World Cup 2015 : Moin Khan summoned by PCB

KARACHI: Two days after returning home to an angry reception, the chief selector Moin Khan has been summoned by the Pakistan Cricket Board to explain his conduct, a visit to a Casino in Christchurch a night before the national team's ICC World Cup 2015 match against the West Indies.

Full Coverage: ICC World Cup 2015
A source in the board told PTI that the former captain had been told to meet the PCB chief Shaharyar Khan on Monday.
READ ALSO: PCB investigating Moin issue in detail

"Shaharyar wants to hear what Moin has to say about the incident and then talk to him about the inquiry conducted by the board into it," the source said.

Shaharyar has made it clear that a full-scale inquiry is being conducted into Moin's visit to the Casino and termed his action as "inappropriate".

Pakistan have so far lost both their matches in the ongoing World Cup, going down to arch foes India and the West Indies over the past couple of weeks.

"Moin has said that he went there to have dinner but that is his statement. According to our information there is more to this incident and we are investigating that in detail," Shaharyar had said.

Moin, 43, returned home to an angry reception on Thursday after being called back from the World Cup. On his return, a group of angry fans were outside the Karachi airport with banners and eggs, while later irate fans also demonstrated outside his residence.

Moin had to request the Karachi police for provision of security outside his home.

The source said the media reports that the PCB had decided not to take any further action against Moin were not correct.

"It is not correct since how can we decide on this without the Chairman not having had the chance to listen to Moin and talk to him," the source said.

The source disclosed that the Casino episode had also widened the tussle between Shaharyar and his predecessor, Najam Sethi who was still in the board as Chairman of the executive committee and a member of the Board of Governors.

"It is no secret that Sethi had decided to send Moin to the World Cup with the team as chief selector despite resistance from other members. And it is no secret that he didn't favour the decision to call Moin back from Australia and New Zealand," the source added.

He also said that Shaharyar had got a detailed briefing on the activities of every member of the team and Moin since they landed in New Zealand in January.

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World Cup 2015: Misbah faces flak from former players

KARACHI: Former cricketers on Saturday lashed out at Misbah-ul-Haq as the Pakistan captain spoke about the difficulties he was finding in selecting right combinations in the ongoing ICC World Cup 2015.

Full Coverage: ICC World Cup 2015

"A lot is being said about the team's performance and what combination should have been played. Also references are given to the 1992 World Cup. I just think people should look at the squad that played in that tournament and understand how difficult it is for us to settle on a combination right now," Misbah said today in Brisbane.

But his remarks irked a number of former players including Mohammad Yousuf who blamed the skipper for the mess the team found itself in right now.

"If he is saying it is difficult to select the team or combination whose fault is it. He has been captain for last four years and why couldn't he settle upon a World Cup combination until now," Yousuf questioned.

One of Pakistan's top batsmen Yousuf said did the critics ask Misbah and the management to not play wicketkeeper, Sarfaraz Ahmed in the first two matches or not pick Yasir Shah against the West Indies.

"Sarfaraz had performed brilliantly going into the World Cup so why has he not been played as yet who is to blame for this," Yousuf said.

Misbah also said that he was finding it difficult to decide whether to play seven batsmen or four bowlers and that is why combination couldn't be finalised easily.

Yousuf said that Misbah instead of making excuses should now get down to the task of taking the team into the quarter finals and changing his attitude.

"Look at Brendon McCullum how he won the match for New Zealand today on a difficult pitch with his fearless batting. Look at other captains like Dhoni. Misbah needs to adopt an attitude similar to them to smell success."

Former Test opener Mohsin Khan said that Pakistan needed to play cricket without fear but with sense while batting.

"I believe that spinners can play a vital role in this competition and you need to bat sensibly in the first 30 overs. Misbah has to now pick up the challenge and not just do talking," he said.

Former Pakistan opener Aamer Sohail warned that if Pakistan didn't reach the quarter finals the damage would be great to Pakistan cricket.

"Players will come and go but it will hurt the sport's popularity. People want to see Pakistan in the knockout stage but unfortunately so far the players and Misbah have not shown the required positive attitude and approach," he said.

Former Test pacer Sarfaraz Nawaz said, "If this team does not learn to deal with the pressure it is curtains for us."

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World Cup 2015: I give my best without thinking of results, says Ashwin

PERTH: India off-spinner Ravichandran Ashwin, who was Man-of-the-Match in the World Cup Pool B match against the United Arab Emirates (UAE) on Saturday, said he only aims to put in his best effort in every game without thinking about the results.

Scorecard | India vs UAE: As it happened

Ashwin clinched his career best one-day international (ODI) figures of 4/25 from 10 overs to bowl out UAE for a paltry 102, which India chased down in 18.5 overs with nine wickets in hand at the WACA.

Full Coverage: ICC World Cup 2015 | Match in Pics

"I've never got a four-for before. It was running on my mind a bit but I was focussing on my basics and it was coming out well. I bowl at such phases of the game, it's more of cutting the runs out, it can get a little difficult," said Ashwin.

"When it comes to this format, I'm pretty much unselfish. It doesn't matter if I get the numbers or not as long as I put in the effort required. I enjoyed bowling here the last time I bowled against Sri Lanka. It helps if you bowl it slower and there's a wee bit of turn as well."

The 28-year-old explained he persisted with his tactics.

"If you set the batsman well, mixing up the arm ball, and then you bowl one really slow, you are going to get him fending it and leg slip comes into play," he said.

"My wrist is getting into a good position and that helps with the arm ball, the breeze helped as well. It was good to play the big teams initially, now we're on a roll."

The Chennai-born added that they are peaking at the right time after dismal performances in the tour Down Under where they failed to win a single game.

"We always peak well coming into tournaments. We had a tough Test series and didn't do too well in the tri-series as well. But we always knew we would pick it up when we came into the World Cup," concluded Ashwin.

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RCA claims it has right to attend BCCI AGM

JAIPUR: Despite being suspended by the BCCI, the Rajasthan Cricket Association (RCA) has claimed that it has the right to be a part of the crucial AGM to be held on March 2 in Chennai.

Mehmood Abdi, the permanent representative of RCA in BCCI, said that voting right is one of the fundamental rights in democracy and it can't be taken away from any member.

Abdi today submitted a letter to BCCI regarding the authorization of RCA representative to attend the BCCI AGM but claimed that Parag Patel, Special Assistant to BCCI Secretary Sanjay Patel, refused to a give a receipt of the communication at BCCI office in Chennai.

Abdi said that BCCI have every right to punish RCA by stopping its grants etc. but it cannot take away its right to be a part of the AGM.

"The BCCI has suspended us after we chose Lalit Modi as our president and since then they have suspended us and stopped our grants and did not include us in the domestic calendar until the intervention of Rajasthan High Court.

They can punish us in any way they want but voting is our fundamental right. They need to have two third majorities to do so. The AGM will be a crucial one for Indian cricket and we have the right to be there and vote," said Abdi.

Incidentally, the Modi-led faction of RCA was granted a sigh of relief by Rajasthan High Court on Friday as it refused to extend the dead line given to Amin Pathan for bringing in the no confidence motion against President Lalit Modi and three other top office bearers.

The Pathan group had claimed that it removed Modi and other three top office bearers in a coup but Abdi and few others had challenged the claim by moving court.

The High Court had allowed the Rajasthan teams to participate in domestic BCCI tournaments and gave the charge of RCA's day to day affairs to Rajasthan state Sports Council, making Taposh Chatterjee the coordinator between RCA and BCCI.

The court also later set March 12 as deadline to complete the formalities of bringing in the no confidence motion and had ordered that if the Pathan group fails to bring in no confidence motion or it is defeated, the Modi Group would automatically get the reigns of RCA.

On the other hand, Shakti Singh Rathore, the Secretary of the Pathan led faction, had already issued a notice for EGM to be held on 9th March.

The sports Council President had pleaded that since it was busy in other matters it was not in position to hold the EGM of RCA but the court on Friday had refused to extend the deadline of March 12.

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Srinivasan apologises to SC for chairing BCCI meet on Feb 8

NEW DELHI: Sidelined president N. Srinivasan on Friday tendered an unconditional apology for presiding over the February 8 Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) Working Committee meeting in breach of a court order.

Srinivasan told the court that it was due to a bonafide misunderstanding of the court's order that we went ahead to chair the meet.

"I am offering an unqualified apology. We looked at the letter of the order and not the spirit," the court was told.

Accepting the unconditional apology, the apex court bench of Justice T.S. Thakur and Justice Fakkir Mohamed Ibrahim Kalifulla permitted him to cast his vote in the board elections on behalf of the Tamil Nadu Cricket Association (TNCA) at the Annual General Body (AGM) meeting of the BCCI March 2.

The court made it clear that Srinivasan would be exercising the vote on behalf of TNCA as a representative and not as its president, only if TNCA formally authorises him to do so.

Srinivasan in January was stopped from participating in BCCI matters till the time he was in conflict of interest as BCCI president and at the same time as a stakeholder of Indian Premier League (IPL) franchise Chennai Super Kings (CSK).

