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Sri Lanka will play just 12 matches in the next WTC cycle, while India is playing 18, and Australia leads the chart with 22 scheduled Tests in the course of the next two years.&nbsp;Considering the finances, engagement and revenue, are behind the Big Three (AUS, IND and ENG) getting the biggest chunk of schedule in red-ball cricket, Mathews, who plays his last Test against Bangladesh starting Tuesday (June 17) in Galle, has batted for more Tests for teams outside of them, labelling it sad for them and the game.&nbsp;Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ravichandran-ashwin-locked-in-ball-tampering-controversy-in-tnpl-2025-dindigul-dragons-madurai-panthers-1750078178105">Ravi Ashwin locked in ball-tampering controversy in TNPL 2025; organisers ask Madurai Panthers for proof</a> &nbsp;Let alone in the next WTC cycle (2025-27), where Sri Lanka plays a dozen Tests – the joint-lowest alongside Bangladesh, they are scheduled to play just four matches this year – their lowest in a calendar year since 2013. Playing even fewer games than they did in the previous cycle (2023-25), Mathews feels like those teams have achieved a lot across formats, even Sri Lanka has, and like them, Sri Lanka also deserves to play more matches. &nbsp;"I think it's quite sad, to be honest," Mathews said ahead of the first Test between Sri Lanka and Bangladesh in Galle. "I mean, the younger generation are urging for more Test cricket. Test cricket is obviously the pinnacle of cricket. We all should push for more Tests. These guys are so enthusiastic about Test cricket.&nbsp;"I feel there has to be a minimum of 10 matches at least [in a year]. Teams like England, India or Australia are playing 15-plus games a year. Why can't we play? We can. If we keep pushing, I mean, we have to. We have won World Cups. We have done so much for cricket as a nation, and we deserve to play Test cricket, just like Australia, India and England,” he continued. &nbsp;Although Mathews is not the first and only Sri Lankan to complain about it on a public forum, his decision to retire from the format in which he’s played 118 matches due to this same reason is what concerns Test cricket lovers. &nbsp;"I played my 100th Test in Galle, so I thought I'd say goodbye in Galle. But the main reason was because we don't have any games coming up, at least for now. After this, we'll be having our next assignment in Test cricket after a year's time, that is a very long wait," Mathews noted. &nbsp;"I thought it's good to give an opportunity to whoever is going to replace me in the second Test because he's not going to get an opportunity till the next year (laughs). And in that year, you don't know what's going to happen. So I thought I'd just play one game and then try and give an opportunity to the other guy who's replacing me in the second Test,” he concluded.

SL vs BAN 2025: Angelo Mathews exposes disparity in Test cricket calendar

Sri Lanka will play just 12 matches in the next WTC cycle, while India is playing 18, and Australia leads the chart with 22 scheduled Tests in the course of the next two years. Considering the finances, engagement and revenue, are behind the Big Three (AUS, IND and ENG) getting the biggest chunk of schedule in red-ball cricket, Mathews, who plays his last Test against Bangladesh starting Tuesday (June 17) in Galle, has batted for more Tests for teams outside of them, labelling it sad for them and the game. Also read | Ravi Ashwin locked in ball-tampering controversy in TNPL 2025; organisers ask Madurai Panthers for proof Let alone in the next WTC cycle (2025-27), where Sri Lanka plays a dozen Tests – the joint-lowest alongside Bangladesh, they are scheduled to play just four matches this year – their lowest in a calendar year since 2013. Playing even fewer games than they did in the previous cycle (2023-25), Mathews feels like those teams have achieved a lot across formats, even Sri Lanka has, and like them, Sri Lanka also deserves to play more matches. "I think it's quite sad, to be honest," Mathews said ahead of the first Test between Sri Lanka and Bangladesh in Galle. "I mean, the younger generation are urging for more Test cricket. Test cricket is obviously the pinnacle of cricket. We all should push for more Tests. These guys are so enthusiastic about Test cricket. "I feel there has to be a minimum of 10 matches at least [in a year]. Teams like England, India or Australia are playing 15-plus games a year. Why can't we play? We can. If we keep pushing, I mean, we have to. We have won World Cups. We have done so much for cricket as a nation, and we deserve to play Test cricket, just like Australia, India and England,” he continued. Although Mathews is not the first and only Sri Lankan to complain about it on a public forum, his decision to retire from the format in which he’s played 118 matches due to this same reason is what concerns Test cricket lovers. "I played my 100th Test in Galle, so I thought I'd say goodbye in Galle. But the main reason was because we don't have any games coming up, at least for now. After this, we'll be having our next assignment in Test cricket after a year's time, that is a very long wait," Mathews noted. "I thought it's good to give an opportunity to whoever is going to replace me in the second Test because he's not going to get an opportunity till the next year (laughs). And in that year, you don't know what's going to happen. So I thought I'd just play one game and then try and give an opportunity to the other guy who's replacing me in the second Test,” he concluded.

Let alone in the next WTC cycle (2025-27), where Sri Lanka plays a dozen Tests – the joint-lowest alongside Bangladesh, they are scheduled to play just four matches this year – their lowest in a calendar year since 2013.

India to play 18 Tests, AUS 22 and SL just 12 in next WTC cycle – Mathews exposes disparity in red-ball cricket calendar

