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Tag: Virat Kohli

  • Opinion: Should Virat Kohli continue to open the innings for India or move down to number 3 in the ongoing T20 World Cup 2024? , Cricket News

    T20 World Cup 2024: Virat Kohli’s batting position in the ongoing T20 World Cup has become a major talking point. The star batsman has shined at number 3 for more than a decade, but in this tournament, he has been deployed as an opener alongside Rohit Sharma. This decision has not yielded results yet, sparking debate among fans and pundits alike. Let’s delve into the arguments for and against Kohli opening in the T20 World Cup.

    Virat Kohli’s T20 World Cup 2024 Performance

    1 (5) vs Ireland

    4 (3) vs Pakistan

    0 (1) vs USA

    24 (24) vs Afghanistan

    Virat has had a poor run so far in the four matches in the ongoing edition of the T20 WC, where he has just managed 29 runs in four outings. Kohli struggled on the tricky New York pitch and registered a string of low scores – 1, 4, and 0. Many expected this to end on the Caribbean soil, but it didn’t change much for him. In the Super 8 match against Afghanistan, Kohli had another flop outing with a run-a-ball 24-run knock.

    Reasons why Virat Kohli should open

    1. Maximizing Batting Prowess: Opening allows Kohli to face more deliveries, potentially leading to a higher run tally. This is crucial considering his struggles in recent outings. Proponents argue that a familiarised opening role, like in IPL 2024 where he won the Orange Cap, can reignite his form.

    2. Aggressive Intent in Powerplay: Kohli’s strength lies in playing aggressive cricket. The opening partnership sets the tone for the innings, and Kohli’s attacking mindset can put the opposition on the back foot early on. This is especially important on sluggish pitches where a brisk start is vital.

    3. Accommodating a Flexible Middle Order: With Kohli opening, the middle order gains flexibility. Rishabh Pant’s explosive batting at number 3 has been a revelation, and the likes of Suryakumar Yadav and Shivam Dube can play their natural game in the middle overs.

    Reasons Why Virat Kohli Should Bat At Number 3

    1. Disrupting a Proven Strategy: Historically, Kohli has thrived at number 3, anchoring the innings and building partnerships. A change in position can disrupt his rhythm and impact his batting confidence.

    2. Struggles as an Opener: Kohli’s recent form as an opener in the World Cup hasn’t been convincing. Scores of 1, 4, 0, and 24 have raised questions about his ability to adapt to the role seamlessly in high-pressure situations.

    3. Impact on Rohit Sharma: Opening alongside a struggling Kohli might put additional pressure on Rohit Sharma, another senior batsman. A struggling top order can leave the middle order exposed early on.

    Finding the Middle Ground: Can India Change The Batting Order According To The Pitch Conditions?

    Promote Kohli Up the Order Only on Flat Pitches: If the pitches become batting paradises later in the tournament, Kohli should stick to opening the innings. As we have seen in the IPL, he is very dangerous on good batting tracks and can make full use of the powerplay.

    Give Kohli a Short Leash: If his struggles as an opener continue, the team management might need to consider a change. A young talent like Yashasvi Jaiswal could be given an opportunity to showcase his skills.

    What’s My Take On Virat Kohli’s Batting Position

    Virat Kohli should continue to open the innings because he has been batting at number 3 for the last four or five World Cups, and we still haven’t won any of them. If India has decided to open with Virat Kohli, they should stick to it until the semi-finals or finals, wherever we reach. Now that Rishabh Pant looks settled at number 3, you don’t want to change the team combination against bigger opponents. All the upcoming matches will be against stronger teams, and now is not the time to experiment. Stick to this combination, as Virat is a match-winner who will eventually regain form. This gamble may prove to be a game-changer and could lead to a title win after 11 long years.

  • Virat Kohli’s Brand Value Of $227 Million, Ranveer Singh’s $200 Million Brand Worth Makes Them India’s Most Valuable Celebs | People News

    New Delhi: Bollywood superstar Ranveer Singh and Virat Kohli continue to be a game changer and rank highest as per the latest ‘Brands, Business, Bollywood Celebrity Brand Valuation report 2023’. Both these celebs endorse multiple brands and are seen as trailblazers in their respective fields of entertainment and cricket.

    The recent report, titled ‘Brands, Business, Bollywood Celebrity Brand Valuation report 2023’, highlighted Ranveer Singh’s consistent growth in brand value over the past four years. His valuation nearly doubled, rising from $102.9 million in 2020 to $203.1 million in 2023. The superstar’s brand value surpassed the $200 million mark for the first time.

