BGT 2024-25: IPL Auction No Distraction For Perth Test, Says Cummins

Lucknow Super Giants: Australia captain Pat Cummins is confident that the upcoming IPL mega auction, scheduled to overlap with the first Test of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy in Perth, will not distract his team. The IPL auction is set for November 24 and 25 and shortly after day three and four ends on November 24 and 25, respectively, the action will shift to the two-day IPL 2025 mega auction in Jeddah. Yeah, I think he is there in the auction. I don't think so (it will be a distraction). Dan has flown over there, but he has been here for the whole prep. Done all the meetings, done all the chats, watching it. We came to know that anyway. So, for the players, I don't think so. Most of these guys have been there in the auctions before. They know they can't really do anything. You are a sitting duck and seeing whether you get selected or not. It doesn't... doesn't make a difference to how we go about the first two days. It is not a distraction as far as I can see it, Cummins told reporters. Cummins and Travis Head are the only Australian players in the current squad retained by their IPL franchises. Daniel Vettori, Australias assistant coach, will miss the Perth Test to be in Jeddah as Sunrisers Hyderabad head coach. Similar is the case with Ricky Ponting and Justin Langer, who are confirmed to miss commentating on the Perth Test for broadcasters Channel Seven after day ones play to be in the auction as head coaches of Punjab Kings and Lucknow Super Giants, respectively. Dan has done all the meetings and preparations with us. Its all set, so no concerns there, Cummins added. The scheduling has drawn criticism, with former Australia captain Pontingsaying, A lot of players in both teams are part of the auction. It could have been scheduled during the nine-day gap between Tests, avoiding unnecessary pressure. Cummins, however, remains unfazed with scheduling. We are fully focused on the Perth Test. The auction timing means it wont interfere with the first two days of play. Were ready to give our best, he asserted. The scheduling has drawn criticism, with former Australia captain Pontingsaying, A lot of players in both teams are part of the auction. It could have been scheduled during the nine-day gap between Tests, avoiding unnecessary pressure. Also Read: Highest tax paying cricketers Article Source: IANS

Thoda Gyan Apne Future Ke Liye Bacha Lo: Shami Rips Into Manjrekar Over IPL Auction Prediction

New Delhi: India pacer Mohammed Shami has slammed former cricketer Sanjay Manjrekar for his remark over IPL auction, calling him a aba people could contact to know their future. In an Instagram story, Shami shared a screenshot of a post featuring Manjrekar's opinion on the pacer's auction price, suggesting that there could be a potential decrease in his bidding at the upcoming mega auction. Baba ki jay hoooooo. Thodsa gyan apne future k lie bhi bacha loo kaam aayega Sanjay G? Kisi ko future janna ho to sir se mile (All hail the saint. Save some knowledge for your future as well, it will come in handy. If anyone wants to know the future, they should meet sir),Shami wrote. Earlier while speaking to Star Sports, Manjarekar stated that Shami's injury history could result in a price drop for the pacer in the upcoming IPL auction. There will definitely be interest from teams, but given Shami's injury historyand this recent one took a significant amount of time to recovertheres always a concern about a potential breakdown during the season, Manjrekar had said on Star Sports. If a franchise invests heavily and then loses him mid-season, their options become limited. This concern might lead to a drop in his price tag, he added. Shami, who has been out of action the 2023 World Cup final, has fully recovered from the injury that ruled him out for more than a year, made his comeback to professional cricket in the Ranji Trophy, representing Bengal. The 34-year-old seamer, playing his first Ranji Trophy match since 2018, showed his class and experience, finishing as Bengals standout bowler with figures of 4-54 in 19 overs last week. Shami, who has been out of action the 2023 World Cup final, has fully recovered from the injury that ruled him out for more than a year, made his comeback to professional cricket in the Ranji Trophy, representing Bengal. Also Read: Highest tax paying cricketers Article Source: IANS

BGT 2024-25: Kohli Will Be Under Less Pressure Being In Australia Than India, Says Mark Waugh

Border Gavaskar Trophy: Former Australia batter Mark Waugh opined that Virat Kohli will feel less pressure while playing in Australia than in India as the right hander loves the Australian conditions and have great records against the nation. Kohli touched down in Australia for the Border Gavaskar Trophy amidst a form slump as he averaged 20.62 across his ten most recent Test innings, way below than his average of 54.08 in Tests in Australia and his overall career average of 47.83. But having scored some of his landmark centuries in Australia and leading India here to a 2-1 series win in 2018/19 is expected to bring the best out of him in the upcoming five-match series, starting on November 22 at Perth Stadium. Hes got a great record in Australia, he loves the conditions. I think hes a better player of pace than spin. Hes had a lean trot though, by his standards, and his average has dropped a lot,' Waugh told Fox Cricket. Maybe Perths a good starting place for him, because he made that brilliant hundred on a very, very tricky pitch (in 2018). Its always good when youve got good memories at certain grounds. Hell be under less pressure being in Australia than India. Its so encompassing, playing in India on your home soil. Itll be a fresh start for him, this series, he said. For the first time since December 2014, Kohli has fallen out of the ICC Test batting rankings' top 20, but the upcoming Border-Gavaskar Trophy offers him a chance to revive his struggling Test career. The Australians would still see him as a big wicket, Waugh continued. They know what hes capable of, and his record in Australia is so good, and he loves the big stage. India have beaten us the last four series, so I think itll bring the best out of Kohli. Whether hes good enough and technically good enough to make runs is a different story, Waugh added. Formal bowler Brett Lee is also confident that Kohli will produce his best again in Australia this summer and can cause trouble for the hosts. Hes got an Australian mentality, a never-say-die attitude. He doesnt mind getting into a scrap. He doesnt mind having a crack. There has been a lot of conjecture around his form recently, but Im not worried about that. I know with Kohli, hes got the experience underneath his belt, Lee told Fox Cricket. Formal bowler Brett Lee is also confident that Kohli will produce his best again in Australia this summer and can cause trouble for the hosts. Also Read: Highest tax paying cricketers Article Source: IANS

BGT 2024-25: This Australian Team Has 'greatest Bowling Quartet Of All-time', Opines Vaughan

This Australian: Former England captain Michael Vaughan feels that Australia's frontline bowling quartet of Nathan Lyon, Mitchell Starc, Josh Hazlewood and Pat Cummins are arguably the nation's best of all time and are key to victory for Australia in the upcoming Border-Gavaskar Trophy series against India at home. India won the Border-Gavaskar Trophy in Australia the last two times it was played there in 2018/19 and 2020/21. Moreover, Australia have not won the series since 2014-15, when they won 2-0 on the home soil. We saw in the One Day game against Pakistan in Perth that there's plenty of bounce and there'll be a little bit of action for for both sets of seamers. It's the best series at the minute because of the two quality teams, over the last six or seven years Australia and India have been consistently the best two Test match teams, Vaughan told SEN 1170 Mornings. In the last few series, India have had the upper hand, theyve played some good cricket, theyve been flamboyant at times and they've been able to dig in at times so Im intrigued to see how Australia fight back, he said Lyon (530 wickets), Starc (358 wickets), Hazlewood (273 wickets) and (269 wickets) all sit inside the top 10 for Test wickets taken in the Australia's cricket history. This Australian team is quality, particularly that bowling attack. That quartet you could argue is Australia's greatest bowling quartet of all-time. So I'm intrigued to see how both sets of batters go against the bounce in Perth and also the quality they're going to have to face, Vaughan added. Lyon (530 wickets), Starc (358 wickets), Hazlewood (273 wickets) and (269 wickets) all sit inside the top 10 for Test wickets taken in the Australia's cricket history. Also Read: Highest tax paying cricketers Article Source: IANS

ECB set '350 million minimum' target for Hundred sales revenue

Chair Richard Thompson says last year's bid from Bridgepoint informed the sales benchmark

SA20 Season 3: With 50 Days To Go, De Villiers Excited For Upcoming Mega Action

The Sunrisers Eastern Cape: Proteas legend AB de Villiers is excited ahead of their opening match of the SA20 Season 3 between double champions Sunrisers Eastern Cape and MI Cape Town at St Georges Park in Gqeberha on January 9. With only 50 days to go until the first ball is bowled, de Villiers, the brand ambassador of SA20, on Wednesday analysed the chances of the teams. The opening match will return to St Georges for a second year running, and De Villiers, who has fond memories of the oldest international ground in the country, feels there could be no better place to kick off an incredible month of cricket. St Georges Park has the best atmosphere of all the grounds I feel. Certainly, during my playing days over there, they got right behind me, De Villiers said. There is nothing better than playing at St Georges Park. With the band there, there is always music in the background. Its almost like you have earpods in your ears. Dancing to some tunes while youre playing cricket. The home side, Sunrisers Eastern Cape, have been the standout team over the past two seasons, winning back-to-back titles under the guidance of their dynamic leadership duo of coach Adrian Birrell and captain Aiden Markram. De Villiers, having played under Birrell for many years with the Proteas mens team, feels their edge over the opposition is due to their tremendous team ethic and culture created by the Eastern Cape farmer. The Sunrisers Eastern Cape have been incredibly successful in SA20 - both seasons champions. It is an incredible achievement for them. They will try their absolute best to go three in a row, De Villiers said. I feel their strength lies in their ability to play as a team. It is something Adrian Birrell has achieved over there in the setup, their ability to hunt as a pack. Captain Aiden Markram is calm and composed. You also feel that anyone can chip in at any time. Adi Birrell is a true legend. He brings a lot of calmness and composure. He is a down-to-earth farmer from the Eastern Cape, an absolute legend over there. His humility is what stands out. He never talks down to anyone. He always sees the basics of the game as the most important thing, de Villiers was quoted as saying in a release on Wednesday. De Villiers, though, is expecting a crackerjack opening game due to MI Cape Town having bolstered their already power-packed squad with England Test captain and double white-ball World Cup winner Ben Stokes for Season 3. MI Cape Town are a star-studded team. They have been for the past two seasons, and now with the addition of Ben Stokes, makes that side even better, De Villiers said. But it also shows that the best teams dont always win championships. I do, however, expect a better performance, looking at that line-up on paper, it's just pure power, said the former South Africa captain, considered by many as the best 360-degree batter in the cricket world. De Villiers, who was part of the SA20 commentary team over the past two seasons, also expects another bumper month of action-packed cricket and incredible entertainment. But it also shows that the best teams dont always win championships. I do, however, expect a better performance, looking at that line-up on paper, it's just pure power, said the former South Africa captain, considered by many as the best 360-degree batter in the cricket world. Also Read: Highest tax paying cricketers Article Source: IANS

Danni Wyatt-Hodge backs England to bounce back from T20 World Cup criticism

England opener shrugs off disappointment and aims to return to 'fearless' brand of cricket

Paige Scholfield Ruled Out From England's Tour Of South Africa With Ankle Injury

England Women T20I: England all-rounder Paige Scholfield has been ruled out of the upcoming three-match T20I series in South Africa after suffering an ankle injury during training. Scholfield, who sustained the injury on Tuesday, underwent a further assessment on Wednesday morning before withdrawing from the squad. The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) confirmed her return to the United Kingdom for rehabilitation. Paige Scholfield has been withdrawn from the England Women T20 squad to tour South Africa after suffering an ankle injury, England Cricket posted on 'X'. Scholfield, the 27-year-old was a surprise inclusion in the T20I squad, selected ahead of Alice Capsey following England's disappointing group-stage exit from Octobers T20 World Cup. Scholfield made her international debut earlier this year, playing both ODI and T20 matches against Ireland in September, and represented the Oval Invincibles in The Hundred. Alice Capsey, who was initially omitted from the squad, was recalled on Monday to cover a couple of minor injury concerns within the squad. With Scholfields departure, Capseys inclusion now appears timely as England prepare for the first of three T20I matches on Sunday. The tour, which also features three ODIs and a four-day Test, provides a critical opportunity for England to reset after their World Cup disappointment. England will aim to begin their South African tour on a high note in the T20I series opener on Sunday. After taking on South African women in the first T20I at East London, the two sides will meet in Benoni for the second match on November 27 before rounding off the third match on November 30 at the Centurion. The first ODI match of the tour will be a day-night affair with the two teams meeting at Kimberley on December 4 followed by games on Dec 8 at Durban and the third one at Potchefstroom on Dec 11. South Africa and England will meet in the only Test of the series starting at Bloemfontein on December 15. England Women T20I squad: After taking on South African women in the first T20I at East London, the two sides will meet in Benoni for the second match on November 27 before rounding off the third match on November 30 at the Centurion. The first ODI match of the tour will be a day-night affair with the two teams meeting at Kimberley on December 4 followed by games on Dec 8 at Durban and the third one at Potchefstroom on Dec 11. South Africa and England will meet in the only Test of the series starting at Bloemfontein on December 15. Also Read: Highest tax paying cricketers Article Source: IANS

Hardik back as No. 1 allrounder in T20Is, Tilak No. 3 among batters

Tilak jumped a whopping 69 places after his back-to-back centuries in South Africa

Key battles loom in new Women's T20 County Cup

A total of 37 teams across all three tiers will contest new 'FA Cup-style' T20 competition

Abu Dhabi T10: Ready To Defend Title, Pathirana, Bracewell Excited At Joining New York Strikers

The New York Strikers: Sri Lankan pacer Matheesha Pathirana and New Zealand all-rounder Doug Bracewell have voiced their enthusiasm about joining forces with the reigning champions New York Strikers for the upcoming Abu Dhabi T10 season. Pathirana, who is expected to play a key role in the Strikers' campaign expressed his enthusiasm about returning to defend the title: I am proud to be a part of New York Strikers' squad. I am hopeful and looking forward to picking the cup for my team. New Zealand all-rounder Bracewell was also excited about joining the defending champions. It feels great to be participating for the New York Strikers team in this season's Abu Dhabi T10. Im eager to contribute to the team and excited to play, Bracewell was quoted as saying in a release on Wednesday. Team owner Sagar Khanna also shared his excitement at the prospect of these two stars playing for the franchise. Our squad keeps getting bigger and we are sure to win a lot of support and excitement from Strikers Fan Club. We are aiming to do well and make it big in this campaign, he said. It feels great to be participating for the New York Strikers team in this season's Abu Dhabi T10. Im eager to contribute to the team and excited to play, Bracewell was quoted as saying in a release on Wednesday. Also Read: Highest tax paying cricketers Article Source: IANS

NBA Cup: Knecht ties rookie single game 3-Point record in Lakers' sixth straight win

The Los Angeles Lakers continued their winning momentum as they won their sixth game in a row against Utah Jazz.

Thunder hold nerve in tricky conditions to close in on home grand final

Marizanne Kapp rocked the top order with three wickets Tahlia Wilson and Anika Learoyd steadied the chase

RCB Pre-season Camps Are More About Building Potential Of Players, Says Rangarajan

Royal Challengers Bengaluru: While all the focus of IPL teams has been on planning their IPL 2025 mega auction strategy, the Royal Challengers Bengaluru have also been building up the potential and skills of their current players in both mens and womens teams. Our camps are about more than just player evaluationthey're about building potential. By analysing current players and inviting promising talent from across the country, we form a solid team structure and boost every players game. It isnt something that happens only once a year; we try to do it as many times as possible, said Malolan Rangarajan, RCB head of scouting and assistant coach in womens team, in a franchise statement. One of the big examples coming out of players benefitting from RCB pre-season camps has been right-handed batter Rajat Patidar, who made his India ODI debut in South Africa in December 2023 and went on to make a Test debut this year against England. The RCB scouting team closely followed my domestic performances for a couple of years before bringing me into the team. The training camps werent just about practicethey were crucial in refining my game, boosting my confidence, and helping me realize my potential. The coaches and management were always there to guide and support me, giving me clarity on my role within the team and strengthening my self-belief. All of this played a huge part in what Ive been able to achieve for both the team and my own game, he said. Other players who have benefitted massively from RCB pre-season camps are leg-spinner Asha Sobhana, who became WPL 2024s second-highest wicket-taker, as the side won the tournament. Asha went on to make ODI and T20I debuts for India, and played in the T20 World Cup in October. The coaches and management were always there to guide and support me, giving me clarity on my role within the team and strengthening my self-belief. All of this played a huge part in what Ive been able to achieve for both the team and my own game, he said. Also Read: Highest tax paying cricketers Article Source: IANS

'BCCI Gets Its Way When It Wants': Aaron Finch on IPL Auction Dates

With day three and four of first Border-Gavaskar Trophy Test in Perth clashing with the IPL 2025 mega auction, former Australia captain Aaron Finch said the BCCI holds significant power, as they tend to achieve their desired outcomes.

