As the cricketing world eagerly anticipates the 2023 ICC ODI World Cup in India, Pakistan’s captain, Babar Azam, is filled with excitement. He reflects on the warm welcome his team has received on Indian soil after a seven-year absence. Babar expresses his delight at the enthusiastic reception the Pakistan cricket team experienced in Hyderabad, a city renowned for its passionate cricket fans.

When questioned about the initial concerns of potentially intimidating receptions in India, the 28-year-old candidly admits to those worries. However, his perspective underwent a remarkable transformation upon experiencing the incredible hospitality from the moment they landed in Hyderabad. He eagerly anticipates even greater support and hopes to see Pakistani fans cheering for their team in every match and at every venue.

“To be honest, we also heard that. But since the time we arrived in Hyderabad, the kind of hospitality we’ve received and the kind of welcome we had from the airport to the hotel…even in the last match at the ground we felt very good. It’ll be even better if we have our fans come as well. And hopefully, we get that kind of support in every match and at every ground, so looking forward to that,” says Babar, as quoted by Cricbuzz.

In a riveting encounter between India and Sri Lanka during the Super 4 match on Tuesday, the cricketing world witnessed a remarkable moment that captured hearts and broke the internet. India’s captain, Rohit Sharma, known for his exceptional fielding skills, played a pivotal role in the game with his astounding catching abilities.

The battle between the two teams was intense, with India initially excelling in the bowling department. However, the Sri Lankan team, led by skipper Dasun Shanaka, mounted a spirited fightback, posing a significant threat to India’s bid for a place in the final.

Ultimately, it was the brilliance of all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja that turned the tide in India’s favor. Jadeja dismissed the formidable Shanaka, and the defining moment came courtesy of a breathtaking catch by none other than Rohit Sharma.

Following Shanaka’s dismissal, the Sri Lankan batting lineup struggled under the pressure imposed by India’s bowlers. The entire Sri Lankan team was eventually bowled out for 172 runs in 41.3 overs.

Spinners played a pivotal role in the match, making a significant impact for both teams. For India, Kuldeep Yadav showcased his brilliance by claiming a crucial 4-wicket haul, while Jadeja contributed with 2 wickets. Jasprit Bumrah (2), Mohammed Siraj (1), and Hardik Pandya (1) also made notable contributions with the ball.

On the Sri Lankan side, the standout performance came from Dunith Wellalage, who claimed an impressive 5 wickets. He received valuable support from Charith Asalanka, who secured 4 wickets, and Maheesh Theekshana, who added a solitary scalp to the tally.

As the cricketing world eagerly awaits the second One-Day International (ODI) between England and New Zealand in their thrilling 4-match series, all eyes are on The Rose Bowl in Southampton. The series opener saw the Black Caps secure an emphatic 8-wicket win, giving them a 1-0 lead. The stakes are high, and this Sunday promises an exhilarating contest between two formidable teams.

New Zealand’s remarkable performance in the first ODI has put them in the driver’s seat. They’re determined to maintain their winning streak and assert their dominance in the series. The Black Caps are well aware of the challenge posed by the English side and are prepared to tackle it head-on.

On the flip side, England is resolute in their quest to bounce back from the opening match loss. With a talented and experienced squad, they possess the ability to turn the tide in their favor. Home advantage is expected to play a crucial role, and fans have high hopes for the English team to level the series.

Date and Time: September 10; 11:00 pm local | 10:00 am GMT | 03:30 pm IST

Venue: The Rose Bowl, Southampton

The Rose Bowl pitch is renowned for its consistent and even surface, offering batsmen a reliable bounce and minimal deviation. These conditions create an ideal backdrop for high-scoring encounters.

Wicketkeepers: Jos Buttler, Tom Latham

Batsmen: Ben Stokes, Joe Root, Glenn Phillips, Dawid Malan

All-rounders: Daryl Mitchell, Liam Livingstone, Rachin Ravindra

Bowlers: Tim Southee, Adil Rashid

1. Choice 1: Jos Buttler (c), Joe Root (vc)

2. Choice 2: Tom Latham (c), Glenn Phillips (vc)

Fantasy Backups:

Jonny Bairstow, Devon Conway, Chris Woakes, Lockie Ferguson