

He has been magnificent in the Test format and will look to leave an impact in the World Cup.&nbsp;

In ODIs, he has played 25 matches and took 26 wickets.&nbsp;

Kuldeep Yadav 
India's spin king Kuldeep has taken 87 wickets in 44 ODI matches he played so far.&nbsp;

In ICC's bowling ranking, Kuldeep is at number seven.&nbsp;

The mystery spinner has showcased his skills of taking wickets at the various occasion for Team India.&nbsp;

ICC World Cup is a dream of every aspiring cricketer but very few get the chance to chance to play in the tournament and represent their country. Here's a list of prominent players who will play their first World Cup and will look to leave an impact in the mega event.

ICC World Cup is a dream of every aspiring cricketer but very few get the chance to chance to play in the tournament and represent their country. Here's a list of prominent players who will play their first World Cup and will look to leave an impact in the mega event. Jhye Richardson Australian pacer Jhye Richardson made his ODI debut in 2018 against England and has gained recognition ever since with his skilful bowling. Jhye has the ability to swing the ball both ways throwing at speeds up to 140 kph. He will even get additional support from the English pitch. The 22-year-old has played just 12 ODIs so far and took 24 wickets. It is expected that he will partner Mitchell Starc with the new ball in the tournament. Shimron Hetmyer Windies batsman Shimron Hetmyer has been added in the team's 15-member squad and he will be a vital cog in the middle batting order. Hetmyer made his debut in 2017 against New Zealand and is close to 900 runs in 25 ODIs, at an average of 40.86, including four centuries. He was also one of West Indies' most consistent performers in the Qualifiers last year. Jasprit Bumrah India's Jasprit Bumrah made his international debut in 2016 and became an integral part of the Indian cricket team. He is currently placed at number one on the ICC Men's ODI Bowling Rankings. In 2018, Bumrah picked up 22 wickets in 13 ODIs, at an average of 16.63 and an economy of just 3.62. The death bowler specialist is just 15 scalps away from 100 ODI wickets. Babar Azam Pakistan's Babar Azam will bolster his side's batting order in the upcoming World Cup. Azam made his ODI debut in 2015, has scored close to 2500 runs in 59 matches playing at an impressive average of 51.29. He is currently placed at number seven in the ICC Men's ODI Batting Rankings. He is the only player to have scored his first three ODI centuries in successive innings. Rashid Khan Afghanistan spin sensation Rashid Khan is an important element of the team with his wicket taking abilities. Rashid made his debut in 2015 and earned recognition with his outstanding spin talent. In 57 ODIs, Rashid has 123 scalps at an average of just 15. Yuzvendra Chahal India's Yuzvendra Chahal will be the part of the spin attack in India's Playing XI in England and Wales. Chahal has played 41 matches and took 72 wickets in ODI format so far, with an economy rate of 4.89. Chahal is at number eight in ICC's ODI bowling ranking in ODI format. Mustafizur Rahman Bangladesh's fast bowler will strengthen his side's bowling attack, because of his wicket-taking skills, he will pose threats to the opposition in the death overs. Mustafizur made his One-day debut against Indian in 2015. So far he has taken, 77 wickets in 43 matches with an economy of 4.71 his quality bowling in the death overs makes him an important player for his team. Hardik Pandya Indian all-rounder Hardik Pandya as also been included in the World Cup squad. Pandya is at number 60 with 470 points in ICC bowling ranking. He has also scored 731 runs in 45 ODI matches he played so far. Nathan Lyon Australian Nathan Lyon has been included in Australia's 15-member squad and he is currently one of the best spinners in the international arena. He has been magnificent in the Test format and will look to leave an impact in the World Cup. In ODIs, he has played 25 matches and took 26 wickets. Kuldeep Yadav India's spin king Kuldeep has taken 87 wickets in 44 ODI matches he played so far. In ICC's bowling ranking, Kuldeep is at number seven. The mystery spinner has showcased his skills of taking wickets at the various occasion for Team India.