'We play with passion and pride': Captain Durga Rao after India pulls out of Blind T20 World Cup

After India's withdrawal from the 4th T20 Blind Cricket World Cup due to government clearance issues, which is scheduled to take place in Pakistan from November 22 to December 3, 2024, captain Durga Rao Tompaki expressed the team's spirit, emphasising their passion, pride, and commitment to future opportunities.

Paige Scholfield ruled out of England's SA tour with ankle injury

South-Africa born batter will head back to England after she was hurt during training

Morkel: Keep your eyes on Reddy in the series

India's bowling coach also says they're watching Gill's progress on a day-to-day basis

IPL 2025: Rishabh Pant Will Go At Around 25-28 Crore In The Auction, Claims Robin Uthappa

Lucknow Super Giants: Former India batter Robin Uthappa has claimed that bids for wicketkeeper-batter Rishabh Pant will earn a paycheck of anywhere between 25-28 crore in the upcoming IPL 2025 Mega Auction. Pant is amongst the high-profile Indian players in the auction, to be held on November 24 and 25 in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, after not being retained by Delhi Capitals. With him in the auction, teams like Punjab Kings, Lucknow Super Giants, Chennai Super Kings and Royal Challengers Bengaluru are expected to bid heavily for him. I feel Rishabh Pant will go at around 25-28 crores. He will definitely get the big bucks and become the highest-paid player in this auction. To afford Pant at such rates would be interesting to see, because I feel Punjab Kings may aim to get him, and so will RCB, for the role of leadership and as a wicketkeeper-batsman, said Uthappa on JioCinema. Similar sentiments were echoed by former India opener Aakash Chopra. I feel Rishabh Pant is going to become the most expensive player in the history of the IPL. If there is a good equation between Pant and Punjab Kings, then they will go hard for him, or else RCB becomes a very likely place for Rishabh Pant. But I believe other teams will also bid for Pant as well. Indian players are going to be the prime property in this mega auction. Uthappa also thinks DC will go hard on buying back Shreyas Iyer, who was with the franchise from 2015 to 2021. DC will go hard for Shreyas Iyer, and he should go within the bracket of 15-20 crores, and du Plessis above 10 crores. Indian youngsters like Nehal Wadhera and Ashutosh Sharma are a big part and the reason for the success of any team, and you want them to do really well. I think they will go for above 8 crores each. Similar sentiments were echoed by former India opener Aakash Chopra. I feel Rishabh Pant is going to become the most expensive player in the history of the IPL. If there is a good equation between Pant and Punjab Kings, then they will go hard for him, or else RCB becomes a very likely place for Rishabh Pant. But I believe other teams will also bid for Pant as well. Indian players are going to be the prime property in this mega auction. Also Read: Highest tax paying cricketers Article Source: IANS

Hardik Reclaims No.1 T20I All-rounder Spot; Tilak Varma Soars Into Top 10

T20I All: India all-rounder Hardik Pandya has reclaimed the top spot in the ICC Men's T20I All-Rounder Rankings. Meanwhile, rising star Tilak Varma has made a meteoric rise into the top 10 batters as the ICC released the latest rankings updates on Wednesday. Pandyas consistent performances during Indias 3-1 series win in South Africa have earned him accolades. His unbeaten 39 in the second T20I stabilised Indias innings, while his economical spell of 1/8 in three overs during the decisive fourth game was pivotal in sealing the series. This marks Pandyas second stint as the No. 1 T20I all-rounder, having previously achieved the ranking after the ICC Mens T20 World Cup earlier this year. Tilak, Indias Player of the Series, was another standout. The young batter scored two centuries and amassed 280 runs across the series, vaulting him 69 spots to third in the T20I batting rankings. He is now Indias highest-ranked T20I batter, surpassing skipper Suryakumar Yadav, who dropped to fourth place. Sanju Samson, another consistent performer for India, climbed 17 places to secure the 22nd spot among T20I batters after scoring two centuries in the same series. The rankings update also saw gains for South Africas Tristan Stubbs (23rd) and Heinrich Klaasen (59th). There are also gains on the list for T20I batters for Sri Lanka right-hander Kusal Mendis (up three spots to equal 12th) and West Indies hard-hitter Shai Hope (up 16 places to 21st), while versatile Australian all-rounder Marcus Stoinis improves 10 spots to 45th following his recent half-century against Pakistan. In the bowling department, Indian pacer Arshdeep Singh reached a career-high ninth place, while Australias Adam Zampa (up five places to 5th) and Nathan Ellis (up one place to 11th) made notable progress. The rankings update also saw gains for South Africas Tristan Stubbs (23rd) and Heinrich Klaasen (59th). There are also gains on the list for T20I batters for Sri Lanka right-hander Kusal Mendis (up three spots to equal 12th) and West Indies hard-hitter Shai Hope (up 16 places to 21st), while versatile Australian all-rounder Marcus Stoinis improves 10 spots to 45th following his recent half-century against Pakistan. Also Read: Highest tax paying cricketers Article Source: IANS

Perth pitch prep: 'Big-snake cracks' unlikely after unseasonal rain

Up to 5mm of rain is also forecast on Thursday - match eve - although clear conditions are expected through the Test match

Hurting India Under Pressure In Blockbuster Five-Test Australia Series

India head into a hotly anticipated five-Test showdown against Australia starting in Perth on Friday wounded by their first home series loss in 12 years and with a point to prove. But questions also surround the hosts, who have been casting around trying to find a successor to fill the considerable shoes of retired opener David Warner. India's embarrassing 3-0 defeat to New Zealand last month was marked by repeated batting collapses, with mainstays Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma a shadow of their former selves. With ageing spin king Ravichandran Ashwin and all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja also under pressure, the series against Pat Cummins' men is a chance to prove the doubters wrong -- or will add fuel to claims this India side is past its sell-by date. Australian legend Ricky Ponting stirred the pot last week by questioning whether Kohli and Rohit should still be selected after both averaged just 15 against New Zealand. That prompted a biting response from India coach Gautam Gambhir, who staunchly defended them and asked: What does Ponting have to do with Indian cricket? More importantly, I have got no concerns whatsoever for Virat and Rohit, he added, calling them incredibly tough men. I feel there's a lot of hunger, especially after what has happened in the last series. Former India coach Ravi Shastri also jumped to the defence of Kohli, who has managed just one half-century across his last five Test matches. Well, the king is back in his territory, he said, referring to the 36-year-old's exceptional record in Australia, where he has scored six centuries and averages 54.08. It appears Rohit is likely to miss the opening Test at Perth Stadium following the birth of his second child, with Jasprit Bumrah assuming the captaincy. KL Rahul or Abhimanyu Easwaran are in line to open alongside Yashasvi Jaiswal, while number three Shubman Gill is also a major doubt after reportedly fracturing his thumb. The visitors are without injured pace bowler Mohammed Shami, with Bumrah leading an attack expected to feature two others from Mohammed Siraj, Akash Deep, Prasidh Krishna, Harshit Rana or Nitesh Reddy. Aside from the fate of some senior players, the series could decide the finalists of the World Test Championship. The hosts need to win five of their remaining seven Tests this cycle to be assured of a place in the June decider at Lord's. India must win the series at least 4-0. - 'A big one' - While India are under the gun they have a proud record in Australia, winning the last two Test series to retain the Border-Gavaskar Trophy. Such is the rivalry that the series has been boosted to five Tests for the first time since the 1991-92 summer, putting it on a par with the Ashes in duration. After Perth, they move to Adelaide for a day-nighter, before heading to the Gabba at Brisbane, then Melbourne and Sydney. We've lost the (last) two series against them (in Australia), so this is a big one, Australia skipper Cummins said. We feel like our team's in a really good place, so we've got no reason why we shouldn't perform really well. Australia, who have not played a Test since their 2-0 series win in New Zealand in February, have their own issues with star all-rounder Cameron Green out for the series after undergoing back surgery. Mitchell Marsh will fill the void as the fourth pace option alongside Cummins, Mitchell Starc and Josh Hazlewood, with Australian groundsmen traditionally preparing lively pitches. Spinner Nathan Lyon will again be their foil, looking to add to his 530 wickets in his 130th Test. The biggest headache for the hosts has been finding a replacement for Warner as Usman Khawaja's opening partner. While Steve Smith initially stepped into the role, he will revert to his usual number four, behind Marnus Labuschagne. After a bat-off in two recent Australia A games, uncapped South Australia captain Nathan McSweeney got the nod despite only ever opening once before at first-class level. Chief selector George Bailey is confident the 25-year-old can handle the scrutiny and the Indian attack. I don't think it's a huge adjustment to go from three to opening, said Bailey. Also Read: Highest tax paying cricketers He's a very organised, composed player at the crease and think he's got a game that will really suit Test cricket.

'Grass, Bounce And Variable Pace': Perth Curator Aims For 'rock Hard' Pitch Despite Rain Challenges

Isaac McDonald: Perths unusual weather has thrown a curveball at WACA head curator Isaac McDonald, who is working against time to prepare the pitch for the highly anticipated first Test of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy. Despite the disruptions, McDonald remains optimistic that the Optus Stadium surface will deliver its trademark bounce and pace when play begins on Friday. Rain in the lead-up to the Test has disrupted traditional preparations, with Tuesdays downpour forcing the pitch to remain under covers all day. This has left the curating team with less time to achieve the iconic aking effect associated with Perth's pitches. Yeah, it's definitely not traditional Perth Test prep. Yesterday we pretty much lost the whole day of prep with it being under cover. So we kind of saw the forecast early on and we started preparing a little bit earlier than we normally would. So we're sitting quite comfortable still. It'd be nice if the sun would pop out and do its job but as of this morning we're in a good spot, McDonald told media ahead of the series opener beginning on Friday. I don't think the weather is going to make this pitch fall apart. There'll be some deterioration, grass will stand up during the game and offer that variable bounce but in terms of big snake WACA cracks, unfortunately, I don't think the weather is going to get us there, he added. McDonald noted that the pitch is likely to retain some moisture at the start of the match, potentially making it less prone to significant wear and tear over the five days. McDonald confirmed that the pitch would feature significant grass cover, estimating it at 8-10mma return to traditional levels for Test matches in Perth. I mean everyone talks about the traditional baking of the top. We can kind of manufacture that with more rolling and less water on top if we have to. We're testing the wicket hour by hour so it's quite conditions based at the moment. So at the moment we're leaning towards rolling it a bit more on top to get that firmness and that happy medium between bat and ball. But yeah, fingers crossed the sun pops out, he said. With weekend temperatures expected to hover around 30-32 degrees Celsius, McDonald is curious to see how the grass holds up and whether it contributes to the pitchs characteristically lively nature. Despite the challenges, McDonald and his team are energised by the significance of hosting the first Test of this marquee series. So we're sitting quite comfortable and having quite open conversations within the curating team of what we feel is appropriate and where to go from there. There's still be really good pace and bounce in the pitch. With weekend temperatures expected to hover around 30-32 degrees Celsius, McDonald is curious to see how the grass holds up and whether it contributes to the pitchs characteristically lively nature. Also Read: Highest tax paying cricketers Article Source: IANS

BGT 2024-25: Call On Gills Participation To Be Taken On Morning Of The Match, Says Morkel

Syed Mushtaq Ali T20 Trophy: India bowling coach Morne Morkel said the call on injured Shubman Gills participation in the first Border-Gavaskar Trophy Test will be taken on morning of the match starting on November 22 at the Perth Stadium. Gill suffered a fracture to his left thumb while taking a catch in the slip cordon during India's match simulation practice at the WACA in Perth on November 16. India have also got in left-handed top-order batter Devdutt Padikkal as a back-up option. Shubman is improving on a day-by-day basis. We will take a call with him right up until the morning of the Test match. He played well in the match simulation during the build-up (before the injury), so fingers crossed, said Morkel in the pre-series press conference. With Rohit Sharma unavailable for the first Test following the birth of his second child in Mumbai, fast-bowling spearhead Jasprit Bumrah will captain India in his absence, setting up a very rare clash of fast bowling skippers in Tests, with Pat Cummins leading Australia. (Bumrah) put his hand up and wanted that leadership role. He's been very successful here (in Australia) in the past, so he knows what to expect. In the dressing room he speaks well, and he's a guy that I know that with ball in hand will lead from the front, and then the rest of the younger guys will follow, added Morkel. He also heaped rich praise on seam-bowling all-rounder Nitish Kumar Reddy, who played two India A games in Australia and has made rapid strides in career after bagging Emerging Player of the Season award in IPL 2024 and shining in his three T20I appearances against Bangladesh in October. He is one of the young guys. (There's) all-round ability. He'll be one guy who can hold one end up for us, especially for the first couple of days. (He's a) wicket-to-wicket bowler. Any team in the world would want an all-rounder who can help pacers. It'll be on Jasprit over how he uses them. Definitely a guy to keep an eye on in the series. Morkel signed off by saying Indian team is keeping tabs on Mohammed Shamis progress after he took seven wickets on return to competitive cricket in the last round of Ranji Trophy. Shami has now been included in Bengal squad for the upcoming Syed Mushtaq Ali T20 Trophy matches in Rajkot. He is one of the young guys. (There's) all-round ability. He'll be one guy who can hold one end up for us, especially for the first couple of days. (He's a) wicket-to-wicket bowler. Any team in the world would want an all-rounder who can help pacers. It'll be on Jasprit over how he uses them. Definitely a guy to keep an eye on in the series. Also Read: Highest tax paying cricketers Article Source: IANS

'When BCCI Want Things To Happen, They Get Their Way': Finch On IPL Auction Dates

The Sydney Morning Herald: With day three and four of first Border-Gavaskar Trophy Test in Perth clashing with the IPL 2025 mega auction, former Australia captain Aaron Finch said the BCCI holds significant power, as they tend to achieve their desired outcomes. Shortly after day three and four ends on November 24 and 25 respectively, the action will shift to the two-day IPL 2025 mega auction happening in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. I just think it's a bit unusual that they've gone up against a Test match at the same time. Understanding the time zones are different, so it'll most likely happen after a day's play of Test cricket. But I would have thought maybe between Test matches would have been ideal, but there's obviously a reason for it. The BCCI, when they want things to happen, they generally get their way, said Finch on ESPNs Around the Wicket show on Wednesday. Former Australia player Callum Ferguson feels Cricket Australia will feel disappointed about this clash of dates between the start of a marquee series and the IPL auctions. They have been doing that for a long period of time, but certainly we know where the IPL stands in the landscape. It's such a big draw card for eyeballs and cricket lovers around the world. But I think CA would be a bit disappointed that they've put it on at the start of the summer, the first Test match for Australia at home against their biggest draw card over the four-year fixture. It's disappointing for them. Such has been the pull of IPL 2025 mega auction that Daniel Vettori, Australias assistant coach, will miss Perth Test to be in Jeddah as Sunrisers Hyderabad head coach. Similar is the case with Ricky Ponting and Justin Langer, who are confirmed to miss commentating on the Perth Test for broadcasters Channel Seven after day ones play to be in the auction as head coaches of Punjab Kings and Lucknow Super Giants respectively. Its the worst possible case scenario for me and J.L. (Langer). We for the last couple of months felt that it was probably going to be in the gap between the Test matches. It takes all the pressure off the players from both teams. There are a lot of players in both teams in the auction. So I always thought it would have been in that gap because it just seemed better for everybody. But I dont know why theyve chosen the dates they have it might have something to do with the game. The auction actually starts on air almost immediately after the end of play. So it might be something to do with broadcast. Its the worst possible case scenario for me and J.L. (Langer). We for the last couple of months felt that it was probably going to be in the gap between the Test matches. It takes all the pressure off the players from both teams. There are a lot of players in both teams in the auction. Also Read: Highest tax paying cricketers Article Source: IANS