    Virat Kohli has regained the top spot as India’s most-valued celebrity with a brand value of $227.9 million, as per the report. Meanwhile, Ranveer has as many as 50 brands, including Tiffany & Co. and Zomato during the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup 2023. Singh also ventured into investments, recently becoming a key stakeholder in boAt.

    Ranveer Singh commanded the second top spot with a brand value of $203.1 million- the top leading name from the entertainment industry, while Shah Rukh Khan climbed to third place with $120.7 million.

  • ‘Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli should be considered our friend’: Fans engage in fun banter with Shaheen Afridi ahead of India vs Pakistan clash | Cricket News

    The Indian fans have sent a fun message to Pakistan pacer Shaheen Shah Afridi ahead of the high-voltage clash between both sides in the ongoing T20 World Cup in New York on Sunday. Nerves are a constant factor when two of the oldest cricket rivals appear on the same field. Emotions run high, adrenalin rush kicks in, and tension starts to escalate through the roof are some of the things that are easily visible during the India-Pakistan clash.

    Fans usually spend time debating about the better side and better players. But in a video that recently went viral on social media, India fans had a fun banter with Pakistan ace Shaheen. They joked that Shaheen should consider India’s stalwart duo of Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma as his friends.

    “Consider Rohit and Virat as your good friends,” a fan was heard saying. (Big Boost For Babar Azam’s Pakistan Ahead Of T20 World Cup 2024 Game Against Team India, THIS All-Rounder Set To Make Comeback)

    Check out the video here…

    Indian fans to Shaheen Afridi :

    “I don’t want to bowl well tomorrow”

    “Consider Rohit and Virat as your good friends”

    pic.twitter.com/20jG1zL3ip

    aaraynsh (@aaraynsh) June 8, 2024

    In the past, Shaheen has caused trouble for India batters with his left-arm inswinging deliveries. A fan wanted Shaheen to bowl below his standards and jokingly said, “Kal acchi bowling nahi karni hai.”

    India and Pakistan will step into New York’s Nassau County International Cricket Stadium to add a new chapter to their historic rivalry. In the previous edition of the tournament, India needed magic from Kohli’s bat to seal a thrilling win at the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground in 2022. This time Pakistan will look to take revenge for their slump and clinch their first win of the tournament.

    The video looks the day before the India vs Pakistan match is scheduled to play as fan is heard telling to not bowl well tomorrow in the game. Afridi is a key player for his team just like Kohli and Rohit, he will surely look to trouble the Indian duo this time as well.

    India T20 WC squad: Rohit Sharma (c), Hardik Pandya, Yashasvi Jaiswal, Virat Kohli, Suryakumar Yadav, Rishabh Pant, Sanju Samson, Shivam Dube, Ravindra Jadeja, Axar Patel, Kuldeep Yadav, Yuzvendra Chahal, Arshdeep Singh, Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Siraj. (With ANI inputs)

  • IND vs PAK, T20 World Cup 2024: Rohit Sharma makes a big statement about Virat Kohli, says, ‘Don’t want to rely on…’ | Cricket News

    The cricketing world is holding its breath as two of the game’s greatest rivals, India and Pakistan, prepare to reignite their epic rivalry on the grandest stage – the T20 World Cup 2024. As the teams gear up to clash at the iconic Nassau County International Cricket Stadium in New York, the anticipation among fans has reached fever pitch, with the promise of an electrifying encounter that will etch its name in the annals of this historic rivalry.

    Also Read: India vs Pakistan Live Score Updates: Eyes On New York Pitch

    Kohli’s Prowess: India’s Trump Card

    All eyes will be on the talismanic Virat Kohli, whose exploits with the willow have earned him a reputation as one of the greatest batsmen of the modern era. Known for his insatiable hunger for runs and his ability to rise to the occasion, Kohli will undoubtedly be India’s trump card in this high-stakes clash.

    Captain Rohit Sharma, however, is well aware that relying solely on individual brilliance is a risky proposition. “I don’t want to rely on one or two individuals to win us the game,” he asserted. “I think all 11 of us need to contribute. Of course, there are key players who are going to play key roles for us, but I think everyone needs to chip in whatever they can, however they can, in their best possible way. “

    Kohli’s Experience: An Unbeatable Asset

    Despite Kohli’s recent struggles with form, Rohit remains unwavering in his faith in the veteran batsman’s ability to deliver on the big stage. “The kind of experience that he has, playing all over the world, playing in big tournaments, nothing can beat that,” Rohit proclaimed, underscoring the value of Kohli’s vast experience in high-pressure situations.