Days after making headlines for showing dissent over an umpire’s call that resulted in his dismissal, former India spinner Ravichandran Ashwin is now locked in a ball-tampering controversy during the ongoing Tamil Nadu Premier League (TNPL) edition. The organisers, however, have asked Madurai Panthers, the franchise that wrote an official complaint to TNPL accusing Ashwin and his team of illegal activity, for proof of it.&nbsp;A day after Ashwin’s Dindigul Dragons faced Madurai Panthers in TNPL 2025, the Panthers raised a complaint against the Dragons, accusing them of using towels treated with chemicals to alter the ball’s condition, which resulted in the ball getting heavier and making a metallic sound after coming in contact with the bat.&nbsp; &nbsp;However, considering the gravity of such allegations levelled against a former Indian cricketer and his local franchise, the organisers demanded full proof of it.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/yograj-singh-yuvraj-singh-father-tears-into-bcci-selectors-for-pushing-careers-of-seven-players-into-gutter-ms-dhoni-dravid-laxman-harbhajan-zaheer-1750074514824">Yograj Singh tears into BCCI selectors for pushing careers of ‘these seven players into gutter’</a> &nbsp;“They have filed a complaint, which we have acknowledged. Though they have to lodge any complaints within 24 hours of the game, we have still accepted it and have asked them to furnish proof of their allegations. We will be forming an independent committee if we find there is any truth to their allegations. Without sufficient evidence, it is wrong to put forth such allegations against a player and another franchise. If they don’t provide any evidence, then Madurai will face due sanctions,” TNPL’s CEO Prasanna Kannan said in a chat with The Indian Express. &nbsp;Meanwhile, in the letter to TNPL, the Madurai franchise COO, S Mahesh, wrote, “A serious case of ball tampering occurred during our recent match against Dindigul Dragons. Despite repeated warnings, the Dindigul team blatantly tampered with the ball, using towels that appeared to have been treated with chemicals.”<h2>Rain, cricket and allegations &nbsp;</h2>Considering the ongoing edition coincides with the monsoon season, the matches are often hampered by passing showers, and such was the case with this game the past Saturday (June 14) in Salem, where there was a delayed start.&nbsp; &nbsp;Batting first, Madurai scored 150 for eight, only for Dindigul to complete the chase with nine wickets and more than seven overs remaining. &nbsp;Besides, Prasanna Kannan also explained that it’s for the very reason the organisers themselves provide all players with towels to dry the ball during the game, but in front of the umpires. &nbsp;“They have to dry the ball only using the towels provided by TNPL. And every time the ball is hit for a six or immediately after a dismissal and over-break, umpires regularly check the ball, and they didn’t find any issue with the ball during the said match,” Kannan continued.&nbsp;

Ravi Ashwin locked in ball-tampering controversy in TNPL 2025

Days after making headlines for showing dissent over an umpire’s call that resulted in his dismissal, former India spinner Ravichandran Ashwin is now locked in a ball-tampering controversy during the ongoing Tamil Nadu Premier League (TNPL) edition. The organisers, however, have asked Madurai Panthers, the franchise that wrote an official complaint to TNPL accusing Ashwin and his team of illegal activity, for proof of it. A day after Ashwin’s Dindigul Dragons faced Madurai Panthers in TNPL 2025, the Panthers raised a complaint against the Dragons, accusing them of using towels treated with chemicals to alter the ball’s condition, which resulted in the ball getting heavier and making a metallic sound after coming in contact with the bat. However, considering the gravity of such allegations levelled against a former Indian cricketer and his local franchise, the organisers demanded full proof of it. Also read | Yograj Singh tears into BCCI selectors for pushing careers of ‘these seven players into gutter’ “They have filed a complaint, which we have acknowledged. Though they have to lodge any complaints within 24 hours of the game, we have still accepted it and have asked them to furnish proof of their allegations. We will be forming an independent committee if we find there is any truth to their allegations. Without sufficient evidence, it is wrong to put forth such allegations against a player and another franchise. If they don’t provide any evidence, then Madurai will face due sanctions,” TNPL’s CEO Prasanna Kannan said in a chat with The Indian Express. Meanwhile, in the letter to TNPL, the Madurai franchise COO, S Mahesh, wrote, “A serious case of ball tampering occurred during our recent match against Dindigul Dragons. Despite repeated warnings, the Dindigul team blatantly tampered with the ball, using towels that appeared to have been treated with chemicals.” Rain, cricket and allegations Considering the ongoing edition coincides with the monsoon season, the matches are often hampered by passing showers, and such was the case with this game the past Saturday (June 14) in Salem, where there was a delayed start. Batting first, Madurai scored 150 for eight, only for Dindigul to complete the chase with nine wickets and more than seven overs remaining. Besides, Prasanna Kannan also explained that it’s for the very reason the organisers themselves provide all players with towels to dry the ball during the game, but in front of the umpires. “They have to dry the ball only using the towels provided by TNPL. And every time the ball is hit for a six or immediately after a dismissal and over-break, umpires regularly check the ball, and they didn’t find any issue with the ball during the said match,” Kannan continued.

Considering the gravity of such allegations levelled against a former Indian cricketer and his local franchise, the organisers demanded full proof of it.

Ravi Ashwin locked in ball-tampering controversy in TNPL 2025; organisers ask Madurai Panthers for proof

Yuvraj Singh’s father, Yograj Singh, is again back at making the headlines. After continuously tearing into former India captain MS Dhoni, his leadership style and how it ended several cricketing careers during his tenure as team skipper, Yograj now bashed the BCCI selectors during the late 2000s in his latest outcry.&nbsp;Known for being vocal and loud about his thoughts all these years, Yograj didn’t mince his words in blaming the selection committee for acting spineless and destroying the careers of at least seven cricketers, including Yuvraj Singh, who was responsible for India’s two World Cup wins across formats before that.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-eng-2025-team-india-head-coach-gautam-gambhir-to-rejoin-squad-ahead-of-leeds-test-return-date-announced-mother-health-england-1750070830714">India head coach Gambhir to rejoin squad ahead of Leeds Test, return date announced</a> &nbsp;While Yuvraj was diagnosed with a cancerous tumour called mediastinal seminoma in his left lung shortly after India's 2011 World Cup win at home, his comeback following his recovery never convinced the selectors to hand him the extended rope, unlike Dhoni, per Yograj. &nbsp;Speaking in a recent chat with InsideSport, Yograj blamed the selectors for pushing the careers of prominent cricketers into the gutter during the away tours of England and Australia in 2011/2012. &nbsp;“You destroyed these boys for no reason,” he said. &nbsp;&nbsp;However, all those concerned here include Yograj’s son Yuvraj, former India opener Gautam Gambhir, batter Mohammad Kaif, Test specialists Rahul Dravid and VVS Laxman and bowlers including Zaheer Khan and Harbhajan Singh. While Dravid and Laxman announced their Test retirements soon after, others were phased out from the starting XI across formats, not even included in the 2015 World Cup plan. &nbsp;A Times of India (TOI) report also claims that Yograj recalled turmoil within Indian Cricket following their grandest ICC win in 2011. Yograj also revealed that the selection committee back then, including former cricketer Mohinder Amarnath, wanted to sack MS Dhoni as the India captain after a 0-4 mauling Down Under; however, nothing of that ever happened, thanks to the then-BCCI president, N Srinivasan, who reportedly blocked this move. &nbsp;Meanwhile, despite all of this happening in the background, MS Dhoni remained India’s white-ball captain till 2016 before handing over the baton to Virat Kohli, who led India to massive heights in Tests, especially. Dhoni, however, continued to play till the 2019 ODI World Cup in England, after which he announced his international retirement on August 15 the following year.