BGT 2024-25: I Am Very Happy That Cheteshwar Pujara Isnt Here, Says Josh Hazlewood

Indian Premier League: Australia fast-bowler Josh Hazlewood said he was very happy over the absence of top-order batter Cheteshwar Pujara from the Indian squad for the upcoming Border-Gavaskar Trophy series, starting on November 22 in Perth. Pujara was always the rock at number three which Australian bowlers found it hard to dislodge, as he amassed 993 runs in 11 games at an average of 47.28 in Test matches down under. Apart from scoring five fifties and three hundreds in Australia, Pujara was named Player of the Series during India's historic 2-1 win in the 2018/19 tour. I am very happy that Cheteshwar Pujara is not here. He is obviously someone who bats time and spends a lot of time at the crease and makes you earn his wicket every time. Has done really well in Australia on previous tours. I mean there are always first-class young players coming into the team. There is so much pressure to perform in the Indian team. With so many guys nipping at the hills all the time, so overall the playing XI is a mix of unbelievable players. So it does not really matter, they are all big players, said Hazlewood in the pre-series press conference. While acknowledging the importance of taking out Virat Kohli early, Hazlewood also stressed on Australia being prepared to tackle the likes of Rishabh Pant and Jasprit Bumrah. Not only Kohli, but our focus is on all the players. He has found a lot of success in the past and of course will be a crucial wicket. But there are other guys also like a Rishabh Pant or a Jasprit Bumrah who can be equally good with their respective skills. For that kind of batters (like Pant), it is important to have Plan B and C if things go south. It is important to have different plans apart from top of off. We also have players like Travis Head and Mitch Marsh who can take the game away. With an element of mystery around the make-up of Indias playing eleven, especially in the absence of Rohit Sharma and Shubman Gill, Hazlewood believes there arent much secrets about the players in Indian camp, owing to knowing them via the IPL. I don't think there's anything that you haven't seen in Test cricket before. It's going to come down to bowling on that area and batting with patience and trying to outlast them. There's no real secrets behind those closed doors of Indian sessions. We've seen a lot of them. We play with them all the time (in the Indian Premier League). We play against them. There's no real secrets in cricket these days. Ive bowled to them for the past few days, the past few years now and they are pretty good players with pretty good records. I know theyll find a way on whatever wicket, whatever conditions get thrown up. I don't think there's anything that you haven't seen in Test cricket before. It's going to come down to bowling on that area and batting with patience and trying to outlast them. There's no real secrets behind those closed doors of Indian sessions. Also Read: Highest tax paying cricketers Article Source: IANS

We Play With Passion And Pride', Says Captain Durga Rao After India Pulls Out Of Blind T20 World Cup

T20 Blind Cricket World Cup: After India's withdrawal from the 4th T20 Blind Cricket World Cup due to government clearance issues, which is scheduled to take place in Pakistan from November 22 to December 3, 2024, captain Durga Rao Tompaki expressed the team's spirit, emphasising their passion, pride, and commitment to future opportunities. This decision, which came a week after the BCCI informed the International Cricket Council (ICC) that India will not not travel to Pakistan for the 2025 Champions Trophy early next year, follows the non-clearance from the Government of India. While this is a significant setback for the team, CABI fully respects the government's concerns and the decision for the same. The team had been training rigorously and was eager to compete. However, we prioritise government's guidance and remain steadfast in our commitment to the continued development of Blind Cricket in India, Cricket Association We play with passion, and we represent our country with immense pride. We have always looked forward to competing at the biggest stage, and it is disheartening to miss out on this opportunity. However, we know that the next World Cup is just around the corner, and we remain committed to our training and preparation. We have had a successful coaching camp and have seen emerging talent that we believe can lead our team to greater heights. Its time to nurture these talents and ensure that our team is ready when the next tournament comes, said Durga Rao Tompaki, Ccaptainof the Indian Mens Cricket Team for the Blind. We play with passion, and we represent our country with immense pride. We have always looked forward to competing at the biggest stage, and it is disheartening to miss out on this opportunity. However, we know that the next World Cup is just around the corner, and we remain committed to our training and preparation. Also Read: Highest tax paying cricketers Article Source: IANS

India withdraw from T20 Blind Cricket World Cup in Pakistan

The team did not get clearance from the Indian government to travel to Pakistan

BGT 2024-25: Australia-India Rivalry Not Far Behind Aus-England, Feels Ponting

ICC Review Show: Former skipper Ricky Ponting compared the rivalry between Australia and India to that of the Ashes, stating that these two series are the battles in world cricket that everyone looks forward to seeing. The Ashes has been around for 142 years, with 345 Tests played under it. Australia have won 142 matches as compared to England's 110. On the other hand, the Border-Gavaskar Trophy was constituted in 1996/97, with India winning 24 matches and Australia emerging victorious on 20 occasions. Australia-England, with the history of the Ashes, but Australia-India is not far behind that and it's built up over a long period of time. I think we all look forward to these sorts of battles. As a past player, as a commentator, I want to see these two teams go out there and play hard and fair and then see who is left standing at the end of the next five games, said Ponting on the ICC Review Show. India has won the Border-Gavaskar Trophy on last four occasions both at home and away conditions since 2016/17. The trophy, named after the first two batsmen to pass 10,000 runs from their respective countries Allan Border and Sunil Gavaskar will be up for grabs again when India and Australia play first Test at Perth on November 22. He also expects for the upcoming series, with later matches to be played in Adelaide, Brisbane, Melbourne and Sydney, to produce edge of the seat stuff and competitive cricket. I don't know if spice is the right word, but I expect the game to be played sort of almost on the edge, if you like, with two of the best teams in the world not wanting to give an inch to each other. India has won the Border-Gavaskar Trophy on last four occasions both at home and away conditions since 2016/17. The trophy, named after the first two batsmen to pass 10,000 runs from their respective countries Allan Border and Sunil Gavaskar will be up for grabs again when India and Australia play first Test at Perth on November 22. Also Read: Highest tax paying cricketers Article Source: IANS

Maxwell Likely To Be Out Of Action For A Month Due To Hamstring Tear

The Big Bash League: Australia's veteran all-rounder Glenn Maxwell faced a significant setback after scans revealed a grade two tear in his left hamstring, casting doubt on his availability for the start of the Big Bash League (BBL). Maxwell sustained the injury while fielding during the third T20 against Pakistan in Hobart on Monday. He was seen grabbing at his hamstring and hobbling off Bellerive Oval during Australia's third T20 international against Pakistan on Monday. The injury also disrupts Maxwells push for a Test recall ahead of Australia's two-match series in Sri Lanka in February 2025. He last played Test cricket in 2017. Additionally, he will now likely miss a Sheffield Shield game that he planned to use as preparation for the BBL season. Cricket Victoria on Wednesday confirmed the news to Australian Newswire, news.com.au, that the injury will keep the 36-year-old sidelined for at least four weeks, a crucial period ahead of the BBL and the upcoming international schedule. The Big Bash League season will begin on December 15, with Melbourne Stars set to face the Perth Scorchers. Maxwell facing a race against time to regain fitness for the tournament opener. The batting alrounder was also planning for a Prime Minister XI team against India in Canberra in less than 10 days. The Big Bash League season will begin on December 15, with Melbourne Stars set to face the Perth Scorchers. Maxwell facing a race against time to regain fitness for the tournament opener. Also Read: Highest tax paying cricketers Article Source: IANS

BGT 2024-25: Marsh Has Learnt To Become Bit More Of A Test Match Player, Says Allan Border

Gavaskar Trophy: Ahead of Australias first game of the five-match Border-Gavaskar Trophy series against India, former captain Allan Border praised Mitchell Marshs growth in Tests, adding that the all-rounder has learnt about how to become a player more suited to playing the longer format. Hes matured more and more as a red-ball cricketer. There was a lot of white-ball cricket in his Test match play in the past, but I think hes learned to become a bit more of a Test match cricketer. He can let the ball go. Youve got a long time in the game. He was one guy who liked to get on with it if it was stagnating, he wanted to get on with it to keep the scoreboard ticking. But Mitchell has learned (the drop anchor approach). He is a very good one-day player, but now hes starting to become a very good red-ball cricketer as well, said Border to Fox Sports. After making his Test debut in 2014, Marsh never made the most out of his opportunities, averaging 25.20 with the bat in his first 32 games. Despite making two centuries in the 2017/18 Ashes, Marsh continued to earn criticism from fans. But an injury to Cameron Green in 2023 Ashes got Marsh back in the team and he marked his return with a century at Headingley, which established him has a number six batter in the Test team. In the absence of Green due to a lower back stress fracture surgery, Marshs role as an all-rounder, who can give 10-15 overs of seam bowling, becomes crucial for Australia in the all-important series against India. Former pacer Brett Lee thinks Australia need to look at how they can bring the best out of Marsh the bowler. Youve got to make sure that hes looked after in terms of when hes bowling, try to get the best out of him. But the great thing about an all-rounder is that if he misses out with the bat, he can get them with the ball and hes equally as good in both skill sets. In the absence of Green due to a lower back stress fracture surgery, Marshs role as an all-rounder, who can give 10-15 overs of seam bowling, becomes crucial for Australia in the all-important series against India. Former pacer Brett Lee thinks Australia need to look at how they can bring the best out of Marsh the bowler. Also Read: Highest tax paying cricketers Article Source: IANS

Ex-allrounder And Selector Dion Nash Elected To NZC Board

New Zealand Cricket Board: Former New Zealand all-rounder Dion Nash, who also served as a selector, has been elected to the Board of New Zealand Cricket. Nash played 32 Tests and 81 ODIs for New Zealand, and was a member of the side winning 2000 ICC Knock-Out tournament, now known as the Champions Trophy. Nash, 53, fills in the vacancy left by the departing Martin Snedden, who steps down by rotation following a lengthy service to the game as a player, chief executive, board member, chair of the board, and International Cricket Council director. Post his playing career, Nash ventured into business and founded a skin and haircare company in 2011. Its good to have someone with Dions cricket and business experience coming onto the board at a time when Martin is stepping down. Dion has a strong interest in not just the playing of the game but the business of the game and that should help stand us in good stead. Martins been involved with NZC since he was a player in the eighties and has made an extraordinary contribution to the game over a period of 24 years. His mix of cricket, legal, and management expertise has been an important ingredient in the evolution of NZC from an old-fashioned incorporated society to a professional, modern and future-thinking organisation, said NZC chair Diana Pukepatu-Lyndon. NZC also said Bill Birnie and Roger Twose, who were also retired by rotation, successfully stood for re-election. The organisation also said in the AGM that it returned an eight million NZ dollars surplus for the financial year, just over 50 percent above the budgeted surplus of 5.3 million dollars, while adding the need to protect its equity as there were headwinds forecast in the shape of a predicted 6.8 million dollars loss in the following 2024/25 financial year. Martins been involved with NZC since he was a player in the eighties and has made an extraordinary contribution to the game over a period of 24 years. His mix of cricket, legal, and management expertise has been an important ingredient in the evolution of NZC from an old-fashioned incorporated society to a professional, modern and future-thinking organisation, said NZC chair Diana Pukepatu-Lyndon. Also Read: Highest tax paying cricketers Article Source: IANS

BGT 2024-25: Kohli Is Passionate About The Way That He Plays, Says Ponting

Gavaskar Trophy Test: Ahead of the first Border-Gavaskar Trophy Test, Ricky Ponting hailed the talismanic Virat Kohli, calling him an absolute superstar of the game who is deeply passionate about the way he plays, which in turn has earned him lots of respect in Australia. Kohli is a star. He's a superstar, has been a superstar of the game for so long. He's passionate about the way that he plays. Hes passionate about his team. He wants to win and he plays with his heart on his sleeve. That's what superstar players generate and create all around the world. And there's lots of different degrees of that. That's what superstar players generate and create all around the world. And there's lots of different degrees of that. You think about other players like when Steve Smith goes to the UK (United Kingdom) and gets booed when he walks onto the ground. I mean, thats all part of, I guess, the theatre that comes with international sports, said Ponting on the ICC Review Show. Kohli averages just 22.72 in his six Test matches this year, way below than his average of 54.08 in Tests in Australia and his overall career average of 47.83. But having scored some of his landmark centuries in Australia and leading India here to a 2-1 series win in 2018/19 is expected to bring the best out of him in the upcoming five-match series, starting on November 22 at Perth Stadium. Ponting remarked he is expecting Kohli to shoulder tons of batting duties for India on this all-important tour of Australia. I had a look at what Ravi (Shastri) had to say about being the man that wanted to take all the bullets in Australia last time. And thats what you expect from your leaders and your star players. When you travel abroad, and you know that the countrys against you, and you know the home medias against you, you need to have your senior players stand up and be the protectors, if you like, of the younger players in that side. Ponting remarked he is expecting Kohli to shoulder tons of batting duties for India on this all-important tour of Australia. I had a look at what Ravi (Shastri) had to say about being the man that wanted to take all the bullets in Australia last time. And thats what you expect from your leaders and your star players. Also Read: Highest tax paying cricketers Article Source: IANS

Dion Nash elected to New Zealand Cricket board

The former allrounder and national selector replaced the outgoing Martin Snedden

Rafael Nadal serial winner, racquet-wielding philosopher and an invincible spirit

For two decades, the Spanish legend thrilled audiences worldwide and was part of two era-defining rivalries with Roger Federer and Novak Djokovic

'Monkeygate' To Gabbatoir: Five Classic India Vs Australia Tests

Australia and India have been facing each other in Test cricket since 1947 and renew their rivalry in Perth on Friday, playing a five-match series for the first time since 1991-92. Some of the most competitive clashes have come since they began contesting the Border-Gavaskar Trophy -- named after the first two batsmen to pass 10,000 runs -- in the 1996-97 season. AFP looks back at five memorable Tests: - Tendulkar conquers Warne - Sachin Tendulkar and spin king Shane Warne had many epic battles. In 1998 at the Chidambaram Stadium, Chennai, Warne drew first blood by having the batting master caught for four in the slips, then he ran through the middle order to restrict India to 257 in their first innings. In reply Australia made 328, helped by Ian Healy's 90. This set the stage for Warne v Tendulkar round two, and it was the batsman who came out on top on a dusty, spin-friendly wicket. He produced one of his most dazzling innings, taking apart Warne and fellow spinner Gavin Robertson in a magnificent unbeaten 155 from 191 balls that changed the course of the match. India declared and set Australia 348 to win, and they were bundled out for just 168 on the final day with Tendulkar, not surprisingly, named man-of-the-match. - Laxman's epic stand - The second Test at Eden Gardens, Kolkata, in 2001 was all about one of India's greatest comebacks and is regarded among the most exciting matches of all time. After Australia posted a big total of 445, with Matthew Hayden making 97 and Steve Waugh 110, their bowling attack led by Glenn McGrath skittled the home side for 171. The follow-on was enforced with India in real danger of going 2-0 down in the series before VVS Laxman (281) and Rahul Dravid (180) knuckled down in a memorable and gritty 376-run stand for the fifth wicket as India made 657-7 before declaring. Australia were left with a victory target of 384, but six wickets from Harbhajan Singh steered India to an unlikely 171-run win. - 'Monkeygate' scandal - Perhaps the most controversial and spiteful Test between the two nations, the 2008 Sydney encounter was dubbed Monkeygate, marred by umpiring errors and accusations of racism. Ricky Ponting's men won by 122 runs for a record-breaking 16th consecutive Test victory with just seven balls remaining in a breathless finish after part-time spinner Michael Clarke took three wickets in five deliveries. But it is infamously remembered for Harbhajan Singh being charged with racial abuse and banned for three Tests for allegedly calling Andrew Symonds -- who has West Indian ancestry -- a monkey during the third day's play. The row saw India threaten to pull out of the tour and on appeal the ban was lifted and the charge downgraded to abusive language, leaving relations between the teams tense. - Spinners rule in Bangalore - Australia took a 1-0 lead into the fiery Test in Bangalore in 2017 and when Nathan Lyon bagged 8-50 to bamboozle the Indian batsmen for 189, it looked like the tourists would go 2-0 up. But in a bad-tempered few days, Ravindra Jadeja picked up 6-63 to ensure the tourists led by just 87. A stylish 92 from Cheteshwar Pujara coupled with six wickets for Josh Hazlewood then saw India all out for 274 to set Australia 188 to win. They crumbled for 112 with Ravichandran Ashwin becoming the fourth bowler in the match to claim six wickets -- the first time this had happened in Test history. The landmark was overshadowed by Virat Kohli accusing Australia of consulting their dressing room over DRS decisions from the field. Asked whether Australia cheated, a fired-up Kohli replied: I didn't say that, you did. - 'Gabbatoir' conquered - Australia went into the deciding Test at Brisbane of the four-match series in 2020-21 having not lost at the Gabba in 32 years. Beset by injuries, India were heavy underdogs. The hosts won the toss and, helped by a Marnus Labuschagne century, compiled 369 before India responded with a gritty 336. Australia -- in Nathan Lyon's 100th Test -- were restricted to 294 in the second innings, but they still set India a mammoth 328 to win. Also Read: Highest tax paying cricketers A battling 91 from Shubman Gill gave them a solid platform but it was a dashing Rishabh Pant who stole the show with a thrilling unbeaten 89 to complete a three-wicket victory with three overs to spare on the final day.