His son-in-law Gurunath Meiyappan, a CSK official, was found guilty of betting by the apex court in the 2013 IPL spot fixing and betting scandal.

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Srinivasan apologises to SC for chairing BCCI meet on Feb 8

NEW DELHI: Sidelined president N Srinivasan on Friday offered an unconditional apology for presiding over the February 8 Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) Working Committee meeting in breach of the January 2015 Supreme Court order.

Srinivasan told the court that it was due to bonafide misunderstanding of the court's order which led him to chair the meet. "I am offering an unqualified apology. We looked at the letter of the order and not the spirit," the court was told.

Accepting the apology, the court said that the matter stands closed. The bench of Justice T S Thakur and Justice Fakkir Mohamed Ibrahim Kalifulla permitted Srinivasan to cast vote to elect office bearers on behalf the Tamil Nadu Cricket Association (TNCA) at the Annual General Body (AGM) meeting of the BCCI March 2.

The court made it clear that Srinivasan would be exercising the vote on behalf of TNCA as a representative and not as its president, only if TNCA formally authorises him to do so. The court also made it clear that apart from voting, Srinivasan would not be participating in the AGM when it takes up other issues on its agenda and that TNCA would be represented by another person.

Srinivasan offered the apology in the wake of a contempt petition by the Cricket Association Bihar (CAB) which had said that Srinivasan had committed a contempt of court by presiding over the meeting, in breach of the January 22 apex court verdict.

The apex court on Jan 22 had said that Srinivasan cannot contest elections for BCCI presidency as long as he is involved in "conflict of interest" as an owner of Indian Premier League (IPL) franchise Chennai Super Kings (CSK).

"...no one who has any commercial interest in BCCI events shall be eligible for contesting the elections for any post whatsoever," the court had said while holding void and ineffective the amendment of BCCI rules permitting its office bearers to have commercial interest in events like IPL and Champions Trophy.

Senior counsel Kapil Sibal, appearing for Srinivasan, offered the apology. Senior counsel Nalini Chidambram, appearing for CAB, told the court that Srinivasan could not even participate in the proceedings of the AGM.

As court said "we leave it you" to take a call on the submission by Chidambram, Sibal urged the court to make the position clear as he does not want to fall foul of the court again.

"I don't want to fall foul of the court. Let us be clear. Don't put him in jeopardy. He is entitled to vote who should be next president. What is the conflict of interest in voting," Sibal said.

Sibal told the court that "in election no executive decisions are taken. There is just a vote and there is no conflict of interest. My conflict of interest arises as BCCI president. My franchise can't be taken away. I have given up. I have transferred my shares".

Having said this, Sibal added that even politicians who fall foul with law are allowed to vote. As Sibal was told that the disqualification was not issue based, he urged the court to pass an order: "I don't want to be hauled up for contempt."

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World Cup 2015: Selector's junket, Dhoni's leg-pulling, support staff Kulkarni

PERTH: From the time Indian selectors Rajinder Singh Hans and Saba Karim arrived in Australia, questions have been asked in BCCI as well in the Indian team as to what exactly has been their role Down Under which ultimately led to their return before a coveted trip to New Zealand.

In fact save, February 13, when the Indian team practiced at the St Peter's College ground in Adelaide when Hans dropped in for a quick handshake with some of the players, the duo were never seen at all during a single training session in Melbourne and Perth subsequently.

"We heard that neither Saba nor Hans was attending any of the training sessions of the team whereas Sandip Patil, Roger Binny and Vikram Rathour are watching the Ranji Trophy semifinals. It was turning out to be a junket for the duo and they needed to be called back," a senior BCCI office-bearer said. Hans and Karim are reportedly on their way back.

When Dhoni pulled a fast one: Mahendra Singh Dhoni can crack a joke with a straight face even before one realizes it as one photo-journalist learnt it on the day. With the net-fencing very close to bench where Dhoni was padding up, the senior photographer said, "Mahi, you are not the same Mahi that you used to be in 2004-05. You used to give poses for such amazing compositions."

Dhoni said, "Ahh, don't lie. You didn't know me in 2004 at all and you are talking about posing for photographs." The photographer jogged his memory back and said, "What are you saying, I was there in Bangladesh during your debut series. I was very much there," and Dhoni confused him further.

"Who told you that I made my debut against Bangladesh. You don't even know," Dhoni said with a wry smile (he made his debut against Bangladesh in December 2004).

"Then was it Zimbabwe that you made your debut then," as everyone started laughing, Dhoni smiled back and playfully said, "Dekha isliye journalists ka koi bharosa nahin."

Dhawal Kulkarni, the support staff: If one crossed the Indian team's dressing room at the WACA today, one could see the mug-shots of the players and team officials pasted on the dressing room door as per ACSU's directive. Nothing wrong with that before one realises Dhawal Kulkarni's photo peeping out of the 18-member support staff team. In fact under Kulkarni's photograph, it's written 'Team Management' as ICC has allowed only 15 players to be registered and the Mumbai seamer has been kept as a stand bye as well as net bowler.

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Leading World Cup 2015 batting and bowling figures

SYDNEY: Leading batting and bowling figures at the 2015 World Cup on Friday:

Full Coverage: ICC World Cup 2015

BATTING

Leading run-makers

Chris Gayle (WIS) 258
AB de Villiers (RSA) 217
Shikhar Dhawan (IND) 210
Marlon Samuels (WIS) 192
Tillakaratne Dilshan (SRI) 185

Best performances

Chris Gayle (WIS) 215
AB de Villiers (RSA) 162 not out
Tillakaratne Dilshan (SRI) 161 not out
David Miller (RSA) 138 not out
Shikhar Dhawan (IND) 137

New Zealand's Tim Southee celebrates with Martin Guptill after dismissing England's Chris Woakes. (AP Photo)

BOWLING

Leading wicket-takers

Tim Southee (NZL) 11
Imran Tahir (RSA) 9
Jerome Taylor (WIS) 9
Josh Davey (SCO) 9
Steven Finn (ENG) 8

Best performances

Tim Southee (NZL) 7-33
Mitchell Marsh (AUS) 5-33
Imran Tahir (RSA) 5-45
Sohail Khan (PAK) 5-55
Steven Finn (ENG) 5-71

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World Cup 2015: Mortaza let down by batting, bowling, fielding

MELBOURNE: Bangladesh captain Mashrafe Mortaza described the 92-run defeat against Sri Lanka on Thursday as "frustrating", saying his team was not up to the mark in batting, bowling or fielding.

"It is obvious we did not play well today," said Mortaza. "We need to work hard if we are to do well in the tournament because we have to deliver in the remaining games.

"Today nothing worked for us, neither the batting, bowling or fielding."

Bangladesh's maiden appearance at the Melbourne Cricket Ground was marred by five missed chances with allowed Sri Lanka to pile up 332 for one after electing to bat first.

Tillakaratne Dilshan smashed an unbeaten 161 off 146 balls and Kumar Sangakkara marked his 400th one-dayer with a century (105 not out), but Bangladesh failed miserably with the bat to be shot out for 240 with three overs to spare.

"The dropped catches cost us badly, but the bowling group was not up to the mark either," said Mortaza, who had two catches spilled off his own bowling early in the match.

Mortaza dismissed suggestions that his team was overawed by their first trip to the iconic MCG, saying there could be no excuses for such a heavy defeat.

"The boys were excited to be playing at this ground, but they were not under any pressure," he said. "We just did not execute our plans, that's why we lost.

"It is never easy chasing such a big total and we did not have any big partnership. Overall it was a very disappointing and frustrating performance."

Mortaza hoped Bangladesh, who were left with three points from as many matches and play Scotland next in Nelson on March 5, will bounce back.

"Our fans expect a lot from us, we can't afford to disappoint them," he said. "We have to improve."

Sri Lanka captain Angelo Mathews hailed century makers Dilshan and Sangakkara as "brilliant".

"Dilshan and Sangakkara were brilliant, they batted us through, took calculated risks and it was a great effort by the three batters," said Mathews, also reserving praise for opener Lahiru Thirimanne for his 52.

"We were slightly sloppy in the field and could have done better, but once you've got 300 on the board your bowlers can take chances. We're all ready for the England game," added Mathews in reference to their next Pool A game in Wellington on Sunday.

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Sharad Pawar not 'eager' to contest BCCI elections

NEW DELHI: Even as the suspense over the upcoming BCCI elections intensifies, former board president Sharad Pawar on Thursday said that he was not too "eager" to contest for the top job.

READ ALSO: Keep Srinivasan, proxies out from BCCI president's post, Pawar tells PM

Pawar, who headed the board from 2005-08 and was also the ICC chief, is considered as one of the contenders to take over BCCI's reins from the faction which is close to president-in-exile N Srinivasan.

As per a recent Supreme Court verdict, Srinivasan cannot contest the upcoming BCCI elections unless he disassociates himself from his Indian Premier League franchise Chennai Super Kings on the ground of conflict of interest.

"I have not decided on it. Basically I am not eager (to contest for president's post)," Pawar, currently Mumbai Cricket Association chief, told reporters.