Yograj Singh tears into BCCI selectors for pushing careers of seven players into gutter

Yuvraj Singh’s father, Yograj Singh, is again back at making the headlines. After continuously tearing into former India captain MS Dhoni, his leadership style and how it ended several cricketing careers during his tenure as team skipper, Yograj now bashed the BCCI selectors during the late 2000s in his latest outcry. Known for being vocal and loud about his thoughts all these years, Yograj didn’t mince his words in blaming the selection committee for acting spineless and destroying the careers of at least seven cricketers, including Yuvraj Singh, who was responsible for India’s two World Cup wins across formats before that. Also read | India head coach Gambhir to rejoin squad ahead of Leeds Test, return date announced While Yuvraj was diagnosed with a cancerous tumour called mediastinal seminoma in his left lung shortly after India's 2011 World Cup win at home, his comeback following his recovery never convinced the selectors to hand him the extended rope, unlike Dhoni, per Yograj. Speaking in a recent chat with InsideSport, Yograj blamed the selectors for pushing the careers of prominent cricketers into the gutter during the away tours of England and Australia in 2011/2012. “You destroyed these boys for no reason,” he said. However, all those concerned here include Yograj’s son Yuvraj, former India opener Gautam Gambhir, batter Mohammad Kaif, Test specialists Rahul Dravid and VVS Laxman and bowlers including Zaheer Khan and Harbhajan Singh. While Dravid and Laxman announced their Test retirements soon after, others were phased out from the starting XI across formats, not even included in the 2015 World Cup plan. A Times of India (TOI) report also claims that Yograj recalled turmoil within Indian Cricket following their grandest ICC win in 2011. Yograj also revealed that the selection committee back then, including former cricketer Mohinder Amarnath, wanted to sack MS Dhoni as the India captain after a 0-4 mauling Down Under; however, nothing of that ever happened, thanks to the then-BCCI president, N Srinivasan, who reportedly blocked this move. Meanwhile, despite all of this happening in the background, MS Dhoni remained India’s white-ball captain till 2016 before handing over the baton to Virat Kohli, who led India to massive heights in Tests, especially. Dhoni, however, continued to play till the 2019 ODI World Cup in England, after which he announced his international retirement on August 15 the following year.

After continuously tearing into former India captain MS Dhoni, his leadership style and how it ended several cricketing careers during his tenure as team skipper, Yograj now bashed the BCCI selectors during the late 2000s in his latest outcry.

Yograj Singh tears into BCCI selectors for pushing careers of 'these seven players into gutter'

Team India head coach Gautam Gambhir will rejoin the squad in Leeds ahead of the first Test against England starting Friday (June 20) at Headingley. Gautam rushed home last Wednesday to see his ailing mother, a day before the four-day intra-squad game between India-A and the senior men's team got underway in Beckenham.&nbsp;The latest reports suggest that his mother’s health has improved since, and Gambhir will reach England on Tuesday (June 17), reuniting with the Test team in Leeds – the venue for the series opener.&nbsp;Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-india-tour-of-england-sai-sudharsan-hails-washington-sundar-as-mentor-says-he-has-been-my-inspiration-1750061340175">Sai Sudharsan hails 'mentor' Washington Sundar, says ‘he has been my inspiration’</a> &nbsp;Meanwhile, in Gambhir’s absence, Ryan ten Doeschate and Sitanshu Kotak – the two assistant coaches, alongside seamer Morne Morkel, the bowling coach - took charge of the senior team’s preparation, with former India all-rounder and India-A coach Hrishikesh Kanitkar was at the other team’s dugout. &nbsp;The game was played behind closed doors.&nbsp;<h2>What did coaches and players have to say? &nbsp;</h2>It is the first time since 2011 that neither Virat Kohli nor Rohit Sharma is part of a Test squad, home or away, as both announced their respective retirements from this format last month. Though their absence forced the BCCI selection committee and the head coach Gambhir to take some brave calls, including naming Shubman Gill as the new Test skipper, Morkel sounded confident of the team's practice leading up to the Test series. &nbsp; &nbsp;"There's some quality energy in this group, and, you know, that's what you need. You need to go into a Test series confident, you need to have that team spirit in the group, and I think so far they have done a great job,” Morkel said in a chat with bcci.tv. &nbsp;Gill, however, received some backing from teammate and spinner Kuldeep Yadav, who praised him for having all the leadership traits required to guide this new-look team to greater heights. &nbsp;"I have seen over the last three-four sessions that Shubman has the same qualities that I've seen in our previous leadership groups. He's fully ready to lead us,” Kuldeep said after the conclusion of the intra-squad game.&nbsp; &nbsp;Meanwhile, Gambhir would have plenty on his table to cater ahead of the first Test that begins four days from now. While choosing the top four would be the hardest part of his job, considering who fits better in which position, Gambhir would also have to pick the best quicks for the first Test, besides choosing between the three all-rounders, Ravindra Jadeja, Shardul Thakur and Nitish Kumar Reddy.&nbsp;

Head coach Gambhir to rejoin squad ahead of Leeds Test, return date announced

Team India head coach Gautam Gambhir will rejoin the squad in Leeds ahead of the first Test against England starting Friday (June 20) at Headingley. Gautam rushed home last Wednesday to see his ailing mother, a day before the four-day intra-squad game between India-A and the senior men's team got underway in Beckenham. The latest reports suggest that his mother’s health has improved since, and Gambhir will reach England on Tuesday (June 17), reuniting with the Test team in Leeds – the venue for the series opener. Also read | Sai Sudharsan hails 'mentor' Washington Sundar, says ‘he has been my inspiration’ Meanwhile, in Gambhir’s absence, Ryan ten Doeschate and Sitanshu Kotak – the two assistant coaches, alongside seamer Morne Morkel, the bowling coach - took charge of the senior team’s preparation, with former India all-rounder and India-A coach Hrishikesh Kanitkar was at the other team’s dugout. The game was played behind closed doors. What did coaches and players have to say? It is the first time since 2011 that neither Virat Kohli nor Rohit Sharma is part of a Test squad, home or away, as both announced their respective retirements from this format last month. Though their absence forced the BCCI selection committee and the head coach Gambhir to take some brave calls, including naming Shubman Gill as the new Test skipper, Morkel sounded confident of the team's practice leading up to the Test series. "There's some quality energy in this group, and, you know, that's what you need. You need to go into a Test series confident, you need to have that team spirit in the group, and I think so far they have done a great job,” Morkel said in a chat with bcci.tv. Gill, however, received some backing from teammate and spinner Kuldeep Yadav, who praised him for having all the leadership traits required to guide this new-look team to greater heights. "I have seen over the last three-four sessions that Shubman has the same qualities that I've seen in our previous leadership groups. He's fully ready to lead us,” Kuldeep said after the conclusion of the intra-squad game. Meanwhile, Gambhir would have plenty on his table to cater ahead of the first Test that begins four days from now. While choosing the top four would be the hardest part of his job, considering who fits better in which position, Gambhir would also have to pick the best quicks for the first Test, besides choosing between the three all-rounders, Ravindra Jadeja, Shardul Thakur and Nitish Kumar Reddy.