Spains Rafael Nadal loses in Davis Cup quarter-finals singles opener

Rafael Nadal loses Davis Cup match to Botic van de Zandschulp, ending career with emotional farewell in Malaga

Coetzee fined and handed demerit point for showing dissent

Netherlands' Edwards and Oman's Mehmood were also fined for breaching the ICC code of conduct

Dhawan, Raina Among Marquee Names For Inaugral Season Of Big Cricket League

The Big Cricket League: In an exciting cricketing spectacle, Shikhar Dhawan, Suresh Raina, and Irfan Pathan will join skilled amateur players of all ages in a unique T20 tournament, the Big Cricket League (BCL) which will debut in Surat in December. It provides a special opportunity for cricket fans and aspiring players to play alongside some of the greatest names in international cricket. BCL aims to promote the sport's universal appeal by serving as a link between upcoming talent and cricketing stalwarts. It is more than just another cricket competition. The league is poised to enthrall viewers globally with a live broadcast, fulfilling the aspirations of both players and supporters. The BCL distinguishes itself by fusing the enthusiasm of amateur cricket players with the expertise of former international cricket stars. This will be many people's first and only chance to meet cricket stalwarts on a professional level. In addition to encouraging a stronger bond with the game, the league hopes to motivate a new generation of players and supporters. Excited to be part of this groundbreaking initiative, Shikhar Dhawan shared his thoughts, I am super excited for the Big Cricket League, which brings together former international cricket stars and amateur cricketers of all ages who couldnt become professionals. I would like to applaud Dilip Vengsarkar, Courtney Walsh, and RP Singh for this initiative. Speaking on the vision for BCL, RP Singh, Founder & President of the Big Cricket League, stated I am extremely delighted to welcome Shikhar Dhawan, Suresh Raina, and Irfan Pathan to the Big Cricket League as marquee players. They are stalwarts of Indian cricket, and their presence will make this league a brilliant spectacle. I am eager to see the amateur players interact, learn, and play alongside these stalwarts, making their lifelong dream come true. Echoing this sentiment, Annirudh Chauhan, CEO & Co-founder of BCL, remarked The Big Cricket League is a platform that will fulfil the dreams of several amateur cricketers who have always yearned to rub shoulders with icons of the game. Cricket lovers and fans from around the world will enjoy the coming together of amateur talents of all ages and these cricketing stalwarts. Speaking on the vision for BCL, RP Singh, Founder & President of the Big Cricket League, stated I am extremely delighted to welcome Shikhar Dhawan, Suresh Raina, and Irfan Pathan to the Big Cricket League as marquee players. They are stalwarts of Indian cricket, and their presence will make this league a brilliant spectacle. I am eager to see the amateur players interact, learn, and play alongside these stalwarts, making their lifelong dream come true. Also Read: Highest tax paying cricketers Article Source: IANS

BGT 2024-25: Surinder Khanna Urges India To Draw Inspiration From Past Wins

Cricket Australia XI: Former India cricketer Surinder Khanna is hopeful about Indias prospects in the upcoming Border-Gavaskar Trophy despite their recent setbacks, urging the team to draw strength from past comebacks against Australia. Reflecting on Indias resilience in the 2020-21 series after their historic collapse, Khanna believes the squads class will shine through in the upcoming series, but stressed that match practice could have better prepared them for the Australian challenge. The team management opted to focus on net practice sessions and match simulation instead as they gear up for the marquee five-match Border-Gavaskar Trophy starting on November 22 in Perth. Khanna believes that missing out on match practice could hinder Indias readiness for the challenging Australian conditions, where theyll face pace, bounce, and a motivated host side. Reflecting on past tours, Khanna emphasised how match-practice had served India well in the past. During the 2018-19 series, India played a four-day game against a Cricket Australia XI and followed it up in the 2020-21 series with a three-day match against Australia A. The absence of a similar lead-up game this time around, especially after a disappointing 0-3 Test series defeat to New Zealand, is cause for concern. Indias embarrassing defeat, their first in a home Test series of three or more matches since 2000, highlighted deficiencies that net sessions alone may not address. Khanna pointed out that the crushing defeat in New Zealand could impact Indias morale heading into the Australian series. The 0-3 defeat to New Zealand could impact the team's morale in Australia. When you travel after such a loss, naturally, your morale is down. I feel that instead of just practising in the nets, they should have played a practice match. When you play a match, you face real game conditionsgetting out, facing wide balls, low balls, etc.which provides better preparation., Khanna told IANS. Despite his apprehensions, Khanna remains hopeful about India's chances, buoyed by the presence of big names in the squad. Both Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma have faced scrutiny for their inconsistent form during the New Zealand tour, managing a combined 184 runs across six innings. But they are experienced players. Form is temporary, but class is permanent. So, we can hope they will play well. Remember the last series when we were bowled out for 36, but still managed to win the series under Rahane's captaincy after Virat Kohli left for family reasons? If they go in with a fighting spirit and recall the positives from before, I am sure divine blessings and everyones prayers will be with them. However, I still believe that match practice would have been a better preparation. The first Test, set to begin on November 22 in Perth, marks the beginning of an intense battle. Adelaide will host the second Test starting on December 6, followed by Brisbane on December 14, Melbournes iconic Boxing Day Test on December 26, and the fifth and final Test in Sydney starting January 3, 2025. This series will be historic, as its the first five-match Test series between India and Australia. The stakes for India are especially high. Their recent series loss to New Zealand has left them vulnerable in the World Test Championship (WTC) standings, with a points percentage of 58.33%, trailing Australia. To qualify for their third consecutive WTC final, India must win at least four of the five Tests. Khanna warned of potential struggles in Australia, given the significant difference in pitch conditions compared to the turning tracks India prepared for themselves at home. If we win, only then will we reach the championship final; otherwise, we wont. The team knows the task ahead. I expect them to play good cricket but expect some struggles as well. The pitches prepared here were turning tracks, but in Australia, there will be pace and bounce, which will pose a challenge. Without playing a side game, it becomes harder to adjust. By the time they get used to the conditions, two Tests might be over. I hope they win, but my experience tells me that it will be challenging, he said. The stakes for India are especially high. Their recent series loss to New Zealand has left them vulnerable in the World Test Championship (WTC) standings, with a points percentage of 58.33%, trailing Australia. To qualify for their third consecutive WTC final, India must win at least four of the five Tests. Also Read: Highest tax paying cricketers Article Source: IANS

Austrian Cricket apologises to Israel Cricket over incident during T20 World Cup qualifier

The ACA has taken swift action and imposed appropriate disciplinary sanctions on a player

Scott Edwards, Sufyan Mehmood & Gerald Coetzee Found Guilty Of Breaching The ICC Code Of Conduct

Emirates ICC Elite Panel: The Netherlands captain, Scott Edwards, Oman bowler, Sufyan Mehmood, and South Africa bowler, Gerald Coetzee have been found guilty of breaching the ICC Code of Conduct in their respective matches over the weekend. Edwards was found to have breached two articles of the ICC Code of Conduct for Players and Player Support Personnel. He was pulled up for showing dissent to the umpire's decision as per Article 2.8 of the ICC Code of Conduct. Besides Article 2.8, which relates to showing dissent at an umpire's decision during an international match, he was found guilty of breaching Article 2.2 which relates to abuse of cricket equipment or clothing, ground equipment or fixtures and fittings during an International Match. Both breaches followed his dismissal during the third T20I between Oman and the Netherlands. The first incident occurred when Edwards showed his bat to the umpire when given out LBW. The second incident was when he threw his bat and gloves onto the field when returning to his teams dressing room, the ICC informed in a release here on Tuesday. The cumulative sanctions see that the Netherlands captain has been fined 10% of his match fee and received two demerit points one point for each offense which have been added to his disciplinary record. In the same match, Mehmood was fined 10% of his match fee and had one demerit point added to his disciplinary record after being found to have breached Article 2.5 of the ICC Code of Conduct for Players and Player Support Personnel, which relates to using language, actions or gestures which disparage or which could provoke an aggressive reaction from a batter upon his/her dismissal during an International Match. The incident took place when the bowler (Mehmood) dismissed the batter, Teja Nidamanuru, giving him a send-off by pointing him back towards his teams dressing room. Both Edwards and Mehmood admitted their respective offenses and accepted the sanctions proposed by Neeyamur Rashid Rahul of the ICC International Panel of Match Referees and, as such, there was no need for a formal hearing. On-field umpires Harikrishna Pillai, Rahul Asher, and third umpire Vinod Babu levelled the charges. In the fourth T20I between South Africa and India, Gerald Coetzee was found to have breached Article 2.8 of the ICC Code of Conduct for Players and Player Support Personnel, which relates to showing dissent at the decision of an umpire during an international match, said the ICC statement. The incident occurred when Coetzee made an inappropriate comment to the umpire after a wide was called following one of his deliveries. Coetzee received a reprimand and had one demerit point added to his disciplinary record. He admitted the offence and accepted the sanction proposed by Andy Pycroft of the Emirates ICC Elite Panel of Match Referees, therefore no formal hearing was needed. On-field umpires Allahudien Paleker and Stephen Harris, third umpire Lubabalo Gcuma and fourth umpire Arno Jacobs levelled the charge. Coetzee received a reprimand and had one demerit point added to his disciplinary record. He admitted the offence and accepted the sanction proposed by Andy Pycroft of the Emirates ICC Elite Panel of Match Referees, therefore no formal hearing was needed. Also Read: Highest tax paying cricketers Article Source: IANS

BGT 2024-25: With Family Complete, Rohit Should Now Play The Perth Test, Says Surinder Khanna

Gavaskar Trophy Down Under: Rohit Sharmas participation in the first Test of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy Down Under remains uncertain, even after the birth of his second child, a baby boy. While the Indian skipper's presence would be vital for the series opener in Australia, former cricketer Surinder Khanna conveyed heartfelt wishes to Rohit but also emphasised the importance of joining the squad for the high-stakes encounter. Rohit had earlier communicated to the BCCI, regarding his unavailability for the first Test due to the birth of the second child. With, Rohit certainly unavailable, vice-captain Jasprit Bumrah is poised to don the captaincy responsibility for India. First of all, I want to congratulate Rohit and his family on the birth of their baby boy and wish them all the luck. But now the family is complete - a son and a daughter - so Rohit should go and play the Test match. I recall when I got married, I had to return for a match on the same evening as my reception. By the time I reached my room, it was 4 am, and my wife woke me up to go to the airport for a game. That kind of commitment is what defines players, Khanna told IANS. As India prepare to face Australia, their recent struggles in the New Zealand series add to the complexities. The team suffered a 3-0 clean sweep at the hands of the Kiwis, capped by a 25-run loss on the third day of the final Test at the Wankhede Stadium. It marked Indias first clean-sweep defeat in a home Test series since 2000 and their first in a series of three Tests or more. This disappointing result has cast a shadow over their preparations for the crucial Australia series. The first Test begins on November 22 in Perth. Adelaide hosts the second Test starting December 6, followed by Brisbane on December 14. The Boxing Day Test takes place in Melbourne on December 26 with the fifth final Test beginning on January 3, 2025, in Sydney. It will be the first time that India and Australia will be playing a five-match Test series. The upcoming series is crucial for India's World Test Championship (WTC) Final hopes after a recent debacle against New Zealand as India's points percentage currently stands at 58.33%, behind table-topper Australia in the standings. The first Test begins on November 22 in Perth. Adelaide hosts the second Test starting December 6, followed by Brisbane on December 14. The Boxing Day Test takes place in Melbourne on December 26 with the fifth final Test beginning on January 3, 2025, in Sydney. Also Read: Highest tax paying cricketers Article Source: IANS

Surinder Khanna Lauds Rohan Jaitley's Transformative Leadership Ahead Of DDCA Elections

The Delhi Premier League: Former India cricketer Surinder Khanna heaped praise on Rohan Jaitley, the President of the Delhi and District Cricket Association (DDCA), for a successful first term, highlighting the respect and changes Jaitley has brought to the association. Jaitley, seeking a second term, on Tuesday filed his nomination for a second term as president of the DDCA at the Arun Jaitley Stadium. The elections, set to take place between December 13 and 15, will also decide other key posts within the apex council, with results expected on December 16. Khanna expressed his appreciation for the respect and recognition he received from Jaitley and DDCA, which he described as unprecedented in his career. Many nominations have been filed. Kirti Azad has also filed his nomination. In fact, a lot of people have filed nominationsaround 200-250 people, I think. When I was given respect in the Delhi & District Cricket Association (DDCA), something that had never happened before, they brought me into the Cricket Advisory Committee. There is a process for applying, but the rule was abolished for me; they said there would be no rule for me because they needed my guidance, Khanna told IANS. Khanna credited this gesture and environment for fostering his positivity and dedication to cricket development in Delhi. My focus has always been on cricket. When respect is shown, I reciprocate with respect, love, and blessings, he added. Khanna highlighted key initiatives taken under Jaitley's leadership, such as addressing the long-pending issue of players' pensions. For years, players who had competed in fewer than 25 matches were excluded from pension benefits, but this has since changed. Whatever cricket-related suggestions we give, for example, the players' pensions, which had been stopped for years for those who played less than 25 matches, have now been addressed. All players who played up to 24 matches were given a Diwali bonus for three months, and it will continue to be given. He also mentioned significant progress on medical insurance for players, with a comprehensive policy worth 10 lakh rupees now in place for all current and former players for three years. There was also an issue with medical insurance worth ten lakh rupees, which has now been arranged for all old and new players for three years. We hope that with this new committee and under its leadership, good work will continue. Whatever cricket-related suggestions we give, for example, the players' pensions, which had been stopped for years for those who played less than 25 matches, have now been addressed. All players who played up to 24 matches were given a Diwali bonus for three months, and it will continue to be given. Also Read: Highest tax paying cricketers Article Source: IANS