    Pakistan’s Formidable Challenge

    On the other side of the coin, Pakistan boasts a formidable lineup led by the imperious Babar Azam. Renowned for his elegant stroke play and consistent run-scoring, Azam will be the linchpin of Pakistan’s batting order, ably supported by the explosive Fakhar Zaman and the ever-reliable Mohammad Rizwan.

    The bowling attack, spearheaded by the fiery Shaheen Shah Afridi and the wily Haris Rauf, promises to pose a stern test for the Indian batsmen. The presence of seasoned campaigners like Mohammad Amir and Shadab Khan adds depth and versatility to Pakistan’s arsenal, setting the stage for a mouth-watering contest.

  • Pakistan’s T20 Campaign Derailed After Loss to USA: Here’s How PAK Can Still Qualify for Super 8 – All Scenarios Explained | Cricket News

    Pakistan suffered a shocking defeat to the USA in their opening match of the T20 World Cup 2024 at the Grand Prairie Stadium, Dallas. This loss has put Pakistan’s campaign in jeopardy, significantly reducing their chances of reaching the Super 8s. Coming into the World Cup with a shaky form—having lost two games to a second-string New Zealand, one T20I to Ireland, and a T20I series to England—Pakistan was expected to perform well in conditions favorable to fast bowlers. However, the USA displayed grit and determination, outplaying Pakistan in all departments to stun the 2022 runners-up.

    Pakistan’s Road To Qualification

    To keep their hopes alive, Pakistan must win their next three matches. A crucial game against India is scheduled for June 9, and a victory is essential for Pakistan to have a realistic chance of advancing. Additionally, Pakistan needs to defeat both Canada and Ireland to bolster their qualification prospects.

    If Pakistan loses to India, their chances become slim, even with wins against Canada and Ireland. This scenario arises because the USA could potentially accumulate more points than Pakistan. Even if the USA loses to Ireland and India, their superior run rate might give them an edge over Pakistan if Pakistan falls to India.

    Pakistan Qualification Scenarios Explained

    Pakistan needs a minimum of six points from the four matches in the group stage. After the unexpected loss to the USA, the road ahead is challenging for the Asian giants.

    Best Qualification Scenerio Result Pakistan vs India Pak Win Pakistan vs Ireland Pak Win Pakistan vs Canada Pak Win

    Points so far: 0 Total points needed: 6 Wins needed: 3 Matches remaining: 3

    If Pakistan win there all remaining matches and USA lose to India and Ireland Pakistan will directly qualify for the super 8 stage

    Tough Qualification Scenario Result Pak vs Ind Ind Win Pak vs Ire Pak Win Pak vs Can Pak Win


    In this case, Pakistan will have to hope that the USA loses to both India and Ireland, and that too by a large margin, so Pakistan can qualify based on net run rate. These are the only scenarios in which Pakistan can qualify for the Super 8 stage.

    The Gary Kirsten-coached side must secure victories in all their remaining group-stage matches. Another loss would force Pakistan to rely on the results of other Group A matches to keep their Super 8 hopes alive.

  • Babar Azam furious after Haris Rauf concedes last ball boundary against USA in T20 World Cup 2024- WATCH | Cricket News

    Pakistan suffered a shocking defeat to the USA in their opening match of the T20 World Cup 2024 at the Grand Prairie Stadium, Dallas. This loss has put Pakistan’s campaign in jeopardy, significantly reducing their chances of reaching the Super 8s. Babar Azam was visibly upset with fast bowler Haris Rauf after he gave up 11 runs in the last three balls, forcing a Super Over in Dallas. Despite starting well, Rauf failed to defend 14 runs in the final over of the second innings. Babar Azam stormed off the field, expressing his frustration verbally, as Pakistan failed to defend 159 runs against the USA, who are playing their first T20 World Cup.

    Ka karo may be in full angry mood #babarazam pic.twitter.com/h6s5RXB0fK

    — Babariology (@bismajahangir4) June 6, 2024

    The Pakistan team struggled in the first 10 overs with the ball, putting pressure on themselves. However, the fast bowlers made a strong comeback in the second half, with wickets from Haris Rauf and Mohammed Amir keeping Pakistan in the game. Rauf, who had been bowling well, came to defend 15 runs in the final over but ended up giving away 14 runs, leading to the Super Over at the Grand Prairie Stadium.

