The importance of the one-day series against Australia beginning on Saturday is not lost on Virat Kohli's India as they gauge their World Cup preparations against the reigning champions in their final series before the showpiece event.&nbsp;

India capped their memorable tour of Australia, where they registered their first ever test series victory Down Under, by claiming the three-match ODI series 2-1 in January.&nbsp;

Chief selector MSK&nbsp;Prasad told reporters last month that most of the players in&nbsp;the current India side pick themselves and it was a matter of finalising a couple of slots before the World Cup in England and Wales.&nbsp;

The five-match series against Australia is naturally important for a handful of Indian players who want to nail down their places with solid performances against the tourists who have slipped to sixth in world rankings.&nbsp;

Wicketkeeper-batsman Rishabh Pant has leapfrogged Dinesh Karthik to be Mahendra Singh Dhoni's understudy behind the stumps, but needs to prove his maturity against Australia to make the flight to England.&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/india-vs-australia-2019-schedule-squad-time-and-venue-197778">India vs Australia 2019: Schedule, Squad, Time and Venue</a>

"The progression of Rishabh in the last one year is phenomenal across the formats," Prasad, a former stumper himself, told ESPNcricinfo recently, describing the exciting 21-year-old's form as a "healthy headache".&nbsp;

"What we actually felt is he needs a bit of maturity now, gain more experience. That is the reason we have included him in India A series wherever possible."&nbsp;

Lokesh Rahul has been thrown a lifeline despite a slump in form and a brief suspension he incurred for inappropriate comments on a television show. The opener impressed with scores of 50 and 47 in the Twenty20 matches against Australia.&nbsp;

"I got some time off from international cricket, so I could come back here and reflect on what wasn't going right for me," said Rahul, who remains optimistic of securing a back-up role to first-choice opening pair Rohit Sharma and Shikhar Dhawan.&nbsp;

Australia play an ODI series against Pakistan in United Arab Emirates later this month but coach Justin Langer will hope the series against world number two India will provide answers to many questions.&nbsp;

Finch's lack of form at the top of the batting order has been a concern for a team who eagerly await the return of Steve Smith and David Warner from ball-tampering suspensions which expire at the end of the month.

"We have just got to keep giving him plenty of care and support. We know he'll come good," Langer said, throwing his weight behind Finch.

Usman Khawaja did reasonably well in the home ODI series against India, and while he may not match the strike rate of some of his teammates, Finch's poor form means Australia will keep an eye on how the left-hander fares against India.

Among others, batsman Peter Handscomb will look to prove his prowess against spin while quick Nathan Coulter-Nile will hope to stay on his feet through the series to shed his 'injury-prone' image.

The importance of the one-day series against Australia beginning on Saturday is not lost on Virat Kohli's India as they gauge their World Cup preparations against the reigning champions in their final series before the showpiece event.

The importance of the one-day series against Australia beginning on Saturday is not lost on Virat Kohli's India as they gauge their World Cup preparations against the reigning champions in their final series before the showpiece event. India capped their memorable tour of Australia, where they registered their first ever test series victory Down Under, by claiming the three-match ODI series 2-1 in January. Chief selector MSK Prasad told reporters last month that most of the players in the current India side pick themselves and it was a matter of finalising a couple of slots before the World Cup in England and Wales. The five-match series against Australia is naturally important for a handful of Indian players who want to nail down their places with solid performances against the tourists who have slipped to sixth in world rankings. Wicketkeeper-batsman Rishabh Pant has leapfrogged Dinesh Karthik to be Mahendra Singh Dhoni's understudy behind the stumps, but needs to prove his maturity against Australia to make the flight to England. Also Read: India vs Australia 2019: Schedule, Squad, Time and Venue "The progression of Rishabh in the last one year is phenomenal across the formats," Prasad, a former stumper himself, told ESPNcricinfo recently, describing the exciting 21-year-old's form as a "healthy headache". "What we actually felt is he needs a bit of maturity now, gain more experience. That is the reason we have included him in India A series wherever possible." Lokesh Rahul has been thrown a lifeline despite a slump in form and a brief suspension he incurred for inappropriate comments on a television show. The opener impressed with scores of 50 and 47 in the Twenty20 matches against Australia. "I got some time off from international cricket, so I could come back here and reflect on what wasn't going right for me," said Rahul, who remains optimistic of securing a back-up role to first-choice opening pair Rohit Sharma and Shikhar Dhawan. Australia play an ODI series against Pakistan in United Arab Emirates later this month but coach Justin Langer will hope the series against world number two India will provide answers to many questions. Finch's lack of form at the top of the batting order has been a concern for a team who eagerly await the return of Steve Smith and David Warner from ball-tampering suspensions which expire at the end of the month. "We have just got to keep giving him plenty of care and support. We know he'll come good," Langer said, throwing his weight behind Finch. Usman Khawaja did reasonably well in the home ODI series against India, and while he may not match the strike rate of some of his teammates, Finch's poor form means Australia will keep an eye on how the left-hander fares against India. Among others, batsman Peter Handscomb will look to prove his prowess against spin while quick Nathan Coulter-Nile will hope to stay on his feet through the series to shed his 'injury-prone' image.

India vs Australia, 1st ODI: Virat Kohli to evaluate World Cup plans against defending champions

The injured and banned duo of Steven Smith and David Warner are unlikely to take part in Australia's final two ODIs against Pakistan despite serving out their one-year ball-tampering suspensions during the series to be held in the UAE.

After the conclusion of the ODI series against India, the defending World Champions will take on Pakistan in the five-match series with the fourth and fifth ODIs slated on March 29 and 31 respectively.

Smith and Warner, both recuperating from elbow surgeries, will find their suspension end on March 29 but there are still serious doubts whether they will play the mega event or not. Smith has just started knocking and will take some more time to get fit.

"I don't think David Warner or Steve Smith will play that game (March 29). I am not a hundred percent sure on that but I don't think they will play that last one or two games," Finch said on the eve of the first ODI.

He also curtly put it when a reporter asked if he sees himself as a stand-in captain now that both Smith and Warner are set to be back.

"No, no, I am the captain, yeah," was his blunt response.

Just like Indian team is trying to balance the workload of its players, Australia are also grappling with similar problems with Ashes starting after the World Cup.

Asked about pacer Pat Cummins' workload, Finch said: "He bowled a lot throughout the Australian summer, particularly at the back end of the India Test series. "I think having no cricket in April will help guys like Pat to freshen up. Again someone like (Mitchell) Starc, who has played no cricket needs to bowl. The workload of our fast bowlers need to be balanced."

But playing 10 ODIs in a month (India and Pakistan series in March) is quite unprecedented in Australian cricket, said Finch.

"Playing 10 ODIs in a month is quite an unchartered territory for our fast bowlers. There will be a mix and match managing the workload."

Young batsman Ashton Turner is set to make his debut and the skipper is excited about that prospect.

"Ashton Turner is a guy who will be making his debut in ODI cricket. We have seen how destructive he can be in domestic cricket, so really excited to see him get a go in international cricket as he is such a smart player.

"He is a diverse player who can bat in top couple or down the order. He is game smart and manage situations. He will be an important player, someone I am very interested to see."

It is the settled unit that makes India a very strong ODI side not only at home but in all conditions.

"It's a good question. Their batting is really strong. They have got in Virat, arguably the best player of all time in ODI cricket. Rohit has been in good form.

They have quicks, who move the ball upfront and execute really well at the death. They play well everywhere to be pretty fair," Finch said.

"I think when you have a team that has played together for a long time, they understand each other well. Probably a settled group of 14 or 15 very good players are playing for a long time. That goes a long way as to why they have been so successful in particular," he elaborated.

The injured and banned duo of Steven Smith and David Warner are unlikely to take part in Australia's final two ODIs against Pakistan despite serving out their one-year ball-tampering suspensions during the series to be held in the UAE.

The injured and banned duo of Steven Smith and David Warner are unlikely to take part in Australia's final two ODIs against Pakistan despite serving out their one-year ball-tampering suspensions during the series to be held in the UAE. After the conclusion of the ODI series against India, the defending World Champions will take on Pakistan in the five-match series with the fourth and fifth ODIs slated on March 29 and 31 respectively. Smith and Warner, both recuperating from elbow surgeries, will find their suspension end on March 29 but there are still serious doubts whether they will play the mega event or not. Smith has just started knocking and will take some more time to get fit. "I don't think David Warner or Steve Smith will play that game (March 29). I am not a hundred percent sure on that but I don't think they will play that last one or two games," Finch said on the eve of the first ODI. He also curtly put it when a reporter asked if he sees himself as a stand-in captain now that both Smith and Warner are set to be back. "No, no, I am the captain, yeah," was his blunt response. Just like Indian team is trying to balance the workload of its players, Australia are also grappling with similar problems with Ashes starting after the World Cup. Asked about pacer Pat Cummins' workload, Finch said: "He bowled a lot throughout the Australian summer, particularly at the back end of the India Test series. "I think having no cricket in April will help guys like Pat to freshen up. Again someone like (Mitchell) Starc, who has played no cricket needs to bowl. The workload of our fast bowlers need to be balanced." But playing 10 ODIs in a month (India and Pakistan series in March) is quite unprecedented in Australian cricket, said Finch. "Playing 10 ODIs in a month is quite an unchartered territory for our fast bowlers. There will be a mix and match managing the workload." Young batsman Ashton Turner is set to make his debut and the skipper is excited about that prospect. "Ashton Turner is a guy who will be making his debut in ODI cricket. We have seen how destructive he can be in domestic cricket, so really excited to see him get a go in international cricket as he is such a smart player. "He is a diverse player who can bat in top couple or down the order. He is game smart and manage situations. He will be an important player, someone I am very interested to see." It is the settled unit that makes India a very strong ODI side not only at home but in all conditions. "It's a good question. Their batting is really strong. They have got in Virat, arguably the best player of all time in ODI cricket. Rohit has been in good form. They have quicks, who move the ball upfront and execute really well at the death. They play well everywhere to be pretty fair," Finch said. "I think when you have a team that has played together for a long time, they understand each other well. Probably a settled group of 14 or 15 very good players are playing for a long time. That goes a long way as to why they have been so successful in particular," he elaborated.

Steve Smith, David Warner unlikely to play last 2 ODIs against Pakistan: Aaron Finch

Australia's popular 'shooting stars' jersey is all set to make its reappearance as Cricket Australia has recalled the iconic kit for the upcoming season.&nbsp;

Wearing the same kit, Steve Waugh-led team Australia lifted World Cup trophy in the year 1999 after defeating Pakistan in the finals.&nbsp;

The five stars of the Southern Cross graced the front of the jersey. It was evocative and proved lucky as Australia won the title that year.&nbsp;

The decision to bring back the nostalgic kit was made by voting and the with its distinctive pattern of green 'shooting stars' on yellow, was the popular choice.&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
It all comes down to this... The final! Which retro kit do you want to see the Aussie Men wearing in the ODIs next summer? 
 
Make sure you cast your vote! <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PickTheKit?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PickTheKit</a>
— cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) <a href="https://twitter.com/cricketcomau/status/1099540214312165378?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 24, 2019</a></blockquote>
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The final tussle was between the 'lightning bolts' from 1992-94 and 'shooting stars' from World Cup 1999.&nbsp;

The kit is all set to make a reappearance during the next One-Day International series against New Zealand next season.&nbsp;

Australia's popular 'shooting stars' jersey is all set to make its reappearance as Cricket Australia has recalled the iconic kit for the upcoming season. Wearing the same kit, Steve Waugh-led team Australia lifted World Cup trophy in the year 1999 after defeating Pakistan in the finals.

Australia's popular 'shooting stars' jersey is all set to make its reappearance as Cricket Australia has recalled the iconic kit for the upcoming season. Wearing the same kit, Steve Waugh-led team Australia lifted World Cup trophy in the year 1999 after defeating Pakistan in the finals. The five stars of the Southern Cross graced the front of the jersey. It was evocative and proved lucky as Australia won the title that year. The decision to bring back the nostalgic kit was made by voting and the with its distinctive pattern of green 'shooting stars' on yellow, was the popular choice. It all comes down to this... The final! Which retro kit do you want to see the Aussie Men wearing in the ODIs next summer? Make sure you cast your vote! #PickTheKit — cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) February 24, 2019 × The final tussle was between the 'lightning bolts' from 1992-94 and 'shooting stars' from World Cup 1999. The kit is all set to make a reappearance during the next One-Day International series against New Zealand next season.

'Shooting stars': Australia to put on iconic World Cup 1999 kit for 2019-20 summer

Cricket's global body, the&nbsp;International Cricket Council, has warned the fans against potential financial scams.&nbsp;

The cricket body stated that there is no competition, lottery or promotion associated with the upcoming men's World Cup which will start from May 30.&nbsp;

In a media release, ICC said that incidents of financial scams have always been reported during global events.&nbsp;

"The ICC stress there is no such competition, lottery or promotion associated with ICC or the ICC Men's Cricket World Cup 2019 and that any approaches via e-mail in the UK should be reported to Action Fraud online here or by calling 0300 123 2040," ICC said in a release.&nbsp;

"Approaches outside of the UK should be reported to enquiries@icc-cricket.Com. The ICC or CWC19 will never ask for confidential information of this kind from you in an email."&nbsp;

"Illegal scammers contact people, usually via email, claiming that they have won a cash prize via a lottery or competition and requiring the person to share a range of personal information, including their name, age, bank account and passport details. The victim is often asked to pay a fee to obtain the prize money," ICC said.

The ICC also recommended some actions against fraud and noted the online resources which are available for victims of fraud.

Cricket's global body, the International Cricket Council, has warned the fans against potential financial scams. The cricket body stated that there is no competition, lottery or promotion associated with the upcoming men's World Cup which will start from May 30.

Cricket's global body, the International Cricket Council, has warned the fans against potential financial scams. The cricket body stated that there is no competition, lottery or promotion associated with the upcoming men's World Cup which will start from May 30. In a media release, ICC said that incidents of financial scams have always been reported during global events. "The ICC stress there is no such competition, lottery or promotion associated with ICC or the ICC Men's Cricket World Cup 2019 and that any approaches via e-mail in the UK should be reported to Action Fraud online here or by calling 0300 123 2040," ICC said in a release. "Approaches outside of the UK should be reported to enquiries@icc-cricket.Com. The ICC or CWC19 will never ask for confidential information of this kind from you in an email." "Illegal scammers contact people, usually via email, claiming that they have won a cash prize via a lottery or competition and requiring the person to share a range of personal information, including their name, age, bank account and passport details. The victim is often asked to pay a fee to obtain the prize money," ICC said. The ICC also recommended some actions against fraud and noted the online resources which are available for victims of fraud.

ICC warns cricket fans against financial scams during World Cup

Glenn Maxwell issued a timely reminder of his worth with a decisive half-century in Australia's <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/1st-t20i-australia-beat-india-by-three-wickets-in-last-ball-thriller-lead-series-1-0-199415">first Twenty20 against India</a> but believes he has more work to do to secure a ticket to the 50-over World Cup.

On a difficult pitch in Visakhapatnam, Maxwell came to the crease with Australia vulnerable at five for two in their chase of India's 126 and his 43-ball 56 anchored an 84-run third wicket stand that steadied Australia.

But being Maxwell, Australia's infuriating genius, there was a less laudable sub-plot at play as he threw away his wicket by heaving at a wide legbreak from Yuzvendra Chahal that went to the long-off fielder.

The dismissal triggered a collapse as Australia lost four wickets for 24 runs and had to rely on the cool heads of tailenders Pat Cummins and Jhye Richardson to smash 14 runs in the final over and squeeze the three-wicket win.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/some-days-execution-in-death-bowling-doesnt-come-off-jasprit-bumrah-199599">Some days execution in death bowling doesn't come off, says Jasprit Bumrah</a>

Instead of soaking up a key role in what should have been an easy victory, Maxwell was left sweating to the final ball.

"We probably should have lost and if it wasn't for Pat Cummins and Jhye Richardson pulling something out of the hat," the relieved 30-year-old said.

The glass-half-full brigade will focus on Maxwell's studious innings that pulled Australia out of the fire, but the half-empty types will carp that he should have gone on with it and remains too risky a player to rely on at the World Cup in England and Wales.

Maxwell, himself, remains unaware of his standing in Aaron Finch's one-day squad, for all his past heroics in Australia's 2015 World Cup triumph on home soil, when he was the team's third-highest run scorer behind Steve Smith and David Warner.