BGT 2024-25: 'Australia Are At Best When We Play The Long Game', Says Labuschagne

Marnus Labuschagne: Australia batter Marnus Labuschagne is hoping to frustrate Indian bowlers in the middle by spending long hours in the middle to drain out the energy from them in the gruelling five-Test Border-Gavaskar Trophy starting on Friday. Labuschagne admitted that Australia is best at playing the 'long game' and emphasised the importance of spending more hours in the middle to empty the visiting pacers' juice by keeping them under pressure for long spells. The Australian batter is trying to replicate what Cheteshwar Pujara did during the 2020-21 tour, and that proved crucial in the end. It's going to be important for all of us. I think the way we play, we're at our best when we're playing the long game. We understand that getting them back for their second and third spells, putting them under pressure and letting them come to us and us putting pressure back on them through overs in the field and time in the game, especially over a five-Test series, that's really important, he said on Tuesday. Because as you get into the third, fourth, fifth Test, if they're trying to play the same team, and those bowlers are rolling into 100, 150, 200 overs by the third Test, it's going to make a big difference in the series, the middle order batter added. In the absence of Mohammed Shami, vice-captain Jasprit Bumrah is the most experienced pacer who will lead the pace-bowling attack along with Mohammed Siraj and Akash Deep. Labuschagne's form at the start of this summer has been underwhelming. While he began with an impressive 77 not out in his first ODI in England in September, his subsequent ODI scores dipped to 19, 0, 4, 16, and 6. In domestic cricket, he managed 77 and an unbeaten 35 in his first Sheffield Shield match at the WACA in October but followed up with modest scores of 11, 22, and 10 for Queensland. A pattern has emerged in his recent dismissals. After overcoming a phase in international cricket where opponents targeted his front pad, he now finds himself vulnerable outside off stump, nicking deliveries he would have left alone in the past. Labuschagne is well aware of how India plans to exploit this weakness in Perth. I think there might be areas that they'll attack first this time around, bowling that channel and try and nick you off. I think especially in Perth, with the bouncy wicket, Labuschagne said. I think for me, probably just getting away from the process of what makes me a good player, and just making sure I stay consistent to that process and really trusting the system, he added. The 30-year-old is ready to chip in with his medium-pace bowling in the absence of Cameron Green during the series. I think for me, probably just getting away from the process of what makes me a good player, and just making sure I stay consistent to that process and really trusting the system, he added. Also Read: Highest tax paying cricketers Article Source: IANS

Confident Of His Development Work, Rohan Jaitley Files Nomination For DDCA President Post

With Delhi Premier League: : Incumbent Rohan Jaitley on Tuesday filed his nomination for the post of president of the Delhi and District Cricket Association (DDCA) at Arun Jaitley Stadium, seeking reelection for a second term. The DDCA will hold elections for all members of the apex council, including five office bearers and seven directors, from December 13 to 15. The election results will be announced on December 16. Jaitley, who defeated Vikas Singh in the last election to secure the top post, is confident of getting a second term in the association. In regard to preparation, we've been doing good work around the association with the last two years which is being followed. Be cricketing activities development, infrastructure development, player welfare development and members inclusion on various activities, this is something we've been working on for the last three years, Rohan told IANS. Last time, our agenda was very clear on various topics including pensions, infrastructure, insurance and facilities etc. We've delivered about 90 per cent of what we've promised. With Delhi Premier League, we have done U-16, and U-19 overhaul, and we have senior and club level cricket league with around 1600 games happening. We started pensions for players, we started health insurance for players, and we ensured that stadium infrastructure was upgraded before the last World Cup. These are the changes that we've brought about and hoping that members would support me and my team this time too, he elaborated on schemes launched during his tenure. It is also always good when you get support from multiple ecosystems. We're ensuring that everything is in compliance with and requirements of players and how to improve the teams' performance across boards. Changes do take time and we're seeing results. Sooner or later we will see big results, he added on former cricketers' support for the pension scheme. Jaitley extended warm wishes to cricketer-turned-politician Kirti Azad, who is also contesting for the DDCA president post and filed his nomination on Monday. While contesting an election, one has to be very cautious and careful on how to go about things. It is something which is actively being done and we'll make sure that a positive result does come. I would wish (Kirti) Azad all the very best, Rohan said. We've running a very transparent administration, everything is out there in the public. Everyone knows what is happening be it selection-related matters to infrastructure updates. There were issues before I came in, there were financial issues that the association was facing including a lot of outstanding for vendors. Now, we're in a reserve surplus and made sure that infrastructure is top class, facilities are being created, he added. While contesting an election, one has to be very cautious and careful on how to go about things. It is something which is actively being done and we'll make sure that a positive result does come. I would wish (Kirti) Azad all the very best, Rohan said. Also Read: Highest tax paying cricketers Article Source: IANS

India's likely XI: Rahul set to open, Padikkal No. 3, and Jurel in the middle order

An insight into what India's XI might look like for the first Test in Perth

Roger Federer hails historic Rafael Nadal ahead of imminent retirement

Retired Swiss star Federer and Nadal faced each other 14 times at Grand Slam tournaments with Nadal holding a 6-3 advantage in finals.

Gavaskar Believes CSK, RCB To Go For KL Rahul In IPL Auction

Lucknow Super Giants: After being released by the Lucknow Super Giants (LSG), former India captain Sunil Gavaskar believes that Chennai Super Kings (CSK) and Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) would target wicketkeeper-batter KL Rahul in the upcoming IPL 2025 mega auction. LSG snubbed their captain Rahul and retained Nicholas Pooran, Ravi Bishnoi, Mayank Yadav, Mohsin Khan and Ayush Badoni in the squad. On the other hand, RCB and CSK retained three (Virat Kohli, Rajat Patidar and Yash Dayal) and five players (Ruturaj Gaikwad, Matheesha Pathirana, Shivam Dube, Ravindra Jadeja and MS Dhoni), respectively. Both southern franchises will head into the auction with a bank of Rs 83 crore (RCB) and Rs 55 crore (CSK) to fill 22 and 20 spots, respectively. I do believe that the two south franchises, Bengaluru as well as Chennai, will go for KL Rahul. Maybe even Hyderabad will go, but Bangalore is of course KL Rahul's hometown. So clearly I think he will be enthused, he will be encouraged, he will want to play in front of his home crowd. So Bengaluru might go for KL Rahul, Gavaskar said on Star Sports. Former India cricketer Sanjay Manjrekar, speaking on the auction, discussed the potential future of David Warner, a global superstar known for his powerful hitting. He said, It's been a few years since David Warner's performances have been great. But he is still a great player. When Devon Conway was released in CSK, I'm sure they will buy him back. They are quite influenced by Rachid Ravindra as well. I don't think they will be interested in bringing David Warner into their plans. I don't think David Warner can fit in CSK. Manjrekar also analysed why Punjab Kings might have released Arshdeep Singh and how they could still retain him. He said, I believe that they have released a lot of players so that they get some freedom. And the core of the team and the combination of the team should change completely. But they will definitely be interested in Arshdeep Singh. I believe there is a slight difference in today's Arshdeep Singh and 5 years ago's Arshdeep Singh. But he can still give you a wicket with a new ball. And you can still expect from him in the slog overs as well. So although Punjab Kings have released him, they will definitely be after Arshdeep in the mega auctions. Manjrekar further addressed Mohammed Shami's recent injury issues and their impact on the auction. Manjrekar also analysed why Punjab Kings might have released Arshdeep Singh and how they could still retain him. He said, I believe that they have released a lot of players so that they get some freedom. And the core of the team and the combination of the team should change completely. But they will definitely be interested in Arshdeep Singh. I believe there is a slight difference in today's Arshdeep Singh and 5 years ago's Arshdeep Singh. But he can still give you a wicket with a new ball. And you can still expect from him in the slog overs as well. So although Punjab Kings have released him, they will definitely be after Arshdeep in the mega auctions. Also Read: Highest tax paying cricketers Article Source: IANS

Foulkes and Wickramasinghe on debut as NZ bat first in third ODI

Sri Lanka made five changes to their team for the dead rubber ODI having sealed the series already

Bavuma, Coetzee, Jansen return for South Africa's home Tests against Sri Lanka

Dane Piedt was left out from the unit that won the Test series in Bangladesh

Embuldeniya Recalled As De Silva To Lead Sri Lanka In South Africa Tests

South Africa Tests: Left-arm spinner Lasith Embuldeniya has been recalled to the squad after more than two years as Sri Lanka announced the Dhananjaya de Silva-led team for the two-match Test series against South Africa. Fast-bowler Kasun Rajitha, who was not named in the squad for the 2-0 series win against New Zealand, has also been named in the 17-man squad. He last played a Test against Bangladesh in Sylhet in March, where he picked up eight wickets. Meanwhile, Embuldeniya last played a Test in 2022 against Australia in Galle. Earlier, Sri Lanka released Kusal Mendis, Pathum Nissanka, Kamindu Mendis, and Asitha Fernando from the squad for the third and final ODI against New Zealand, scheduled for Tuesday, to give them adequate time to rest and prepare for the upcoming Test series against South Africa. Last week, ten Sri Lankan players, including skipper De Silva, Dimuth Karunaratne, Angelo Mathews, Dinesh Chandimal and Prabath Jayasuriya, departed for South Africa for a pre-series camp ahead of the two-match Test series. SLC has said that the remaining squad members will leave for South Africa on Friday. The series is part of the World Test Championship (WTC) and both teams will bolster their case for the next year's final at the Lord's. Sri Lanka currently sit at third spot while South Africa are placed fifth in the standings. SLC has said that the remaining squad members will leave for South Africa on Friday. Also Read: Highest tax paying cricketers Article Source: IANS

BGT 2024-25: Watson Backs Smith To Bring 'very Best Of Him' Against India

Willow Talk Cricket Podcast: Former Australia allrounder Shane Watson has expressed confidence in Steve Smith's abilities to bring the best version of him in the upcoming five-Test series against India starting on Friday in Perth. Smith, who struggled as an opener, will return to his usual No. 4 spot in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy after Nathan McSweeney was finalised as Usman Khawaja's opening partner for the red-ball format. After David Warner's retirement, Smith was elevated to the opening role - the move that didn't go well for the Australian team as the former captain struggled with only 171 runs in four Tests at an average of 28.50 including an unbeaten 91 against West Indies. Steve wanted to open. He was super keen to take up a new challenge. But one thing with that opportunity he had was he wasnt actually batting at his best at that time. So he got an opportunity to open and Steve Smith at his very best would have made the most out of it because he just loves scoring runs whether it is opening or at No 4. You could see it a few times he got out when he was opening -- his game and his technique was a little bit off, Watson said on Willow Talk Cricket Podcast. In the recent ODI series against Pakistan, Smith scored 44 and 35 runs to give a glimpse of his talent before the all-important series against India. In the one-day series (against Pakistan), in one of the innings at the MCG -- wow, it looked like the very best of him. Jeez, he had so much time and had all the shots. Im confident that Smith would bring that version of him into this summer and whether he bats at No 4 or opening, he will score runs, Watson added. In the recent ODI series against Pakistan, Smith scored 44 and 35 runs to give a glimpse of his talent before the all-important series against India. Also Read: Highest tax paying cricketers Article Source: IANS

'My retention wasn't about money for sure': Pant ahead of IPL auction

India wicketkeeper-batter Rishabh Pant has revealed that his release from Delhi Capitals squad ahead of the IPL 2025 mega auction was not about the money.

BGT 2024-25: Ian Healy Suggests 'body Bash' To Aussie Pacers To Target Virat Kohli

India Tour of Australia 2024-25: Australian cricket great Ian Healy wants pace trio Pat Cummins, Josh Hazlewood and Mitchell Starc to capitalise on Virat Kohli's lean patch of form and should look to target the right-hander with 'body bash' in the five-match Border-Gavaskar Trophy series, starting from November 22 at Perth. Kohli has dominated previously in red-ball cricket in Australia, averaging 54.08 and scoring six centuries from 13 Tests. However, he averages just 22.72 in his six Test matches this year, and Healy thinks that the pace trio could test his forward defence with straighter impact balls that are designed to trap him in front LBW. The first matchup I'm looking at is how our quicks can bowl to Virat Kohli, and I think they should target his front pad quite often. He sits that front foot there and he can play from anywhere - he can play square on the off-side, he can whip onto the leg-side or he can rock back but theyve got to look for any sort of insecurity in his form and maybe target that front pad, Healy told SENQ Breakfast. But don't do it every ball because hell get used to it its the impact ball that has to be on the front pad after he is set up with seam, he said. Healy further said if the first matcup doesn't work when Kohli takes on the bowling with hook and pull shots then the bowlers should look to go for body smashes to tackle the former Indian skipper. Kohli had hit 116 - first Test hundred at Adelaide in January 2012, followed by making 115 and 141 at the same venue in 2014, where he captained India for the first time in Tests. The former skipper also made 123, the first Test hundred by an Indian batter in the new Perth Stadium in 2018, where he eventually led India to 2-1 series victory, their first-ever Test series win in Australia. If that's not working, body bash. Bowl at the back armpit, thats the right arm as a right-handed batsman and its got to be hot. Have him jumping at times if he wants to ride those deliveries - ducking, weaving or bending backwards. Kohli had hit 116 - first Test hundred at Adelaide in January 2012, followed by making 115 and 141 at the same venue in 2014, where he captained India for the first time in Tests. The former skipper also made 123, the first Test hundred by an Indian batter in the new Perth Stadium in 2018, where he eventually led India to 2-1 series victory, their first-ever Test series win in Australia. Also Read: Highest tax paying cricketers Article Source: IANS

'My Retention Wasn't About Money For Sure': Pant Reveals Ahead Of IPL Auction

ICC T20 World Cup: India wicketkeeper-batter Rishabh Pant has revealed that his release from Delhi Capitals squad ahead of the IPL 2025 mega auction was not about the money. In a first public reaction after not being retained by the franchise which he captained across three seasons after missing the 2023 edition due to injury, Pant countered Sunil Gavaskar's opinion where he suggested the move was made due to the disagreement on the retention fees and Delhi would want his back in the squad. My retention wasnt about the money for sure that I can say, Pant wrote on X (formerly known as Twitter). Talking about Delhi's auction strategy on Star Sports, Gavaskar said, See the auction dynamics are completely different so we don't know how it will go but what I feel is that Delhi would certainly want Rishabh Pant back in their squad. Sometimes when the player has to be retained there's talk between franchises and players about the fees that are expected. As some of those who have been retained by their franchise they've gone for more than say what the number one retention fee would be. So clearly may be I think there was some disagreement over that but my feeling is Delhi definitely want Rishabh Pant back because they need a captain as well. If Rishabh Pant is not in their squad then they have to look for a new captain. Delhi Capitals have two Right to Match (RTM) cards, which they can use on the auction table for Pant or any other previous squad member after only retaining Axar Patel, Kuldeep Yadav, Tristan Stubbs and Abhishek Porel. Earlier, Pant casted doubts over his retention by the franchise and posted a cryptic post on social media. He wrote, If go to the auction. Will I be sold or not and for how much? Delhi Capitals have two Right to Match (RTM) cards, which they can use on the auction table for Pant or any other previous squad member after only retaining Axar Patel, Kuldeep Yadav, Tristan Stubbs and Abhishek Porel. Also Read: Highest tax paying cricketers Article Source: IANS