In Gambhir’s absence, Ryan ten Doeschate and Sitanshu Kotak – the two assistant coaches, alongside seamer Morne Morkel, the bowling coach - took charge of the senior team’s preparation during the intra-squad match in Kent.

India head coach Gambhir to rejoin squad ahead of Leeds Test, return date announced

India’s Sai Sudharsan has hailed the impact of Washington Sundar as they gear up for the England series, starting June 20. Both Sundar and Sudharsan will be part of the new-looked Indian team as they prepare for the five-match Test series against England. According to Sudharsan, Sundar has played a key role in his growth which now sees him fight for a spot in the Indian team’s Playing XI ahead of the England series.&nbsp;<h2>Sudharsan hails Sundar’s impact</h2>"He has been my inspiration since I was young. I have played a few games against him, so it is always special. To be honest, we have looked up to him a lot. I have practiced once or twice (against Sundar), the way he went up and the way he played for the country, it was really quick, so I had that in my mind.&nbsp;&nbsp;ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-women-s-odi-world-cup-2025-colombo-to-host-india-vs-pakistan-on-october-5-1750051342351">Women's ODI World Cup 2025: Colombo to host India vs Pakistan on October 5</a>&nbsp;“He did well in the IPL, and then he played for the country. So it was a great motivator for me from Chennai. Knowing him since I was young, playing with him, is kind of inspiring. It made me feel I want to do things the same way," Sudharsan said.&nbsp;&nbsp;The new-looked Indian team will be led by Shubman Gill as he takes charge for the first time as permanent skipper of the side. The England series won’t feature the likes of Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli and Ravichandran Ashwin, who all hung their boots after the Australia tour.<h2>India tour of England 2025</h2>1st Test: 20 June to 24 June, Headingley, Leeds2nd Test: 2 July to 6 July, Edgbaston, Birmingham3rd Test: 10 July to 14 July, Lord's, London4th Test: 23 July to 27 July, Emirates Old Trafford, Manchester5th Test: 31 July to 4 August, Kennington Oval, London

India’s Sai Sudharsan has hailed the impact of Washington Sundar as they gear up for the England series, starting June 20. 

India’s Sai Sudharsan has hailed the impact of Washington Sundar as they gear up for the England series, starting June 20. Both Sundar and Sudharsan will be part of the new-looked Indian team as they prepare for the five-match Test series against England. According to Sudharsan, Sundar has played a key role in his growth which now sees him fight for a spot in the Indian team’s Playing XI ahead of the England series. Sudharsan hails Sundar’s impact "He has been my inspiration since I was young. I have played a few games against him, so it is always special. To be honest, we have looked up to him a lot. I have practiced once or twice (against Sundar), the way he went up and the way he played for the country, it was really quick, so I had that in my mind. ALSO READ | Women's ODI World Cup 2025: Colombo to host India vs Pakistan on October 5 “He did well in the IPL, and then he played for the country. So it was a great motivator for me from Chennai. Knowing him since I was young, playing with him, is kind of inspiring. It made me feel I want to do things the same way," Sudharsan said. The new-looked Indian team will be led by Shubman Gill as he takes charge for the first time as permanent skipper of the side. The England series won’t feature the likes of Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli and Ravichandran Ashwin, who all hung their boots after the Australia tour. India tour of England 2025 1st Test: 20 June to 24 June, Headingley, Leeds 2nd Test: 2 July to 6 July, Edgbaston, Birmingham 3rd Test: 10 July to 14 July, Lord's, London 4th Test: 23 July to 27 July, Emirates Old Trafford, Manchester 5th Test: 31 July to 4 August, Kennington Oval, London

India’s Sai Sudharsan has hailed the impact of Washington Sundar as they gear up for the England series, starting June 20.&nbsp;

Sai Sudharsan hails 'mentor' Washington Sundar, says 'he has been my inspiration'

The draft schedule for the ICC Women’s ODI World Cup was released on Monday (June 16) as the high-profile fixture between India and Pakistan is set to take place on October 5 in Colombo. India the official hosts of the ODI World Cup will be joined by Sri Lanka’s Colombo to host Pakistan’s matches during the coveted tournament. The Women’s ODI World Cup is set to kick off on September 30 with the final taking place on November 2.&nbsp;<h2>India vs Pakistan on October 5</h2>Amid the rising diplomatic tensions between India and Pakistan, the ICC has decided to move the high-voltage fixture to Sri Lanka as part of the hybrid model. The two nations reached an agreement during the ICC Champions Trophy when India refused to travel to Pakistan. As part of the agreement, neither India nor Pakistan will tour each other for any ICC tournament with the fixtures taking place at a neutral venue.<h2>Key fixtures</h2>Sept 30 - Ind vs SL, BengaluruOct 1 - Aus vs NZ, IndoreOct 3 - SA vs Eng, BengaluruOct 5 - Ind vs Pak, ColomboOct 6 - SA vs NZ, IndoreOct 11 - SL vs Eng, GuwahatiOct 15 - Pak vs Eng, ColomboOct 22 - Eng vs Aus, IndoreOct 25 - SA vs Aus, IndoreOct 26 (day) Eng vs NZ, GuwahatiOct 26 - Ind vs Ban, BengaluruOct 29 - SF 1, Guwahati/ColomboOct 30 - SF 2, BengaluruNov 2 - Final, Bengaluru/Colombo&nbsp;The tournament will feature 28 league games followed by three knockouts, with matches spread across Bengaluru, Indore, Guwahati, Visakhapatnam and Colombo. The first semi-final is slated for either Guwahati or Colombo - depending on Pakistan's progression - on October 29 while the second semi-final will be in Bengaluru on October 30. The final, on November 2, will be held in either Bengaluru or Colombo.&nbsp;India are hosting the women's ODI World Cup for the first time since 2013. The format for the 2025 tournament will be the same as in 2022, with each of the eight teams playing the other in a round-robin format, with the top four making the semi-finals.