Pawar had earlier met Prime Minister Narendra Modi but the Maratha strongman rubbished speculation that he had met the PM to discuss BCCI elections.

The apex court had said that the conflict of interest has arisen between what is Srinivasan's duty as BCCI President and his interest as the owner of Chennai Super Kings.

MCA sources had earlier said Pawar, if he jumps into the fray, was confident of getting the requisite support from the East Zone as well as the rest of the Board if it comes to a contest with the ruling faction.

This time it's the turn of East zone to propose and second the candidature of BCCI president.

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Sharad Pawar not 'eager' to contest BCCI elections

NEW DELHI: Even as the suspense over the upcoming BCCI elections intensifies, former board president Sharad Pawar on Thursday said that he was not too "eager" to contest for the top job.

READ ALSO: Keep Srinivasan, proxies out from BCCI president's post, Pawar tells PM

Pawar, who headed the board from 2005-08 and was also the ICC chief, is considered as one of the contenders to take over BCCI's reins from the faction which is close to president-in-exile N Srinivasan.

As per a recent Supreme Court verdict, Srinivasan cannot contest the upcoming BCCI elections unless he disassociates himself from his Indian Premier League franchise Chennai Super Kings on the ground of conflict of interest.

"I have not decided on it. Basically I am not eager (to contest for president's post)," Pawar, currently Mumbai Cricket Association chief, told reporters.

Pawar had earlier met Prime Minister Narendra Modi but the Maratha strongman rubbished speculation that he had met the PM to discuss BCCI elections.

The apex court had said that the conflict of interest has arisen between what is Srinivasan's duty as BCCI President and his interest as the owner of Chennai Super Kings.

MCA sources had earlier said Pawar, if he jumps into the fray, was confident of getting the requisite support from the East Zone as well as the rest of the Board if it comes to a contest with the ruling faction.

This time it's the turn of East zone to propose and second the candidature of BCCI president.

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World Cup 2015: Mortaza let down by batting, bowling, fielding

MELBOURNE: Bangladesh captain Mashrafe Mortaza described the 92-run defeat against Sri Lanka on Thursday as "frustrating", saying his team was not up to the mark in batting, bowling or fielding.

"It is obvious we did not play well today," said Mortaza. "We need to work hard if we are to do well in the tournament because we have to deliver in the remaining games.

"Today nothing worked for us, neither the batting, bowling or fielding."

Bangladesh's maiden appearance at the Melbourne Cricket Ground was marred by five missed chances with allowed Sri Lanka to pile up 332 for one after electing to bat first.

Tillakaratne Dilshan smashed an unbeaten 161 off 146 balls and Kumar Sangakkara marked his 400th one-dayer with a century (105 not out), but Bangladesh failed miserably with the bat to be shot out for 240 with three overs to spare.

"The dropped catches cost us badly, but the bowling group was not up to the mark either," said Mortaza, who had two catches spilled off his own bowling early in the match.

Mortaza dismissed suggestions that his team was overawed by their first trip to the iconic MCG, saying there could be no excuses for such a heavy defeat.

"The boys were excited to be playing at this ground, but they were not under any pressure," he said. "We just did not execute our plans, that's why we lost.

"It is never easy chasing such a big total and we did not have any big partnership. Overall it was a very disappointing and frustrating performance."

Mortaza hoped Bangladesh, who were left with three points from as many matches and play Scotland next in Nelson on March 5, will bounce back.

"Our fans expect a lot from us, we can't afford to disappoint them," he said. "We have to improve."

Sri Lanka captain Angelo Mathews hailed century makers Dilshan and Sangakkara as "brilliant".

"Dilshan and Sangakkara were brilliant, they batted us through, took calculated risks and it was a great effort by the three batters," said Mathews, also reserving praise for opener Lahiru Thirimanne for his 52.

"We were slightly sloppy in the field and could have done better, but once you've got 300 on the board your bowlers can take chances. We're all ready for the England game," added Mathews in reference to their next Pool A game in Wellington on Sunday.

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ECB proposes 40-over World Cup, four-day Tests

LONDON: The one-day matches in the next edition of the cricket World Cup could be 40-overs-a-side affairs and Test matches reduced to four days if the discussions between the chairmen of English counties and the ECB are proposed and ultimately accepted by the ICC.

According to ESPNcricinfo, the "ideas are included in a discussion document which details radical suggestions for change" in the domestic and international game.

They form part of a wide-ranging review into the future of English cricket, both domestically and internationally. Such changes, if proposed, would have to undergo an extensive discussion process within the ICC if they were eventually to be adopted.

"Influence ICC - ECB President changing the World Cup format to a 40-over competition," the document proposes according to the cricket website.

Reduction in the five-day format would mean deviating from a tradition that has been there for more than 30 years. Tests have routinely been played over five days since 1979, an exception being when India met West Indies over six days in Kanpur.

The document includes a section suggesting the new president of the England and Wales Cricket Board - the former chairman, Giles Clarke - can use his influence at the ICC to bring change.

Clarke remains the ECB's representative at the ICC and is believed to retain ambitions of one day chairing the organisation. India, England and Australia also now have widespread powers to run the international game much as they see fit.

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World Cup 2015: We have to brush off India loss, says Amla

BRISBANE: South Africa's opening batsman Hashim Amla Wednesday urged his teammates to "brush off" and not be "dramatic" about their dismal loss against India Sunday and to look forward to their upcoming games in the World Cup.

"We didn't manage to string enough big partnerships closely together and we lost wickets at key times. Things like that happen. We just want to brush it off, take the knock on our chin, and get our heads up for the next game," Amla was quoted as saying by espncricinfo.

"Everybody in the team has played enough to know that you do win and lose games. There can only be one winner and one loser. So, let's not get too dramatic about it," he said.

The 31-year-old, who has been in quite impressive form of late scoring two hundreds and three fifties in his last nine innings, added he has been striking the ball well but it is not everyday that a batsman can perform to his potential.

"I'd love to score runs every game but I don't think it's possible. It's been a slow start and hopefully it gets better. I'm feeling good. Everybody goes through a few games in which they don't score runs," he said.

South Africa's 130-run loss at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) Sunday was their worst in a World Cup, while batting second, but it is not likely to have a significant impact on whether they qualify for the knockout stages.

"You want to finish as high as possible. But if you qualify for the quarterfinal, so be it. If you want to win a World Cup you're going to need to play the best teams to win it. There's no trying to avoid anybody," concluded Amla.

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World Cup 2015: We have to brush off India loss, says Amla

BRISBANE: South Africa's opening batsman Hashim Amla Wednesday urged his teammates to "brush off" and not be "dramatic" about their dismal loss against India Sunday and to look forward to their upcoming games in the World Cup.

"We didn't manage to string enough big partnerships closely together and we lost wickets at key times. Things like that happen. We just want to brush it off, take the knock on our chin, and get our heads up for the next game," Amla was quoted as saying by espncricinfo.

"Everybody in the team has played enough to know that you do win and lose games. There can only be one winner and one loser. So, let's not get too dramatic about it," he said.

The 31-year-old, who has been in quite impressive form of late scoring two hundreds and three fifties in his last nine innings, added he has been striking the ball well but it is not everyday that a batsman can perform to his potential.

"I'd love to score runs every game but I don't think it's possible. It's been a slow start and hopefully it gets better. I'm feeling good. Everybody goes through a few games in which they don't score runs," he said.

South Africa's 130-run loss at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) Sunday was their worst in a World Cup, while batting second, but it is not likely to have a significant impact on whether they qualify for the knockout stages.

"You want to finish as high as possible. But if you qualify for the quarterfinal, so be it. If you want to win a World Cup you're going to need to play the best teams to win it. There's no trying to avoid anybody," concluded Amla.

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World Cup 2015: At MCG, India showed they can blow away any side, says Albie Morkel

NEW DELHI: Out of favour South African all-rounder Albie Morkel says India's hammering of the Proteas at the MCG demonstrated that the defending champions are capable of blowing any team away in the World Cup and big-ticket ICC events bring out the best in them.

Full Coverage: ICC World Cup 2015

Morkel, holidaying after getting done with the domestic season, was courageous enough to watch every ball of the match where India recorded an unexpected 130-run over South Africa.

READ ALSO: Legends hail Team India's win over SA on Twitter

"Of course I did (watch the game) and the outcome was unexpected. It surely was not the best day out for the Proteas. India on their day will blow most teams away and that is what happened at the MCG. Having said that, South Africa will bounce back," Morkel, who has played alongside many Indian players in the IPL, said on Wednesday.

India's ominous form in the premier event has impressed many, considering the team was winless in the preceding tour of Australia. India had also overcome their limitations to win the 2013 Champions Trophy in England.

The otherwise formidable South Africa on the other hand are prone to 'choke' in major ICC events.

India's ominous form in the World Cup has impressed many. (Reuters Photo)

Ask Morkel about the trend, the 33-year-old says: "It is difficult to pin point exactly why this has been the case. You need your senior players to stand up in big games and India have been very good in that regard. Maybe this time it will be the turn of Proteas".