BGT 2024-25: Yash Dayal Joins Indian Team As Backup, Confirms Pacer's Father

India Tour of Australia 2024-25 : Uttar Pradesh fast bowler Yash Dayal has been included in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy squad as a backup player, pacer's father Chanderpal Dayal told IANS on Tuesday. Chanderpal, while revealing that Yash got a call to join the squad when he was in South Africa for the T20I series last week and joined the team on December 17, said he is hoping for his son to make his debut in the much anticipated series. Yash got a call -- when he was in South Africa with the T20 side -- that he will have to join the Test team in Australia. So he went there on November 17. He has gone as a backup, Chanderpal told IANS over the phone. Left-arm quick Yash, who had gotten his madein call-up against Bangladesh series but is yet to make his international debut. He has played a total of 24 matches in his first-class career and has picked up 76 wickets during this time at an average of 28.89. Today was his first session of practice. We just want, him to get his debut soon and do well for the nation. That's all we pray, he added. The 26-year-old speedster, who was recently part of the India 'A' squad led by Ruturaj Gaikwad against Australia, has also been named in the Uttar Pradesh squad for the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy. Today was his first session of practice. We just want, him to get his debut soon and do well for the nation. That's all we pray, he added. Also Read: Highest tax paying cricketers Article Source: IANS

Shafali Verma Dropped from India Women's ODI Squad for Australia Tour

India's opening batter, Shafali Verma, has been left out of the squad for the upcoming ODI series against Australia next month due to her ongoing struggles with the bat. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) revealed the squad for the three-match series, which will be held in Australia in December. With Verma dropped, wicketkeeper-batter Richa Ghosh returns to the squad after missing the previous home series against New Zealand due to her board exams. Ghosh is joined by Priya Punia, Harleen Deol, legspinner Minnu Mani, and pacer Titas Sadhu, all of whom have earned a spot in the 16-player team. Harleen, who has been away from the squad for nearly a year, last played an ODI for India in December 2023 against Australia at Wankhede Stadium. There are also some absentees, including legspinner Asha Sobhana, who remains unavailable after being sidelined with an injury during the New Zealand series, and Pooja Vastrakar, who was rested for the New Zealand tour and is again missing from the squad. Other players missing out include all-rounder Shreyanka Patil, spin-bowler Hemalatha, and uncapped seamer Sayali Satghare. However, middle-order batter Tejal Hasabnis, legspinner Priya Mishra, and seamer Saima Thakor, who made their debuts during the New Zealand series, have retained their places in the squad. The first two ODIs of the series will be held at the Allan Border Field in Brisbane on December 5 and 8, with the final match taking place at the WACA Ground in Perth on December 11. The series is part of the ongoing ICC Women's Championship. India's ODI Squad for the Series Against Australia Harmanpreet Kaur (C), Smriti Mandhana (VC), Priya Punia, Jemimah Rodrigues, Harleen Deol, Yastika Bhatia (WK), Richa Ghosh (WK), Tejal Hasabnis, Deepti Sharma, Minnu Mani, Priya Mishra, Radha Yadav, Titas Sadhu, Arundhati Reddy, Renuka Singh Thakur, Saima Thakor. Mohammad Nabi Announces ODI Retirement Plan After 2025 Champions Trophy Smriti Mandhana Holds Steady at 4th as Harmanpreet Kaur Climbs to Joint 9th in ICC

Back after injury layoff, Williamson hits 60 in his first Plunket Shield game since 2019

He warmed-up for the Tests against England by scoring 60 for Northern Districts against Auckland

Shafali Verma dropped for Australia ODIs; Richa Ghosh, Priya Punia return

There were call-ups for Harleen Deol and uncapped duo of Titas Sadhu and Minnu Manni

Kohli Form, Opening Woes Dog India Ahead Of Australia Test Series

India play Australia in five Tests starting Friday in Perth after their first red-ball series defeat at home in more than a decade exposed the visitors' growing vulnerabilities. India won 2-1 against Australia on both of their last two Test tours, but suffered a 3-0 whitewash at home to New Zealand last month. AFP Sport looks at five problems India face ahead of the series, which is crucial in deciding the finalists of the World Test Championship. - Kohli and Rohit struggling - Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli were both poor with the bat against New Zealand. Skipper and opening batsman Rohit managed just 91 runs in three matches and Kohli only 93, including four single-digit scores across six innings. Coach Gautam Gambhir backed his premier batsmen as incredibly tough men ahead of the side's departure for Australia, and this will be the time to prove it. Doubters say there are signs of a longer-term decline in the 36-year-old Kohli. For years one of the world's most feared batsmen, he has managed only two Test centuries in the last five years. As for Rohit, batting great Sunil Gavaskar warned he could struggle in particular against Australian quick Mitchell Starc's lengths and lines. The 37-year-old Rohit appears set to miss the first Test following the birth of his second child. - Opening woes - Rohit's form has damaged India's ability to start well in recent times and placed the onus on young opening partner Yashasvi Jaiswal to set the tone. Despite his recent struggles Rohit would have opened in Perth so now Indian selectors are pondering their replacement options. KL Rahul looks most likely to open with Jaiswal, but he has also not been in great touch and was dropped from the final two Tests against New Zealand. Former coach Ravi Shastri had suggested Shubman Gill could be an option to start the innings, but he also looks set to miss the opening match after reportedly fracturing a thumb. The uncapped 29-year-old Abhimanyu Easwaran has emerged as a contender. - Too much on Bumrah? - Pace spearhead Jasprit Bumrah has lacked support at the other end with senior pacer Mohammed Shami injured and fellow quick Mohammed Siraj struggling to take wickets. Siraj claimed two wickets from three innings in the New Zealand series and lost his place to Akash Deep. According to media reports, Shami could make a late entry into the Test squad after an impressive comeback from injury in a domestic match and form a new-ball combination with Bumrah. As vice-captain, Bumrah will find himself stepping up to lead the side if, as expected, Rohit misses the Perth Test. Former Australia all-rounder Brendon Julian has said, taking all that into account, it could be a lot of pressure on your opening bowler. - Gambhir under the cosh - Gambhir, a former opening batsman and successful Indian Premier League coach, took over a triumphant national side which won the T20 World Cup in June. The honeymoon did not last long, with pundits in India questioning Gambhir's tactics in the series whitewash to New Zealand. I don't think as if I am feeling the heat, the 43-year-old fired back. Former batsman Sanjay Manjrekar lambasted Gambhir's public defence of his side after the loss, suggesting that Rohit and chief selector Ajit Agarkar were much better guys to front up for the media. Former Australia captain Tim Paine was also scathing of Gambhir, saying that the concern for India right now isn't Rohit Sharma's batting, isn't Virat Kohli's batting -- it's their coach and his ability to stay calm under pressure. - In a spin - Veteran spinners Ravichandran Ashwin, 38, and 35-year-old Ravindra Jadeja were outshone by their New Zealand counterparts on home soil. Spin duo Mitchell Santner and Ajaz Patel bamboozled India's batting lineup whereas Ashwin and Jadeja struggled by comparison on what should have been favourable home conditions. Only one of the Indian slow bowlers is expected to make the XI on bouncy Australian pitches where quicks will likely play a larger role. Also Read: Highest tax paying cricketers Off-spinner Washington Sundar, 25, is in the mix after taking 16 wickets in two matches against New Zealand.

Pakistan Appoint Aaqib Javed Interim White-Ball Coach

Pakistan on Monday again changed its coaching line-up, appointing former fast bowler Aaqib Javed as interim head coach for the white ball team. In the past two years Pakistan cricket has ploughed through five coaches, three board heads, three captains and numerous formats of the domestic competition, whilst suffering a string of humiliating defeats. Javed will replace Australian Jason Gillespie who oversaw the limited over series which ended in Pakistan's 3-0 defeat against Australia in Hobart in a Twenty20 international series. Gillespie, Pakistan's red-ball head coach, had replaced former South African Gary Kirsten who resigned over differences with Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) last month. Aaqib Javed, a former international fast bowler, is appointed as the interim head coach of the Pakistan men's cricket team until the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, said a PCB release. It refuted reports Gillespie will be removed, announcing he will remain red-ball head coach for the two-match Test series in South Africa next month. Javed is also a member of Pakistan's senior selection committee which has been repeatedly reshuffled since Pakistan's Interior minister Mohsin Naqvi took over as PCB chairman in February. A permanent head coach will be appointed after the Champions Trophy which Pakistan is due to host in February-March -- subject to India's participation. India last week threw the competition into question by refusing to send their team to Pakistan on security fears and proposed their matches be played at a neutral venue. The PCB said it will not accept a hybrid model and insisted the whole tournament should be staged in Pakistan. Javed's first assignment will be three ODIs and three T20Is in Zimbabwe (24 November 5 December) and as many white-ball matches in South Africa (10-22 December). Also Read: Highest tax paying cricketers In the lead up to the Champions Trophy 2025, Pakistan will host New Zealand and South Africa for an ODI triangular series from 8-14 February.

Hasan Murad hat-trick headlines Bangladesh's warm-up game on West Indies tour

Litton Das, who had missed the second Test against SA last month due to fever, also returned to action

Fire In Team Hotel Forces PCB To Curtail Women's Cricket Championship

Pakistan Cricket Board: Already struggling to maintain its footing women's cricket in Pakistan suffered a setback when the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) had to stop the National Women's Championship on Monday after a fire outbreak in the hotel where teams have been put up. Five players had a close save after a fire broke out in the hotel spreading panic among players, according to reports in local media. The report said that the PCB tried to find another accommodation for the teams but they could not find an alternate place for the teams because of a defence exhibition being held in Karachi. The PCB said that the decision to curtail the tournament was taken keeping in mind the safety and health of the players. The Board official informed that all the players were safe and none was injured due to the fire outbreak. Fortunately, no players were injured, as the PCB promptly evacuated the five players in the hotel at the time of the incident and relocated them safely, the PCB was quoted as saying in reports. With the event being curtailed, the PCB decided to organise the final between the teams occupying the top two positions in the standings after playing four matches each to determine the winner of the tournament. Fortunately, no players were injured, as the PCB promptly evacuated the five players in the hotel at the time of the incident and relocated them safely, the PCB was quoted as saying in reports. Also Read: Highest tax paying cricketers Article Source: IANS

Sharmin Akhter, Jahanara Alam back in Bangladesh ODI squad

Taj Nehar and Sanjida Akter earn maiden call-ups to the ODI side

CA stays cold on Afghanistan bilaterals while supporting Afghanistan women refugees

CA has signed a partnership with UNICEF Australia to promote the foundation's campaign aimed at gender equality, while supporting female Afghanistan refugees

PCB curtails National Women's Championship after fire incident in team hotel

Five players who were in the hotel at the time of the incident were safely evacuated

Mushtaq Ali T20: Shami To Spearhead Bengal Bowling Attack, Gharami Named Captain

Syed Mushtaq Ali T20 Championship: After his outstanding return to competitive cricket during the last round of Ranji Trophy matches, star India pacer Mohammed Shami will now spearhead Bengals bowling attack in the forthcoming Syed Mushtaq Ali T20 Trophy. Young batter Sudip Kr Gharami has been named Bengal's captain for the tournament, the Cricket Association of Bengal (CAB) announced on Monday. This means, there are very few chances of Shami dashing off to Australia to be part Indian squad at least for the first couple of matches. Shami had made a memorable return to cricket after an ankle injury and subsequent surgery following the 2023 ODI World Cup, claiming seven wickets to power Bengal to a first-innings lead against Madhya Pradesh at the Holkar Stadium in Indore. Shami played a crucial role in helping India reach the final of the ICC Men's ODI World Cup in India. After struggling to assert himself in the first innings on his return, the 34-year-old seamer, playing his first Ranji Trophy match since 2018, showed his class and experience, finishing as Bengals standout bowler with figures of 19-4-54-4 in the second essay. Shami, who bagged seven wickets in the just-concluded Ranji Trophy match against Madhya Pradesh, will be a huge boost to Bengals chances in the T20 tournament, the CAB said in its social media post. Meanwhile, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has no immediate plans to send Mohammed Shami to Australia for the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, starting on November 22 in Perth, followed by matches in Adelaide, Brisbane, Melbourne and Sydney till January 7, 2025. Shami would have proved a big asset for the Indian bowling attack in Australia, which will be led by Jasprit Bumrah. Shami played a pivotal role in Indias first-ever Test series win in Australia in 2018/19, where he picked 16 wickets in four matches at an average of 26.18. In the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy T20, Bengal are in Group A and will begin their campaign against Punjab in Rajkot on Saturday. Other teams in the group include Madhya Pradesh, Mizoram, Hyderabad, Rajasthan, Bihar, and Meghalaya. Shami played a pivotal role in Indias first-ever Test series win in Australia in 2018/19, where he picked 16 wickets in four matches at an average of 26.18. Also Read: Highest tax paying cricketers Article Source: IANS

IPL 2025: Refining Bowlers' Skills, Making Match-winners Main Task, Says RCB's Omkar Salvi

Royal Challengers Bengaluru: Omkar Salvi, the newly-appointed bowling coach of the Royal Challengers Bengaluru, has said that his immediate task will be refining the skills of the bowlers so that they can deliver match-winning performances in the upcoming Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 and beyond. RCB on Monday announced Salvi's appointment as their new bowling coach, just six days before the mega auction for IPL 2025. In his first reaction to being appointed as the new bowling coach of RCB, Salvi said he would like to see the Chinnaswamy Stadium become a fortress for them. Its an honour to join RCB. My goal is to help our bowlers refine their skills and deliver match-winning performances, with the Chinnaswamy Stadium becoming a fortress for us, said Salvi on Monday. The coach also said that he was excited to reunite with Dinesh Karthik and said they will work to build a united team. Im also excited to reunite with Dinesh Karthik, whose expertise inspires excellence. Together, well work to build a united team that elevates RCB and makes our loyal fans proud, said Salvi. Salvi currently coaches Mumbai in domestic cricket and was previously with Kolkata Knight Riders set up as an assistant bowling coach during their IPL 2024 triumph. He is the second Indian coach RCB have brought into their backroom staff this year after Dinesh Karthik, their former player, was roped in as batting coach-cum-mentor for the 2025 season. RCB added that Salvi will join the team once his coaching commitments with Mumbai end in domestic cricket in March 2025. Salvi currently coaches Mumbai in domestic cricket and was previously with Kolkata Knight Riders set up as an assistant bowling coach during their IPL 2024 triumph. He is the second Indian coach RCB have brought into their backroom staff this year after Dinesh Karthik, their former player, was roped in as batting coach-cum-mentor for the 2025 season. Also Read: Highest tax paying cricketers Article Source: IANS

Champions Trophy 2025: Still Waiting For ICC's Response, Says PCB Chairman On BCCI's Refusal To Travel To Pakistan

The Pakistan Cricket Board: The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) chairman Mohsin Naqvi said they are still waiting for a response from the International Cricket Council (ICC) to the questions regarding India's unwillingness to travel to Pakistan for next year's Champions Trophy. The PCB wrote to the ICC, seeking clarification and details regarding the BCCI's decision, which had been communicated to the governing body. The PCB has requested a written response from the BCCI, along with the date it officially informed the ICC of its position. Amid the ongoing uncertainty around the tournament, Naqvi expressed confidence in hosting the first ICC event in Pakistan since 1996. We have sent them (ICC) the questions we had. We are still waiting for their response. I believe that sports and politics are separate and no country should mix the two. Even now I still have positive expectations about the Champions Trophy, Naqvi said at a press interaction at Lahore's Gaddafi Stadium. The PCB chairman stressed that except for India all teams are willing to come to Pakistan for the Champions Trophy and ruled out the possibility of hosting the tournament in a hybrid model. At this moment, every team that has qualified for the Champions Trophy is ready to come. Nobody has any issues. I will say today also, if India has any concerns, speak to us about them, we can ease those concerns. I don't think there is any reason for them not to visit, he said. When questioned about the possibility of the PCB boycotting the event if hosting rights were revoked, Naqvi replied, Pakistan's pride is our top priority. PCB had to tweak the tournament's trophy tour after BCCI raised objections with the ICC as the previous route was passing through three cities of Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK). The PCB initially announced a route last week that included Muzaffarabad, the capital of PoK, and two other cities of the region. While the destinations were removed following a complaint from the BCCI, it has not been officially cancelled. The Trophy Tour will return to Pakistan in January after visiting the other seven Champions Trophy participants. PCB had to tweak the tournament's trophy tour after BCCI raised objections with the ICC as the previous route was passing through three cities of Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK). Also Read: Highest tax paying cricketers Article Source: IANS