    Babar Azam’s frustration continued in the Super Over as Mohammed Amir gave up 18 runs against relatively unknown batters. Amir bowled multiple wide balls and overthrows, adding easy runs to the USA’s total. In the end, Pakistan failed to chase down the 19-run target in the Super Over, leading to one of the biggest upsets in T20 World Cup history.

    Pakistan’s Big Game Against India

    Pakistan is in trouble after losing to the USA. Their next game against India will be almost like a knockout match. It will take place at Nassau County Stadium in New York on Sunday, June 9. Historically, Pakistan has struggled against India in T20 World Cups, losing six out of seven matches. However, Pakistan’s captain, Babar Azam, remains optimistic, saying the outcome will depend on which team stays composed.

  • T20 World Cup 2024: 85% anticipate Virat Kohli to have major impact during the T20 tournament, reveals Wise’s survey | Cricket News

    Mumbai, June 06, 2024: A new survey by Wise, the global technology company building the best way to move and manage the world’s money, reveals cricket’s growing significance in fostering connection, cultural engagement, and financial activity amongst Indians worldwide.

    The research, which polled over 1,000 people based in India, found that cricket-related activities such as watching and discussing matches (39%) rank among the top three activities that help Indian respondents stay connected with their family and friends overseas. Other top activities include engaging in food-related topics such as sharing new recipes (42%), sending money for special occasions (40%), and sharing music recommendations (39%).

    Key Findings

    – 85% of respondents anticipate Virat Kohli to have a major impact during the T20 tournament. – 44% of respondents in India are keen to travel to catch the upcoming T20 World Cup matches live. – 72% believe the T20 World Cup will provide more bonding opportunities with family and friends based in the US – Over 60% noted having at least 3 loved ones establishing roots overseas, suggesting a more globalized Indian community. – Top ways Indians stay connected with loved ones overseas include food-related topics (42%), sending money for special occasions (40%), cricket-related activities (39%), and sharing music recommendations (39%).

    This finding highlights the importance of shared experiences, especially as the number of Indians with family and friends abroad continues to rise. Indeed, 77% of respondents have family living overseas, and 61% observed at least 3 to 4 loved ones relocating internationally in the past 5 years.

    Financial Ties that Bind

    The survey also reveals the vital role financial transactions play in strengthening family and cultural bonds with loved ones who live internationally. About 55% of respondents send money abroad at least once a month, with top reasons being gifts for special occasions like birthdays (49%), education endeavors (17%), and daily life expenses (10%).

    T20 World Cup: A Unifying Force

    The survey found the upcoming T20 World Cup as a significant factor in strengthening connections across borders. 44% of respondents would go the extra mile and travel internationally to attend matches, and 72% of respondents believe the tournament provides more bonding opportunities with their loved ones based in the US.

    Influential Players: Kohli, Sharma, and Bumrah Lead Expectations

    The charisma and performance of players like Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma, and Jasprit Bumrah fuel the excitement surrounding the T20 World Cup. Virat Kohli is anticipated by 85% of respondents to have a major impact during the tournament, followed by Rohit Sharma (67%) and Jasprit Bumrah (38%). Fans also have high hopes for India, with 54% of respondents believing India will win the T20 World Cup.

    A Call for Transparency in Financial Services

    Despite frequent interactions with financial services, Indians still struggle to understand the true cost of sending money abroad. Traditional methods of sending money abroad often involve high charges and hidden costs, and a lack of transparency in fee structures and exchange rates makes it hard for people to know the actual cost. Indeed, 88% of respondents were not aware that there could be a markup on the exchange rate, an often unknown fee which costs people extra when they send money abroad. This underscores an urgent need for transparency in the cross-border payments space so consumers can make informed decisions.

    “This survey unveils the power of cricket in uniting Indians and their loved ones abroad. Beyond being a sport, cricket fosters cultural connections, strengthens family bonds, and even influences financial activities, as seen by increased travel intent during key tournaments,” says Shrawan Saraogi, APAC Head of Expansion, Wise.

    “At Wise, we understand the importance of shared experiences in staying connected to loved ones abroad. So, whether you’re traveling or sending money for daily expenses, education, or for special occasions, it’s important to consider the exchange rate you’re getting, whether there are hidden fees, and the speed of these transactions. Use Wise to ensure your money arrives with your loved ones on time and without hidden fees,” he added.