Considering the way the teams have played so far, Morkel has both and India and South Africa in his semifinal line-up. However, he hastens to add that the all-rounder slot is a worry for South Africa in an otherwise strong squad.

"Australia, New Zealand, South Africa and India are my picks. Maybe it won't work out that way but for me those are the four best teams. Personally, I hope the Proteas go all the way this time. They have got a strong squad yes but I do think the all-rounder's position is not settled yet," said the 33-year-old, who is also brother of leading Proteas' pacer Morne Morkel.

Having represented South Africa in the World T20, Morkel has lived with the pressure of shedding the chokers' tag once and for all.

Interestingly, South African Sports Minister Fikile Mbalula had told the World Cup-bound squad to not return home as a bunch of losers.

Does a statement like that affect the mindset of the players?

"I am not aware of that statement but yes we are a very proud nation and we love sport. There will always be an expectation to win. People get worked up quickly when things don't go as planned but still the Proteas are a strong brand with lots of strong individuals, so statements like that would not have an effect on how the teams play and perform," said Morkel.

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World Cup 2015: PCB recalls chief selector Moin Khan over casino visit

KARACHI: Chief selector Moin Khan has been ordered to return home immediately from Australia by the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) in the aftermath of the controversy generated over his visit to a Casino in Christchurch.

Full Coverage: ICC World Cup 2015

PCB chairman, Shaharyar Khan told reporters in Lahore on Tuesday that the board after investigating the matter had decided to call Moin back.

READ ALSO: PCB probes Moin Khan's casino visit

"We asked him for an explanation and he said he had gone to have dinner at the Casino. But we feel his action was inappropriate at a time when the Pakistan team is struggling in the World Cup," Khan said.

READ ALSO: Timeline on Pakistan turmoil

"We don't want to be judgmental but being a chief selector and senior member of the touring squad he should have been careful and we don't think his returning home will have any effect on the team's performances," he said.

"Moin went to a casino at a time when the team is struggling and the whole nation is disappointed," Khan said.

Media reports in Pakistan have said that Moin, a former Test captain, had visited a casino on the night of the match against the West Indies in which Pakistan was hammered by 150 runs, their worst ever defeat in a World Cup.

The issue has been played up by some channels in view of the poor performances of the Pakistan team.

Pakistan's Sohail Khan walks from the field after they lost their World Cup 2015 match to the West Indies by 150 runs in Christchurch, New Zealand. (AP Photo)

Ever since the Pakistan team left for its World Cup campaign last month it has constantly run into controversies with reports from New Zealand and Australia suggesting rifts in the team.

Khan said that manager Naved Cheema will now chair the tour selection committee which will include captain, Misbah-ul-Haq and coach, Waqar Younis.

Sources in the board said that Moin might now also lose his chief selector's job.

Former Test captain Moin, who was removed as the team manager before the World Cup, has been sent with the team for the World Cup in a surprise move as in the past the board has never allowed its chief selector to accompany the team on foreign tours.

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World Cup 2015: PCB recalls chief selector Moin Khan over casino visit

KARACHI: Chief selector Moin Khan has been ordered to return home immediately from Australia by the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) in the aftermath of the controversy generated over his visit to a Casino in Christchurch.

Full Coverage: ICC World Cup 2015

PCB chairman, Shaharyar Khan told reporters in Lahore on Tuesday that the board after investigating the matter had decided to call Moin back.

READ ALSO: PCB probes Moin Khan's casino visit

"We asked him for an explanation and he said he had gone to have dinner at the Casino. But we feel his action was inappropriate at a time when the Pakistan team is struggling in the World Cup," Khan said.

READ ALSO: Timeline on Pakistan turmoil

"We don't want to be judgmental but being a chief selector and senior member of the touring squad he should have been careful and we don't think his returning home will have any effect on the team's performances," he said.

"Moin went to a casino at a time when the team is struggling and the whole nation is disappointed," Khan said.

Media reports in Pakistan have said that Moin, a former Test captain, had visited a casino on the night of the match against the West Indies in which Pakistan was hammered by 150 runs, their worst ever defeat in a World Cup.

The issue has been played up by some channels in view of the poor performances of the Pakistan team.

Pakistan's Sohail Khan walks from the field after they lost their World Cup 2015 match to the West Indies by 150 runs in Christchurch, New Zealand. (AP Photo)

Ever since the Pakistan team left for its World Cup campaign last month it has constantly run into controversies with reports from New Zealand and Australia suggesting rifts in the team.

Khan said that manager Naved Cheema will now chair the tour selection committee which will include captain, Misbah-ul-Haq and coach, Waqar Younis.

Sources in the board said that Moin might now also lose his chief selector's job.

Former Test captain Moin, who was removed as the team manager before the World Cup, has been sent with the team for the World Cup in a surprise move as in the past the board has never allowed its chief selector to accompany the team on foreign tours.

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World Cup 2015: Mumbai's Swapnil Patil all geared to play against Dhoni and Co.

MUMBAI: When Swapnil Patil steps on to the field wearing the United Arab Emirates colours against Mahendra Singh Dhoni and his men in their World Cup tie, his near and dear ones would root for him but they would support the Men in Blue.

Full Coverage: ICC World Cup 2015

"We would like him and UAE to do well in the match but later on we would support India. It is our country," said the wicket-keeper batsman's elder brother Rohan ahead of Saturday's game.

Swapnil had played for Mumbai at the under-14, under-19 and under-22 levels and was also in the Ranji squad then led by Sachin Tendulkar but could not force his way in (ahead of Vinayak Samant), said his brother.

When a chance arose to move on to Dubai in 2006 on the strength of his cricketing prowess for a construction company as a player-employee, the 29-year-old from Vasai in neighbouring Thane district grabbed it with both hands.

"It was in 2006 when the Yogi Group asked for his video footage with a few others before selecting him to play for them in Dubai. He performed very well for three to four years before being picked to play for UAE," said Rohan.

The sales executive, who got married recently and has left his new bride Manali behind to play in the World Cup, had represented the country of his residence in the World T20 Cup in Bangladesh last year - playing against Netherlands, Ireland and Zimbabwe - but did not get a chance to play against India.

After missing the distinction for Mumbai, Swapnil made his first class debut for UAE against Bermuda at the ICC Inter-Continental Cup in New Zealand in July, 2010.

He could represent UAE on residential qualification after living there for four years, as per ICC's rules.

Swapnil made his ODI debut against Scotland in Lincoln (New Zealand) and was left stranded on 99 not out.

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World Cup 2015: Mumbai's Swapnil Patil all geared to play against Dhoni and Co.

MUMBAI: When Swapnil Patil steps on to the field wearing the United Arab Emirates colours against Mahendra Singh Dhoni and his men in their World Cup tie, his near and dear ones would root for him but they would support the Men in Blue.

Full Coverage: ICC World Cup 2015

"We would like him and UAE to do well in the match but later on we would support India. It is our country," said the wicket-keeper batsman's elder brother Rohan ahead of Saturday's game.

Swapnil had played for Mumbai at the under-14, under-19 and under-22 levels and was also in the Ranji squad then led by Sachin Tendulkar but could not force his way in (ahead of Vinayak Samant), said his brother.

When a chance arose to move on to Dubai in 2006 on the strength of his cricketing prowess for a construction company as a player-employee, the 29-year-old from Vasai in neighbouring Thane district grabbed it with both hands.

"It was in 2006 when the Yogi Group asked for his video footage with a few others before selecting him to play for them in Dubai. He performed very well for three to four years before being picked to play for UAE," said Rohan.

The sales executive, who got married recently and has left his new bride Manali behind to play in the World Cup, had represented the country of his residence in the World T20 Cup in Bangladesh last year - playing against Netherlands, Ireland and Zimbabwe - but did not get a chance to play against India.

After missing the distinction for Mumbai, Swapnil made his first class debut for UAE against Bermuda at the ICC Inter-Continental Cup in New Zealand in July, 2010.

He could represent UAE on residential qualification after living there for four years, as per ICC's rules.

Swapnil made his ODI debut against Scotland in Lincoln (New Zealand) and was left stranded on 99 not out.

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World Cup 2015: Roger Federer sorry for India 'bleed blue' upset

DUBAI: Roger Federer has apologised for getting caught up in the bitter rivalry between Indian and Pakistani cricket fans after he was pictured admiring the blue shirt of World Cup champions India in a marketing photo-shoot.

Full Coverage: ICC World Cup 2015

The 17-time Grand Slam title winner shares the same sponsor as the Indian team and on the eve of the two sides' World Cup clash in Adelaide last weekend, Federer posted a picture on his Facebook page of him admiring a blue playing jersey with the caption "Dressing up for a Gentleman's game today. #BleedBlue."

READ ALSO: Roger Federer 'bleeds blue' for India

"It was more of a Nike thing to be quite honest," said the Swiss star on the eve of the Dubai Open.

"It was a Nike campaign they had because I met some of the Indian players and I had just spent some time in India so they presented the shirt to me.

"I support South Africa, and everybody knows that. The idea wasn't to spark any fire and I'm sorry if it did that."