"I have no idea if I'm going to be in that World Cup squad or what number I'm going to bat, so I suppose it just comes down to opportunity - if I can keep making most of the opportunities like tonight," he said.

"It would have been nice to finish it off, but I chose that Chahal (over) as my time to go tonight and I still back that as the right decision," added Maxwell.

Australia meet India in the second T20 in Bengaluru on Wednesday before starting a five-match ODI series in Hyderabad on Saturday (February 24).

Glenn Maxwell issued a timely reminder of his worth with a decisive half-century in Australia's first Twenty20 against India but believes he has more work to do to secure a ticket to the 50-over World Cup.

Glenn Maxwell issued a timely reminder of his worth with a decisive half-century in Australia's first Twenty20 against India but believes he has more work to do to secure a ticket to the 50-over World Cup. On a difficult pitch in Visakhapatnam, Maxwell came to the crease with Australia vulnerable at five for two in their chase of India's 126 and his 43-ball 56 anchored an 84-run third wicket stand that steadied Australia. But being Maxwell, Australia's infuriating genius, there was a less laudable sub-plot at play as he threw away his wicket by heaving at a wide legbreak from Yuzvendra Chahal that went to the long-off fielder. The dismissal triggered a collapse as Australia lost four wickets for 24 runs and had to rely on the cool heads of tailenders Pat Cummins and Jhye Richardson to smash 14 runs in the final over and squeeze the three-wicket win. Also Read: Some days execution in death bowling doesn't come off, says Jasprit Bumrah Instead of soaking up a key role in what should have been an easy victory, Maxwell was left sweating to the final ball. "We probably should have lost and if it wasn't for Pat Cummins and Jhye Richardson pulling something out of the hat," the relieved 30-year-old said. The glass-half-full brigade will focus on Maxwell's studious innings that pulled Australia out of the fire, but the half-empty types will carp that he should have gone on with it and remains too risky a player to rely on at the World Cup in England and Wales. Maxwell, himself, remains unaware of his standing in Aaron Finch's one-day squad, for all his past heroics in Australia's 2015 World Cup triumph on home soil, when he was the team's third-highest run scorer behind Steve Smith and David Warner. "I have no idea if I'm going to be in that World Cup squad or what number I'm going to bat, so I suppose it just comes down to opportunity - if I can keep making most of the opportunities like tonight," he said. "It would have been nice to finish it off, but I chose that Chahal (over) as my time to go tonight and I still back that as the right decision," added Maxwell. Australia meet India in the second T20 in Bengaluru on Wednesday before starting a five-match ODI series in Hyderabad on Saturday (February 24).

Glenn Maxwell unaware of place in World Cup pecking order

Former Australia batsman <a href="http://www.wionews.com/search?q=Cameron+Bancroft">Cameron Bancroft</a> has played down any talk of a rift with David Warner after being accused of throwing his fellow opener "under a bus" in a controversial interview about the Cape Town ball-tampering scandal.

Bancroft, who was suspended for nine months for his part in the Newlands incident, made a successful return to first class cricket on Saturday, unbeaten on 73 for Western Australia at stumps on the first day.

The 26-year-old was roundly criticised for casting Warner as the instigator in an interview during the Boxing Day test against India, while describing himself as an impressionable rookie just wanting to "fit in" to the team.

Former Australia captain and TV pundit Ricky Ponting, now employed as a coaching consultant for the one-day international team, said Bancroft had further "damaged (his) brand", while Michael Slater said he had "buried" Warner.

Two months on from the interview, Bancroft said he had been in touch with Warner, and that all three banned players had supported each other through their "journey".

"I think all of us, including Dave, have been really challenged through this period of time," Bancroft told state radio station ABC.

"I know that all three of us have really stuck by each other and looked after each other well.

"You can't understand the trauma I felt, it was probably very different trauma to how he (Warner) felt, and I can't possibly understand that.

"I guess moving forward there will be great lessons for all of us, including Dave.

"That's something we've all shared with each other and something I've certainly shared with Dave when we've communicated throughout this entire journey."

Bancroft's ban expired in December, while those of Warner and former captain Steve Smith will end March 29.

Bancroft had no regrets about his interview with former Australia wicketkeeper Adam Gilchrist, saying he felt he had "important learnings to share".

"I guess if other people were triggered by that, I guess that's their battle to face," he said.

"But if I was able to touch people through some parts of my journey, and to help them I guess break through [in] their lives, that was my sole intention for that."

Bancroft has signed to play with English county side Durham as he looks to regain a place in the test side for the Ashes starting in August.

"I think I love the game far more authentically now," he said.

"You know at times you get caught up in some unhealthy values that playing at the highest level can sometimes present -- at the end of the day it's a game of cricket, and it's nice that that's why I play the game (now)."

Former Australia batsman Cameron Bancroft has played down any talk of a rift with David Warner after being accused of throwing his fellow opener "under a bus" in a controversial interview about the Cape Town ball-tampering scandal.

Former Australia batsman Cameron Bancroft has played down any talk of a rift with David Warner after being accused of throwing his fellow opener "under a bus" in a controversial interview about the Cape Town ball-tampering scandal. Bancroft, who was suspended for nine months for his part in the Newlands incident, made a successful return to first class cricket on Saturday, unbeaten on 73 for Western Australia at stumps on the first day. The 26-year-old was roundly criticised for casting Warner as the instigator in an interview during the Boxing Day test against India, while describing himself as an impressionable rookie just wanting to "fit in" to the team. Former Australia captain and TV pundit Ricky Ponting, now employed as a coaching consultant for the one-day international team, said Bancroft had further "damaged (his) brand", while Michael Slater said he had "buried" Warner. Two months on from the interview, Bancroft said he had been in touch with Warner, and that all three banned players had supported each other through their "journey". "I think all of us, including Dave, have been really challenged through this period of time," Bancroft told state radio station ABC. "I know that all three of us have really stuck by each other and looked after each other well. "You can't understand the trauma I felt, it was probably very different trauma to how he (Warner) felt, and I can't possibly understand that. "I guess moving forward there will be great lessons for all of us, including Dave. "That's something we've all shared with each other and something I've certainly shared with Dave when we've communicated throughout this entire journey." Bancroft's ban expired in December, while those of Warner and former captain Steve Smith will end March 29. Bancroft had no regrets about his interview with former Australia wicketkeeper Adam Gilchrist, saying he felt he had "important learnings to share". "I guess if other people were triggered by that, I guess that's their battle to face," he said. "But if I was able to touch people through some parts of my journey, and to help them I guess break through [in] their lives, that was my sole intention for that." Bancroft has signed to play with English county side Durham as he looks to regain a place in the test side for the Ashes starting in August. "I think I love the game far more authentically now," he said. "You know at times you get caught up in some unhealthy values that playing at the highest level can sometimes present -- at the end of the day it's a game of cricket, and it's nice that that's why I play the game (now)."

Cameron Bancroft defends ball-tampering interview, says no David Warner rift

The Indian team will be aiming to lock in the last couple of available slots in their England-bound World Cup squad when they square off with familiar foes Australia in a limited overs series starting with the first T20 here Sunday.&nbsp;

The seven-match series comprising two T20 Internationals and five ODIs against a struggling Australian side will be India's last international assignment before the mega event starting May 30 in England and Wales.

With all but two places sealed, Virat Kohli and Ravi Shastri will also treat these two T20 games as an extended audition for the World Cup hopefuls, who are still on the waiting list.

Skipper Kohli is back after a well-deserved three-week break and will be keeping a keen eye on the likes of Rishabh Pant and Vijay Shankar, two players who are strongly tipped to make the elite list.

Having edged out Dinesh Karthik in the ODI side in the race to the World Cup, Pant will get a few more chances to make a strong case for himself.

For Vijay Shankar, it will be a great opportunity to make his case even stronger in the absence of Hardik Pandya, who is out with his recurring lower back injury.

Shankar has shown that he could be explosive with the bat and the question will be how effective he can be with the ball.&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/india-vs-australia-2019-schedule-squad-time-and-venue-197778">India vs Australia 2019: Schedule, Squad, Time and Venue</a>

No one more than Dinesh Karthik will be more keen to make a statement as these two games will effectively be his last chance as he has already been dropped from the ODIs against Australia.

The Tamil Nadu veteran drew a lot of flak after he refused a single when Krunal Pandya was on a rampage at the other end in the series deciding T20 game against New Zealand which India lost by 4 runs.

With the return of India's no 1 pacer Jasprit Bumrah, the bowling department that distinctly lacked sting against New Zealand, will be bolstered.

Bumrah is two shy of his personal tally of 50 wickets in T20I cricket, an achievement only in possession of the discarded Ravichandran Ashwin.

While rookie leg-break bowler Mayank Markande is in the squad, India in all likelihood will go with the tested pair of Yuzvendra Chahal and Krunal Pandya, who have done reasonably well for the home team in recent times.&nbsp;

However, the shortest format is exactly not the one where India have been very consistent. A recent 1-2 series defeat against New Zealand is a testimony.&nbsp;

India may be ahead 11-6 on head-to-head in T20s but they have drawn 1-1 their last two series against Australia -- at home (2017) and away (2018) -- with rain playing spoilsport.

It was way back in 2016 when India under MS Dhoni last won against Australia, a 3-0 clean sweep Down Under as this time Kohli's men will look to settle the scores with a 2-0.&nbsp;

But more than that the series will be a dress rehearsal for the World Cup as Kohli would look like to make a final assessment before heading to World Cup in May.

Kohli will look to straightway be back among the runs after a sterling 2018 where he ended the year with an astounding 2735 runs from 38 matches across formats.

He scored 1202 runs in ODIs at a jaw-dropping average of 133.55 in 14 innings and the fact that he converted his scores into six hundreds and three fifties speaks volumes of his batsmanship.&nbsp;

Kohli averages 61 from 13 T20I innings against Australia with five half-centuries in those games.

The Aaron Finch-led side may not have played T20Is since their last series against India three months back, but they are fresh from their extended Big Bash League with six players including the skipper featuring in the all-Melbourne final on February 17.

Player of the Tournament D'Arcy Short played 15 BBL games this season for Hobart Hurricanes scoring 637 runs at 53.08 average (140.61 strike rate).&nbsp;

He was followed by competition leading wicket-taker Kane Richardson who topped the bowling aggregate with 24 at 17.70 (economy rate 7.75).&nbsp;

The dynamic left-handed opener Short will look to correct his stats on the turning pitches and relaunch his career giving them a good start.&nbsp;

The Indian team will be aiming to lock in the last couple of available slots in their England-bound World Cup squad when they square off with familiar foes Australia in a limited overs series starting with the first T20 here Sunday.

The Indian team will be aiming to lock in the last couple of available slots in their England-bound World Cup squad when they square off with familiar foes Australia in a limited overs series starting with the first T20 here Sunday. The seven-match series comprising two T20 Internationals and five ODIs against a struggling Australian side will be India's last international assignment before the mega event starting May 30 in England and Wales. With all but two places sealed, Virat Kohli and Ravi Shastri will also treat these two T20 games as an extended audition for the World Cup hopefuls, who are still on the waiting list. Skipper Kohli is back after a well-deserved three-week break and will be keeping a keen eye on the likes of Rishabh Pant and Vijay Shankar, two players who are strongly tipped to make the elite list. Having edged out Dinesh Karthik in the ODI side in the race to the World Cup, Pant will get a few more chances to make a strong case for himself. For Vijay Shankar, it will be a great opportunity to make his case even stronger in the absence of Hardik Pandya, who is out with his recurring lower back injury. Shankar has shown that he could be explosive with the bat and the question will be how effective he can be with the ball. Also Read: India vs Australia 2019: Schedule, Squad, Time and Venue No one more than Dinesh Karthik will be more keen to make a statement as these two games will effectively be his last chance as he has already been dropped from the ODIs against Australia. The Tamil Nadu veteran drew a lot of flak after he refused a single when Krunal Pandya was on a rampage at the other end in the series deciding T20 game against New Zealand which India lost by 4 runs. With the return of India's no 1 pacer Jasprit Bumrah, the bowling department that distinctly lacked sting against New Zealand, will be bolstered. Bumrah is two shy of his personal tally of 50 wickets in T20I cricket, an achievement only in possession of the discarded Ravichandran Ashwin. While rookie leg-break bowler Mayank Markande is in the squad, India in all likelihood will go with the tested pair of Yuzvendra Chahal and Krunal Pandya, who have done reasonably well for the home team in recent times. However, the shortest format is exactly not the one where India have been very consistent. A recent 1-2 series defeat against New Zealand is a testimony. India may be ahead 11-6 on head-to-head in T20s but they have drawn 1-1 their last two series against Australia -- at home (2017) and away (2018) -- with rain playing spoilsport. It was way back in 2016 when India under MS Dhoni last won against Australia, a 3-0 clean sweep Down Under as this time Kohli's men will look to settle the scores with a 2-0. But more than that the series will be a dress rehearsal for the World Cup as Kohli would look like to make a final assessment before heading to World Cup in May. Kohli will look to straightway be back among the runs after a sterling 2018 where he ended the year with an astounding 2735 runs from 38 matches across formats. He scored 1202 runs in ODIs at a jaw-dropping average of 133.55 in 14 innings and the fact that he converted his scores into six hundreds and three fifties speaks volumes of his batsmanship. Kohli averages 61 from 13 T20I innings against Australia with five half-centuries in those games. The Aaron Finch-led side may not have played T20Is since their last series against India three months back, but they are fresh from their extended Big Bash League with six players including the skipper featuring in the all-Melbourne final on February 17. Player of the Tournament D'Arcy Short played 15 BBL games this season for Hobart Hurricanes scoring 637 runs at 53.08 average (140.61 strike rate). He was followed by competition leading wicket-taker Kane Richardson who topped the bowling aggregate with 24 at 17.70 (economy rate 7.75). The dynamic left-handed opener Short will look to correct his stats on the turning pitches and relaunch his career giving them a good start.

INDvsAUS, 1st T20I: Keeping World Cup in mind, India & Australia set to lock horns

Australian captain Aaron Finch on Saturday said the limited overs series against India would give the youngsters a perfect opportunity to stake a claim for two World Cup spots with the suspended duo of Steve Smith and David Warner racing against time to recover from injuries.&nbsp;

The duo suffered similar elbow injuries while playing in the Bangladesh Premier League last month. Both had to undergo surgeries and it's not clear whether they would be fit in time for the World Cup beginning May 30.&nbsp;

"Definitely it's a great opportunity for the guys to come in and really challenge for that spot. David (Warner) obviously had some elbow surgery recently so that'll be in the back of the mind as well," Finch said on the eve of the opening T20 against India here.&nbsp;

"But if things don't go 100 per cent right with their rehab or some complications with it and they're not back in time, it's a huge, huge opportunity for guys to step up and almost cement their place going forward."&nbsp;

The Aussies are fresh from playing in the Big Bash League where top-order batsman D'Arcy Short bagged the player of the tournament award and became the first player to score 600-plus runs.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/india-vs-australia-2019-schedule-squad-time-and-venue-197778">India vs Australia 2019: Schedule, Squad, Time and Venue</a>

"With the two T20 matches (against India), it's a chance for the guys to continue on their Big Bash form and test themselves against the best in the world in their own conditions."&nbsp;

Five ODIs against India will follow the two-match T20 series.&nbsp;&nbsp;

"We still got 10 Internationals plus five other practice warm-up games before that first World Cup game so there's still a fair bit of cricket to go and as long as we keep tracking in the right direction and give India a really good fight and win the series that will be what is all about."&nbsp;

The recent T20 form of vice-captain Alex Carey and all-rounder Marcus Stoinis also augurs well for the Australian team.&nbsp;

"There are also things you can juggle around in one day cricket a bit for a little bit. So whatever we feel is a combination at the time I don't think anything is out of question."&nbsp;

Asked about their opening combination, he said: "Again in the ODI side Short is there. He's been exceptional and he's open the batting. He's obviously prolific in the middle order. Usman, myself, Alex. So there's still a few options."&nbsp;&nbsp;

After a miserable run of form this year, Australia are determined the players' key focus is on defending their one-day title ahead of the gruelling Ashes.&nbsp;

To manage the workload, the Australian top players won't be available for the last few weeks of the lucrative Indian Premier League that will run from March 23-May 13.&nbsp;

"I know there will be guys who will be here for the first half of the IPL and then be home by the start of May. So IPL will be really a crucial period for guys to be able to take that time off and get away from cricket and mentally recharge."&nbsp;

Finch also spoke highly of Stoinis who excelled for BBL runners-up Melbourne Stars scoring 533 runs at 53.30 and claiming 14 wickets to cap off a season where he was named the Australian male ODI player of the year.&nbsp;

"Yeah absolutely he's someone who can bowl 10 overs, bowl four overs in T20 cricket. He can be at the top of the order he can be really successful in the middle order as well.&nbsp;&nbsp;

"To have someone who's as flexible as that is a great asset in your team because then you can build a team around them and that can fill any hole that you need. If there's a weakness somewhere he's generally the best person to fix it and you can shuffle it around them," he added.