Debutants to watch out for in ICC World Cup 2019

Ten teams, 150 players and one dream...&nbsp;

The twelfth edition of World Cup will be hosted by England and Wales from May 30 to July 14 and the winner will be awarded the coveted ICC Cricket World Cup Trophy.&nbsp;

The feeling of lifting the illustrious trophy up in the air is difficult to express in words. From Clive Lloyd to Steve Waugh, captains who have done it would know the sentiment.&nbsp;

Every team starts their journey yearning to possess the Cup but in the end, there remains just one, whose journey stand out among others.&nbsp;

While talking about the journey of players and teams, then the journey of the trophy is worth mentioning. Since the first World Cup, which was held in 1975, the design and significance of the trophies have changed.&nbsp;

The current cricket World Cup trophy is made from silver and gold and with a golden globe on the top held up by three silver columns.&nbsp;

The globe represents a cricket ball and the columns, which are shaped as stumps and bails, represent the three fundamental aspects of cricket: batting, bowling and fielding.&nbsp;

The current trophy stands 60 cm high and weighs approximately 11 kilograms. On the base, the names of the previous winners are engraved, with space for a total of twenty inscriptions.&nbsp;

The original trophy is kept by the ICC in its offices in Dubai but a replica is awarded to the winning team.&nbsp;

Prior to the ICC Cricket World Cup Trophy, different trophies were made for each World Cup. Here's a list of all the designs.&nbsp;

Prudential Cup Trophy 
For the first three World Cups, i.e., from 1975–1983, the Prudential Cups trophy was awarded. West Indies won it in 1975 and 1979 and Kapil Dev-led India clinched it in 1983.&nbsp;

Reliance World Cup Trophy 
In the World Cup 1999, the trophy design changed with the sponsors. Allan Border-led Australian team won it.&nbsp;

Benson and Hedges Cup Trophy 
The 1992 World Cup saw a different trophy. Its name was Benson and Hedges Cup, sponsored by Benson and Hedges. Pakistan was the winner of that tournament.&nbsp;

Wills World Cup Trophy 
In 1996 the winner Sri Lanka lifted a different trophy, whose name was Wills World Cup, sponsored by Wills, an ITC brand.&nbsp;

ICC Cricket World Cup Trophy 
In 1999, the International Cricket Council decided to award its own trophy and the trophy remained same ever since.&nbsp;

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So far, Australia have won three times, the ICC World Cup Trophy and India once in 2011.&nbsp;

Ten teams, 150 players and one dream... The twelfth edition of World Cup will be hosted by England and Wales from May 30 to July 14 and the winner will be awarded the coveted ICC Cricket World Cup Trophy.

Ten teams, 150 players and one dream... The twelfth edition of World Cup will be hosted by England and Wales from May 30 to July 14 and the winner will be awarded the coveted ICC Cricket World Cup Trophy. The feeling of lifting the illustrious trophy up in the air is difficult to express in words. From Clive Lloyd to Steve Waugh, captains who have done it would know the sentiment. Every team starts their journey yearning to possess the Cup but in the end, there remains just one, whose journey stand out among others. While talking about the journey of players and teams, then the journey of the trophy is worth mentioning. Since the first World Cup, which was held in 1975, the design and significance of the trophies have changed. The current cricket World Cup trophy is made from silver and gold and with a golden globe on the top held up by three silver columns. The globe represents a cricket ball and the columns, which are shaped as stumps and bails, represent the three fundamental aspects of cricket: batting, bowling and fielding. The current trophy stands 60 cm high and weighs approximately 11 kilograms. On the base, the names of the previous winners are engraved, with space for a total of twenty inscriptions. The original trophy is kept by the ICC in its offices in Dubai but a replica is awarded to the winning team. Prior to the ICC Cricket World Cup Trophy, different trophies were made for each World Cup. Here's a list of all the designs. Prudential Cup Trophy For the first three World Cups, i.e., from 1975–1983, the Prudential Cups trophy was awarded. West Indies won it in 1975 and 1979 and Kapil Dev-led India clinched it in 1983. Reliance World Cup Trophy In the World Cup 1999, the trophy design changed with the sponsors. Allan Border-led Australian team won it. Benson and Hedges Cup Trophy The 1992 World Cup saw a different trophy. Its name was Benson and Hedges Cup, sponsored by Benson and Hedges. Pakistan was the winner of that tournament. Wills World Cup Trophy In 1996 the winner Sri Lanka lifted a different trophy, whose name was Wills World Cup, sponsored by Wills, an ITC brand. ICC Cricket World Cup Trophy In 1999, the International Cricket Council decided to award its own trophy and the trophy remained same ever since. × So far, Australia have won three times, the ICC World Cup Trophy and India once in 2011.

Prudential World Cup to Benson and Hedges: An epic journey of the famous cricket trophy

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