The photograph certainly irritated Federer's legion of fans in Pakistan.

The photograph certainly irritated Federer's legion of fans in Pakistan. (Photo courtesy Roger Federer's FB page)

One, a student at Cambridge University in England and writing in the Express Tribune, an English language newspaper in Pakistan, claimed he had deleted all his Federer photos and taken a brief opinion poll in which ten out of 12 Pakistanis apparently felt hurt or betrayed.

Federer has certainly gone public in his support for the Springboks rugby team in the past, and has strong South African connections.

His mother Lynette is from South Africa and the Roger Federer Foundation has raised large sums to help disadvantaged children in the country.

Nevertheless, Federer sought to clarify his attitude to cricket which is currently being showcased at the ongoing World Cup in Australia and New Zealand.

The Indian team, he said, he supported "a little bit." Whether or not he followed cricket, "really depends where you are," he added.

"When I'm in America definitely not. When I'm in Europe definitely not. But then when I'm in Australia and here (in the UAE) a little bit sometimes. So it really depends where I am in the world which sport I follow."

Federer and India batting legend Sachin Tendulkar are known to be close with the 'Little Master' a regular visitor to Wimbledon each year to see the Swiss play.

Virat Kohli, who made a century for India in the World Cup win over Pakistan, also met Federer in Sydney in January, describing the tennis player as an "absolute legend" in a captioned picture he posted on his Twitter site.

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World Cup 2015: I am happy, but not satisfied, says Sachin Tendulkar

MELBOURNE: Impressed with India's dominating performance in the World Cup so far but not completely satisfied with it, cricket icon Sachin Tendulkar said that the team can raise its game a few notches higher.

Full Coverage: ICC World Cup 2015

India are comfortably perched atop Pool B after two straight wins against Pakistan and South Africa respectively and Tendulkar, who had predicted at least a final-four placing for the defending champions, feels it's "so far so good".

READ ALSO: Team shouldn't be overburdened with additional practice: Tendulkar

"So far whatever I have seen we have concretised that spot. It looks very bright. I am happy but I am not satisfied. I want the team to continue doing this," the cricketer-turned-analyst told Headlines Today after India's 130-run win against South Africa on Sunday.

Riding on Shikhar Dhawan's 137 runs India posted 307 for seven against one of the most potent bowling attacks in the 50-over showpiece event and then bundled out the Proteas for 177 in 40.2 overs.

Tendulkar, who has been part of record six World Cup campaigns with the Men in Blue including the historic win last time around, feels that the boys can still raise their bar.

"I had said earlier that they can bat better, because I know their talent I know their capability. And we batted beautifully yesterday. The finish could have been better but at no stage we felt that we were short of ideas and at no stage it looked as if the South Africans have tied us down. We were prepared to hang in there also prepared for that chance to put the loose ball away and we did so," he said.

Team India, it will take more than two comprehensive victories to satisfy Sachin Tendulkar. (AFP Photo)

Shikhar, whose seventh ODI ton was laced with 16 fours and 2 sixes, was supported by Virat Kohli (46) and Ajinkya Rahane (79) during his 146-ball stay at the crease. Tendulkar was all praise for Dhawan and Rahane.

"I think Shikhar has done brilliantly in the first two games and I hope that he will continue with this performance. Shikhar will be feeling on top of this world, he will be feeling so confident. I had said earlier that he is one impact player," Tendulkar said.

"But the icing on the cake was Ajinkya batting at No.4. A brilliant display of effortless shots. When Ajinkya plays big shots, somehow it looks as if he is not looking to play a big shot, he is just looking to time the ball or it lob over ball over the 30-yard circle, but on occasions it just fell inside the boundary line. And the shot that he played off Dale Steyn was amazing," he added.

Mahendra Singh Dhoni's side still has a long way to go in the 14-team event and Tendulkar said that "well begun is only half done".

"In a big tournament like this, you start well which is relieving, because you gain that momentum and you try and win as many matches as possible and you continue," said the legendary batsman.

"It is a habit, when you start playing good cricket you believe you can win from any difficult situation. And when you are not winning, you feel even when you are winning and a few runs away you think what if you lose a few quick wickets," he concluded.

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World Cup 2015: Roger Federer sorry for India 'bleed blue' upset

DUBAI: Roger Federer has apologised for getting caught up in the bitter rivalry between Indian and Pakistani cricket fans after he was pictured admiring the blue shirt of World Cup champions India in a marketing photo-shoot.

Full Coverage: ICC World Cup 2015

The 17-time Grand Slam title winner shares the same sponsor as the Indian team and on the eve of the two sides' World Cup clash in Adelaide last weekend, Federer posted a picture on his Facebook page of him admiring a blue playing jersey with the caption "Dressing up for a Gentleman's game today. #BleedBlue."

READ ALSO: Roger Federer 'bleeds blue' for India

"It was more of a Nike thing to be quite honest," said the Swiss star on the eve of the Dubai Open.

"It was a Nike campaign they had because I met some of the Indian players and I had just spent some time in India so they presented the shirt to me.

"I support South Africa, and everybody knows that. The idea wasn't to spark any fire and I'm sorry if it did that."

The photograph certainly irritated Federer's legion of fans in Pakistan.

The photograph certainly irritated Federer's legion of fans in Pakistan. (Photo courtesy Roger Federer's FB page)

One, a student at Cambridge University in England and writing in the Express Tribune, an English language newspaper in Pakistan, claimed he had deleted all his Federer photos and taken a brief opinion poll in which ten out of 12 Pakistanis apparently felt hurt or betrayed.

Federer has certainly gone public in his support for the Springboks rugby team in the past, and has strong South African connections.

His mother Lynette is from South Africa and the Roger Federer Foundation has raised large sums to help disadvantaged children in the country.

Nevertheless, Federer sought to clarify his attitude to cricket which is currently being showcased at the ongoing World Cup in Australia and New Zealand.

The Indian team, he said, he supported "a little bit." Whether or not he followed cricket, "really depends where you are," he added.

"When I'm in America definitely not. When I'm in Europe definitely not. But then when I'm in Australia and here (in the UAE) a little bit sometimes. So it really depends where I am in the world which sport I follow."

Federer and India batting legend Sachin Tendulkar are known to be close with the 'Little Master' a regular visitor to Wimbledon each year to see the Swiss play.

Virat Kohli, who made a century for India in the World Cup win over Pakistan, also met Federer in Sydney in January, describing the tennis player as an "absolute legend" in a captioned picture he posted on his Twitter site.

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World Cup 2015: I am happy, but not satisfied, says Sachin Tendulkar

MELBOURNE: Impressed with India's dominating performance in the World Cup so far but not completely satisfied with it, cricket icon Sachin Tendulkar said that the team can raise its game a few notches higher.

Full Coverage: ICC World Cup 2015

India are comfortably perched atop Pool B after two straight wins against Pakistan and South Africa respectively and Tendulkar, who had predicted at least a final-four placing for the defending champions, feels it's "so far so good".

READ ALSO: Team shouldn't be overburdened with additional practice: Tendulkar

"So far whatever I have seen we have concretised that spot. It looks very bright. I am happy but I am not satisfied. I want the team to continue doing this," the cricketer-turned-analyst told Headlines Today after India's 130-run win against South Africa on Sunday.

Riding on Shikhar Dhawan's 137 runs India posted 307 for seven against one of the most potent bowling attacks in the 50-over showpiece event and then bundled out the Proteas for 177 in 40.2 overs.

Tendulkar, who has been part of record six World Cup campaigns with the Men in Blue including the historic win last time around, feels that the boys can still raise their bar.

"I had said earlier that they can bat better, because I know their talent I know their capability. And we batted beautifully yesterday. The finish could have been better but at no stage we felt that we were short of ideas and at no stage it looked as if the South Africans have tied us down. We were prepared to hang in there also prepared for that chance to put the loose ball away and we did so," he said.

Team India, it will take more than two comprehensive victories to satisfy Sachin Tendulkar. (AFP Photo)

Shikhar, whose seventh ODI ton was laced with 16 fours and 2 sixes, was supported by Virat Kohli (46) and Ajinkya Rahane (79) during his 146-ball stay at the crease. Tendulkar was all praise for Dhawan and Rahane.

"I think Shikhar has done brilliantly in the first two games and I hope that he will continue with this performance. Shikhar will be feeling on top of this world, he will be feeling so confident. I had said earlier that he is one impact player," Tendulkar said.

"But the icing on the cake was Ajinkya batting at No.4. A brilliant display of effortless shots. When Ajinkya plays big shots, somehow it looks as if he is not looking to play a big shot, he is just looking to time the ball or it lob over ball over the 30-yard circle, but on occasions it just fell inside the boundary line. And the shot that he played off Dale Steyn was amazing," he added.

Mahendra Singh Dhoni's side still has a long way to go in the 14-team event and Tendulkar said that "well begun is only half done".

"In a big tournament like this, you start well which is relieving, because you gain that momentum and you try and win as many matches as possible and you continue," said the legendary batsman.