The draft schedule for the ICC Women’s ODI World Cup was released on Monday (June 16) as the high-profile fixture between India and Pakistan is set to take place on October 5 in Colombo.

The draft schedule for the ICC Women’s ODI World Cup was released on Monday (June 16) as the high-profile fixture between India and Pakistan is set to take place on October 5 in Colombo. India the official hosts of the ODI World Cup will be joined by Sri Lanka’s Colombo to host Pakistan’s matches during the coveted tournament. The Women’s ODI World Cup is set to kick off on September 30 with the final taking place on November 2. India vs Pakistan on October 5 Amid the rising diplomatic tensions between India and Pakistan, the ICC has decided to move the high-voltage fixture to Sri Lanka as part of the hybrid model. The two nations reached an agreement during the ICC Champions Trophy when India refused to travel to Pakistan. As part of the agreement, neither India nor Pakistan will tour each other for any ICC tournament with the fixtures taking place at a neutral venue. Key fixtures Sept 30 - Ind vs SL, Bengaluru Oct 1 - Aus vs NZ, Indore Oct 3 - SA vs Eng, Bengaluru Oct 5 - Ind vs Pak, Colombo Oct 6 - SA vs NZ, Indore Oct 11 - SL vs Eng, Guwahati Oct 15 - Pak vs Eng, Colombo Oct 22 - Eng vs Aus, Indore Oct 25 - SA vs Aus, Indore Oct 26 (day) Eng vs NZ, Guwahati Oct 26 - Ind vs Ban, Bengaluru Oct 29 - SF 1, Guwahati/Colombo Oct 30 - SF 2, Bengaluru Nov 2 - Final, Bengaluru/Colombo The tournament will feature 28 league games followed by three knockouts, with matches spread across Bengaluru, Indore, Guwahati, Visakhapatnam and Colombo. The first semi-final is slated for either Guwahati or Colombo - depending on Pakistan's progression - on October 29 while the second semi-final will be in Bengaluru on October 30. The final, on November 2, will be held in either Bengaluru or Colombo. India are hosting the women's ODI World Cup for the first time since 2013. The format for the 2025 tournament will be the same as in 2022, with each of the eight teams playing the other in a round-robin format, with the top four making the semi-finals.

The draft schedule for the ICC Women’s ODI World Cup was released on Monday (June 16) as the high-profile fixture between India and Pakistan is set to take place on October 5 in Colombo.

Women's ODI World Cup 2025: Colombo to host India vs Pakistan on October 5

Just one day after Australia conceded the WTC Final 2025 to South Africa at Lord’s, former Aussie quick Mitchell Johnson came down hard on Josh Hazlewood for choosing to play the resumed leg of IPL 2025 over preparing for the summit clash. While Australia’s remaining three bowlers – Starc, Cummins and Lyon began training earlier in June, Hazlewood re-linked with the squad almost a week before the final’s date.&nbsp;Out with a shoulder injury early in May, Hazlewood took time to return to action, and even though he had a choice to make as Starc did, who decided against returning to India after IPL 2025 following a nine-day break, Hazlewood honoured his franchise commitment, raising quite a few eyebrows.&nbsp;Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/gary-kirsten-breaks-silence-on-his-premature-exit-as-pakistan-head-coach-jason-gillespie-internal-politics-1749999682869">‘If I got invited back to Pakistan tomorrow…,’ Gary Kirsten breaks silence on his exit as PAK head coach</a> &nbsp;“We’ve seen concerns about Hazlewood’s fitness in recent years, and his decision to prioritise returning to the delayed Indian Premier League over his national team preparations raised eyebrows,” Johnson wrote in the West Australian. &nbsp;Meanwhile, Johnson also raised a concern surrounding the ageing Australian team, saying even though the bowlers and several batters are approaching the end of their careers, and despite them being successful across formats and still delivering, they would need to be replaced at some point, maybe after the upcoming home Ashes.&nbsp; &nbsp;Further questioning the team's mindset, wondering if Australia had the backups ready, Johnson said, “Our successful ‘big four’ bowling attack of Mitchell Starc, Hazlewood, Pat Cummins and Nathan Lyon can’t be taken for granted as a lock going forward either.&nbsp; &nbsp;"If veteran players are sticking around just for the Ashes as a send-off, it does beg the question of whether that’s the right mindset. It’s crucial that we embrace the future and build confidence in selecting our next Test players,” added Johnson.<h2>What needs to be done? &nbsp;</h2>Johnson was clear in his thoughts about what Australia must do to ensure that the newcomers or those willing to prove themselves get a proper chance, adding that with a three-match series against West Indies just around the corner, Australia have a golden opportunity at hand to prepare the team for the future.&nbsp; &nbsp;“It’s essential to consider when the right time is to make some tough calls. The upcoming three-Test Windies tour seems like an excellent opportunity to give deserving players a chance to shine, and the finger injury to Smith might have the silver lining of prompting some regeneration.&nbsp; &nbsp;“Finding a specialist No.3 is crucial, and with the form Labuschagne has shown over the past 18 months, it’s hard to justify moving him back into that position. Trying to make changes in all top-three batting slots at once would indeed be risky, and I don’t think the selectors will go that route,” Johnson continued.&nbsp;

Johnson slams Hazlewood for making a ‘choice’ that cost Australia WTC Final

Just one day after Australia conceded the WTC Final 2025 to South Africa at Lord’s, former Aussie quick Mitchell Johnson came down hard on Josh Hazlewood for choosing to play the resumed leg of IPL 2025 over preparing for the summit clash. While Australia’s remaining three bowlers – Starc, Cummins and Lyon began training earlier in June, Hazlewood re-linked with the squad almost a week before the final’s date. Out with a shoulder injury early in May, Hazlewood took time to return to action, and even though he had a choice to make as Starc did, who decided against returning to India after IPL 2025 following a nine-day break, Hazlewood honoured his franchise commitment, raising quite a few eyebrows. Also read | ‘If I got invited back to Pakistan tomorrow…,’ Gary Kirsten breaks silence on his exit as PAK head coach “We’ve seen concerns about Hazlewood’s fitness in recent years, and his decision to prioritise returning to the delayed Indian Premier League over his national team preparations raised eyebrows,” Johnson wrote in the West Australian. Meanwhile, Johnson also raised a concern surrounding the ageing Australian team, saying even though the bowlers and several batters are approaching the end of their careers, and despite them being successful across formats and still delivering, they would need to be replaced at some point, maybe after the upcoming home Ashes. Further questioning the team's mindset, wondering if Australia had the backups ready, Johnson said, “Our successful ‘big four’ bowling attack of Mitchell Starc, Hazlewood, Pat Cummins and Nathan Lyon can’t be taken for granted as a lock going forward either. "If veteran players are sticking around just for the Ashes as a send-off, it does beg the question of whether that’s the right mindset. It’s crucial that we embrace the future and build confidence in selecting our next Test players,” added Johnson. What needs to be done? Johnson was clear in his thoughts about what Australia must do to ensure that the newcomers or those willing to prove themselves get a proper chance, adding that with a three-match series against West Indies just around the corner, Australia have a golden opportunity at hand to prepare the team for the future. “It’s essential to consider when the right time is to make some tough calls. The upcoming three-Test Windies tour seems like an excellent opportunity to give deserving players a chance to shine, and the finger injury to Smith might have the silver lining of prompting some regeneration. “Finding a specialist No.3 is crucial, and with the form Labuschagne has shown over the past 18 months, it’s hard to justify moving him back into that position. Trying to make changes in all top-three batting slots at once would indeed be risky, and I don’t think the selectors will go that route,” Johnson continued.