Unless A Change Occurs Now, It Is Unlikely That DDCA Will Ever Change, Says Kirti Azad

Sardar Bishan Singh Bedi: After filing his nomination for the Presidents post in the upcoming DDCA Elections at the Arun Jaitley Stadium, former India cricketer Kirti Azad said change is the need of the hour and if it doesnt happen, then it may never occur. There is a loot here. Look at the state of the club. Cricket is such a popular sport. Across the country, you see the facilities at the stadium, especially for members. There are exclusive facilities for members, there is a separate entrance. The members don't need passes, they can enter through membership cards. By giving passes they make you feel as if they are doing a favour. The passes or entry is our right. What kind of favour you are trying to prove you are doing to us? If you had kept two passes along with free entry then we would have said ok this is something special. It is a members club. Matches take place here, does that mean members will stop entering? There should be a good bar, an open-air restaurant, a swimming pool, and facilities should be there. I am not even talking about other clubs like Panchsheel Club and Delhi Gymkhana, I am talking about cricket stadiums. There is a loot here. I am very confident that I will win this election. If it doesnt change now, DDCA never will, said Azad, also a sitting Trinamool Congress MP, in his speech after filing his nomination on Monday. Other members from the Azad-led panel who filed their nominations for the DDCA elections on Monday are Sanjay Bhardwaj (Secretary), Gurpreet Sareen (Treasurer), Joginder Khari (Director), Aditya Jain (Director), Nitin Mehra (Director), Sudhir Agarwal (Director), Puneet Khanna (Director), Naveen Jindal (Director) and Kamal Chopra (Director). The last date for filing nominations is Tuesday, with the vice-president and joint secretary names from the Azad-led panel to be known at that time. Azad also stressed bringing back the glory days of Delhi cricket if hes elected as the President and took notice of Himmat Singh being removed as the skipper, with Ayush Badoni installed in his place, ahead of the sides Ranji Trophy round five game against Jharkhand, which recently ended in a first-innings lead for them. We were four players from Delhi who won the World Cup in 1983. Mohinder Amarnath, Sunil Valson, Madan Lal, and I. We were captains, and that glory should return. A player like Himmat Singh is India material. He is thrown out of the team, he is recalled, made captain, and removed. This is not right. If you play a sifarishi (recommendation) player, and your team loses, you sack the captain but what happens to the selection committee and CAC who picked this team in which sifarishi are playing, directors quota are playing? Naming them here wont be appropriate, said Kirti Azad. They have so much talent that they picked 84 players and out of them 34 end up playing. They have won only one match. These players are the directors choices, just see how talented they are. They havent won for 16 years. Who will answer that? This is the DDCA. They make their boys play to ensure some benefit to him like hell get a job if he is a first-class cricketer. They think well make him a coach or a manager as he qualifies after playing a number of games. That is why the situation has become so bad. There is massive corruption here, people take money and pick players. Someone from the top office takes money. Azad also vowed to bring professionalism into DDCAs workings in administration and on-field things if elected to power on December 16, once voting happens from December 13-15. The club will be run professionally. We will work properly, and manage accounts professionally. There is no CEO here at the moment. There is an interim CEO who is an employee of DDCA. They have kept him like this for three years. BCCI has mandated that the association should have a full-time CEO and they should have a person from CAG for accounts. Nothing is there, why? Why has the treasurer not signed any paper till now? Why hasnt the treasurer signed a balance sheet? That is why I say there is corruption, everything is Golmaal. The secretary has been removed, he hasnt signed. Who has signed? The joint secretary has signed. There should be improvement in club, cricket, professionals should be hired, CEO should be professional, he said. Accounts should be maintained by a CAG appointee. All this is written but nothing is there on the ground. Eight lifts are being installed for Rs 19 crore, and I have found out that they are worth Rs 7.88 crore. The lights that were installed for Rs 14 crore a few years ago, they have been installed in Ahmedabad six months ago for Rs 7.5 crore. Ahmedabad is 2.5 times bigger than this. Azad, who scored 4867 runs and took 162 wickets as an all-rounder for Delhi in 95 Ranji matches, signed off by remembering the words of legendary left-arm spinner Bishan Singh Bedi on entering the Delhi cricket ecosystem. Accounts should be maintained by a CAG appointee. All this is written but nothing is there on the ground. Eight lifts are being installed for Rs 19 crore, and I have found out that they are worth Rs 7.88 crore. The lights that were installed for Rs 14 crore a few years ago, they have been installed in Ahmedabad six months ago for Rs 7.5 crore. Ahmedabad is 2.5 times bigger than this. Also Read: Highest tax paying cricketers Article Source: IANS

Bangladesh Pacer Tanzim Sakib Declared Fit For Competitive Cricket

National Cricket League: Bangladesh pacer Tanzim Sakib has been declared fit to play competitive cricket after he passed a fitness test on Monday. The right-arm fast bowler, a key figure in Bangladesh's white-ball setup, was sidelined from the recently concluded three-match ODI series against Afghanistan due to injury. Tanzim encountered neck stiffness during warm-ups for a National Cricket League match, Bangladesh's premier first-class competition, where he was representing Sylhet Division. He passed the fitness test, Cricbuzz quoted a member of the national selection panel as saying. It's quite a relief for us considering he is an integral part of our white-ball setup, the selector said. We missed him in the ODI series against Afghanistan, but at the same time, the other pace bowlers performed well, so the competition is quite stiff at the moment. But I know he (Tanzim) is a fighter and will give his best to reclaim his spot, he added. The 22-year-old last featured for Bangladesh in the last two T20Is against India in New Delhi and Hyderabad, respectively. He bagged five wickets in the two appearances but leaked way too many runs as India scored 221 and 297 in the final two matches while batting first as Bangladesh went on to lose the series 3-0. Tanzim's return is a major boost for Bangladesh ahead of the upcoming two-Test series against West Indies, followed by three ODIs and as many T20Is. Tanzim has received clearance from the BCB medical team, allowing him to participate in the inaugural Global Super League in Guyana, which begins on November 27. He has been selected by the Guyana Amazon Warriors for the T20 competition. Tanzim's return is a major boost for Bangladesh ahead of the upcoming two-Test series against West Indies, followed by three ODIs and as many T20Is. Also Read: Highest tax paying cricketers Article Source: IANS

IPL 2025: Royal Challengers Bengaluru Appoint Omkar Salvi As Their New Bowling Coach

Royal Challengers Bengaluru: Just six days before the mega auction for the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 in Jeddah, the Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) on Monday announced the appointment of Omkar Salvi as their new bowling coach. Salvi currently coaches Mumbai in domestic cricket and was previously with Kolkata Knight Riders set up as an assistant bowling coach during their IPL 2024 triumph. He is the second Indian coach RCB have brought into their backroom staff this year after Dinesh Karthik, their former player, was roped in as batting coach-cum-mentor for the 2025 season. RCB added that Salvi will join the team once his coaching commitments with Mumbai end in domestic cricket in March 2025. Were thrilled to welcome Omkar Salvi as RCBs Bowling Coach. With his vast experience, especially in developing fast bowlers, and proven success at the domestic and IPL levels, hes the perfect fit for our coaching team. Omkars technical expertise, local knowledge, and leadership will add huge value to our squad and environment, said Mo Bobat, RCBs director of cricket, in a statement. Salvi, who is known to keep a low profile, is the brother of former India fast-bowler Aavishkar Salvi, who is currently the bowling coach of the India womens team. He took over as Mumbai coach for the first time last year, and the side won the Ranji Trophy, its 42nd title, at their home venue Wankhede Stadium. It was followed by Mumbai winning the Irani Cup in October this year after 27 years, by getting the better of the Rest of India at Ekana Stadium in Lucknow. Salvi played only one List A game for Railways against Madhya Pradesh in 2005 but has found immense success in coaching roles, something which RCB will be keen to have in their quest for winning an IPL title, which has eluded them so far. Salvi, who is known to keep a low profile, is the brother of former India fast-bowler Aavishkar Salvi, who is currently the bowling coach of the India womens team. He took over as Mumbai coach for the first time last year, and the side won the Ranji Trophy, its 42nd title, at their home venue Wankhede Stadium. Also Read: Highest tax paying cricketers Article Source: IANS

Zimbabwe Name Three Uncapped Players For Pakistan ODIs; Ervine, Williams, Gumbie Omitted From T20I Squad

T20 World Cup: Zimbabwe have named three uncapped players - Trevor Gwandu, Tashinga Musekiwa and Tinotenda Maposa - for the upcoming three-match ODI series against Pakistan. Craig Ervine will captain the ODI squad, bolstered by experienced campaigners Sikandar Raza and Sean Williams, as well as key pace bowlers Blessing Muzarabani and Richard Ngarava. The white-ball series will kick off with three ODIs on November 24, 26 and 28, followed by as many T20Is scheduled for December 1, 3 and 5. David Mutendera, Zimbabwes Convener of Selectors, expressed confidence in the balance of experience and fresh talent within the ODI squad. The series against Pakistan is an important platform for Zimbabwe, and we believe the ODI squad we have selected is well-rounded, he said. The presence of seasoned players like Craig, Sikandar and Sean provides stability, while young players like Clive Madande, Brian Bennett, Dion Myers and the uncapped trio bring energy and the potential for game-changing moments. For the T20I series, Zimbabwe have retained the squad that achieved historic success at the ICC Mens T20 World Cup 2026 sub-regional qualifier in Kenya last month. Led by captain Sikandar Raza, the squads impressive chemistry and momentum are expected to serve them well against Pakistan. Notably, Ervine, Williams and Joylord Gumbie have been omitted from the T20I roster. We felt it was essential to maintain the same T20I squad that excelled in Kenya, Mutendera explained. This continuity allows the team to build on the cohesion and confidence that drove their outstanding performance. Reflecting on the significance of the series, Mutendera said: Facing a high-calibre side like Pakistan is a tremendous opportunity for us to gauge our progress and showcase Zimbabwes potential on the international stage. We are confident that both our ODI and T20I squads will be competitive. Zimbabwe ODI squad: Craig Ervine (captain), Faraz Akram, Brian Bennett, Joylord Gumbie, Trevor Gwandu, Clive Madande, Tinotenda Maposa, Tadiwanashe Marumani, Brandon Mavuta, Tashinga Musekiwa, Blessing Muzarabani, Dion Myers, Richard Ngarava, Sikandar Raza, Sean Williams. Reflecting on the significance of the series, Mutendera said: Facing a high-calibre side like Pakistan is a tremendous opportunity for us to gauge our progress and showcase Zimbabwes potential on the international stage. We are confident that both our ODI and T20I squads will be competitive. Also Read: Highest tax paying cricketers Article Source: IANS

ICC Set To Announce Champions Trophy 2025 Schedule At End Of This Week: Sources

ICC Champions Trophy: With fewer than 100 days left until the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, scheduled to be hosted in Pakistan, the tournament's dates and fixtures remain unannounced, adding to the mounting uncertainty surrounding the event. However, sources close to the development have revealed to IANS that the ICC is likely to finalize and announce the schedule by the end of this week, following ongoing discussions with the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) to address India's concerns. India, one of the eight participating nations, have refused to travel to Pakistan for the tournament, citing government restrictions. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has conveyed its position to the ICC, leaving the PCB seeking an explanation for Indias stance. In response, the PCB is reportedly considering escalating the matter to the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) if a resolution is not reached. The PCB remains firm on its position to host the event in Pakistan in its entirety, resisting any compromise formula similar to those seen during the 2023 Asia Cup and ODI World Cup. During the 2023 Asia Cup, the PCB reluctantly agreed to a hybrid model, with Indias matches being held in Sri Lanka. Later, during the 2023 ODI World Cup in India, Pakistan participated despite strong reservations from their government. These instances highlight the political and logistical complexities that could once again come into play. Amidst the uncertainty, the ICC has initiated the Trophy Tour for Champions Trophy 2025 to build excitement for the tournament. The tour began on Saturday in Islamabad, Pakistans capital, where the iconic silverware was displayed at several landmarks, including Daman-e-Koh, Faisal Mosque, and the Pakistan Monument. The launch event featured cricket legend Shoaib Akhtar, who accompanied the trophy to its stops in the city. During the 2023 Asia Cup, the PCB reluctantly agreed to a hybrid model, with Indias matches being held in Sri Lanka. Later, during the 2023 ODI World Cup in India, Pakistan participated despite strong reservations from their government. These instances highlight the political and logistical complexities that could once again come into play. Also Read: Highest tax paying cricketers Article Source: IANS

NCL round-up: Unbeaten Sylhet thrash Dhaka Metropolis, Rajshahi lose again

Sylhet Divison, Dhaka Metropolis and Chattogram Divison picked up big wins. Here is the summary from week five of NCL 2024

Zimbabwe pick three uncapped players in ODI squad for Pakistan series

Senior pros Sean Williams and Craig Ervine have both been omitted from the T20I squad

BGT 2024-25: Criticism Doesnt Change The Way I Prepare Or Play, Says McSweeney Ahead Of First Test

The Sydney Morning Herald: Nathan McSweeney, who is set to make his Australia debut against India in the first Test on Friday, is unaffected by the criticism after being named as Usman Khawaja's opening partner for the Border-Gavaskar Trophy series. The 25-year-old is confident of his abilities to perform against the challenging bowling lineup headed by premier pacer Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Siraj, Akash Deep, and Prasidh Krishna. For McSweeney, the opening role will be a tough spot after batting at number three in domestic cricket but the youngster is ready for the task and faced the pace troika of captain Pat Cummins, Mitchell Starc, and Josh Hazlewood in the Australia nets here on Monday. I think for me I know what works and I feel very capable to go and do the job and Im batting the best I ever have, I feel. Hopefully, I can go out there and execute that on Friday. It (criticism) happened quite quickly. Youre playing a bit of Big Bash, but theres definitely more talk around playing for your country, as there should be, its what you wanted to do since you were a kid. Being able to lean on the guys who have experienced it, it doesnt change the way I prepare or try and go out and play, McSweeney told The Sydney Morning Herald. Ive got so many supporters I want to make proud. So much family thats sacrificed so much to get to where I am today and so many coaches that have thrown that many balls at me. Hopefully, I can go out there and play really well and do them proud, he added. Teammate Travis Head backed McSweeney for the role saying that he has to continue doing the same job to fit in the top spot. (McSweeney) has had a good start, hes a great character and hes fitted in easily. It can sometimes be a bit full-on when its your first experience. But theres excitement. If he does what hes been doing, hes going to fit in perfectly, Head said after the practice session. With anyone starting their career its going to take time. He has the support in the change rooms and I hope he has support outside that. Hes deserved his selection and its an exciting few weeks for him, he added. Teammate Travis Head backed McSweeney for the role saying that he has to continue doing the same job to fit in the top spot. (McSweeney) has had a good start, hes a great character and hes fitted in easily. It can sometimes be a bit full-on when its your first experience. But theres excitement. If he does what hes been doing, hes going to fit in perfectly, Head said after the practice session. Also Read: Highest tax paying cricketers Article Source: IANS