"It is a habit, when you start playing good cricket you believe you can win from any difficult situation. And when you are not winning, you feel even when you are winning and a few runs away you think what if you lose a few quick wickets," he concluded.

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PM Narendra Modi congratulates Indian cricket team

NEW DELHI: Prime Minister Narendra Modi Sunday congratulated the Indian cricket team for their second consecutive win in the World Cup.

"Great performance. Well played. Congrats Team India. You make us proud yet again," Modi tweeted.

India defeated South Africa by 130 runs in their second Pool B match at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG).

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Noida's cricket crazies flock to post office for World Cup stamps

NOIDA: For a true-blue cricket fan, just being glued to the TV set throughout the match isn't enough. They want to soak in the game in every possible way.

The New Zealand postal department has released the ICC Cricket World Cup 2015 stamps, of which the Indian postal department has procured over 1 lakh souvenir sheets.

The Noida postal circle has also got over a hundred copies of the same. No wonder then, that the phone started ringing at the Sector 16 post office asking about the stamp sheets even before its release.
Full Coverage: ICC World Cup 2015

City's Cricket fans rushing to the post office

Sanjay Sharma, the head postmaster at Sector 19, says, "The stamp sheets are available only in select post offices, and the Sector 16 post office is one of them. The sheet is priced at Rs 400. But we are also offering a discount of 20% on the purchase of five sheets. Not just philatelists, but avid cricket fans are also buying these. But anyone who wants to purchase them should hurry up, as the stock is limited and the new stock has been available since yesterday."

Rajbeer Sinha, a bank employee who came to buy a sheet of these stamps, tells us, "My 12-year-old son is a huge cricket fan. When I got to know that the stamps are available here, I decided to buy one for his birthday, which is next month."

"These stamps are a way to make cricket's grandest event even more special and memorable," says Rajbeer. Prakriti Verma, a college student, tells us, "I am a die-hard cricket fan and I like collecting such stamps. I also have a stamp of Sachin (Tendulkar) which was released when he had retired. I wish the postal department brings out more such stamps."

Customised stamp sheets for India

The stamp sheet which has been titled '14 Teams, One Champion' also bears the official 2015 Cricket World Cup logo in the centre. The set of stamps consists of 14 cricket ball-shaped stamps, representing the teams playing for the World Cup. For Indian cricket fans, there's a cherry on the cake. The New Zealand postal department has customised the sheets sent to India. Just below the World Cup trophy, it reads 'ICC Cricket World Cup Champion 1983 & 2011- India'. Manish Sharma, an engineering aspirant, says, "I have been coming to the post office since the last two days, but I was told the stock is over. They have called me again tomorrow. The World Cup is one of the biggest sporting events and the cricket lovers like me will be more than happy to collect a token like this."

And get it online too!

If you don't want to go to a post office or find that the post office has run out of stock, don't worry - the stamps are available online as well! The post officials tell us that all you need to do is log in to the official website of the postal department and order the World Cup stamp online.

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World Cup 2015: Legends hail Team India's big win over South Africa on Twitter

MELBOURNE: As India broke a long-standing World Cup jinx against South Africa on Sunday, appreciation and congratulatory messages poured in from the cricket fraternity which hailed the team's "terrific" all-round performance in front of a packed MCG.

Scorecard | Congratulate Team India

Riding on another strong batting display powered by Shikhar Dhawan's strokeful century, India crushed South Africa by massive 130 runs to beat them for the first time in the World Cup history.

Full Coverage: ICC World Cup 2015 | Match in Pics

"Terrific performance team India.First win in a World Cup against South Africa.First time for me in the stands in a WorldCup.Memorable firsts," batting legend Sachin Tendulkar wrote on his twitter handle.

Former India captain Anil Kumble said, "Great victory for India. Out batted- out bowled and more importantly out fielded the South Africans! Well played Ind!!," Yesteryear star spinner Bishan Singh Bedi lauded the team for showing a lot of commitment. "Gr8 win India!Superb commitment in all departments of Crkt..go & let yur hair down fellas!!But return 2 good earth ASAP..!!God be with U all," Bedi tweeted.

Defending champions India now appear set for a berth in the quarterfinals after their two comprehensive wins over Pakistan and South Africa which places them on top of Group B.

"Massive win ! well done shero @BCCI ..great team efforts... Maza aa gaya. Celebration time," said Harbhajan Singh, who was part of India's World Cup triumph in 2011.

Zaheer Khan, who played a part in India's victory four years ago, too praised the Men in Blue. "Great going #TeamIndia ! Superb all round performance ....way to go !!," the seamer said.

International stars were also not behind when it came to praising the Indian team.

"What an incredible victory for India...the @MCG looked like the place to be! Can't wait to be back in Aus in a couple weeks..." wrote England's star batsman Kevin Pietersen.

Former Australia opener Matthew Hayden said, "Ok steady you all.... Beating SA is not the World Cup!!! Happy #india has own but still have so much to do in this." Follow TOI Sports on Twitter >> @TOISportsNews

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PM Narendra Modi congratulates Indian cricket team

NEW DELHI: Prime Minister Narendra Modi Sunday congratulated the Indian cricket team for their second consecutive win in the World Cup.

"Great performance. Well played. Congrats Team India. You make us proud yet again," Modi tweeted.

India defeated South Africa by 130 runs in their second Pool B match at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG).

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World Cup 2015: South African fans searching online more about Indian team

GUWAHATI: Ahead of the fourth face-off in the World Cup between India and South Africa, supporters of the Proteas are searching online more about the opponent than their home team.

According to global search engine Google, search interest for the home team in South Africa have surprisingly gone down by half in the last few days.

"The fans are busy searching for their rival team India, (which is) witnessing significant search interest from South Africa before the upcoming clash at MCG," Google said in its report on search trends.

The overall trends show a spike in online searches as team India gets ready to reverse its dismal record against South Africa in previous World Cup matches.

India have never won against South Africa in a World Cup, losing to them in 1992, 1999 and 2011.

"South Africa, often called the most jinxed team in the World Cup, go into this match not as the favourites against title holder India, a team that's historically been a favoured one when playing at the Melbourne Cricket Grounds," Google said in the report.

The analysis of the trends shows that star batsman Virat Kohli leads the Indian team with highest search interest after his centurion knock against Pakistan last Sunday.

"For the Indians, search interest also peaked around MS Dhoni, Rohit Sharma, Suresh Raina and Ravindra Jadeja before the match," it pointed out.

Sachin Tendulkar is the only Indian to have scored a century (111) against South Africa in World Cup in 2011, followed by Sourav Ganguly whose top score against South Africa is 97.

Google also said while the Indian pace attack may not be the strongest against South Africa, but Mohit Sharma and Mohammed Shami saw significant spikes in search interest with Sharma attracting five time more searches than usual.

"Dale Steyn, who will be leading the pace attack for South Africa, has seen significant interest from fans online, followed by Wayne Parnell and Morne Morkel," it added.

Given the number of Indian fans, search interest for Kohli notably surpasses consolidated search interest for leading pacers from South African bowling attack.

Google further said: "Not surprisingly, AB De Villiers leads the South African batsmen with regards to search queries, followed by Hashim Amla, Faf du Plessis, Quinton de Kock and JP Duminy, who are also witnessing growing search interest online."

No South African batsman has scored a ton against India in World Cup with the best being 96 by Jacques Kallis in 1999.

"On an interesting side note, with marketers driving hard to cash in on this opportunity, following a series of popular ads, searches for fireworks in India have been at their highest since New Year's Eve," Google said.

Meanwhile, Google said Tendulkar will be sharing his views live on a Google hangout during the match break tomorrow and the video will also be telecast live on YouTube.

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World Cup 2015: Former Pakistan players want Younis Khan to retire

KARACHI: Senior Pakistan batsman Younis Khan, toast of the nation three months ago after reeling off four Test hundreds, has become the target of criticism after the team's humiliating ICC World Cup 2015 losses with senior players calling on him to retire.

Full Coverage: ICC World Cup 2015

After he failed again in Pakistan's demoralising defeat to the West Indies, former Test players advised him to withdraw himself for the remaining matches in the event.

"I request Younis Khan to now say goodbye to this team. He has given lot of service to Pakistan cricket but he should now go himself," Pakistan's former fast bowler, Shoaib Akhtar said on a local news channel.

Former captain Rameez Raja also advised Younis to consider asking the management to not pick him in the remaining matches of the World Cup.

"Younis should rest himself from these matches and go and spend lot of time in the nets," Rameez said.

But according to his mentor and former captain Rashid Latif the senior batsman had made a mistake by not choosing to bat lower down the order in the World Cup.

"I had suggested to him he should bat at number five because of the conditions in Australia and New Zealand but he felt otherwise," Latif said.

"It is sad to see the reactions at his failure because Younis has been one of our top batsmen and his records show this," Latif added.

Younis, 37, has been Pakistan's leading run-scorer for the last one decade and just as recent as October and November reeled off scores of 106, 103, 216 and 100 not out against Australia and New Zealand to boost his Test record to an impressive 8327 runs at an average of 53.37 with 28 hundreds and 29 fifties.