Australian captain Aaron Finch on Saturday said the limited overs series against India would give the youngsters a perfect opportunity to stake a claim for two World Cup spots with the suspended duo of Steve Smith and David Warner racing against time to recover from injuries.

Australian captain Aaron Finch on Saturday said the limited overs series against India would give the youngsters a perfect opportunity to stake a claim for two World Cup spots with the suspended duo of Steve Smith and David Warner racing against time to recover from injuries. The duo suffered similar elbow injuries while playing in the Bangladesh Premier League last month. Both had to undergo surgeries and it's not clear whether they would be fit in time for the World Cup beginning May 30. "Definitely it's a great opportunity for the guys to come in and really challenge for that spot. David (Warner) obviously had some elbow surgery recently so that'll be in the back of the mind as well," Finch said on the eve of the opening T20 against India here. "But if things don't go 100 per cent right with their rehab or some complications with it and they're not back in time, it's a huge, huge opportunity for guys to step up and almost cement their place going forward." The Aussies are fresh from playing in the Big Bash League where top-order batsman D'Arcy Short bagged the player of the tournament award and became the first player to score 600-plus runs. Also Read: India vs Australia 2019: Schedule, Squad, Time and Venue "With the two T20 matches (against India), it's a chance for the guys to continue on their Big Bash form and test themselves against the best in the world in their own conditions." Five ODIs against India will follow the two-match T20 series. "We still got 10 Internationals plus five other practice warm-up games before that first World Cup game so there's still a fair bit of cricket to go and as long as we keep tracking in the right direction and give India a really good fight and win the series that will be what is all about." The recent T20 form of vice-captain Alex Carey and all-rounder Marcus Stoinis also augurs well for the Australian team. "There are also things you can juggle around in one day cricket a bit for a little bit. So whatever we feel is a combination at the time I don't think anything is out of question." Asked about their opening combination, he said: "Again in the ODI side Short is there. He's been exceptional and he's open the batting. He's obviously prolific in the middle order. Usman, myself, Alex. So there's still a few options." After a miserable run of form this year, Australia are determined the players' key focus is on defending their one-day title ahead of the gruelling Ashes. To manage the workload, the Australian top players won't be available for the last few weeks of the lucrative Indian Premier League that will run from March 23-May 13. "I know there will be guys who will be here for the first half of the IPL and then be home by the start of May. So IPL will be really a crucial period for guys to be able to take that time off and get away from cricket and mentally recharge." Finch also spoke highly of Stoinis who excelled for BBL runners-up Melbourne Stars scoring 533 runs at 53.30 and claiming 14 wickets to cap off a season where he was named the Australian male ODI player of the year. "Yeah absolutely he's someone who can bowl 10 overs, bowl four overs in T20 cricket. He can be at the top of the order he can be really successful in the middle order as well. "To have someone who's as flexible as that is a great asset in your team because then you can build a team around them and that can fill any hole that you need. If there's a weakness somewhere he's generally the best person to fix it and you can shuffle it around them," he added.

Perfect opportunity for youngsters to seal World Cup spots: Aaron Finch

Mithali Raj Sunday came out in support of starting a women's version of the cash-rich Indian Premier League after having spoken against it earlier.

"I felt that (way) before the ODI World Cup. At that point of time the players' identity as individual players was not as big as the ODI World Cup where people started to understand what is Indian women's cricket and who all play for the team," said Mithali.

She was speaking on the eve of the second One-day International against world champions England.

"Now since a year or two people have gone beyond 2-3 players. They recognise other players in the squad and now is the right time to get in IPL because T20 is also a format that ICC is looking to promote in women's cricket," added Mithali.

In the women's 50-over World Cup, the Indian team made the final where they lost to England, generating a huge amount of interest in the country.

Mithali felt that there will be cascading effect on their game's structure with the introduction of women's IPL.

She spoke about the A tour concept to develop the women's game.

"We also have India A tour. I'm sure there is one in the near future. If we have more of that and we can give opportunity to the second string, not just playing versus the visiting teams, but also tours abroad to Australia or New Zealand. That exposure will help them immensely," she remarked.

"As far as IPL is concerned, if that can be a double-header, like how we had the T20Is in New Zealand, that will definitely garner more people to come and watch us play, and obviously televising it and marketing it will get a lot of people to follow it," she added.

The India women's ODI skipper also saw the plans to conduct U-19 and U-21 World Cups for women as an advantage.

"It will be important because every country is looking forward to getting more girls to play the sport. And if you have another World Cup, of say Under-19 or Under-21, it gives an opportunity for young girls to compete at that level because there's something to look forward to.

"Someone who's playing U-19, they have to straightaway aim for the senior level. That's a long shot. Very few are able to make it. For the rest who don't make it, at least they have another shot at playing or representing their country at the World Cup (at the juniors level)."

Mithali Raj Sunday came out in support of starting a women's version of the cash-rich Indian Premier League after having spoken against it earlier. "I felt that (way) before the ODI World Cup.

Mithali Raj Sunday came out in support of starting a women's version of the cash-rich Indian Premier League after having spoken against it earlier. "I felt that (way) before the ODI World Cup. At that point of time the players' identity as individual players was not as big as the ODI World Cup where people started to understand what is Indian women's cricket and who all play for the team," said Mithali. She was speaking on the eve of the second One-day International against world champions England. "Now since a year or two people have gone beyond 2-3 players. They recognise other players in the squad and now is the right time to get in IPL because T20 is also a format that ICC is looking to promote in women's cricket," added Mithali. In the women's 50-over World Cup, the Indian team made the final where they lost to England, generating a huge amount of interest in the country. Mithali felt that there will be cascading effect on their game's structure with the introduction of women's IPL. She spoke about the A tour concept to develop the women's game. "We also have India A tour. I'm sure there is one in the near future. If we have more of that and we can give opportunity to the second string, not just playing versus the visiting teams, but also tours abroad to Australia or New Zealand. That exposure will help them immensely," she remarked. "As far as IPL is concerned, if that can be a double-header, like how we had the T20Is in New Zealand, that will definitely garner more people to come and watch us play, and obviously televising it and marketing it will get a lot of people to follow it," she added. The India women's ODI skipper also saw the plans to conduct U-19 and U-21 World Cups for women as an advantage. "It will be important because every country is looking forward to getting more girls to play the sport. And if you have another World Cup, of say Under-19 or Under-21, it gives an opportunity for young girls to compete at that level because there's something to look forward to. "Someone who's playing U-19, they have to straightaway aim for the senior level. That's a long shot. Very few are able to make it. For the rest who don't make it, at least they have another shot at playing or representing their country at the World Cup (at the juniors level)."

Mithali Raj backs women's IPL after World Cup performance

The skipper of Indian cricket team Virat Kohli has expressed sincere condolences to the families of martyred Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) personnel, who <a href="http://www.wionews.com/search?q=pulwama">lost their lives in a terror attack in Jammu and Kashmir's Pulwama</a> on February 14.&nbsp;

Lately, in the wake of the ghastly terror, there have been calls for a complete cricketing boycott against Pakistan.&nbsp;

While speaking on the eve of a bilateral series against Australia, Kohli&nbsp;addressed the spiralling issue. He said, "Our stand is simple. We stick by what the nation wants to do and what the BCCI decides to do and that is basically our opinion."&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/would-hate-to-give-two-points-to-pakistan-in-world-cup-sachin-tendulkar-198983">Sachin Tendulkar's comment on the Indo-Pak World Cup clash</a>

"Whatever the government and the board decide, we will eventually go by that and will respect that. So that is our stand on this particular issue," Kohli added.

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> Virat Kohli on Ind Vs Pak in World Cup says, "Our sincere condolences to the families of CRPF soldiers who lost their lives in <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PulwamaAttack?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PulwamaAttack</a>. We stand by what the nation wants to do and what the BCCI decides to do." <a href="https://t.co/gjyJ9qDxts">pic.twitter.com/gjyJ9qDxts</a>
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Kohli's stand is pretty similar to what chief coach Ravi Shastri echoed in an interview to a television channel where he said that the team will "accept whatever decision that the government takes."

The chief of Supreme Court-appointed Committee of Administrators (CoA) Vinod Rai decided against taking any stand on the match but urged the ICC and other nations to "sever ties" with countries from where "terrorism emanates".&nbsp;

India are scheduled to play Pakistan on June 16 during the World Cup.&nbsp;

The skipper of Indian cricket team Virat Kohli has expressed sincere condolences to the families of martyred Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) personnel, who lost their lives in a terror attack in Jammu and Kashmir's Pulwama on February 14.

The skipper of Indian cricket team Virat Kohli has expressed sincere condolences to the families of martyred Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) personnel, who lost their lives in a terror attack in Jammu and Kashmir's Pulwama on February 14. Lately, in the wake of the ghastly terror, there have been calls for a complete cricketing boycott against Pakistan. While speaking on the eve of a bilateral series against Australia, Kohli addressed the spiralling issue. He said, "Our stand is simple. We stick by what the nation wants to do and what the BCCI decides to do and that is basically our opinion." Also Read: Sachin Tendulkar's comment on the Indo-Pak World Cup clash "Whatever the government and the board decide, we will eventually go by that and will respect that. So that is our stand on this particular issue," Kohli added. #WATCH Virat Kohli on Ind Vs Pak in World Cup says, "Our sincere condolences to the families of CRPF soldiers who lost their lives in #PulwamaAttack. We stand by what the nation wants to do and what the BCCI decides to do." pic.twitter.com/gjyJ9qDxts — ANI (@ANI) February 23, 2019 × Kohli's stand is pretty similar to what chief coach Ravi Shastri echoed in an interview to a television channel where he said that the team will "accept whatever decision that the government takes." The chief of Supreme Court-appointed Committee of Administrators (CoA) Vinod Rai decided against taking any stand on the match but urged the ICC and other nations to "sever ties" with countries from where "terrorism emanates". India are scheduled to play Pakistan on June 16 during the World Cup.

Virat Kohli on Indo-Pak World Cup game: We will respect government decision

The chief of Supreme Court-appointed Committee of Administrators (CoA)&nbsp;Vinod Rai has said that no decision has yet been taken on India's World Cup match against Pakistan.&nbsp;

There have been calls for a complete cricketing boycott against Pakistan following a&nbsp;<a href="http://www.wionews.com/search?q=Pulwama">terror attack in Jammu and Kashmir's Pulwama</a> last week that killed over 40&nbsp;Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) personnel.&nbsp;

In a meeting to address the spiralling speculation around the match, the CoA deliberated on the matter but did not take any position for now.&nbsp;

"We will express concerns to ICC. We are in talks with government on scheduled India-Pakistan clash in World Cup." said CoA chief Vinod Rai.&nbsp;

India&nbsp;are&nbsp;scheduled to play Pakistan on June 16 during the World Cup.&nbsp;

"16th June is very far away. We will take a call on that much later and in consultations with the government," he said.&nbsp;

Vinod Rai also&nbsp;mentioned that BCCI will draft a letter to&nbsp;game's global governing body&nbsp;asking them that should ban Pakistan from participating in the 2019 World Cup.&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/india-lose-by-not-playing-pak-in-world-cup-says-gavaskar-urges-imran-khan-to-act-198739">India lose by not playing Pak in World Cup, says Gavaskar; urges Imran Khan to act</a>

"We will write to ICC expressing our concerns about attacks that took place and that security of players, officials and everybody else must be taken care of."

"We're telling the cricketing community that in future we must sever ties with nations from where terror emanates," said Vinod Rai.&nbsp;

The bilateral cricketing ties between the two countries have already been suspended since 2012 and the teams last played a full series in 2007.

Recently, veteran off-spinner Harbhajan Singh said India doesn't need to revive any sort of sporting ties with Pakistan as a mark of respect for the armed forces.&nbsp;

"I don't think India should play the World Cup match against Pakistan. Country comes first and we are all standing behind our country. Cricket or hockey or sports, it should be kept aside because this is a huge thing and repeatedly our soldiers are killed," said&nbsp;Harbhajan.&nbsp;

The chief of Supreme Court-appointed Committee of Administrators (CoA) Vinod Rai has said that no decision has yet been taken on India's World Cup match against Pakistan.

The chief of Supreme Court-appointed Committee of Administrators (CoA) Vinod Rai has said that no decision has yet been taken on India's World Cup match against Pakistan. There have been calls for a complete cricketing boycott against Pakistan following a terror attack in Jammu and Kashmir's Pulwama last week that killed over 40 Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) personnel. In a meeting to address the spiralling speculation around the match, the CoA deliberated on the matter but did not take any position for now. "We will express concerns to ICC. We are in talks with government on scheduled India-Pakistan clash in World Cup." said CoA chief Vinod Rai. India are scheduled to play Pakistan on June 16 during the World Cup. "16th June is very far away. We will take a call on that much later and in consultations with the government," he said. Vinod Rai also mentioned that BCCI will draft a letter to game's global governing body asking them that should ban Pakistan from participating in the 2019 World Cup. Also Read: India lose by not playing Pak in World Cup, says Gavaskar; urges Imran Khan to act "We will write to ICC expressing our concerns about attacks that took place and that security of players, officials and everybody else must be taken care of." "We're telling the cricketing community that in future we must sever ties with nations from where terror emanates," said Vinod Rai. The bilateral cricketing ties between the two countries have already been suspended since 2012 and the teams last played a full series in 2007. Recently, veteran off-spinner Harbhajan Singh said India doesn't need to revive any sort of sporting ties with Pakistan as a mark of respect for the armed forces. "I don't think India should play the World Cup match against Pakistan. Country comes first and we are all standing behind our country. Cricket or hockey or sports, it should be kept aside because this is a huge thing and repeatedly our soldiers are killed," said Harbhajan.

No decision yet on India's World Cup match against Pak, will tell countries to sever ties with nations where terror emanates: CoA chief Vinod Rai

Veteran off-spinner Harbhajan Singh doesn't want India to play Pakistan in the upcoming ODI World Cup in the aftermath of the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/search?q=Pulwama">ghastly terror attack in Pulwama</a>.&nbsp;

Harbhajan said India are strong enough to win the World Cup even if they decide to forfeit the match against Pakistan in Manchester on June 16.

Harbhajan's statement came after the terror attack in Pulwama killed 40 personnel CRPF personnel. Pakistan-based terror outfit Jaish-e-Mohammad had claimed responsibility for the ghastly act.

"India should not play Pakistan in the world Cup. India are powerful enough to win the World Cup without having to play Pakistan," Harbhajan Singh told 'Aaj Tak' news channel.

"This is a difficult time. The attack that has happened, it was unbelievable and it's very wrong. Strict action will surely be taken by the government. When it comes to cricket, I don't think we should have any relations with them otherwise they will keep treating us like this," he added.

Harbhajan said India doesn't need to revive any sort of sporting ties with Pakistan as a mark of respect for the armed forces.&nbsp;

"I don't think India should play the World Cup match against Pakistan. Country comes first and we are all standing behind our country. Cricket or hockey or sports, it should be kept aside because this is a huge thing and repeatedly our soldiers are killed.

"We should stand with our country. Cricket or hockey or any sport, we don't need to play with them," he said.

"We should not keep any kind of ties with Pakistan: we are powerful enough to feed the world on our own. Cricket, sports is not as important. We stand with every member of the defence force. Their sacrifices should no go to waste," Harbhajan said.

Veteran off-spinner Harbhajan Singh doesn't want India to play Pakistan in the upcoming ODI World Cup in the aftermath of the ghastly terror attack in Pulwama. Harbhajan said India are strong enough to win the World Cup even if they decide to forfeit the match against Pakistan in Manchester on June 16.