Sri Lanka Rest Mendis, Nissanka, Fernando For Final ODI Against NZ

Sri Lanka Cricket: The senior national selection committee of Sri Lanka Cricket has decided to release Kusal Mendis, Pathum Nissanka, Kamindu Mendis, and Asitha Fernando from the squad for the third and final One-day International (ODI) against New Zealand. The match, rendered inconsequential after Sri Lanka took an unassailable 2-0 lead, will be played at PICS in Pallekele on Tuesday. The players have been rested to prepare for the upcoming Test tour of South Africa. The selectors have decided to release Kusal Mendis, Pathum Nissanka, Kamindu Mendis, and Asitha Fernando for the 3rd and final ODI of the ongoing series. This decision was taken by the selectors to give the above players adequate time to recover and prepare for the upcoming Test series against South Africa, the Sri Lanka Cricket informed in a release on Monday. The selectors have picked Nuwanidu Fernando, Lahiru Udara, and Eshan Malinga as replacements for the third and final ODI against New Zealand. Sri Lanka won by 45 runs (DLS Method) in the first match of the ODI series which was disrupted by inclement weather at Dambulla. Sri Lanka emerged victorious in the second match at Pallekele, riding on a superb bowling effort by Asitha Fernando (2-37), Maheesh Theekshana (3-31), and Jeffrey Vandersay (3-57) to restrict New Zealand to 209. They eventually won the match by three wickets with six balls to spare thanks to an unbeaten 74 by Kusal Mendis. Sri Lanka won by 45 runs (DLS Method) in the first match of the ODI series which was disrupted by inclement weather at Dambulla. Also Read: Highest tax paying cricketers Article Source: IANS

Jos Buttler: No guarantees for Root and Stokes in England's Champions Trophy plans

England white-ball captain excited by future after 3-1 T20I series win in Caribbean

PCB chief on Champions Trophy: 'I still have positive expectations'

Mohsin Naqvi confirms that the PCB hasn't heard from the ICC on the BCCI's stance on not travelling to Pakistan

BGT 2024-25: Carey Reveals About The Technical Change Hes Brought To Batting In Tests

Alex Carey: Australia wicketkeeper-batter Alex Carey has revealed about a minor technical adjustment which hes brought to his batting and could give him big returns ahead of the upcoming Border-Gavaskar Trophy series against India. Carey comes into the all-important five-match Test series against India after making 452 runs for South Australia in the Sheffield Sheild at an astonishing average of 90.40. When you play and play and play, you don't really get a chance to work on too many things. I was able to have a pre-season; its always nice to hit more balls. I worked on the game and tinkered that a little bit and then just tried to keep a really solid process going into every game. Hopefully, it continues on Friday, but a few slight technical shifts over the last six months Ive brought in. Not having games coming up for a while, I just mucked around with my hands and found something that felt good. Its only slight, but at the moment, it feels like Im in a good position, reacting pretty well to the ball. Yeah, it did (feel like a eureka moment). I just got my hands up a little bit higher and the bat up to the sky, and from there, just try to react; it did feel good pretty much straight away, said Carey to reporters in Perth, ahead of the first Test starting on November 22. With fellow wicketkeeper-batter Josh Inglis picked as a reserve batter in the Test squad, after scoring two Shield centuries himself, Carey thinks there could be space for both of them to play in the same Test playing eleven in future. Weve been in lots of squads together now. So it will be great to work alongside Josh; the keepers clubs normally pretty small, so to have one more in there is great and hes going well, and hes a mate, which is always a good thing. Hes come in in great form as well, so if his opportunity does come with the bat, hell definitely be ready to go. Weve played lots of white-ball cricket together, so can definitely happen (here). I understand it's a unique position to be in. Weve been in lots of squads together now. So it will be great to work alongside Josh; the keepers clubs normally pretty small, so to have one more in there is great and hes going well, and hes a mate, which is always a good thing. Also Read: Highest tax paying cricketers Article Source: IANS

Aaqib Javed takes charge as Pakistan's interim white-ball head coach

The appointment is till the end of the Champions Trophy next year, after which the PCB will finalise the full-time coach

BGT 2024-25: Head Backs Rohits Decision To Skip First Test, Warns Against Underestimating India

Travis Head: Australia batter Travis Head has extended his support to Rohit Sharmas decision to skip the opening Test of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy to be with his wife following the birth of their second child. With Rohit unavailable, pace spearhead and vice-captain Jasprit Bumrah will captain the side. Head backed Rohit's priorities and said he would have done the same if he had been in the same situation. Hundred per cent, I support Rohit's decision. I would have done the same in the same situation. We sacrifice a lot of things as cricketers. While we live a privileged life, we miss important milestones in our personal lives. You dont get that time back. Hopefully, he returns at some stage in this series, Head said after the training session at Optus Stadium, Perth on Monday. Rohits absence has left India without their regular captain for the crucial series opener. However, it is understood that Rohit would join the team either midway through the first Test or ahead of the second match in Adelaide, which will be played under lights with the pink ball. Despite the setback of losing Rohit at the start of the series, Head warned against underestimating the Indian team. If you look at our history, you would not rule out any Indian team. In the last two trips, theyve had injuries and doubts, and people questioned them, but they pulled off incredible performances. Whoever they play, its going to be a strong team, said Head, referring to Indias stunning series wins in Australia in 2018-19 and 2020-21. Indias ability to rise to the occasion without key players has been a hallmark of their recent tours to Australia. The team management will be counting on players like Virat Kohli, KL Rahul and Ravindra Jadeja to step up, while youngsters like Sarfaraz Khan and Yashasvi Jaiswal could be crucial in the absence of their skipper. Head also believes star India batter Kohli will have his moments, calling the 36-year-old a world-class operator. Head also urged Australia to appreciate Kohli's talent and realise that during the five-match series, there would be times when he is virtually unstoppable at the wicket. Kohli averaged just 22.72 in his six Test matches this year, way below his average of 54.08 in Tests in Australia and his overall career average of 47.83. He comes into his fifth Australia tour after making just 91 runs in Indias 3-0 series defeat to New Zealand at home earlier this month. He's pretty big. Everyone talks about Virat, wherever he goes. Maybe the closed sessions give him a bit of freedom, bit of space. There won't be a series where you would play India and you wouldn't talk about Kohli. No doubt, we will go through all their players, cannot wait to start well against them. Virat's going to have his moments in this series, hopefully not too many of them. He's a world-class player. Over the course of five Tests, he is going to play well at some stage. We have to understand and respect that. Hopefully, the players on our side also have their moments in the series, he added. Australia off-spinner Nathan Lyon, who is also the top wicket-taker in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, stated that the bowling lineup has strategies for every batter, not just Virat. Cannot wait to get cracking, said Lyon as he sent out alarm bells ringing for the Indian side, who are entering the upcoming series, on the back of a home series defeat against New Zealand. We know what India brings to the table so it is going to be a massive challenge for us. It is not just Virat, we have got plans for each one of their guys. They have a side full of superstars, the batting lineup which is exciting, it is a massive challenge for us, said Lyon. Australia off-spinner Nathan Lyon, who is also the top wicket-taker in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, stated that the bowling lineup has strategies for every batter, not just Virat. Cannot wait to get cracking, said Lyon as he sent out alarm bells ringing for the Indian side, who are entering the upcoming series, on the back of a home series defeat against New Zealand. Also Read: Highest tax paying cricketers Article Source: IANS

Nathan McSweeney prepares for baptism of fire

Just days before his Test debut, Australia's new opener tuned up for the challenge of facing Bumrah and co.

'The best form he's been in' - Carey enters Test summer with plenty of promise

Carey feels a change in his batting technique and a shift in his approach to shot choices will hold him in good stead for the summer

Aaqib Javed Appointed Pakistans Interim White-ball Head Coach Till Champions Trophy

Pakistan Cricket Board: Former fast-bowler Aaqib Javed has been appointed as Pakistans interim white-ball head coach till the 2025 Champions Trophy, announced the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) on Monday. PCB added that during this tenure, Aaqib will continue to serve as a senior member of the mens national selection committee, and will be assigned additional responsibilities following the conclusion of the eight-team tournament. Aaqib played 22 Tests and 163 ODIs for Pakistan during his decade-long international career and was also a member of the 1992 ODI World Cup winning side. His previous coaching experience has been being the head coach and director of cricket operations for the Lahore Qalandars in the Pakistan Super League (PSL) from 2016 to 2024, where they won two consecutive titles. He also briefly worked as Sri Lankas fast-bowling coach and had taken a similar role in the Pakistan set-up previously. Aaqib had also helped the Afghanistan team in a coaching capacity and served as the UAE head coach from 2012 to 2016. The white-ball head coach role for the Pakistan mens team had become vacant following the resignation of Gary Kirsten ahead of the tour of Australia. Red-ball head coach Jason Gillespie coached the white-ball side in Australia, where Pakistan won the ODI series, and are currently 0-2 down in the three-match T20I series. PCB said Gillespie will now rejoin the side for Pakistans upcoming two-match Test series in South Africa. This latest coaching reshuffle means that the white-ball coach will have a say in the selection of Pakistans limited-overs teams, which is not the case with the red-ball head coach currently. Aaqibs first assignment as Pakistans new white-ball coach will be the tour of Zimbabwe for three ODIs and three T20Is, scheduled from November 24 to December 5, which marks the start of a hectic limited-overs schedule for the side. PCB said Gillespie will now rejoin the side for Pakistans upcoming two-match Test series in South Africa. This latest coaching reshuffle means that the white-ball coach will have a say in the selection of Pakistans limited-overs teams, which is not the case with the red-ball head coach currently. Also Read: Highest tax paying cricketers Article Source: IANS

Chris Wood Continues Hot-scoring Streak With Hat-trick As NZ Thrash Samoa 8-0

Oceania World Cup Qualifiers: Chris Wood continued his hot start to the season as New Zealands all-time top-scorer helped the All-Whites beat Samoa 8-0 in the World Cup Qualifiers at the Go Media Stadium on Monday. New Zealand topped Group B of the Oceania World Cup Qualifiers with three wins in as many games. The side will play Fiji in the semifinals in March and will face either New Caledonia or Tahiti should they progress to the finals. It doesn't matter how they come or in what fashion, we just need to tick off wins. That's the results business that we're in at the moment to get to the World Cup. We've got a semi-final to go and we need to win that to go through the final. And then win that to go through to the World Cup. So we're looking forward to the challenge ahead, Wood was quoted saying by BBC Sport. A win in the finals will secure direct qualification to the 2026 FIFA World Cup scheduled to be held in the United States of America, Mexico and Canada. Alongside Wood, Callum McCowatt, Marko Stamenic, Francis de Vries, Elijah Just and Ben Waine were the goalscorers on the night. The 32-year old striker also scored a brace against Vanuatu on Friday during his sides 8-1 win. The Nottingham striker is one of the most in-form players in the English Premier League and is the leagues second highest goalscorer with 11 to his name so far. Only Manchester Citys Erling Haaland, with 12 goals, has more goals. Alongside Wood, Callum McCowatt, Marko Stamenic, Francis de Vries, Elijah Just and Ben Waine were the goalscorers on the night. The 32-year old striker also scored a brace against Vanuatu on Friday during his sides 8-1 win. Also Read: Highest tax paying cricketers Article Source: IANS

Vettori To Leave Perth Test Coaching Duty For IPL Mega Auction

Gavaskar Trophy Test: Australia bowling coach Daniel Vettori will leave the team during the first Border-Gavaskar Trophy Test against India, starting on November 22 in Perth, to attend the IPL 2025 mega auction. Vettori will attend the two-day auction proceedings in Jeddah on November 24 and 25 as Sunrisers Hyderabad head coach. We are very supportive of Dan's role as Head Coach of Sunrisers Hyderabad. Dan will complete final preparation for the first Test before attending the IPL auction. He will then be with team for the remainder of the Border Gavaskar Trophy, said a statement from the Australian team spokesperson. Apart from Vettori, it is also believed that former Australia players Ricky Ponting and Justin Langer, who are contracted with Channel Seven as commentators for the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, are also set to miss part of the first Test to attend the IPL 2025 mega auction as head coaches of Punjab Kings and Lucknow Super Giants respectively. Vettori has been Australia's bowling coach across formats since 2022, but has held roles in franchise cricket. Apart from being SRH head coach in the IPL, Vettori is also the head coach of the Birmingham Phoenix side in the Hundred. During Australias first practice session at WACA on Monday, Vettori was focused on preparing the hosts batting unit for facing Ravindra Jadeja in the Perth Test by providing left-arm spin throwdowns, while also working diligently with the bowling unit. For the Perth Test, Australia will count on the services of two consultants based in the city: former batter Michael Hussey and ex all-rounder Jim Allenby, who previously played for Glamorgan, Leicestershire, and Somerset in county cricket in England. The duo had worked with the Australian team when they faced Pakistan in last years Test at Perth. During Australias first practice session at WACA on Monday, Vettori was focused on preparing the hosts batting unit for facing Ravindra Jadeja in the Perth Test by providing left-arm spin throwdowns, while also working diligently with the bowling unit. Also Read: Highest tax paying cricketers Article Source: IANS

Not Many Have Been Able To Achieve What Southee Has: Williamson Lauds Retiring Pacer

Former New Zealand: Former New Zealand skipper Kane Williamson heaped praise on his close friend and pacer Tim Southee's illustrious career after the latter announced his retirement from Test cricket following the England series. Williamson and Southee's cricketing journeys have closely paralleled each other, progressing together from junior and Under-19 levels through domestic cricket to representing New Zealand across all formats. The duo played their 100th Test match together earlier this year against Australia, though Williamson's debut came two-and-a-half years after Southee's. Both went on to become vital members of the Kiwis squad over the years. Williamson is the leading run-scorer for the side while Southee is the second-highest wicket-taker with 385 scalps, only behind Richard Hadlee. Playing so long together, you just go through so much. Both doing stints in leadership roles and you go through different turbulent times, then you have some good ones as well and they are all part of the experience, Williamson told reporters. To do it as long as Tim has is incredible as a fast bowler, there's not many in the history of the game who have been able to achieve what he has. Such a huge member (and) leader of our side and a close friend as well, he added. New Zealand's historic 3-0 triumph in India hints at a promising future for the current team. However, Southee's retirement marks another farewell from a golden era of players, following the departures of Ross Taylor, BJ Watling, Colin de Grandhomme, and Neil Wagner. Meanwhile, Trent Boult, having stepped away from a central contract, no longer features in Tests and has also retired from T20Is. It's life, isn't it. You do realise you are closer towards the end than the start which is a certainty. It's (about) navigating those periods because you feel slightly different when you play your first game to when you play your 100th and there's different levels of excitement, your life changes a little bit, whether that's family, extra dogs, whatever it is you are into, so the picture does take a slightly different shape and your motivation does adjust, Williamson said. There's sadness, but excitement as well for Tim because the end of your time in a sporting professional environment is scary but there's so much more to come, he added. Williamson, who has recovered from a groin injury, will be seen in the upcoming Tests against England after turning down the central contract this year but remains committed to playing across formats. He described the victory in India as one of New Zealand's all-time cricketing memories but admitted it was challenging to miss out. His fitness was evaluated on a Test-by-Test basis before it was determined he wasnt ready to participate. It was a lot of internal temptation (to try and get there), for sure, then after a few discussions it was keep taking that time to get it right so that's what I did. Suffered a little bit of FOMO, which is a good thing, but just admired it really. To go over and play the way they did, so special, one of our all-time cricketing memories, he said. Williamson, who has recovered from a groin injury, will be seen in the upcoming Tests against England after turning down the central contract this year but remains committed to playing across formats. He described the victory in India as one of New Zealand's all-time cricketing memories but admitted it was challenging to miss out. His fitness was evaluated on a Test-by-Test basis before it was determined he wasnt ready to participate. Also Read: Highest tax paying cricketers Article Source: IANS