Though Hazlewood had a choice to make as Starc did, who decided against returning to India after IPL 2025 following a nine-day break, he honoured his franchise commitment, raising quite a few eyebrows.

‘Choosing IPL over national team…’ - Mitchell Johnson slams Josh Hazlewood for ‘choice’ that cost Australia WTC Final

Former South Africa opener Gary Kirsten left his job as the head coach of the Pakistan men’s cricket team months after getting appointed. After the PCB named him the top boss of the Test side alongside naming former Australia quick Jason Gillespie as the bowling coach in April last year, the pair departed after six months in their jobs, citing internal politics and lack of authority as reasons.&nbsp;&nbsp;Going public about what forced him to resign from his post, Kirsten explained, “It was a tumultuous few months. I realised quite quickly I wasn’t going to have much of an influence.”&nbsp;Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/wi-vs-aus-2025-brendan-doggett-injury-forces-change-to-australia-squad-for-west-indies-tests-and-it-is-not-steve-smith-seam-abbott-1749996791754">Injury forces change to Australia squad for West Indies Tests and it’s not Steve Smith</a> &nbsp;Spilling more beans on PCB’s infamous internal politics that ate a lot of careers on its way, Kirsten said after the board removed him (and Gillespie) from the selection panel (discussion) following Pakistan’s embarrassing loss to England in the Multan Test late last year, he knew his time with Pakistan cricket was getting cut short and that he is on his way out. &nbsp;“Once I was taken off selection and asked to take a team and not be able to shape the team, it became very difficult as a coach then to have any sort of positive influence on the group,” he continued during his chat at the Wisden Cricket Patreon podcast.&nbsp; &nbsp;Meanwhile, Kirsten’s remarks are somewhat similar to Gillespie’s when he answered on the same lines, reflecting the bigger issue of dysfunction within Pakistan Cricket. While Kirsten announced his exit a day after the newly formed five-member selection committee named squads for Zimbabwe and Australia tours, Gillespie departed soon after, citing the controversial sacking of the Pakistan team’s high-performance coach, Tim Nielsen, as a trigger.<h2>‘It’s not over yet’ &nbsp;</h2>Kirsten, however, hasn’t shut all doors of associating himself with Pakistan Cricket in future despite the whole episode leaving a sour taste in his mouth. He said if the PCB ever decides to reappoint him, he shall consider returning, but only on one condition.&nbsp; &nbsp;“If I got invited back to Pakistan tomorrow, I would go… under the right circumstances. Cricket teams need to be run by cricket people. When there’s a lot of outside noise — very influential noise — it’s very difficult for leaders within the team.”&nbsp; &nbsp;Kirsten concluded, “I’m too old now to be dealing with other agendas. I just want to coach a cricket team, work with the players, and Pakistan’s players are fantastic.”

Gary Kirsten breaks silence on his premature exit as Pakistan head coach

Former South Africa opener Gary Kirsten left his job as the head coach of the Pakistan men’s cricket team months after getting appointed. After the PCB named him the top boss of the Test side alongside naming former Australia quick Jason Gillespie as the bowling coach in April last year, the pair departed after six months in their jobs, citing internal politics and lack of authority as reasons. Going public about what forced him to resign from his post, Kirsten explained, “It was a tumultuous few months. I realised quite quickly I wasn’t going to have much of an influence.” Also read | Injury forces change to Australia squad for West Indies Tests and it’s not Steve Smith Spilling more beans on PCB’s infamous internal politics that ate a lot of careers on its way, Kirsten said after the board removed him (and Gillespie) from the selection panel (discussion) following Pakistan’s embarrassing loss to England in the Multan Test late last year, he knew his time with Pakistan cricket was getting cut short and that he is on his way out. “Once I was taken off selection and asked to take a team and not be able to shape the team, it became very difficult as a coach then to have any sort of positive influence on the group,” he continued during his chat at the Wisden Cricket Patreon podcast. Meanwhile, Kirsten’s remarks are somewhat similar to Gillespie’s when he answered on the same lines, reflecting the bigger issue of dysfunction within Pakistan Cricket. While Kirsten announced his exit a day after the newly formed five-member selection committee named squads for Zimbabwe and Australia tours, Gillespie departed soon after, citing the controversial sacking of the Pakistan team’s high-performance coach, Tim Nielsen, as a trigger. ‘It’s not over yet’ Kirsten, however, hasn’t shut all doors of associating himself with Pakistan Cricket in future despite the whole episode leaving a sour taste in his mouth. He said if the PCB ever decides to reappoint him, he shall consider returning, but only on one condition. “If I got invited back to Pakistan tomorrow, I would go… under the right circumstances. Cricket teams need to be run by cricket people. When there’s a lot of outside noise — very influential noise — it’s very difficult for leaders within the team.” Kirsten concluded, “I’m too old now to be dealing with other agendas. I just want to coach a cricket team, work with the players, and Pakistan’s players are fantastic.”

Kirsten’s remarks are somewhat similar to Gillespie’s when he answered on the same lines, reflecting the bigger issue of dysfunction within Pakistan Cricket.