Veteran off-spinner Harbhajan Singh doesn't want India to play Pakistan in the upcoming ODI World Cup in the aftermath of the ghastly terror attack in Pulwama. Harbhajan said India are strong enough to win the World Cup even if they decide to forfeit the match against Pakistan in Manchester on June 16. Harbhajan's statement came after the terror attack in Pulwama killed 40 personnel CRPF personnel. Pakistan-based terror outfit Jaish-e-Mohammad had claimed responsibility for the ghastly act. "India should not play Pakistan in the world Cup. India are powerful enough to win the World Cup without having to play Pakistan," Harbhajan Singh told 'Aaj Tak' news channel. "This is a difficult time. The attack that has happened, it was unbelievable and it's very wrong. Strict action will surely be taken by the government. When it comes to cricket, I don't think we should have any relations with them otherwise they will keep treating us like this," he added. Harbhajan said India doesn't need to revive any sort of sporting ties with Pakistan as a mark of respect for the armed forces. "I don't think India should play the World Cup match against Pakistan. Country comes first and we are all standing behind our country. Cricket or hockey or sports, it should be kept aside because this is a huge thing and repeatedly our soldiers are killed. "We should stand with our country. Cricket or hockey or any sport, we don't need to play with them," he said. "We should not keep any kind of ties with Pakistan: we are powerful enough to feed the world on our own. Cricket, sports is not as important. We stand with every member of the defence force. Their sacrifices should no go to waste," Harbhajan said.

India shouldn't play Pakistan in World Cup, says Harbhajan Singh

India stand to lose by boycotting Pakistan in the upcoming World Cup, feels former captain Sunil Gavaskar, who said the country can continue to "hurt them" by shunning bilateral ties.

Led by former India spinner Harbhajan Singh, calls for a complete cricketing boycott against Pakistan has grown ever since the terror attack in Pulwama last week killed more than 40 CRPF personnel. India are scheduled to play Pakistan on June 16 during the World Cup.&nbsp;

"Who wins if India decide against playing Pakistan in the World Cup? And I am not even talking about the semis and the finals. Who wins? Pakistan win because they get two points," Gavaskar told 'India Today'.

"India have so far beaten Pakistan every time in a World Cup, so we are actually conceding two points when by beating Pakistan, we could make sure that they don't advance in the competition.

"(But) I am with the country, whatever the government decides, I am with it totally. If the country wants we shouldn't play Pakistan, I am with them," he added.

The bilateral cricketing ties between the two countries have already been suspended since 2012 and the teams last played a full series in 2007.

"Where does it hurt Pakistan? It hurts them when they don't play a bilateral series against India. In a multi-team event, India will lose by not playing them. The entire matter needs to be looked at with a little more depth, I can understand emotions are running high.

"But what happens when you don't play them? I know India are strong enough side to qualify even after conceding those two points but why not beat them and make sure they don't qualify," argued Gavaskar.

If the BCCI takes the matter to the ICC, as is being speculated, and seeks Pakistan's ouster from event starting May 30 in England, it is more likely to lose, he said.

"They can try but it will not happen. Because the other member countries have to accept that and I don't see that happening. I am not too sure an ICC conference is the right forum," he said referring to the February 27 to March 2 ICC meetings in Dubai.&nbsp;

"Sure all of us are absolutely down with what has happened, it is such a tragedy but I am not too sure this would work with the ICC. The other counties will say that this is an internal matter between the two countries and they have to deal with it and not involve us."

Gavaskar urged Khan to take the necessary "first step" towards improving ties with India.

"Let me speak directly to Imran Khan, someone who I have admired so much, who I think is a friend. Let me say to Imran 'when you took over you said that it is going to be a new Pakistan'.&nbsp;

"You said that 'India should take the first step and Pakistan will take two steps' but not as a politician, as an average sportsperson, I want to say to you that Pakistan is the one which should take the first step.

"You ensure there is no cross-border infiltration, you ensure that those in Pakistan who are creating problems in India are handed over, if not to India, then to the UN. You take those two steps and you see the number of friendly steps India will take," he said.

Like Indo-Pak cricketers, Gavaskar wants the people of the two countries to enjoy friendly relations.

"I know many Indian and Pakistani cricketers are friends. You (Imran) are my friend, Wasim (Akram) is my friend, Ramiz (Raja) is my friend, Shoaib (Akhtar) is my friend.

We have such a good time when we meet in India or outside and I think the people of the two countries deserve that good time.&nbsp;

"So you take that first step. Let the Naya Pakistan take this big first step and you will see India taking a number of steps. The love and affection that Imran gets in India is unbelievable.

"He has spent a lot of time in the country. He knows the Indian people better than any other Pakistan and I do believe that he is capable of taking these steps," said Gavaskar.&nbsp;

India stand to lose by boycotting Pakistan in the upcoming World Cup, feels former captain Sunil Gavaskar, who said the country can continue to "hurt them" by shunning bilateral ties.

India stand to lose by boycotting Pakistan in the upcoming World Cup, feels former captain Sunil Gavaskar, who said the country can continue to "hurt them" by shunning bilateral ties. Led by former India spinner Harbhajan Singh, calls for a complete cricketing boycott against Pakistan has grown ever since the terror attack in Pulwama last week killed more than 40 CRPF personnel. India are scheduled to play Pakistan on June 16 during the World Cup. "Who wins if India decide against playing Pakistan in the World Cup? And I am not even talking about the semis and the finals. Who wins? Pakistan win because they get two points," Gavaskar told 'India Today'. "India have so far beaten Pakistan every time in a World Cup, so we are actually conceding two points when by beating Pakistan, we could make sure that they don't advance in the competition. "(But) I am with the country, whatever the government decides, I am with it totally. If the country wants we shouldn't play Pakistan, I am with them," he added. The bilateral cricketing ties between the two countries have already been suspended since 2012 and the teams last played a full series in 2007. "Where does it hurt Pakistan? It hurts them when they don't play a bilateral series against India. In a multi-team event, India will lose by not playing them. The entire matter needs to be looked at with a little more depth, I can understand emotions are running high. "But what happens when you don't play them? I know India are strong enough side to qualify even after conceding those two points but why not beat them and make sure they don't qualify," argued Gavaskar. If the BCCI takes the matter to the ICC, as is being speculated, and seeks Pakistan's ouster from event starting May 30 in England, it is more likely to lose, he said. "They can try but it will not happen. Because the other member countries have to accept that and I don't see that happening. I am not too sure an ICC conference is the right forum," he said referring to the February 27 to March 2 ICC meetings in Dubai. "Sure all of us are absolutely down with what has happened, it is such a tragedy but I am not too sure this would work with the ICC. The other counties will say that this is an internal matter between the two countries and they have to deal with it and not involve us." Gavaskar urged Khan to take the necessary "first step" towards improving ties with India. "Let me speak directly to Imran Khan, someone who I have admired so much, who I think is a friend. Let me say to Imran 'when you took over you said that it is going to be a new Pakistan'. "You said that 'India should take the first step and Pakistan will take two steps' but not as a politician, as an average sportsperson, I want to say to you that Pakistan is the one which should take the first step. "You ensure there is no cross-border infiltration, you ensure that those in Pakistan who are creating problems in India are handed over, if not to India, then to the UN. You take those two steps and you see the number of friendly steps India will take," he said. Like Indo-Pak cricketers, Gavaskar wants the people of the two countries to enjoy friendly relations. "I know many Indian and Pakistani cricketers are friends. You (Imran) are my friend, Wasim (Akram) is my friend, Ramiz (Raja) is my friend, Shoaib (Akhtar) is my friend. We have such a good time when we meet in India or outside and I think the people of the two countries deserve that good time. "So you take that first step. Let the Naya Pakistan take this big first step and you will see India taking a number of steps. The love and affection that Imran gets in India is unbelievable. "He has spent a lot of time in the country. He knows the Indian people better than any other Pakistan and I do believe that he is capable of taking these steps," said Gavaskar.

India lose by not playing Pak in World Cup, says Gavaskar; urges Imran Khan to act

Amid speculation surrounding India-Pakistan World Cup clash owing to the Pulwama terror attack, the International Cricket Council Tuesday said it does not foresee any change in the schedule of the mega event starting May 30.&nbsp;

In the wake of the terror attack, former India player <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/india-shouldnt-play-pakistan-in-world-cup-says-harbhajan-singh-198167">Harbhajan Singh wanted the Indian team to call off</a> their June 16 match against Pakistan in Manchester.&nbsp;

However, when asked about the matter, Richardson made it clear that there is no such indication as of now that the match will be cancelled.&nbsp;

"Our thoughts are with everyone who has been affected by this terrible incident and we will be monitoring the situation with our Members," Richardson said, offering his condolences on the ghastly terror attack in which 40 CRPF personnel were martyred.&nbsp;

"There is no indication that any (of the) matches at the ICC Men's Cricket World Cup will not go ahead as planned," Richardson said in a statement to PTI.&nbsp;

"Sport, in particular, cricket, has the wonderful ability to bring people together and unite communities and we will work with our Members on that basis," he added.&nbsp;

Even the men who mattered in BCCI said that not playing Pakistan in the World Cup is a "long shot" as of now.&nbsp;

"Harbhajan had shared his point of view but he didn't clarify what happens if we are again pitted against them in semi-final or suppose final. Does that mean that we will be forfeiting World Cup semi-final or final? So we are all talking about hypothetical situations," a senior BCCI official said.&nbsp;

"For the record, India played Pakistan in a World Cup game in England in 1999 edition when Kargil War was at its peak," the official added.&nbsp;

On Monday, Harbhajan Singh told a news channel: "India should not play Pakistan in the World Cup. India are powerful enough to win the World Cup without having to play Pakistan."&nbsp;

"This is a difficult time. The attack that has happened, it was unbelievable and it's very wrong. Strict action will surely be taken by the government. When it comes to cricket, I don't think we should have any relations with them otherwise they will keep treating us like this," he added.&nbsp;

Harbhajan said India doesn't need to revive any sort of sporting ties with Pakistan as a mark of respect for the martyred CRPF Jawans.&nbsp;

"I don't think India should play the World Cup match against Pakistan. Country comes first and we are all standing behind our country. Cricket or hockey or sports, it should be kept aside because this is a huge thing and repeatedly our soldiers are killed," the veteran off-spinner had said.

Many affiliated units have removed photos and portraits of Pakistani cricketers with one of the oldest units Cricket Club of India (CCI) leading the way by covering a portrait of Pakistan PM Imran Khan.&nbsp;

Punjab Cricket Associations (PCA) and Rajasthan Cricket Association (RCA) have also removed the pictures of Pakistani players.&nbsp;

Amid speculation surrounding India-Pakistan World Cup clash owing to the Pulwama terror attack, the International Cricket Council Tuesday said it does not foresee any change in the schedule of the mega event starting May 30.

Amid speculation surrounding India-Pakistan World Cup clash owing to the Pulwama terror attack, the International Cricket Council Tuesday said it does not foresee any change in the schedule of the mega event starting May 30. In the wake of the terror attack, former India player Harbhajan Singh wanted the Indian team to call off their June 16 match against Pakistan in Manchester. However, when asked about the matter, Richardson made it clear that there is no such indication as of now that the match will be cancelled. "Our thoughts are with everyone who has been affected by this terrible incident and we will be monitoring the situation with our Members," Richardson said, offering his condolences on the ghastly terror attack in which 40 CRPF personnel were martyred. "There is no indication that any (of the) matches at the ICC Men's Cricket World Cup will not go ahead as planned," Richardson said in a statement to PTI. "Sport, in particular, cricket, has the wonderful ability to bring people together and unite communities and we will work with our Members on that basis," he added. Even the men who mattered in BCCI said that not playing Pakistan in the World Cup is a "long shot" as of now. "Harbhajan had shared his point of view but he didn't clarify what happens if we are again pitted against them in semi-final or suppose final. Does that mean that we will be forfeiting World Cup semi-final or final? So we are all talking about hypothetical situations," a senior BCCI official said. "For the record, India played Pakistan in a World Cup game in England in 1999 edition when Kargil War was at its peak," the official added. On Monday, Harbhajan Singh told a news channel: "India should not play Pakistan in the World Cup. India are powerful enough to win the World Cup without having to play Pakistan." "This is a difficult time. The attack that has happened, it was unbelievable and it's very wrong. Strict action will surely be taken by the government. When it comes to cricket, I don't think we should have any relations with them otherwise they will keep treating us like this," he added. Harbhajan said India doesn't need to revive any sort of sporting ties with Pakistan as a mark of respect for the martyred CRPF Jawans. "I don't think India should play the World Cup match against Pakistan. Country comes first and we are all standing behind our country. Cricket or hockey or sports, it should be kept aside because this is a huge thing and repeatedly our soldiers are killed," the veteran off-spinner had said. Many affiliated units have removed photos and portraits of Pakistani cricketers with one of the oldest units Cricket Club of India (CCI) leading the way by covering a portrait of Pakistan PM Imran Khan. Punjab Cricket Associations (PCA) and Rajasthan Cricket Association (RCA) have also removed the pictures of Pakistani players.

No indication that any of World Cup matches will not go ahead as per plan: ICC chief executive Richardson

Alastair Cook believes England can end decades of World Cup disappointment with a triumph on home soil this year.

England have never won the men's World Cup, but with 100 days to go until the start of the latest edition, a team captained by Eoin Morgan are top of the 50-over world rankings.

Former England skipper Cook, who retired from international cricket last year as the country's highest Test run-scorer and most-capped player, said there were several reasons why Morgan's men could go one better than the England teams that lost in the 1979, 1987 and 1992 finals.

"They’re a very settled side, they’ve got 15 players pretty much nailed on for that squad," Cook told AFP at a World Cup event in London's Trafalgar Square on Tuesday.&nbsp;

"Everyone knows their role, they're very comfortable in their role, they've got a lot of strength in depth, they seem to have a lot of options covered and they're an exciting team to watch.&nbsp;

"They are a brilliant one-day side.”

Cook never played in a World Cup, with the left-handed opening batsman dramatically dropped from the squad that then failed to beat a fellow Test nation while suffering a group-stage exit at the 2015 edition in Australia and New Zealand.

But Cook said a change of attitude lay behind England's rise up the one-day rankings since that dismal display.

"Probably over the years we've really concentrated on Test cricket as a nation. Over the last three or four years we've really given the one-day cricket its due," he said.

'Sky's the limit'

It was a point emphasised by former England spinner Graeme Swann, who said: "I just think England are picking the right team these days.&nbsp;

"They're picking one-day specialists and the sky's the limit.&nbsp;

"When they bat, people like Jason Roy, Jonny Bairstow, they think that (scoring) 400 is feasible rather than an impossible dream. I think England have finally picked a very aggressive team as well, with Eoin Morgan, who's a brilliant captain.

"They've got a team that is putting them in firm contention to win this World Cup," insisted Swann, who added "I never thought we (England) would win it deep down when I was there."

Swann was a member of the only England men's side to have won a major global trophy -- the 2010 World Twenty20 in the Caribbean -- and sees parallels between that team and Morgan's men. &nbsp;

"The only world trophy I thought we had a genuine chance of winning was the World Twenty20 in the West Indies that we did, &nbsp;because we were ahead of the curve there.

"We picked a team of specialists, people like Craig Kieswetter, Michael Lumb -- and I think that's what England have finally started doing in the one-day game as well."

'Never write off India'

But Swann warned that England would face several tough opponents in their quest for World Cup glory.

"You can never write off India, they are an exceptional one-day team, Virat Kohli is a brilliant captain, brilliant player."

As for champions Australia, England's oldest rivals and five-times World Cup-winners, Swann said: "The Aussies are like Germany in the football -- you can never write them off at a World Cup."

Swann though said he was particularly looking forward to watching Pakistan, who won the 2017 Champions Trophy one-day tournament in Britain.

"They are so mercurial, you never know what you are going to get. When they are on fire, they are absolutely explosive and when they're not, they're awful."

Alastair Cook believes England can end decades of World Cup disappointment with a triumph on home soil this year. England have never won the men's World Cup, but with 100 days to go until the start of the latest edition, a team captained by Eoin Morgan are top of the 50-over world rankings.