    Wise x The Grade Cricketer

    In celebration of the T20 World Cup, Wise has collaborated with the good folks at The Grade Cricketer. The duo will embark on a classic road trip across America, utilizing their Wise account and cards to illustrate the ease of managing finances internationally while showcasing how cricket connects people across borders. Keep a look out for the video series, with the first one dropping in the first week of June.

    About the Survey [Playing on a Global Stage: Cricket, Community, and Money Habits]

    Wise conducted a survey to examine the impact of cricket in connecting Indians and their global communities, as well as sentiments around the upcoming T20 World Cup. The survey was carried out on an online platform in April 2024, polling over 1,000 participants based in India.

    The methodology involved targeted questions to assess the viewership habits, emotional connections, and financial activities related to cricket. It also explored respondents’ family and friend network, including whether they have loved ones residing abroad, along with their international money transfer habits.

  • Yashasvi Jaiswal or Virat Kohli who will open for India in T20 World Cup 2024? Sunil Gavaskar Picks This Opener | Cricket News

    India’s superstar batsman, Virat Kohli, has been in the form of his life during the recently concluded Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024 season, scoring over 700 runs. Despite facing consistent criticism from former India opener Sunil Gavaskar regarding his strike rate, Kohli’s stellar performance has earned him praise and a potential new role in the Indian lineup. Gavaskar, previously skeptical of Kohli’s strike rate, has now endorsed him to open alongside Rohit Sharma for India, citing his recent IPL form. Notably, Gavaskar expressed doubts about left-hander Yashasvi Jaiswal’s form, suggesting he may not be the ideal candidate to partner Sharma at the top of the order for the Men in Blue.

    India’s WC T20 2024 Warm-Up Match: Different Opening Combination

    India’s warm-up game against Bangladesh hinted at a different opening combination, with Sanju Samson partnering Sharma due to Kohli’s late arrival from the United States. While Rohit Sharma clarified that the team composition is not finalized, the absence of Jaiswal from the opening slot indicates he might not be the preferred choice for the T20 World Cup 2024. Gavaskar emphasized Kohli’s exceptional form and suggested that his place as an opener alongside Sharma is justified, considering his recent performances. Regarding Jaiswal, Gavaskar noted a decline in his form compared to previous outings.

    “The kind of form Virat Kohli has been in, especially in the second half of the season, he should open with Rohit Sharma. Good players are good players, the kind of form Kohli has shown in the IPL, he has to open the batting . It’s good to talk about the left-hand, right-hand combination on television, but good players are good players no matter where they bat,” Gavaskar said in an interview after the T20 World Cup opener between USA and Canada. “Yashasvi Jaiswal hasn’t been in the sort of form we saw him in during the Test series,” the India legend said of the left-hander who will compete with Virat for the second opener’s spot.

    Despite Kohli’s absence from the warm-up game, he remains hopeful of featuring in India’s playing XI as they kick off their T20 World Cup campaign against Ireland on June 5. However, Jaiswal might have to wait for his opportunity, given the indispensability of Kohli and Sharma to the team’s top order.

    India’s World Cup campaign to begin soon

    India’s T20 World Cup journey includes matches against Ireland, Pakistan, USA, and Canada, with expectations high for Kohli’s potential role at the top alongside Sharma.

  • Virat Kohli on Babar Azam’s mind as Pakistan captain recalls MCG clash ahead of T20 World Cup 2024 | Cricket News

    The stage is set. The buzz is palpable. As cricketing titans India and Pakistan gear up for their much-anticipated clash at the Nassau County International Cricket Stadium in New York on July 9, the atmosphere is electric. With both teams placed in Group A of the T20 World Cup 2024, the stakes are higher than ever. This rivalry, steeped in history and passion, is more than just a game—it’s a battle of pride and prestige.

    ICC rates Virat Kohli’s 18.5 as “SHOT OF THE CENTURY” __ pic.twitter.com/gB9AP3cZBW

    — Keval 18 (@kevalVK18) November 7, 2023

    Also Read: French Open 2024: Meet Stefanos Tsitsipas’ Girlfriend Paula Badosa – In pics

    The MCG Clash: A Haunting Memory

    Pakistan captain Babar Azam recently opened up about the indelible mark left by their last encounter with India at the 2022 T20 World Cup. It was a match that showcased Virat Kohli’s brilliance, as he played an unforgettable innings that snatched victory from Pakistan’s grasp. In a nail-biting finish at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG), Kohli’s unbeaten 82 off 53 balls orchestrated a dramatic four-wicket win for India.