"I think Younis made a mistake trying to prolong his ODI career in a major event like the World Cup. His presence obviously means that the team management is also under pressure to give him chances because of his past performances and seniority," former Test captain and coach, Mushtaq Muhammad said.

Mushtaq felt that Younis' recent ODI form and his overall ODI record showed he was a far better Test player.

"I just want to see him now return from the World Cup gracefully," Mushtaq said and added "If the team does not have a turnaround in form people will look for scapegoats to explain the poor performance."

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World Cup 2015: Pakistanis stage mock funeral for cricket team after defeat

MULTAN: Pakistani cricket fans in the southeastern city of Multan held a mock funeral for their national cricket team on Saturday after a record-shattering World Cup defeat at the hands of the West Indies.

Full Coverage: ICC World Cup 2015

Residents of the city organised a symbolic funeral procession, replete with a coffin with several cricket bats placed over it, directing their anger at the Pakistani national team after a poor start to the tournament that has also seen it defeated by arch-rivals India.

READ ALSO: West Indies crush Pakistan by 150 runs

"This time we were really hoping for Pakistan to win," Shama Bibi, one of those taking part, said.

"We don't want to watch this anymore."

Another demonstrator who gave her name only as Rafia blamed the Pakistan Cricket Board for what she said were poor selections and politicisation of the game.

Cricket fans elsewhere in the country, meanwhile, staged their own protests to show their frustration with the national side.

Chasing the West Indies's first innings total of 310 runs, Pakistan gave up its first four wickets for just one run -- the worst start in one-day international history -- before eventually losing by 150 runs.

Pakistan, winners of the 1992 World Cup, now sit at the bottom of Pool B and will resume their faltering campaign against Zimbabwe in Brisbane on March 1.

Pakistani cricket fans organised a symbolic funeral procession. (AFP Photo)

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World Cup 2015: Pakistanis stage mock funeral for cricket team after defeat

MULTAN: Pakistani cricket fans in the southeastern city of Multan held a mock funeral for their national cricket team on Saturday after a record-shattering World Cup defeat at the hands of the West Indies.

Full Coverage: ICC World Cup 2015

Residents of the city organised a symbolic funeral procession, replete with a coffin with several cricket bats placed over it, directing their anger at the Pakistani national team after a poor start to the tournament that has also seen it defeated by arch-rivals India.

READ ALSO: West Indies crush Pakistan by 150 runs

"This time we were really hoping for Pakistan to win," Shama Bibi, one of those taking part, said.

"We don't want to watch this anymore."

Another demonstrator who gave her name only as Rafia blamed the Pakistan Cricket Board for what she said were poor selections and politicisation of the game.

Cricket fans elsewhere in the country, meanwhile, staged their own protests to show their frustration with the national side.

Chasing the West Indies's first innings total of 310 runs, Pakistan gave up its first four wickets for just one run -- the worst start in one-day international history -- before eventually losing by 150 runs.

Pakistan, winners of the 1992 World Cup, now sit at the bottom of Pool B and will resume their faltering campaign against Zimbabwe in Brisbane on March 1.

Pakistani cricket fans organised a symbolic funeral procession. (AFP Photo)

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World Cup 2015: Batsman Dhoni seeks Shastri's advice in testing times

MELBOURNE: An overwhelming win over Pakistan may have brought a lot of cheer to the Indian cricket team after an indifferent 'Australian Summer', but there are a few grey areas that are yet to be addressed by the side, including skipper Mahendra Singh Dhoni's poor run with the bat.

Full Coverage: ICC World Cup 2015

Therefore, it was not really surprising to see the captain spending some quality time with Team Director Ravi Shastri during India's training session at the St Kilda's Junction Oval ground on Wednesday.

From a distance, it looked like an animated discussion between the Indian captain and Team Director on the execution of horizontal bat shots -- namely the productive pull-shot.

After a session in the nets, Dhoni came walking down to the square leg area, where Shastri was sitting in a chair. The two were seen immersed in a discussion, after which the former India captain stood up and started doing a few shadows showing the exact body movement and balance that should be there while playing the pull-shot.

Shastri's knowledge about performing in Australian wickets can't be questioned as he was 'Man of the Series' or 'Champions of Champion' during the Benson and Hedges series in 1985 and also scored a double century in Sydney during the 1991-92 series.

In the last 10 ODIs that Dhoni has played, he has scored only one half-century (51 not out) against the West Indies and didn't get to bat in two other matches. In the remaining seven games, Dhoni has crossed the 30-run mark only once while getting out to some good deliveries as well as poor shot selection.

In fact, apart from the 10 official ODIs, Dhoni also failed to fire in the two warm-up games against Australia and Afghanistan where he scored 0 and 10, respectively.

While, he hasn't got time to build an innings on some occasions, his shot selection has left a lot to be desired. In fact, at 33, he is not getting any younger and probably the reflexes are also getting slower with time. However, the skipper is more than aware about the problems that have crept into his game and he is at least sincere in trying to work his way out of trouble.

Dhoni tried a pull-shot against Pakistan pacer Sohail Khan in Adelaide but spooned it up. He was back and across for the horizontal bat shot but the ball hurried into him. He didn't react that split second earlier, which he used to do more than often at least a few years back.

Hence, at the Junction Oval nets, Dhoni was seen practising the pull-shots as the likes of Dhawal Kulkarni, Mohammed Shami and even Bhuvneshwar Kumar peppered him with short of length deliveries. He was consistently playing the pull-shots -- mostly in front of the square in the arc between square-leg and deep mid-wicket.

Not that he was timing each and every delivery. It was more an exercise to check the weight transfer while rocking back to play the pull-shot. Some of the pull-shots were converted into catches by the net bowers standing around the square. But he continued playing the shot.

Dhoni mostly played the aerial pull-shot rather than the one where it is played like slap with ball not getting an inch above surface.

It's might be tough to expect Dhoni to perform just the way he used to, but 8280 ODI runs does speak volumes about his quality in this format, where he has been a match-winner. The Indian team now needs 'Batsman Dhoni' as much as it needs its 'Captain Cool'.

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World Cup 2015: Batsman Dhoni seeks Shastri's advice in testing times

MELBOURNE: An overwhelming win over Pakistan may have brought a lot of cheer to the Indian cricket team after an indifferent 'Australian Summer', but there are a few grey areas that are yet to be addressed by the side, including skipper Mahendra Singh Dhoni's poor run with the bat.

Full Coverage: ICC World Cup 2015

Therefore, it was not really surprising to see the captain spending some quality time with Team Director Ravi Shastri during India's training session at the St Kilda's Junction Oval ground on Wednesday.

From a distance, it looked like an animated discussion between the Indian captain and Team Director on the execution of horizontal bat shots -- namely the productive pull-shot.

After a session in the nets, Dhoni came walking down to the square leg area, where Shastri was sitting in a chair. The two were seen immersed in a discussion, after which the former India captain stood up and started doing a few shadows showing the exact body movement and balance that should be there while playing the pull-shot.

Shastri's knowledge about performing in Australian wickets can't be questioned as he was 'Man of the Series' or 'Champions of Champion' during the Benson and Hedges series in 1985 and also scored a double century in Sydney during the 1991-92 series.

In the last 10 ODIs that Dhoni has played, he has scored only one half-century (51 not out) against the West Indies and didn't get to bat in two other matches. In the remaining seven games, Dhoni has crossed the 30-run mark only once while getting out to some good deliveries as well as poor shot selection.

In fact, apart from the 10 official ODIs, Dhoni also failed to fire in the two warm-up games against Australia and Afghanistan where he scored 0 and 10, respectively.

While, he hasn't got time to build an innings on some occasions, his shot selection has left a lot to be desired. In fact, at 33, he is not getting any younger and probably the reflexes are also getting slower with time. However, the skipper is more than aware about the problems that have crept into his game and he is at least sincere in trying to work his way out of trouble.

Dhoni tried a pull-shot against Pakistan pacer Sohail Khan in Adelaide but spooned it up. He was back and across for the horizontal bat shot but the ball hurried into him. He didn't react that split second earlier, which he used to do more than often at least a few years back.

Hence, at the Junction Oval nets, Dhoni was seen practising the pull-shots as the likes of Dhawal Kulkarni, Mohammed Shami and even Bhuvneshwar Kumar peppered him with short of length deliveries. He was consistently playing the pull-shots -- mostly in front of the square in the arc between square-leg and deep mid-wicket.

Not that he was timing each and every delivery. It was more an exercise to check the weight transfer while rocking back to play the pull-shot. Some of the pull-shots were converted into catches by the net bowers standing around the square. But he continued playing the shot.

Dhoni mostly played the aerial pull-shot rather than the one where it is played like slap with ball not getting an inch above surface.

It's might be tough to expect Dhoni to perform just the way he used to, but 8280 ODI runs does speak volumes about his quality in this format, where he has been a match-winner. The Indian team now needs 'Batsman Dhoni' as much as it needs its 'Captain Cool'.