Alastair Cook believes England can end decades of World Cup disappointment with a triumph on home soil this year. England have never won the men's World Cup, but with 100 days to go until the start of the latest edition, a team captained by Eoin Morgan are top of the 50-over world rankings. Former England skipper Cook, who retired from international cricket last year as the country's highest Test run-scorer and most-capped player, said there were several reasons why Morgan's men could go one better than the England teams that lost in the 1979, 1987 and 1992 finals. "They’re a very settled side, they’ve got 15 players pretty much nailed on for that squad," Cook told AFP at a World Cup event in London's Trafalgar Square on Tuesday. "Everyone knows their role, they're very comfortable in their role, they've got a lot of strength in depth, they seem to have a lot of options covered and they're an exciting team to watch. "They are a brilliant one-day side.” Cook never played in a World Cup, with the left-handed opening batsman dramatically dropped from the squad that then failed to beat a fellow Test nation while suffering a group-stage exit at the 2015 edition in Australia and New Zealand. But Cook said a change of attitude lay behind England's rise up the one-day rankings since that dismal display. "Probably over the years we've really concentrated on Test cricket as a nation. Over the last three or four years we've really given the one-day cricket its due," he said. 'Sky's the limit' It was a point emphasised by former England spinner Graeme Swann, who said: "I just think England are picking the right team these days. "They're picking one-day specialists and the sky's the limit. "When they bat, people like Jason Roy, Jonny Bairstow, they think that (scoring) 400 is feasible rather than an impossible dream. I think England have finally picked a very aggressive team as well, with Eoin Morgan, who's a brilliant captain. "They've got a team that is putting them in firm contention to win this World Cup," insisted Swann, who added "I never thought we (England) would win it deep down when I was there." Swann was a member of the only England men's side to have won a major global trophy -- the 2010 World Twenty20 in the Caribbean -- and sees parallels between that team and Morgan's men. "The only world trophy I thought we had a genuine chance of winning was the World Twenty20 in the West Indies that we did, because we were ahead of the curve there. "We picked a team of specialists, people like Craig Kieswetter, Michael Lumb -- and I think that's what England have finally started doing in the one-day game as well." 'Never write off India' But Swann warned that England would face several tough opponents in their quest for World Cup glory. "You can never write off India, they are an exceptional one-day team, Virat Kohli is a brilliant captain, brilliant player." As for champions Australia, England's oldest rivals and five-times World Cup-winners, Swann said: "The Aussies are like Germany in the football -- you can never write them off at a World Cup." Swann though said he was particularly looking forward to watching Pakistan, who won the 2017 Champions Trophy one-day tournament in Britain. "They are so mercurial, you never know what you are going to get. When they are on fire, they are absolutely explosive and when they're not, they're awful."

Alastair Cook confident England can end World Cup drought

"I'm still the 'Universe Boss'. That will never change. I'll take that to the grave," said West Indies batsman Chris Gayle after announcing retirement from the One-Day International (ODI) cricket.&nbsp;

The 39-year left-hander batsman said that he <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/west-indies-chris-gayle-announces-retirement-from-odi-cricket-197975">will retire from one-day format</a> after taking part in this year's World Cup in England and Wales.&nbsp;

"You're looking at a great man," he told espncricinfo.com. "I'm the greatest player in the world," Gayle added.&nbsp;

Gayle has scored 23 centuries and 9,727 runs in the 50-over format since making his debut against India in 1999.&nbsp;

"I'll let the youngsters have some fun and I can sit back in the party stand and watch them have some fun," said Gayle.&nbsp;

"Winning the World Cup would be a fairytale finish. The youngsters owe it to me to win. They have to do that for me and try and get me the trophy. I'll be looking to put my input in as well," he added.&nbsp;

Gayle is the second only to great Brian Lara among West Indians as the Windies' all-time record ODI runscorer. He needs 677 more runs to surpass Lara, a feat he will be hoping to achieve at his fifth World Cup.&nbsp;

"I'm in good condition. The body is feeling good and I'm pleased with that," said Gayle.&nbsp;

"I've lost a bit of weight and I don't want to get too big. I'm still working on my six pack.&nbsp;

"I'm trying to keep up with the youngsters in the field who are like cats the way they chase the ball. I still have it in me and I'm still enjoying it," he added. &nbsp;

The Windies begin their bid for a third World Cup title on May 31 against Pakistan.&nbsp;

Gayle will continue playing franchise cricket, with the T20 World Cup in two years' time potentially on the agenda.

"I'm still the 'Universe Boss'. That will never change. I'll take that to the grave," said West Indies batsman Chris Gayle after announcing retirement from the One-Day International (ODI) cricket.

"I'm still the 'Universe Boss'. That will never change. I'll take that to the grave," said West Indies batsman Chris Gayle after announcing retirement from the One-Day International (ODI) cricket. The 39-year left-hander batsman said that he will retire from one-day format after taking part in this year's World Cup in England and Wales. "You're looking at a great man," he told espncricinfo.com. "I'm the greatest player in the world," Gayle added. Gayle has scored 23 centuries and 9,727 runs in the 50-over format since making his debut against India in 1999. "I'll let the youngsters have some fun and I can sit back in the party stand and watch them have some fun," said Gayle. "Winning the World Cup would be a fairytale finish. The youngsters owe it to me to win. They have to do that for me and try and get me the trophy. I'll be looking to put my input in as well," he added. Gayle is the second only to great Brian Lara among West Indians as the Windies' all-time record ODI runscorer. He needs 677 more runs to surpass Lara, a feat he will be hoping to achieve at his fifth World Cup. "I'm in good condition. The body is feeling good and I'm pleased with that," said Gayle. "I've lost a bit of weight and I don't want to get too big. I'm still working on my six pack. "I'm trying to keep up with the youngsters in the field who are like cats the way they chase the ball. I still have it in me and I'm still enjoying it," he added. The Windies begin their bid for a third World Cup title on May 31 against Pakistan. Gayle will continue playing franchise cricket, with the T20 World Cup in two years' time potentially on the agenda.

I'm still 'Universe Boss', will take that to grave: West Indies' Chris Gayle

Argentina, Chile, Paraguay and Uruguay are to submit a joint bid to host the 2030 World Cup, Chile's President Sebastian Pinera announced on Thursday.

Argentina, Paraguay and Uruguay had already submitted a joint bid to host the centenary edition of football's most prestigious tournament, but Pinera said on Twitter that those countries' presidents had agreed to Chile's participation in the "joint candidacy".

Argentina and Uruguay originally announced their intention to submit a joint bid in 2017 before Paraguay joined the coalition later that year.

In December last year, Bolivia's football-mad president Evo Morales offered those three countries help in their bid, proposing "two or three departments as sub-seats" for the competition.

Had his offer been accepted, it would have meant the Hernando Siles Reyes stadium in La Paz potentially included as a host venue.

Pinera said he had been touting his idea to the presidents of Argentina, Paraguay and Uruguay for several months.

Uruguay hosted and won the inaugural World Cup in 1930, Chile was the venue in 1962 and Argentina emulated its neighbor's achievement by lifting the trophy on home soil in 1978.

Like Morales, Mauricio Macri of Argentina, Uruguay's Tabare Vazquez and Paraguayan Mario Abdo Benitez are all passionate about football having all been president of a club in their countries.

Pinera is a billionaire businessman who started out as a teacher and has no previous connection to football.

The South American bid faces competition from Morocco and potentially several other joint bids, including one from Britain and Ireland and another by an eastern European confederation of Greece, Serbia, Bulgaria and Romania.

Spain's Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez has even mooted a joint bid with Morocco, which has failed five times in bidding to host the World Cup, and Portugal.

Argentina, Chile, Paraguay and Uruguay are to submit a joint bid to host the 2030 World Cup, Chile's President Sebastian Pinera announced on Thursday. Argentina, Paraguay and Uruguay had already submitted a joint bid to host the centenary edition of football's most prestigious tournament, but Pinera said on Twitter that those countries' presidents had agreed to Chile's participation in the "joint candidacy".

Argentina, Chile, Paraguay and Uruguay are to submit a joint bid to host the 2030 World Cup, Chile's President Sebastian Pinera announced on Thursday. Argentina, Paraguay and Uruguay had already submitted a joint bid to host the centenary edition of football's most prestigious tournament, but Pinera said on Twitter that those countries' presidents had agreed to Chile's participation in the "joint candidacy". Argentina and Uruguay originally announced their intention to submit a joint bid in 2017 before Paraguay joined the coalition later that year. In December last year, Bolivia's football-mad president Evo Morales offered those three countries help in their bid, proposing "two or three departments as sub-seats" for the competition. Had his offer been accepted, it would have meant the Hernando Siles Reyes stadium in La Paz potentially included as a host venue. Pinera said he had been touting his idea to the presidents of Argentina, Paraguay and Uruguay for several months. Uruguay hosted and won the inaugural World Cup in 1930, Chile was the venue in 1962 and Argentina emulated its neighbor's achievement by lifting the trophy on home soil in 1978. Like Morales, Mauricio Macri of Argentina, Uruguay's Tabare Vazquez and Paraguayan Mario Abdo Benitez are all passionate about football having all been president of a club in their countries. Pinera is a billionaire businessman who started out as a teacher and has no previous connection to football. The South American bid faces competition from Morocco and potentially several other joint bids, including one from Britain and Ireland and another by an eastern European confederation of Greece, Serbia, Bulgaria and Romania. Spain's Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez has even mooted a joint bid with Morocco, which has failed five times in bidding to host the World Cup, and Portugal.

Argentina, Chile, Paraguay and Uruguay to present joint 2030 World Cup bid

Gordon Banks, the goalkeeper in England's 1966 World Cup-winning team, has died at the age of 81, his former club Stoke City said on Tuesday.&nbsp;

Banks won 73 caps for England between 1963 and 1972 and made nearly 200 appearances for Stoke before his playing career was brought to an end due to a car crash that cost him the sight in one eye.&nbsp;

He was widely regarded as one of the greatest goalkeepers to have played the game and will perhaps be best remembered for the diving stop he made to deny Brazil's Pele at the 1970 World Cup, which later became known as the "save of the century".&nbsp;

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We’re deeply saddened to hear that Gordon Banks, our <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WorldCup?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WorldCup</a>-winning goalkeeper, has passed away. 
 
Our thoughts are with Gordon’s friends, family and supporters at this difficult time. <a href="https://t.co/nbzncYBCFA">pic.twitter.com/nbzncYBCFA</a>
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"An all-time great for England, moments from his remarkable World Cup-winning career will continue to linger long in the memory."<a href="https://t.co/HGCrWnmkqX">https://t.co/HGCrWnmkqX</a>
— England (@England) <a href="https://twitter.com/England/status/1095268699202879488?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 12, 2019</a></blockquote>
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"It is with great sadness that we announce that Gordon passed away peacefully overnight," Banks' family said in a statement posted on Stoke's official website.&nbsp;

"We are devastated to lose him but we have so many happy memories and could not have been more proud of him."&nbsp;

Banks began his career at Chesterfield in 1958 and moved to Leicester City the following year. He won his first England cap in 1963, four years before he joined Stoke.&nbsp;

Gordon Banks, the goalkeeper in England's 1966 World Cup-winning team, has died at the age of 81, his former club Stoke City said on Tuesday. Banks won 73 caps for England between 1963 and 1972 and made nearly 200 appearances for Stoke before his playing career was brought to an end due to a car crash that cost him the sight in one eye.

Gordon Banks, the goalkeeper in England's 1966 World Cup-winning team, has died at the age of 81, his former club Stoke City said on Tuesday. Banks won 73 caps for England between 1963 and 1972 and made nearly 200 appearances for Stoke before his playing career was brought to an end due to a car crash that cost him the sight in one eye. He was widely regarded as one of the greatest goalkeepers to have played the game and will perhaps be best remembered for the diving stop he made to deny Brazil's Pele at the 1970 World Cup, which later became known as the "save of the century". We’re deeply saddened to hear that Gordon Banks, our #WorldCup-winning goalkeeper, has passed away. Our thoughts are with Gordon’s friends, family and supporters at this difficult time. pic.twitter.com/nbzncYBCFA — England (@England) February 12, 2019 × "An all-time great for England, moments from his remarkable World Cup-winning career will continue to linger long in the memory."https://t.co/HGCrWnmkqX — England (@England) February 12, 2019 × "It is with great sadness that we announce that Gordon passed away peacefully overnight," Banks' family said in a statement posted on Stoke's official website. "We are devastated to lose him but we have so many happy memories and could not have been more proud of him." Banks began his career at Chesterfield in 1958 and moved to Leicester City the following year. He won his first England cap in 1963, four years before he joined Stoke.

England's World Cup-winning keeper Gordon Banks dies at 81

Rishabh Pant's form is a "healthy headache" for India who are contemplating playing the 21-year-old wicketkeeper as a specialist batsman at this year's World Cup, chief selector M.S.K. Prasad has said.

The Twenty20 series in New Zealand illustrated India's problem of plenty behind the stumps with Mahendra Singh Dhoni keeping while fellow glovesmen Dinesh Karthik and Pant played as pure batsmen.

Even though his batting prowess has been on the wane, Dhoni's sharp glovework makes him India's first choice wicketkeeper in limited-overs cricket, while Karthik seems to have transformed himself into a fluent lower order batsman who can also float in the batting order.

Pant has played only three one-day internationals but his six-hitting prowess and stellar performance in India's breakthrough test series victory in Australia make him difficult to ignore as India chase their third 50-overs World Cup title in England.

"Undoubtedly he (Pant) is in contention," Prasad told ESPNcricinfo. "A healthy headache. The progression of Rishabh in the last one year is phenomenal across the formats.

"What we actually felt is he needs a bit of maturity now, gain more experience. That is the reason we have included him in India A series wherever possible."

All-rounder Vijay Shankar also gave a good account of himself both in the one-day and Twenty20 series in New Zealand to stake his claim to be part of the 20-player pool from which India would pick their final 15.

"In whatever opportunities he has got, Vijay Shankar has shown the skillsets required at this level," Prasad said of the 28-year-old middle order batsman who bowls medium pace.

"We have been grooming him through India A tours in the last two years. But we will have to see where he can fit in the dynamics of this team."

India begin their World Cup campaign against South Africa at Southampton on June 5.

Rishabh Pant's form is a "healthy headache" for India who are contemplating playing the 21-year-old wicketkeeper as a specialist batsman at this year's World Cup, chief selector M.

Rishabh Pant's form is a "healthy headache" for India who are contemplating playing the 21-year-old wicketkeeper as a specialist batsman at this year's World Cup, chief selector M.S.K. Prasad has said. The Twenty20 series in New Zealand illustrated India's problem of plenty behind the stumps with Mahendra Singh Dhoni keeping while fellow glovesmen Dinesh Karthik and Pant played as pure batsmen. Even though his batting prowess has been on the wane, Dhoni's sharp glovework makes him India's first choice wicketkeeper in limited-overs cricket, while Karthik seems to have transformed himself into a fluent lower order batsman who can also float in the batting order. Pant has played only three one-day internationals but his six-hitting prowess and stellar performance in India's breakthrough test series victory in Australia make him difficult to ignore as India chase their third 50-overs World Cup title in England. "Undoubtedly he (Pant) is in contention," Prasad told ESPNcricinfo. "A healthy headache. The progression of Rishabh in the last one year is phenomenal across the formats. "What we actually felt is he needs a bit of maturity now, gain more experience. That is the reason we have included him in India A series wherever possible." All-rounder Vijay Shankar also gave a good account of himself both in the one-day and Twenty20 series in New Zealand to stake his claim to be part of the 20-player pool from which India would pick their final 15. "In whatever opportunities he has got, Vijay Shankar has shown the skillsets required at this level," Prasad said of the 28-year-old middle order batsman who bowls medium pace. "We have been grooming him through India A tours in the last two years. But we will have to see where he can fit in the dynamics of this team." India begin their World Cup campaign against South Africa at Southampton on June 5.

'Healthy headache' Rishabh Pant in India's World Cup reckoning

Former captain Ricky Ponting has been appointed as an assistant coach of Australia's men's team for the 50-over World Cup in England later this year, the country's cricket board said on Friday.

The 44-year-old Ponting will work with Australia's batsmen for the May 30-July 14 tournament, with current batting coach Graeme Hick focussing on preparing the side for the Ashes tour in England, starting in August.

Ponting's appointment is the second major shakeup in Australia's backroom staff in as many days, with bowling coach David Saker resigning "effective immediately" on Thursday. Saker has been replaced temporarily by Troy Cooley.

Australia won their fifth World Cup title on home soil four years ago and head coach Justin Langer said that Ponting's experience in leading the team to two of those victories would be invaluable in England.

"Ricky knows what's required to win World Cups, and I know he will be a valuable mentor to not just the batting group, but the broader squad as we focus our attention on defending our World Cup title," Langer said.

"Ricky and I have worked together with the Australian men's team in the past, he is an extremely driven coach who is fully invested in the players development and improving Australian cricket.

"He has an impressive understanding of the game, he knows what's required to prepare and perform at the elite level, and we can't wait for him to get started working with the squad."