    Babar reminisced about that fateful match, admitting that Pakistan should have clinched the victory. “For me, in 2022 [World Cup]we could and should have won the India game, but they took it away,” he said. Kohli’s extraordinary six off Haris Rauf became the stuff of legends, and commentator Gerard Whateley’s phrase “shot of an emperor” aptly captured the moment’s grandeur.

    Handling Pressure: Barbar’s Approach

    As the Pakistan team prepares for their World Cup opener, Babar emphasizes the significance of managing the immense pressure that comes with an India-Pakistan clash. “The expectations and hype around the match cause some nervousness,” he noted on the PCB podcast. However, Babar believes that focusing on the basics and maintaining composure can help players navigate the pressure cooker atmosphere.

    “It’s a game of immense pressure, and if you keep your cool, stay calm, and trust your hard work and skills, things will be easier,” he advised. This approach will be crucial as Pakistan aims to improve on their recent form, having failed to make it past the group stages in the last World Cup.

    India’s unpredictability and Pakistan’s consistency

    Both India and Pakistan have experienced fluctuating fortunes in recent T20 World Cup editions. India, despite their immense talent, has often faltered at critical junctures since their inaugural T20 World Cup win under MS Dhoni. The current squad, under the guidance of coach Rahul Dravid, seeks redemption and aims to draw inspiration from their past successes in the 50-over format.

    On the other hand, Pakistan’s T20 World Cup record is a study in contrasts. Known for their unpredictability, Pakistan has reached the semi-finals or better in six of the eight editions, marking them as one of the most consistent teams in the tournament’s history. Despite internal strife and volatile performances, Pakistan remains a formidable force on paper.

    Virat Kohli: The Game Changer

    For Babar, the specter of Virat Kohli looms large. Kohli’s performance in their last World Cup encounter was a masterclass in handling pressure and executing under duress. His ability to anchor the innings and finish with a flourish is something that Pakistan will be wary of. Kohli’s presence adds an extra layer of challenge for Pakistan, who must strategize meticulously to contain his impact.

    The Road Ahead

    As the T20 World Cup 2024 unfolds in the West Indies and the USA, all eyes will be on the July 9 showdown. For fans and players alike, an India-Pakistan match is a spectacle that transcends cricket. It’s a contest that brings out the best and worst, showcasing raw emotion and unyielding determination.

    Both teams have much to prove. For India, it’s about reclaiming their status as T20 giants, while Pakistan seeks to shed the ‘unpredictable’ tag and affirm their consistency. As Babar Azam and his men take to the field, they will carry the lessons of the past, the weight of expectations, and the hopes of a nation eager for victory.

  • Will Rishabh Pant bat at number 3 for India in T20 World Cup 2024? Here’s what Rohit Sharma says | Cricket News

    During the build-up to India’s T20 World Cup squad announcement in late April, there was much debate over the best top-order combination, particularly whether Virat Kohli should open alongside captain Rohit Sharma. However, Rishabh Pant’s promotion to No. 3 has surprised many. After India’s 60-run win against Bangladesh in the T20 World Cup warm-up match in New York on Saturday, discussions emerged about Pant’s potential role in the top order following his explosive fifty.

    On June 1, India tried a new opening combination against Bangladesh, with Sanju Samson and captain Rohit Sharma opening the batting. Unfortunately, Samson struggled and was out for 1 of 6 balls. Pant then came in at No. 3 and shone with a powerful performance, hitting four sixes and four boundaries in just 32 balls. He scored an impressive 53 runs before retiring hurt, helping India reach a total of 182 for five. This performance sparked conversations about his possible role in the World Cup.

    After the match, Rohit Sharma addressed the speculation about India’s batting line-up for the World Cup. He explained that Pant was sent to bat at No. 3 to give him a chance, and the team has not yet finalized their batting order. Rohit said, “We wanted to give him an opportunity. “We haven’t nailed the batting line-up yet; we wanted most guys to get a hit in the middle,” he added.

    T20 World Cup 2024: India’s all-round performance in warm-up match

    India’s Performance in the Warm-Up Game India showcased an impressive performance in their only warm-up game before starting their T20 World Cup campaign, defeating Bangladesh by 60 runs at the Nassau County International Cricket Stadium. Rishabh Pant and Hardik Pandya led with aggressive batting, helping India post a total of 182 for five. The bowlers then delivered a clinical performance, restricting Bangladesh to just 122 for nine in 20 overs.