Follow TOI Sports on Twitter >>> @TOISportsNews

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World Cup 2015: Australia tour helping India, says Gary Kirsten

NEW DELHI: Former India cricket coach Gary Kirsten believes that the tour of Australia had helped the defending champions to get acclimatised to the World Cup conditions Down Under.

Full Coverage: ICC World Cup 2015

India spent two-and-a-half months in the Australian summer, playing four Tests and a tri-series involving hosts Australia and England. The team fared dismally, losing the Test series 0-2 and not even managing a single win in the tri-series.

The South African, however, feels the time spent there will aid India in defending the World Cup crown.

"I would like to think that the time spent there will come as an advantage. You are getting two and a half months of game time in those conditions. It has got to help your game," Kirsten, who guided India to the 2011 World Cup victory at home, said.

"The only thing is time away from home and that is also a factor you cannot discount. It isn't easy travelling like that. But to have a chance to kind of play all your cricket where the World Cup is going to be held has got to be quite an advantage, surely," said the 47-year-old.

Kirsten's words are proving to be right. India started their campaign on a winning note when they drubbed arch-rivals Pakistan by 76 runs in their World Cup opener at the Adelaide Oval Feb 15.

The triumph helped them keep a perfect tennis scoreline of 6-0 in World Cup meetings against the 1992 champions. India next face South Africa at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) Sunday.

But doesn't spending so much time away from home bring on fatigue?

"Mental fatigue may be. They could freshen up and see their families but not physical fatigue. We are in the professional era and you have got to manage that," said Kirsten, who played 101 Test matches and 185 One-Day Internationals (ODI) from 1993 to 2004.

The former left-handed opening batsman insisted on the importance of squad rotation.

"We run squad systems now. You rest your key players when you need to. You are running a squad and not just eleven players who you bring in and out of every game. Those days are over. It doesn't happen anymore. Managing the squad is the key."

Kirsten is in India for the Indian Premier League (IPL) players' auction which took place in Bengaluru on Monday. The South African is the head coach of the Delhi Daredevils.

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World Cup 2015: Australia tour helping India, says Gary Kirsten

NEW DELHI: Former India cricket coach Gary Kirsten believes that the tour of Australia had helped the defending champions to get acclimatised to the World Cup conditions Down Under.

Full Coverage: ICC World Cup 2015

India spent two-and-a-half months in the Australian summer, playing four Tests and a tri-series involving hosts Australia and England. The team fared dismally, losing the Test series 0-2 and not even managing a single win in the tri-series.

The South African, however, feels the time spent there will aid India in defending the World Cup crown.

"I would like to think that the time spent there will come as an advantage. You are getting two and a half months of game time in those conditions. It has got to help your game," Kirsten, who guided India to the 2011 World Cup victory at home, said.

"The only thing is time away from home and that is also a factor you cannot discount. It isn't easy travelling like that. But to have a chance to kind of play all your cricket where the World Cup is going to be held has got to be quite an advantage, surely," said the 47-year-old.

Kirsten's words are proving to be right. India started their campaign on a winning note when they drubbed arch-rivals Pakistan by 76 runs in their World Cup opener at the Adelaide Oval Feb 15.

The triumph helped them keep a perfect tennis scoreline of 6-0 in World Cup meetings against the 1992 champions. India next face South Africa at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) Sunday.

But doesn't spending so much time away from home bring on fatigue?

"Mental fatigue may be. They could freshen up and see their families but not physical fatigue. We are in the professional era and you have got to manage that," said Kirsten, who played 101 Test matches and 185 One-Day Internationals (ODI) from 1993 to 2004.

The former left-handed opening batsman insisted on the importance of squad rotation.

"We run squad systems now. You rest your key players when you need to. You are running a squad and not just eleven players who you bring in and out of every game. Those days are over. It doesn't happen anymore. Managing the squad is the key."

Kirsten is in India for the Indian Premier League (IPL) players' auction which took place in Bengaluru on Monday. The South African is the head coach of the Delhi Daredevils.

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World Cup 2015: India are a very dangerous side, warns Ricky Ponting

MELBOURNE: Former Australia captain Ricky Ponting has rated India a "very dangerous side" and said the defending champions have got "too many class players" in their side to retain the title in the ongoing cricket World Cup.

Full Coverage: ICC World Cup 2015

Ponting, a two-time World Cup winning captain, said: "India have got too many class players in their team to not be serious contenders at some stage. If they happen to play as well as they can, they are very dangerous."

India kicked off their title defence in grand style, beating arch rivals Pakistan by 76 runs in their tournament opener at the Adelaide Oval on Sunday.

"I think they will get better. It was a very encouraging start for India the other day, although I thought it was a pretty weak Pakistani side.

"India got into the World Cup after a tough time in the Test series and the tri-series. But I got a feeling that they got a bit of a downtime after that and started to build things up at the start of this tournament," said Ponting.

The 40-year-old, who had been part of three World Cup winning sides, thought India needed to improve their bowling.

"Bowling is a concern; it always is. When any Indian team goes to play in Australia or similar conditions, it is always the bowling that is the weak point. Their batting, however, is outstanding. We all know that."

Ponting though rated Australia the favourites to win the Cup for a record fourth time.

"I think Australia are favourites. It is a tag that will sit well with them. Most World Cups I have been part of, we were favourites. But you don't think about it. You just go out there, try and prepare as well as you can and go and play.

"Just because you're the favourites going into the game, doesn't change anything. But this team has been very impressive in their first game against England and the balance they have in the squad right now is probably as good as I have seen for a while," Ponting was quoted as saying by 'BCCI.TV'.

Along with Australia, Ponting has high hopes from co-hosts, New Zealand, and South Africa, who he considers as "stand-out" teams to watch out for in this World Cup.

With matches being played at some of the biggest and smallest grounds across Australia and New Zealand, Ponting felt that teams will find it a challenge to alter their batting, bowling and field placing strategies to suit the contrasting sizes of the outfields.

"It will be a huge contrast and that's why I think New Zealand will be really hard to beat. They've got an incredible record at home in One-day International cricket."

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World Cup 2015: India are a very dangerous side, warns Ricky Ponting

MELBOURNE: Former Australia captain Ricky Ponting has rated India a "very dangerous side" and said the defending champions have got "too many class players" in their side to retain the title in the ongoing cricket World Cup.

Full Coverage: ICC World Cup 2015

Ponting, a two-time World Cup winning captain, said: "India have got too many class players in their team to not be serious contenders at some stage. If they happen to play as well as they can, they are very dangerous."

India kicked off their title defence in grand style, beating arch rivals Pakistan by 76 runs in their tournament opener at the Adelaide Oval on Sunday.

"I think they will get better. It was a very encouraging start for India the other day, although I thought it was a pretty weak Pakistani side.

"India got into the World Cup after a tough time in the Test series and the tri-series. But I got a feeling that they got a bit of a downtime after that and started to build things up at the start of this tournament," said Ponting.

The 40-year-old, who had been part of three World Cup winning sides, thought India needed to improve their bowling.

"Bowling is a concern; it always is. When any Indian team goes to play in Australia or similar conditions, it is always the bowling that is the weak point. Their batting, however, is outstanding. We all know that."

Ponting though rated Australia the favourites to win the Cup for a record fourth time.

"I think Australia are favourites. It is a tag that will sit well with them. Most World Cups I have been part of, we were favourites. But you don't think about it. You just go out there, try and prepare as well as you can and go and play.

"Just because you're the favourites going into the game, doesn't change anything. But this team has been very impressive in their first game against England and the balance they have in the squad right now is probably as good as I have seen for a while," Ponting was quoted as saying by 'BCCI.TV'.

Along with Australia, Ponting has high hopes from co-hosts, New Zealand, and South Africa, who he considers as "stand-out" teams to watch out for in this World Cup.

With matches being played at some of the biggest and smallest grounds across Australia and New Zealand, Ponting felt that teams will find it a challenge to alter their batting, bowling and field placing strategies to suit the contrasting sizes of the outfields.

"It will be a huge contrast and that's why I think New Zealand will be really hard to beat. They've got an incredible record at home in One-day International cricket."

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World Cup 2015: Clarke to return against Bangladesh, says Lehmann

Australia captain Michael Clarke will return to the side for Saturday's World Cup match against Bangladesh after recovering from hamstring surgery, coach Darren Lehmann said on Wednesday.

Clarke's race to be fit has been something of a soap opera in Australia and he played his first match for the team in two months last week in a warm-up against United Arab Emirates.

Clarke hit 64 against UAE but sat out the team's 111-run romp over England in their tournament opener.

"Yeah, he's playing mate," Lehmann told reporters in Brisbane.

Clarke, who is likely to replace stand-in skipper George Bailey, bowled and batted in the nets on Wednesday and was satisfied with the progress he has made.

"We had a good conversation (with selectors) last week and thought it was in the team's best interests to not play against England and give me another week," he said.

"At this stage I think the selectors are very happy."

Heavy showers have been forecast for the weekend and the two cyclones expected might push Clarke's return back to Australia's Feb. 28 match against co-hosts New Zealand in Auckland.

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