Ponting played 375 one-day internationals for Australia and led them to the World Cup titles in 2003 and 2007. He was also a member of Steve Waugh's winning side in 1999 - the last time the tournament was held in England.

As well as assisting the batsmen, Ponting will help Langer fine-tune the team's tactics and strategies, Cricket Australia's interim general manager of high-performance Belinda Clark said.

Clark said appointing Ponting for the World Cup would enable Hick to concentrate solely on helping Australia defend the Ashes against England.

"With two major events back to back we believe it is important to focus a number of staff specifically on one event," Clark said. "The appointment of Ricky is a part of this overall strategy."

Ponting has had short-term engagements with the Australian men's limited overs team in recent years and will begin his role after Australia's one-day series against India and Pakistan.

"I've enjoyed my previous short-term roles with the ODI and T20 teams but World Cups take on a whole different meaning for me," Ponting said.

"I have enormous confidence in the players available to the selectors and know we will be as tough to beat as any team, in this year's World Cup."

Former captain Ricky Ponting has been appointed as an assistant coach of Australia's men's team for the 50-over World Cup in England later this year, the country's cricket board said on Friday.

Former captain Ricky Ponting has been appointed as an assistant coach of Australia's men's team for the 50-over World Cup in England later this year, the country's cricket board said on Friday. The 44-year-old Ponting will work with Australia's batsmen for the May 30-July 14 tournament, with current batting coach Graeme Hick focussing on preparing the side for the Ashes tour in England, starting in August. Ponting's appointment is the second major shakeup in Australia's backroom staff in as many days, with bowling coach David Saker resigning "effective immediately" on Thursday. Saker has been replaced temporarily by Troy Cooley. Australia won their fifth World Cup title on home soil four years ago and head coach Justin Langer said that Ponting's experience in leading the team to two of those victories would be invaluable in England. "Ricky knows what's required to win World Cups, and I know he will be a valuable mentor to not just the batting group, but the broader squad as we focus our attention on defending our World Cup title," Langer said. "Ricky and I have worked together with the Australian men's team in the past, he is an extremely driven coach who is fully invested in the players development and improving Australian cricket. "He has an impressive understanding of the game, he knows what's required to prepare and perform at the elite level, and we can't wait for him to get started working with the squad." Ponting played 375 one-day internationals for Australia and led them to the World Cup titles in 2003 and 2007. He was also a member of Steve Waugh's winning side in 1999 - the last time the tournament was held in England. As well as assisting the batsmen, Ponting will help Langer fine-tune the team's tactics and strategies, Cricket Australia's interim general manager of high-performance Belinda Clark said. Clark said appointing Ponting for the World Cup would enable Hick to concentrate solely on helping Australia defend the Ashes against England. "With two major events back to back we believe it is important to focus a number of staff specifically on one event," Clark said. "The appointment of Ricky is a part of this overall strategy." Ponting has had short-term engagements with the Australian men's limited overs team in recent years and will begin his role after Australia's one-day series against India and Pakistan. "I've enjoyed my previous short-term roles with the ODI and T20 teams but World Cups take on a whole different meaning for me," Ponting said. "I have enormous confidence in the players available to the selectors and know we will be as tough to beat as any team, in this year's World Cup."

Former skipper Ricky Ponting named Australia's assistant coach for World Cup

Sarfraz Ahmed will continue as Pakistan captain at the World Cup in May despite serving a suspension for breaching the anti-racism code, Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) Chairman Ehsan Mani said on Tuesday.

Sarfraz was suspended for four matches by the International Cricket Council (ICC) when an on-field taunt aimed at South Africa's Andile Phehlukwayo was caught by stump microphones. Sarfraz admitted the offence and apoligised for his conduct.

"Sarfraz will remain Pakistan captain until the World Cup, I was always clear in my mind that Sarfraz would be the captain," Mani told reporters in Lahore.

"He will remain so until any other decision is taken," Mani added, saying Sarfraz's performance as captain would be evaluated only after the World Cup.

The PCB had rallied in support of Sarfraz, saying they were disappointed by the ICC's decision to suspend him after the matter had been resolved, and Mani backed him to lead the team.

The 31-year-old wicketkeeper, who led Pakistan to the ICC Champions Trophy title in 2017, was thankful for the board's support.

"The past few weeks have been extremely difficult for me as a person and professional, but I am delighted that the PCB has reassured its confidence and faith in me," Sarfraz said.

"In the lead up to the World Cup, Pakistan will play five ODIs each against Australia and England, which will also allow us the opportunity to further fine-tune our preparations."

Pakistan, who last won the World Cup in 1992, will begin their campaign against West Indies at Trent Bridge on May 31. The final of the 50-over tournament is scheduled for Sunday, July 14.

Sarfraz Ahmed will continue as Pakistan captain at the World Cup in May despite serving a suspension for breaching the anti-racism code, Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) Chairman Ehsan Mani said on Tuesday.

Sarfraz Ahmed will continue as Pakistan captain at the World Cup in May despite serving a suspension for breaching the anti-racism code, Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) Chairman Ehsan Mani said on Tuesday. Sarfraz was suspended for four matches by the International Cricket Council (ICC) when an on-field taunt aimed at South Africa's Andile Phehlukwayo was caught by stump microphones. Sarfraz admitted the offence and apoligised for his conduct. "Sarfraz will remain Pakistan captain until the World Cup, I was always clear in my mind that Sarfraz would be the captain," Mani told reporters in Lahore. "He will remain so until any other decision is taken," Mani added, saying Sarfraz's performance as captain would be evaluated only after the World Cup. The PCB had rallied in support of Sarfraz, saying they were disappointed by the ICC's decision to suspend him after the matter had been resolved, and Mani backed him to lead the team. The 31-year-old wicketkeeper, who led Pakistan to the ICC Champions Trophy title in 2017, was thankful for the board's support. "The past few weeks have been extremely difficult for me as a person and professional, but I am delighted that the PCB has reassured its confidence and faith in me," Sarfraz said. "In the lead up to the World Cup, Pakistan will play five ODIs each against Australia and England, which will also allow us the opportunity to further fine-tune our preparations." Pakistan, who last won the World Cup in 1992, will begin their campaign against West Indies at Trent Bridge on May 31. The final of the 50-over tournament is scheduled for Sunday, July 14.

Sarfraz Ahmed to captain Pakistan at World Cup, says PCB chief

Sachin Tendulkar has no hesitation in terming India as favourites going into the World Cup but what makes him happier is the team's ability to be competitive "in any part of the world and on any surface".&nbsp;

The Indian ODI team under Virat Kohli has won three bilateral away series against South Africa (5-1), Australia (2-1) and <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/5th-odi-india-beat-new-zealand-by-35-runs-win-series-4-1-194799">New Zealand (4-1)</a> with only defeat coming against England.&nbsp;

"I have gone on record saying that we have a perfect balance in the team where we will be competitive in any part of the world or on any surface," Tendulkar told PTI in an interview on Sunday.&nbsp;

"As far as our chances are concerned, I will not hesitate in saying that we are the favourites," said Tendulkar.&nbsp;

England, the World Cup hosts, had a torrid time against West Indies in Tests but the ODI outfit will be a different proposition on their home turf.&nbsp;

"It's all about getting the early momentum. My judgement on the toughest contenders would be England, while New Zealand would be the dark horse," he opined.&nbsp;

New Zealand may have been outplayed in the just-concluded ODI series but can prove to be a handful in the mega event.&nbsp;

"I know New Zealand have struggled in this series but it's a good unit, one needs to be on their toes," he said.&nbsp;

The suspended duo of Steve Smith and David Warner will be back in the international fold on March 29 and Australia will be as dangerous as any other team.&nbsp;

"I think Australia at full strength will be a formidable side. With Smith and David Warner back in the team and their other bowlers coming back into the ODI squad, it will be a competitive side," said Tendulkar.&nbsp;

But a few bad overs could spell doom for them as it happened during the recent series.&nbsp;

"But in one-day matches, it's such that when you have a couple of bad hours, 50 per cent of the match gets slipped away."&nbsp;

In Kolkata for marathon flag off, Tendulkar spoke about the young athletes who have done well for the nation in recent times.&nbsp;

He hailed the recent success of women athletes like Hima Das, Dutee Chand and Swapna Barman at the Asian Games and said the sport has proved to be an excellent tool for women empowerment.&nbsp;

He referred to India's Rio Olympics 2016 performance where India had won only two medals, both of them by women -- wrestler Sakshi Malik (bronze) and PV Sindhu (silver) in badminton.&nbsp;

"It's been fantastic through sports. Now for a number of years, we have seen women have brought glory to our nation. I see parents being more flexible in their thought process now. It's not just about becoming a doctor, a lawyer or engineer. There are a multiple things you can do today," the cricket icon said.&nbsp;&nbsp;

"That's how it should be. It's great for India. I always believed that the platforms provided for both men and women should be equal. This starts from the grassroots level. It should start right from the bottom and from thereon there should be equal opportunities for both," he said.&nbsp;

Tendulkar went on to fondly remember his childhood coach Ramakant Achrekar who passed away at the age of 87 last month.&nbsp;

"I hate using this 'was' word that comes to him. Losing Achrekar Sir will always be a permanent void.&nbsp;

"It was a wonderful time with him, that is how I would want to remember him. Wherever I'm in my life right now it's because of him and my family members. He was like family," he signed off.

Sachin Tendulkar has no hesitation in terming India as favourites going into the World Cup but what makes him happier is the team's ability to be competitive "in any part of the world and on any surface".

Sachin Tendulkar has no hesitation in terming India as favourites going into the World Cup but what makes him happier is the team's ability to be competitive "in any part of the world and on any surface". The Indian ODI team under Virat Kohli has won three bilateral away series against South Africa (5-1), Australia (2-1) and New Zealand (4-1) with only defeat coming against England. "I have gone on record saying that we have a perfect balance in the team where we will be competitive in any part of the world or on any surface," Tendulkar told PTI in an interview on Sunday. "As far as our chances are concerned, I will not hesitate in saying that we are the favourites," said Tendulkar. England, the World Cup hosts, had a torrid time against West Indies in Tests but the ODI outfit will be a different proposition on their home turf. "It's all about getting the early momentum. My judgement on the toughest contenders would be England, while New Zealand would be the dark horse," he opined. New Zealand may have been outplayed in the just-concluded ODI series but can prove to be a handful in the mega event. "I know New Zealand have struggled in this series but it's a good unit, one needs to be on their toes," he said. The suspended duo of Steve Smith and David Warner will be back in the international fold on March 29 and Australia will be as dangerous as any other team. "I think Australia at full strength will be a formidable side. With Smith and David Warner back in the team and their other bowlers coming back into the ODI squad, it will be a competitive side," said Tendulkar. But a few bad overs could spell doom for them as it happened during the recent series. "But in one-day matches, it's such that when you have a couple of bad hours, 50 per cent of the match gets slipped away." In Kolkata for marathon flag off, Tendulkar spoke about the young athletes who have done well for the nation in recent times. He hailed the recent success of women athletes like Hima Das, Dutee Chand and Swapna Barman at the Asian Games and said the sport has proved to be an excellent tool for women empowerment. He referred to India's Rio Olympics 2016 performance where India had won only two medals, both of them by women -- wrestler Sakshi Malik (bronze) and PV Sindhu (silver) in badminton. "It's been fantastic through sports. Now for a number of years, we have seen women have brought glory to our nation. I see parents being more flexible in their thought process now. It's not just about becoming a doctor, a lawyer or engineer. There are a multiple things you can do today," the cricket icon said. "That's how it should be. It's great for India. I always believed that the platforms provided for both men and women should be equal. This starts from the grassroots level. It should start right from the bottom and from thereon there should be equal opportunities for both," he said. Tendulkar went on to fondly remember his childhood coach Ramakant Achrekar who passed away at the age of 87 last month. "I hate using this 'was' word that comes to him. Losing Achrekar Sir will always be a permanent void. "It was a wonderful time with him, that is how I would want to remember him. Wherever I'm in my life right now it's because of him and my family members. He was like family," he signed off.

Indian team competitive in any part of world and on any surface: Sachin Tendulkar

Sri Lanka cricket legend <a href="http://www.wionews.com/search?q=Arjuna+Ranatunga">Arjuna Ranatunga</a> predicted Friday that the country would fall short at this year's World Cup because of corruption by officials and player indiscipline.

Ranatunga, who captained the side that won the 1996 World Cup, doubted that Sri Lanka would even get past the first round of the tournament that begins in England on May 30.

"There is corruption at the board. Players are demoralised. Players are fighting with each other," said the 55-year-old.

Ranatunga, who is currently Sri Lanka's transport minister, is preparing a new bid to take charge of Sri Lanka Cricket.

He told reporters in Colombo that the national cricket board and several unnamed players were responsible for the national team's recent poor performances.

Sri Lanka, who are currently touring Australia, lost the first Test by an innings and 40 runs after losing a two-Test series to New Zealand 1-0. Sri Lanka also lost the three one-day internationals and the one-off T20 match.

"We have to improve player discipline," Ranatunga said amid social media squabbling between T20 captain Lasith Malinga and stand-in captain Tissara Perera.

Sri Lanka Cricket has warned both players to quit the personal attacks but the outbursts continue.

However, Ranatunga said Sri Lanka should be better motivated and psychologically prepared for the World Cup.

He said he would contest board elections this month on a promise to turnaround the national team.

"There are some players who are not playing for the country but for their own personal gain," Ranatunga said, without naming alleged culprits. "They will be kicked out."

The crisis-ridden governing body is expected to hold elections this month after a nine-month delay following the end of president Thilanga Sumathipala's term last May.

Sri Lanka cricket legend Arjuna Ranatunga predicted Friday that the country would fall short at this year's World Cup because of corruption by officials and player indiscipline.

Sri Lanka cricket legend Arjuna Ranatunga predicted Friday that the country would fall short at this year's World Cup because of corruption by officials and player indiscipline. Ranatunga, who captained the side that won the 1996 World Cup, doubted that Sri Lanka would even get past the first round of the tournament that begins in England on May 30. "There is corruption at the board. Players are demoralised. Players are fighting with each other," said the 55-year-old. Ranatunga, who is currently Sri Lanka's transport minister, is preparing a new bid to take charge of Sri Lanka Cricket. He told reporters in Colombo that the national cricket board and several unnamed players were responsible for the national team's recent poor performances. Sri Lanka, who are currently touring Australia, lost the first Test by an innings and 40 runs after losing a two-Test series to New Zealand 1-0. Sri Lanka also lost the three one-day internationals and the one-off T20 match. "We have to improve player discipline," Ranatunga said amid social media squabbling between T20 captain Lasith Malinga and stand-in captain Tissara Perera. Sri Lanka Cricket has warned both players to quit the personal attacks but the outbursts continue. However, Ranatunga said Sri Lanka should be better motivated and psychologically prepared for the World Cup. He said he would contest board elections this month on a promise to turnaround the national team. "There are some players who are not playing for the country but for their own personal gain," Ranatunga said, without naming alleged culprits. "They will be kicked out." The crisis-ridden governing body is expected to hold elections this month after a nine-month delay following the end of president Thilanga Sumathipala's term last May.

Former Lankan captain Arjuna Ranatunga predicts Sri Lanka heading for World Cup disaster

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/indvsnz-india-beat-new-zealand-by-90-runs-in-2nd-odi-at-bay-oval-192941">India defeated New Zealand</a> by 90 runs in the second One-Day International at Bay Oval on Saturday, taking a 2-0 lead in the five-match series.&nbsp;

However, focusing on the upcoming cricket World Cup, Indian skipper Virat Kohli said that scoring some quick runs in the middle overs is one area India need to work on ahead of the big tournament.&nbsp;

"Clinical performance again. We were really balanced with the bat. 325 was par. Not something you feel comfortable considering New Zealand's batting. But it was good to put up a balanced performance," Kohli said at the post-match presentation ceremony.

He added, "I made a conscious effort after the second drinks break to take some risks. Once I got out, the new batsman had to take time. These are the things we need to look into with the World Cup nearby."