‘If I got invited back to Pakistan tomorrow…,’ Gary Kirsten breaks silence on his exit as PAK head coach

Cricket Australia has made a forced change to their Test squad for the upcoming West Indies series after uncapped seamer Brendan Doggett suffered a minor hip issue and is ruled out of the Test tour. Though picked up as a travelling reserve, Doggett has returned home for treatment, with the touring side naming bowling all-rounder Seam Abbot as his replacement. Luckily for the Australians, Steve Smith retained his place in the squad despite dislocating his finger during the WTC Final.&nbsp;While the 31-year-old seamer was set to be part of the squad that faces the West Indies next, his absence brought in Abbott, who was part of the group that toured Sri Lanka early this year. Abbott, 33, bagged 6/99 in his last first-class match for New South Wales in March, finishing the Sheffield Shield season with 19 wickets in three matches. His only game since is a T20 match for Quetta Gladiators in the PSL.<h2>Smith escapes a major scare &nbsp;</h2>While standing at the slips during the just-concluded WTC Final against South Africa, Smith and Australia suffered a massive blow, with the gun fielder almost breaking his little finger while attempting to complete a catch. Though Smith dropped that one, it did worse to his finger, dislocating it altogether, with Oz forced to bring his replacement for the rest of the game.&nbsp;Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/wi-vs-aus-2025-sam-konstas-back-in-reckoning-after-wtc-final-debacle-head-coach-andrew-mcdonald-answers-1749994334198">WI vs AUS 2025: Is Konstas back in reckoning after WTC Final debacle? McDonald answers</a> &nbsp;Luckily, that was the fourth innings, and Australia wasn't batting, but Smith’s latest injury put his participation in the West Indies tour in doubt. &nbsp;"Fortunately, there's no break there, it just split the skin, which dislocated it and made me feel pretty ill at that stage," Smith said at Lord's after the WTC final. "But in a splint for eight weeks now, and I may be able to play with it in a couple of weeks. &nbsp;"It'll depend on my functionality and what I'm able to do, but it's probably the best result I could have hoped for." &nbsp;Meanwhile, head coach Andrew McDonald also addressed this issue, saying if Smith remains unavailable for the series opener, then Australia would have to look into their talent pool for a replacement. &nbsp;"If Steve wasn't available for the first Test match, that would lend itself to having extra batting coverage," he said. "(because) If we lost another player, then we'd be short in terms of what we had on the bench and available."

Injury forces change to Australia squad for WI Tests and it’s not Steve Smith

Cricket Australia has made a forced change to their Test squad for the upcoming West Indies series after uncapped seamer Brendan Doggett suffered a minor hip issue and is ruled out of the Test tour. Though picked up as a travelling reserve, Doggett has returned home for treatment, with the touring side naming bowling all-rounder Seam Abbot as his replacement. Luckily for the Australians, Steve Smith retained his place in the squad despite dislocating his finger during the WTC Final. While the 31-year-old seamer was set to be part of the squad that faces the West Indies next, his absence brought in Abbott, who was part of the group that toured Sri Lanka early this year. Abbott, 33, bagged 6/99 in his last first-class match for New South Wales in March, finishing the Sheffield Shield season with 19 wickets in three matches. His only game since is a T20 match for Quetta Gladiators in the PSL. Smith escapes a major scare While standing at the slips during the just-concluded WTC Final against South Africa, Smith and Australia suffered a massive blow, with the gun fielder almost breaking his little finger while attempting to complete a catch. Though Smith dropped that one, it did worse to his finger, dislocating it altogether, with Oz forced to bring his replacement for the rest of the game. Also read | WI vs AUS 2025: Is Konstas back in reckoning after WTC Final debacle? McDonald answers Luckily, that was the fourth innings, and Australia wasn't batting, but Smith’s latest injury put his participation in the West Indies tour in doubt. "Fortunately, there's no break there, it just split the skin, which dislocated it and made me feel pretty ill at that stage," Smith said at Lord's after the WTC final. "But in a splint for eight weeks now, and I may be able to play with it in a couple of weeks. "It'll depend on my functionality and what I'm able to do, but it's probably the best result I could have hoped for." Meanwhile, head coach Andrew McDonald also addressed this issue, saying if Smith remains unavailable for the series opener, then Australia would have to look into their talent pool for a replacement. "If Steve wasn't available for the first Test match, that would lend itself to having extra batting coverage," he said. "(because) If we lost another player, then we'd be short in terms of what we had on the bench and available."

Australia head coach Andrew McDonald said if Smith remains unavailable for the series opener, then Australia would have to look into their talent pool for a replacement.

Injury forces change to Australia squad for West Indies Tests but it’s not Steve Smith

Australia lost the WTC Final 2025 to South Africa by five wickets, and all returned to the drawing board straightaway. Thanks to a four-day cracker at the Lord’s that ended South Africa's wait for an ICC title, it also exposed issues in the mighty Aussies’ Test team, which now needs reworking before their next Test assignment that starts in ten days in the Caribbean. Bringing back Sam Konstas to the playing XI is the talking point in the dressing room.&nbsp;The rookie batter made his Test debut against India at the MCG late last year. While his maiden fifty on day one of the Boxing Day Test had the packed crowd at the ‘G’ cheer for him, what made him a bigger star was his approach and stroke play against ace India quick Jasprit Bumrah. Unfazed by Bumrah’s aura and stature, even considering what he did to them in three matches until then, the right-hander scooped him for boundaries for fun.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ashes-2025-england-australia-head-coach-andrew-mcdonald-vows-to-protect-usman-khawaja-test-career-despite-his-batting-slump-in-wtc-final-1749989432489">Australia head coach vows to protect Usman Khawaja's Test career despite batting slump in WTC Final</a> &nbsp;Although Konstas' shot selection (on a few occasions) was a bit questionable, McDonald confirmed that Sam was part of the conversation for the WTC Final but missed out on the spot to Marnus Labuschagne. &nbsp;"He'll be right in the window," McDonald said of Konstas. "He was a big discussion leading into this Test match.&nbsp;&nbsp;"We need to bed down that opening combination. We've had a bit of musical chairs there, so now might be the time,” the head coach continued. &nbsp;With the West Indies series just around the corner and the home Ashes a few months down the line, Australia is working on finding the right balance across all facets; however, what this upcoming Caribbean tour has to do with the squad selection for the Ashes opener (in Perth), the coach explains. &nbsp;"We want to make sure that we are prepared for the Ashes, but does the West Indies have a direct connection to the first Ashes Test match in Perth?" McDonald said. "I'd say it has little. But the people that are on that journey (against the West Indies), I think, are the right people at this stage. "We've got a nice build-up (to the Ashes). &nbsp;He also noted that instead of looking at how things pan out on the Caribbean tour, the selectors and the team management will look at the Shield results before sealing spots for the marquee home Ashes. &nbsp;"The direct connection to the Ashes would potentially be the first few Shield games (rather) than the West Indies, in my opinion. The connection between each series and the surfaces that you play on can be quite different. &nbsp;"We just don't want to play in spite of the conditions getting ready for the Ashes … but you also want to understand where you're heading, so that can be a tricky balance. &nbsp;"We're being flexible around our options in the batting order. We've got a group that understands when we're home, it looks a certain way, and when we're away, it can potentially shift,” he continued.&nbsp;