"We would like to score those 15-20 runs extra but at the same time, good to see us chip our way to a balanced total," said Virat.&nbsp;

Also Read: <a href="http://www.wionews.com/photos/india-register-biggest-odi-victory-in-new-zealand-major-takeaways-from-2nd-indvsnz-odi-192966">India register biggest ODI victory in New Zealand, here are major takeaways from </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/photos/india-register-biggest-odi-victory-in-new-zealand-major-takeaways-from-2nd-indvsnz-odi-192966">match</a>

The entire top order of the team India clicked against the hosts to help India put a challenging total against the Kiwis.&nbsp;

Opener Rohit Sharma (87) and Shikhar Dhawan (66) were the top contributors while skipper Virat Kohli (43) and Ambati Rayudu (47) were then involved in a 64-run partnership for the third wicket.&nbsp;

In death overs, MS Dhoni and Kedar Jadhav's fireworks accelerated the run-rate.&nbsp;

The third match is also at Bay Oval on Monday (January 28).&nbsp;

India defeated New Zealand by 90 runs in the second One-Day International at Bay Oval on Saturday, taking a 2-0 lead in the five-match series. However, focusing on the upcoming cricket World Cup, Indian skipper Virat Kohli said that scoring some quick runs in the middle overs is one area India need to work on ahead of the big tournament.

India defeated New Zealand by 90 runs in the second One-Day International at Bay Oval on Saturday, taking a 2-0 lead in the five-match series. However, focusing on the upcoming cricket World Cup, Indian skipper Virat Kohli said that scoring some quick runs in the middle overs is one area India need to work on ahead of the big tournament. "Clinical performance again. We were really balanced with the bat. 325 was par. Not something you feel comfortable considering New Zealand's batting. But it was good to put up a balanced performance," Kohli said at the post-match presentation ceremony. He added, "I made a conscious effort after the second drinks break to take some risks. Once I got out, the new batsman had to take time. These are the things we need to look into with the World Cup nearby." "We would like to score those 15-20 runs extra but at the same time, good to see us chip our way to a balanced total," said Virat. Also Read: India register biggest ODI victory in New Zealand, here are major takeaways from match The entire top order of the team India clicked against the hosts to help India put a challenging total against the Kiwis. Opener Rohit Sharma (87) and Shikhar Dhawan (66) were the top contributors while skipper Virat Kohli (43) and Ambati Rayudu (47) were then involved in a 64-run partnership for the third wicket. In death overs, MS Dhoni and Kedar Jadhav's fireworks accelerated the run-rate. The third match is also at Bay Oval on Monday (January 28).

Going into World Cup, Virat Kohli says Team India need to score extra runs in middle overs

Wrist spinner Kuldeep Yadav's sensational show at his maiden Test on Australian soil makes him India's first-choice spinner when it comes to selecting the playing XI for the upcoming World Cup in England feels team coach Ravi Shastri.&nbsp;

Kuldeep returned with a five-wicket haul in the first innings of the drawn fourth Test in Sydney against Australia and the wrist-spinner received huge accolades from the India coach.&nbsp;

"Kuldeep comes into the mix big time now (in the World Cup)," Shastri told 'India Today' TV channel.&nbsp;

"He might be in every Indian XI that plays (in the World Cup) because he has the advantage of a wrist spinner. We might need to choose between the other two finger spinners because wrist spinner now is the priority."&nbsp;

Young wicket-keeper batsman Rishabh Pant also impressed by scoring 350 runs at an average of 58.33 to emerge as the second leading run-scorer for India during the four-match Test series against Australia. India won the contest 2-1 to clinch their maiden Test series win on Australian soil.&nbsp;

However, the 21-year-old Pant, who scored an unbeaten 159 in Sydney, was not included in the squad for the Australia and New Zealand ODIs.&nbsp;

Shastri said Pant has been given a specific job of learning to finish games, which will be important for India during the World Cup.&nbsp;

"We have asked him to go back because he has been playing non-stop cricket. I think he needs a break for a couple of weeks and then join the India A team," the India coach said.&nbsp;

"He has been asked to do a specific job, to get into the habit of finishing off matches and he will be right there in the mix," he added.&nbsp;

Shastri again slammed the critics for "jabbering away".&nbsp;

"Who cares what people say? Look at the scoreboard, look at the results and rests is history, you can keep jabbering away." he said. 
"I always believed the people who jabber away are in the minority. You don't know the millions of fans that this Indian team has, you outnumber the jabbering crowd." 
Virat Kohli and Co. Will now take on Australia in the three-match one-day series starting in Sydney on Saturday.

Wrist spinner Kuldeep Yadav's sensational show at his maiden Test on Australian soil makes him India's first-choice spinner when it comes to selecting the playing XI for the upcoming World Cup in England feels team coach Ravi Shastri.

Wrist spinner Kuldeep Yadav's sensational show at his maiden Test on Australian soil makes him India's first-choice spinner when it comes to selecting the playing XI for the upcoming World Cup in England feels team coach Ravi Shastri. Kuldeep returned with a five-wicket haul in the first innings of the drawn fourth Test in Sydney against Australia and the wrist-spinner received huge accolades from the India coach. "Kuldeep comes into the mix big time now (in the World Cup)," Shastri told 'India Today' TV channel. "He might be in every Indian XI that plays (in the World Cup) because he has the advantage of a wrist spinner. We might need to choose between the other two finger spinners because wrist spinner now is the priority." Young wicket-keeper batsman Rishabh Pant also impressed by scoring 350 runs at an average of 58.33 to emerge as the second leading run-scorer for India during the four-match Test series against Australia. India won the contest 2-1 to clinch their maiden Test series win on Australian soil. However, the 21-year-old Pant, who scored an unbeaten 159 in Sydney, was not included in the squad for the Australia and New Zealand ODIs. Shastri said Pant has been given a specific job of learning to finish games, which will be important for India during the World Cup. "We have asked him to go back because he has been playing non-stop cricket. I think he needs a break for a couple of weeks and then join the India A team," the India coach said. "He has been asked to do a specific job, to get into the habit of finishing off matches and he will be right there in the mix," he added. Shastri again slammed the critics for "jabbering away". "Who cares what people say? Look at the scoreboard, look at the results and rests is history, you can keep jabbering away." he said. "I always believed the people who jabber away are in the minority. You don't know the millions of fans that this Indian team has, you outnumber the jabbering crowd." Virat Kohli and Co. Will now take on Australia in the three-match one-day series starting in Sydney on Saturday.

Kuldeep Yadav comes into World Cup mix big time: Ravi Shastri

Team India achieved the momentous Test series win on Australian soil since India started touring&nbsp;Australia in 1947-48. The Virat Kohli-led team clinched the series 2-1 after a 71-year wait.

After the fourth and final weather-affected match at the Sydney Cricket Ground finished in a draw, Team India accomplished what former Indian teams were unable to do. With a great performance in both batting and bowling departments, Team India justified their No-1 status in Test ranking.&nbsp;

Despite Cheteshwar Pujara's classic show throughout the series, the rising star was, no doubt, Rishabh Pant.&nbsp;

From on-field banters to hitting an unbeaten century, the 21-year-old gutsy Pant proved that he is the one for the future. Pant, who possesses a good sense of humour, enjoyed a colourful Test series and remained in the headlines.&nbsp;

This Test series will definitely be an important landmark in his career.&nbsp;

Pant scripted history when he became the first Indian wicket-keeper to score a century in Australia. He scored an unbeaten 159 off 189 balls at Sydney to record the highest ever score by an Indian wicket-keeper in an away Test. It was the highest score by an Asian wicket-keeper outside sub-continent. With a total of 350, he was also the second highest run-getter after Pujara in Australia.&nbsp;

Also Read: <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/rishabh-pant-attains-career-best-icc-test-ranking-surpasses-dhoni-and-equals-farokh-engineers-feat-188968">Rishabh Pant attains career-best ICC Test ranking, surpasses Dhoni and equals Farokh Engineer’s feat</a>

Besides batting, Pant impressed with his gloves too as he broke the record for most catches - 20 - by an Indian wicketkeeper in a Test series.&nbsp;

When Indian lower batting order struggled to score runs, Pant came at the seventh spot, quickly got into the groove and struck some crisp shots to contribute crucial runs for the team lower down the order.&nbsp;

The type of game Pant has displayed Down Under, has inspired youngsters and fulfilled what is required to build a stronger team.&nbsp;

In his Test debut year, Pant has scored a Test hundred each in England and Australia within months and scored a total of 696 runs.&nbsp;

Apart from Tests, Pant has been outstanding so far in Indian Premier League (IPL) as he scored 1,248 runs in 38 matches with a strike rate of 162.71 and in T20 Internationals he has played 10 matches and amassed 157 runs.&nbsp;

However, Pant is yet to prove himself in the one-day format since he has played just three ODIs scoring 41 runs.&nbsp;

Moreover, he is the top contender to be India's permanent wicket-keeper in all formats of the game when MS Dhoni bids goodbye to ODIs having already pulled out from Tests.

Now, the real "test" for selectors is whether to pick Pant in the World Cup, maybe the upcoming ODI series against Australia and New Zealand will decide where Dhoni will be under the scanner.

May the best man win.

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

Team India achieved the momentous Test series win on Australian soil since India started touring Australia in 1947-48. The Virat Kohli-led team clinched the series 2-1 after a 71-year wait.

Team India achieved the momentous Test series win on Australian soil since India started touring Australia in 1947-48. The Virat Kohli-led team clinched the series 2-1 after a 71-year wait. After the fourth and final weather-affected match at the Sydney Cricket Ground finished in a draw, Team India accomplished what former Indian teams were unable to do. With a great performance in both batting and bowling departments, Team India justified their No-1 status in Test ranking. Despite Cheteshwar Pujara's classic show throughout the series, the rising star was, no doubt, Rishabh Pant. From on-field banters to hitting an unbeaten century, the 21-year-old gutsy Pant proved that he is the one for the future. Pant, who possesses a good sense of humour, enjoyed a colourful Test series and remained in the headlines. This Test series will definitely be an important landmark in his career. Pant scripted history when he became the first Indian wicket-keeper to score a century in Australia. He scored an unbeaten 159 off 189 balls at Sydney to record the highest ever score by an Indian wicket-keeper in an away Test. It was the highest score by an Asian wicket-keeper outside sub-continent. With a total of 350, he was also the second highest run-getter after Pujara in Australia. Also Read: Rishabh Pant attains career-best ICC Test ranking, surpasses Dhoni and equals Farokh Engineer’s feat Besides batting, Pant impressed with his gloves too as he broke the record for most catches - 20 - by an Indian wicketkeeper in a Test series. When Indian lower batting order struggled to score runs, Pant came at the seventh spot, quickly got into the groove and struck some crisp shots to contribute crucial runs for the team lower down the order. The type of game Pant has displayed Down Under, has inspired youngsters and fulfilled what is required to build a stronger team. In his Test debut year, Pant has scored a Test hundred each in England and Australia within months and scored a total of 696 runs. Apart from Tests, Pant has been outstanding so far in Indian Premier League (IPL) as he scored 1,248 runs in 38 matches with a strike rate of 162.71 and in T20 Internationals he has played 10 matches and amassed 157 runs. However, Pant is yet to prove himself in the one-day format since he has played just three ODIs scoring 41 runs. Moreover, he is the top contender to be India's permanent wicket-keeper in all formats of the game when MS Dhoni bids goodbye to ODIs having already pulled out from Tests. Now, the real "test" for selectors is whether to pick Pant in the World Cup, maybe the upcoming ODI series against Australia and New Zealand will decide where Dhoni will be under the scanner. May the best man win. (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

ICC World Cup 2019: Who should keep wickets for India, Rishabh Pant or MS Dhoni

Yuvraj Singh may be past his prime but the veteran all-rounder Sunday said he would give his "best shot" to get into the reckoning for the upcoming World Cup.&nbsp;

"Cricket has given me everything. When I leave the game, I want to be at my best. I do not want to go with any regret," said Yuvraj Singh.

The 37-year-old, who was picked by Mumbai for his base price of Rs 1 crore at the IPL auctions, has set his sights on the T20 extravaganza to make a bid for a comeback.&nbsp;

"I'm trying my best. This is our final league Ranji Trophy match and let's see if we can qualify. After this, we have the national T20 tournament and then we have the IPL. I will give my best shot and hope for the best," Yuvraj said.&nbsp;

Yuvraj hailed the Virat Kohli-led India's fine show in the Test series in Australia.&nbsp;

"Obviously their experience in batting is not that much what it used to be. But it's fantastic effort from the guys. Especially, (Cheteshwar) Pujara, (Virat) Kohli, (Jasprit) Bumrah. It's great to see Rishab (Pant) going down the order and scoring big runs. It's great sign for Indian cricket for the future.&nbsp;

"Every time we toured Australia, it's been a very tough tour. We had the opportunity to win the series, it was a draw. Then next time Australia won 2-1," he said, recalling the 2003-04 and 2007-08 tours.&nbsp;

Yuvraj lavished praise on Pant who scored a Test hundred each in England and Australia within months from his debut.&nbsp;

"He came last year, he got picked for India. Everybody said he plays too many shots, he's rash, he doesn't have the mind. But after one year of being in and out, having a good IPL, the guy scored two hundreds overseas," Yuvraj said.&nbsp;

In the same vein, Yuvraj reckoned that his 19-year-old state teammate, Shubman Gill, is an exciting prospect and should play for India post the 2019 World Cup.&nbsp;

"Definitely he's someone who can represent India for a long time. He's a very special talent. After a long time I have seen a young guy whose batting I would like to watch. After 2019 World Cup, he should make it to the side."&nbsp;

Shubman's performance has been top-notch this season, amassing 629 runs in just seven innings at an average of 125.80.&nbsp;

Stressing on the need to look after the youngsters, Yuvraj said: "It all depends how well we look after our youngsters. You have to give them the confidence to excel. The prime example is Rishabh Pant."&nbsp;

Yuvraj said he is sharing his experience with the team as much as he can.&nbsp;

"I really enjoy playing with Punjab team. Especially last three-four seasons, I've played a lot of domestic cricket. Whatever I've gained through, I try and give it to the younger guys.&nbsp;

"We have a very talented side. But I feel there is a lack of exposure in terms of playing outside. The more cricket you play outside in terms of playing in Chennai, Bangalore, Delhi Hyderabad, your cricket will get better," Yuvraj concluded.&nbsp;

Yuvraj Singh may be past his prime but the veteran all-rounder Sunday said he would give his "best shot" to get into the reckoning for the upcoming World Cup. "Cricket has given me everything.

Yuvraj Singh may be past his prime but the veteran all-rounder Sunday said he would give his "best shot" to get into the reckoning for the upcoming World Cup. "Cricket has given me everything. When I leave the game, I want to be at my best. I do not want to go with any regret," said Yuvraj Singh. The 37-year-old, who was picked by Mumbai for his base price of Rs 1 crore at the IPL auctions, has set his sights on the T20 extravaganza to make a bid for a comeback. "I'm trying my best. This is our final league Ranji Trophy match and let's see if we can qualify. After this, we have the national T20 tournament and then we have the IPL. I will give my best shot and hope for the best," Yuvraj said. Yuvraj hailed the Virat Kohli-led India's fine show in the Test series in Australia. "Obviously their experience in batting is not that much what it used to be. But it's fantastic effort from the guys. Especially, (Cheteshwar) Pujara, (Virat) Kohli, (Jasprit) Bumrah. It's great to see Rishab (Pant) going down the order and scoring big runs. It's great sign for Indian cricket for the future. "Every time we toured Australia, it's been a very tough tour. We had the opportunity to win the series, it was a draw. Then next time Australia won 2-1," he said, recalling the 2003-04 and 2007-08 tours. Yuvraj lavished praise on Pant who scored a Test hundred each in England and Australia within months from his debut. "He came last year, he got picked for India. Everybody said he plays too many shots, he's rash, he doesn't have the mind. But after one year of being in and out, having a good IPL, the guy scored two hundreds overseas," Yuvraj said. In the same vein, Yuvraj reckoned that his 19-year-old state teammate, Shubman Gill, is an exciting prospect and should play for India post the 2019 World Cup. "Definitely he's someone who can represent India for a long time. He's a very special talent. After a long time I have seen a young guy whose batting I would like to watch. After 2019 World Cup, he should make it to the side." Shubman's performance has been top-notch this season, amassing 629 runs in just seven innings at an average of 125.80. Stressing on the need to look after the youngsters, Yuvraj said: "It all depends how well we look after our youngsters. You have to give them the confidence to excel. The prime example is Rishabh Pant." Yuvraj said he is sharing his experience with the team as much as he can. "I really enjoy playing with Punjab team. Especially last three-four seasons, I've played a lot of domestic cricket. Whatever I've gained through, I try and give it to the younger guys. "We have a very talented side. But I feel there is a lack of exposure in terms of playing outside. The more cricket you play outside in terms of playing in Chennai, Bangalore, Delhi Hyderabad, your cricket will get better," Yuvraj concluded.

Yuvraj Singh still harbours World Cup selection hopes

India are hoping to use the Asian Cup as a key building block towards realising a dream of qualifying for the 2026 World Cup finals but doubts remain over the quality of the side ahead of next month's continental showpiece in the United Arab Emirates.

India has a population of 1.3 billion but the nation's obsession with and success on the cricket pitch has left it a massive underachiever on the football field.

The national side is 97th in the FIFA rankings and yet to play at a World Cup, but All India Football Federation president Praful Patel is confident their fourth Asian Cup appearance will prove to be a vital stepping stone.

"The... dream needs to be achieved by 2026 as there will be eight teams from Asia in the FIFA World Cup," Patel told reporters last week, adding the team would just not be looking to make it out of the group stage in the UAE.

"You just always cannot live a dream and we have to make the Asian dream a reality."

India's qualification for the 2011 Asian Cup in Qatar was more a case of coming in through the back door when the country advanced by winning the AFC Challenge Cup, a tournament for the lowest ranked nations in the continent.

That was their first appearance since 1984 and while they remain the dominant force in South Asia, India are still a long way behind regional powerhouses Japan, Australia, South Korea, Iran and Saudi Arabia.

They failed to qualify for the 2015 Asian Cup and the Asian Football Confederation's (AFC) decision to increase the number of finalists from 16 teams to 24 has helped the country return to the tournament.

India, managed by English coach Stephen Constantine, have been drawn in Group A alongside hosts United Arab Emirates, Bahrain and Thailand for the Jan. 5-Feb. 1 tournament.

"The Asian Cup is a massive tournament for India and everyone involved in the sport," Constantine said. "We have three games from Jan. 6-14 and I am focusing on them.

"We will take one game at a time and we have scouted Thailand intensively to the point that we have watched them three-four times for analysis."

Sunil Chhetri is the only surviving member of the 2011 team who lost all three group games in Qatar and his tally of 65 goals from 103 international matches since his 2005 debut makes him India's most prolific striker.

Comparing the preparation of the current squad with the one that played in the tournament eight years ago, Chhetri said the 2011 team were together for six months while the current crop have been busy playing for their clubs in domestic leagues.

A 28-member squad left India for Abu Dhabi on Dec. 20 to prepare for the quadrennial tournament and played one friendly against Oman on Thursday, a 0-0 draw, while other Asian sides have warmed up with a string of matches.

Since their last appearance at the finals in 2011, India have only played two matches against a top-six Asian side when they were grouped with Iran for the 2018 World Cup qualifiers, losing both ties without scoring a goal.

"We have two weeks there in Abu Dhabi to get acclimatised. As far as preparation is concerned, it's okay," Constantine added. "I think we could have had a few more games but that was not for lack of trying.

"We sent letters to 25-30 different nations asking for game. We wanted to play against teams in Asian Cup. We've tried the best we can."

India are hoping to use the Asian Cup as a key building block towards realising a dream of qualifying for the 2026 World Cup finals but doubts remain over the quality of the side ahead of next month's continental showpiece in the United Arab Emirates.

India are hoping to use the Asian Cup as a key building block towards realising a dream of qualifying for the 2026 World Cup finals but doubts remain over the quality of the side ahead of next month's continental showpiece in the United Arab Emirates. India has a population of 1.3 billion but the nation's obsession with and success on the cricket pitch has left it a massive underachiever on the football field. The national side is 97th in the FIFA rankings and yet to play at a World Cup, but All India Football Federation president Praful Patel is confident their fourth Asian Cup appearance will prove to be a vital stepping stone. "The... dream needs to be achieved by 2026 as there will be eight teams from Asia in the FIFA World Cup," Patel told reporters last week, adding the team would just not be looking to make it out of the group stage in the UAE. "You just always cannot live a dream and we have to make the Asian dream a reality." India's qualification for the 2011 Asian Cup in Qatar was more a case of coming in through the back door when the country advanced by winning the AFC Challenge Cup, a tournament for the lowest ranked nations in the continent. That was their first appearance since 1984 and while they remain the dominant force in South Asia, India are still a long way behind regional powerhouses Japan, Australia, South Korea, Iran and Saudi Arabia. They failed to qualify for the 2015 Asian Cup and the Asian Football Confederation's (AFC) decision to increase the number of finalists from 16 teams to 24 has helped the country return to the tournament. India, managed by English coach Stephen Constantine, have been drawn in Group A alongside hosts United Arab Emirates, Bahrain and Thailand for the Jan. 5-Feb. 1 tournament. "The Asian Cup is a massive tournament for India and everyone involved in the sport," Constantine said. "We have three games from Jan. 6-14 and I am focusing on them. "We will take one game at a time and we have scouted Thailand intensively to the point that we have watched them three-four times for analysis." Sunil Chhetri is the only surviving member of the 2011 team who lost all three group games in Qatar and his tally of 65 goals from 103 international matches since his 2005 debut makes him India's most prolific striker. Comparing the preparation of the current squad with the one that played in the tournament eight years ago, Chhetri said the 2011 team were together for six months while the current crop have been busy playing for their clubs in domestic leagues. A 28-member squad left India for Abu Dhabi on Dec. 20 to prepare for the quadrennial tournament and played one friendly against Oman on Thursday, a 0-0 draw, while other Asian sides have warmed up with a string of matches. Since their last appearance at the finals in 2011, India have only played two matches against a top-six Asian side when they were grouped with Iran for the 2018 World Cup qualifiers, losing both ties without scoring a goal. "We have two weeks there in Abu Dhabi to get acclimatised. As far as preparation is concerned, it's okay," Constantine added. "I think we could have had a few more games but that was not for lack of trying. "We sent letters to 25-30 different nations asking for game. We wanted to play against teams in Asian Cup. We've tried the best we can."

Asian Cup 2019: India sees it as stepping stone towards future dream

FIFA ranking at the end of the year 2018

Luka Modric started the year 2018 with his tremendous performance for Real Madrid and his crucial contributions in the midfield inspired the team to win Champions League after defeating Liverpool in the final.

Croatia's star footballer then looked forward to building on the momentum and continued his preparations for the FIFA World Cup 2018.&nbsp;

In his leadership, Croatia reached the final of football World Cup for the first time in history, however, the team lost to France in the high-octane clash.&nbsp;

Despite the 4-2 defeat by France, more than 500,000 people gave captain Modric and his team a heroic welcome on their return to Croatia's capital city, Zagreb.&nbsp;

The 33-year-old Modric is described as a quick and creative playmaker. He believes in promoting goals and very rare shoots off-mark when he attempts to score.&nbsp;

With great vision, he tries to change the course of the game with a deft pass, or with a solo, long-range effort.

Modric is popular for his ability to pass the ball accurately across long or short distances, his ball control, first touch, positional play, and his ability to retain possession.

Very few would know that Modric is able to play with both feet and with the help of his clever moves, he sets the tempo of the game.

Luka Modric is the first player in history to be awarded the World Cup Golden Ball, UEFA Men's Player, FIFA Best Men's Player and Ballon d'Or in the same year.&nbsp;

In 2002, he was signed by his hometown club's youth team Dinamo Zagreb at age 16.

After three years, in 2005, he made his debut for Dinamo and won three consecutive league titles and domestic cups, being named the Prva HNL Player of the Year in 2007

In 2008, he earned himself a massive opportunity when he was signed by Premier League club Tottenham Hotspur for a club-record transfer fee of £16.5 million.

After the crucial move, Modric led Spurs to their first UEFA Champions League appearance in almost 50 years, reaching the quarter-finals of the 2010–11 tournament.

In the summer of 2012, Modric joined Real Madrid for a £30 million transfer fee and ever since he continued to flourish as a key player for the Spanish giants.

Luka Modric's journey from Croatian war child to the world's best footballer, a national hero in his home country and crowned the best player on the planet, is world appreciating.

In early years Modric was a child refugee. He flew the burned-out shell of a remote Croatian cottage where he spent part of his childhood.

Hidden in the folds of Velebit mountain, with the nearest neighbours several kilometres away, trees now grow inside the roofless ruin and a sign warns of "Mines - Keep out!"

The player's grandfather, also named Luka, lived in the house, lying on a mountain road winding through the Modrici hamlet.

His grandfather was killed by Serb forces, the house was burned and the family fled to the coastal town of Zadar, some 40 kilometres (19 miles) away.

It was there that Modric, born in 1985, began his footballing odyssey, drawing attention for the first time to his budding abilities. &nbsp;

Modric left Zadar, where he remains a legend, for Dinamo Zagreb in 2000 and then joined English Premier League club Tottenham Hotspur in 2008. After a bidding war he was snapped up by Real Madrid in 2012.

Luka Modric started the year 2018 with his tremendous performance for Real Madrid and his crucial contributions in the midfield inspired the team to win Champions League after defeating Liverpool in the final.

Luka Modric started the year 2018 with his tremendous performance for Real Madrid and his crucial contributions in the midfield inspired the team to win Champions League after defeating Liverpool in the final. Croatia's star footballer then looked forward to building on the momentum and continued his preparations for the FIFA World Cup 2018. In his leadership, Croatia reached the final of football World Cup for the first time in history, however, the team lost to France in the high-octane clash. Despite the 4-2 defeat by France, more than 500,000 people gave captain Modric and his team a heroic welcome on their return to Croatia's capital city, Zagreb. The 33-year-old Modric is described as a quick and creative playmaker. He believes in promoting goals and very rare shoots off-mark when he attempts to score. With great vision, he tries to change the course of the game with a deft pass, or with a solo, long-range effort. Modric is popular for his ability to pass the ball accurately across long or short distances, his ball control, first touch, positional play, and his ability to retain possession. Very few would know that Modric is able to play with both feet and with the help of his clever moves, he sets the tempo of the game. Luka Modric is the first player in history to be awarded the World Cup Golden Ball, UEFA Men's Player, FIFA Best Men's Player and Ballon d'Or in the same year. In 2002, he was signed by his hometown club's youth team Dinamo Zagreb at age 16. After three years, in 2005, he made his debut for Dinamo and won three consecutive league titles and domestic cups, being named the Prva HNL Player of the Year in 2007 In 2008, he earned himself a massive opportunity when he was signed by Premier League club Tottenham Hotspur for a club-record transfer fee of £16.5 million. After the crucial move, Modric led Spurs to their first UEFA Champions League appearance in almost 50 years, reaching the quarter-finals of the 2010–11 tournament. In the summer of 2012, Modric joined Real Madrid for a £30 million transfer fee and ever since he continued to flourish as a key player for the Spanish giants. Luka Modric's journey from Croatian war child to the world's best footballer, a national hero in his home country and crowned the best player on the planet, is world appreciating. In early years Modric was a child refugee. He flew the burned-out shell of a remote Croatian cottage where he spent part of his childhood. Hidden in the folds of Velebit mountain, with the nearest neighbours several kilometres away, trees now grow inside the roofless ruin and a sign warns of "Mines - Keep out!" The player's grandfather, also named Luka, lived in the house, lying on a mountain road winding through the Modrici hamlet. His grandfather was killed by Serb forces, the house was burned and the family fled to the coastal town of Zadar, some 40 kilometres (19 miles) away. It was there that Modric, born in 1985, began his footballing odyssey, drawing attention for the first time to his budding abilities. Modric left Zadar, where he remains a legend, for Dinamo Zagreb in 2000 and then joined English Premier League club Tottenham Hotspur in 2008. After a bidding war he was snapped up by Real Madrid in 2012.

From football World Cup to Ballon d'Or, year 2018 belongs to Luka Modric

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has lauded recently retired cricketer Gautam Gambhir for his contribution to the sport as well for his efforts to bring "positive difference in the lives of the lesser privileged".&nbsp;

PM Modi made a special mention of the contribution made by Gambhir during India's triumphant campaign at the ICC World Twenty20 2007 and the ICC World Cup (50-over) in 2011.

"Let me begin by congratulating you for your stupendous contribution to Indian sports! India will always be grateful to you for you memorable performances, many of which resulted in historic victories for our nation," Modi wrote in the letter which was posted by Gambhir on his Twitter handle.

Gambhir thanked the PM for his kind words.&nbsp;

"Thanks @narendramodi @PMOIndia for the kind words. Nothing of this would have been possible without love and support of our fellow countrymen. All these deeds are dedicated to our country," he said in the same tweet posted along with the letter.&nbsp;

Modi praised Gambhir's passion for the game.

"I am sure the journey was filled with both ups and downs but your dedication and persistence ensured that you began to play for the nation. Within a short span, you emerged as a dependable opener, who often took the team to flying starts," the Prime Minister said.

The 37-year-old Gambhir was one of the most outspoken sportsmen who do not shy away from voicing their opinions on several issues facing the nation.&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
Thanks <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@narendramodi</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/PMOIndia?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@PMOIndia</a> for the kind words. Nothing of this would have been possible without love and support of our fellow countrymen. All these deeds are dedicated to our country. <a href="https://t.co/3P3HcViIJ5">pic.twitter.com/3P3HcViIJ5</a>
— Gautam Gambhir (@GautamGambhir) <a href="https://twitter.com/GautamGambhir/status/1074244973258776581?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 16, 2018</a></blockquote>
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"The firmness and frankness with which you have spoken about issues, especially relating to India's unity and integrity have endeared you to people across the spectrum," PM Modi said.&nbsp;

"Alongside your game, you have been at the forefront of several community service initiatives and this is extremely heartening to see. It is great when public figures show the way and devote time as well as resources towards bringing a positive difference in the lives of the lesser privileged," he said.&nbsp;

Gambhir made 58 Test appearances for India, accumulating 4154 runs at an average of 41.95. His 147 ODI games fetched 5238 runs, while in 37 T20 Internationals, he scored 932 runs.&nbsp;&nbsp;

"When you announced retirement from all forms of cricket, you left several well wishers of yours disappointed. However, this decision marks the start of not one but several other innings of your life. You will have the time and opportunity to pursue other aspects which you would have wanted to pursue a lot earlier but didn't not have the time for," Modi said.

After his retirement, there was speculation that Gambhir may join politics but he categorically rejected it.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has lauded recently retired cricketer Gautam Gambhir for his contribution to the sport as well for his efforts to bring "positive difference in the lives of the lesser privileged".

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has lauded recently retired cricketer Gautam Gambhir for his contribution to the sport as well for his efforts to bring "positive difference in the lives of the lesser privileged". PM Modi made a special mention of the contribution made by Gambhir during India's triumphant campaign at the ICC World Twenty20 2007 and the ICC World Cup (50-over) in 2011. "Let me begin by congratulating you for your stupendous contribution to Indian sports! India will always be grateful to you for you memorable performances, many of which resulted in historic victories for our nation," Modi wrote in the letter which was posted by Gambhir on his Twitter handle. Gambhir thanked the PM for his kind words. "Thanks @narendramodi @PMOIndia for the kind words. Nothing of this would have been possible without love and support of our fellow countrymen. All these deeds are dedicated to our country," he said in the same tweet posted along with the letter. Modi praised Gambhir's passion for the game. "I am sure the journey was filled with both ups and downs but your dedication and persistence ensured that you began to play for the nation. Within a short span, you emerged as a dependable opener, who often took the team to flying starts," the Prime Minister said. The 37-year-old Gambhir was one of the most outspoken sportsmen who do not shy away from voicing their opinions on several issues facing the nation. Thanks @narendramodi @PMOIndia for the kind words. Nothing of this would have been possible without love and support of our fellow countrymen. All these deeds are dedicated to our country. pic.twitter.com/3P3HcViIJ5 — Gautam Gambhir (@GautamGambhir) December 16, 2018 × "The firmness and frankness with which you have spoken about issues, especially relating to India's unity and integrity have endeared you to people across the spectrum," PM Modi said. "Alongside your game, you have been at the forefront of several community service initiatives and this is extremely heartening to see. It is great when public figures show the way and devote time as well as resources towards bringing a positive difference in the lives of the lesser privileged," he said. Gambhir made 58 Test appearances for India, accumulating 4154 runs at an average of 41.95. His 147 ODI games fetched 5238 runs, while in 37 T20 Internationals, he scored 932 runs. "When you announced retirement from all forms of cricket, you left several well wishers of yours disappointed. However, this decision marks the start of not one but several other innings of your life. You will have the time and opportunity to pursue other aspects which you would have wanted to pursue a lot earlier but didn't not have the time for," Modi said. After his retirement, there was speculation that Gambhir may join politics but he categorically rejected it.

PM Modi lauds Gambhir for his contribution to Indian cricket and his work on social causes

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