Is Sam Konstas back in reckoning after WTC Final debacle? Coach McDonald answers

Australia lost the WTC Final 2025 to South Africa by five wickets, and all returned to the drawing board straightaway. Thanks to a four-day cracker at the Lord’s that ended South Africa's wait for an ICC title, it also exposed issues in the mighty Aussies’ Test team, which now needs reworking before their next Test assignment that starts in ten days in the Caribbean. Bringing back Sam Konstas to the playing XI is the talking point in the dressing room. The rookie batter made his Test debut against India at the MCG late last year. While his maiden fifty on day one of the Boxing Day Test had the packed crowd at the ‘G’ cheer for him, what made him a bigger star was his approach and stroke play against ace India quick Jasprit Bumrah. Unfazed by Bumrah’s aura and stature, even considering what he did to them in three matches until then, the right-hander scooped him for boundaries for fun. Also read | Australia head coach vows to protect Usman Khawaja's Test career despite batting slump in WTC Final Although Konstas' shot selection (on a few occasions) was a bit questionable, McDonald confirmed that Sam was part of the conversation for the WTC Final but missed out on the spot to Marnus Labuschagne. "He'll be right in the window," McDonald said of Konstas. "He was a big discussion leading into this Test match. "We need to bed down that opening combination. We've had a bit of musical chairs there, so now might be the time,” the head coach continued. With the West Indies series just around the corner and the home Ashes a few months down the line, Australia is working on finding the right balance across all facets; however, what this upcoming Caribbean tour has to do with the squad selection for the Ashes opener (in Perth), the coach explains. "We want to make sure that we are prepared for the Ashes, but does the West Indies have a direct connection to the first Ashes Test match in Perth?" McDonald said. "I'd say it has little. But the people that are on that journey (against the West Indies), I think, are the right people at this stage. "We've got a nice build-up (to the Ashes). He also noted that instead of looking at how things pan out on the Caribbean tour, the selectors and the team management will look at the Shield results before sealing spots for the marquee home Ashes. "The direct connection to the Ashes would potentially be the first few Shield games (rather) than the West Indies, in my opinion. The connection between each series and the surfaces that you play on can be quite different. "We just don't want to play in spite of the conditions getting ready for the Ashes … but you also want to understand where you're heading, so that can be a tricky balance. "We're being flexible around our options in the batting order. We've got a group that understands when we're home, it looks a certain way, and when we're away, it can potentially shift,” he continued.

Thanks to a four-day cracker at the Lord’s that ended South Africa's wait for an ICC title, it also exposed issues in the mighty Aussies’ Test team, which now needs reworking before their next Test assignment that starts in ten days in the Caribbean.

WI vs AUS 2025: Is Konstas back in reckoning after WTC Final debacle? McDonald answers

Australia head coach Andrew McDonald is not ready to drop guards for under-fire opener and batting great Usman Khawaja despite his twin failures in the just-concluded WTC Final at the Lord’s. With Australia failing to defend their Test title against the Proteas, who claimed their maiden crown with a five-wicket win, the questions began to rise on Khawaja’s future, considering his dip in form and age; McDonald, however, has backed him to retain his spot for the home Ashes later this year.&nbsp;With Australia set to host England for five Tests, and given their ageing squad at the helm, the head coach stressed the need to work on acquiring new talent in the batting order but clarified his stance on Khawaja’s role at the top. Though Marnus Labuschagne also received his backing, with McDonald calling him a ‘significant part of the team’s future’, his words for Khawaja were equally motivating, saying what he brings to the table at his best is irreplaceable. &nbsp;While the Bumrah-led Indian pace attack troubled Khawaja throughout the last home summer, the Aussie opener bounced back with his career-best 232 against Sri Lanka in the away series next, proving he still has plenty to offer. However, collecting just six runs across two innings against South Africa again brought his place in jeopardy, but McDonald seems unbothered by that. &nbsp;"He's on contract, he's an important player," McDonald said of Khawaja. "He gives us stability at his best at the top. And we like to look at our players at their best. &nbsp;"No doubt, a couple of failures here and people then start to talk about maybe it's the end. I don't see an end date with the way he's training, the way he's preparing, the way he's moving. He went back to Shield cricket and got 100 last [season]. So I think he's got plenty of runs left in him. It'll come down to his inner drive and the way he prepares. &nbsp;"It was a bit the same with Davey as well. The way he moved, we saw some positives in that. We knew that the runs were around the corner. We feel as though Usman's got a big part to play,” he continued.<h2>Who, alongside Khawaja? &nbsp;</h2>Australia tried several options in their past three series. While they started with rookie players like Nathan McSweeney and Sam Konstas, with both vacating that spot sooner, Australia tried Travis Head in Sri Lanka before handing a new role to number three Labuschagne for the WTC Final. Much to their worries, everyone failed. Commenting on the same while considering all options, McDonald said,&nbsp;&nbsp;"I'd like to think that we're being flexible around our options in the batting order. Other people are judging that and saying that's unsettling. I think we've got a group that understands when we're home, it looks a certain way, when we're away, it can potentially shift." &nbsp;Meanwhile, Australia’s next Test assignment is a three-match away tour of the West Indies starting June 25 in Barbados.&nbsp;

McDonald vows to protect Khawaja's career despite his batting slump in WTC Final

Australia head coach Andrew McDonald is not ready to drop guards for under-fire opener and batting great Usman Khawaja despite his twin failures in the just-concluded WTC Final at the Lord’s. With Australia failing to defend their Test title against the Proteas, who claimed their maiden crown with a five-wicket win, the questions began to rise on Khawaja’s future, considering his dip in form and age; McDonald, however, has backed him to retain his spot for the home Ashes later this year. With Australia set to host England for five Tests, and given their ageing squad at the helm, the head coach stressed the need to work on acquiring new talent in the batting order but clarified his stance on Khawaja’s role at the top. Though Marnus Labuschagne also received his backing, with McDonald calling him a ‘significant part of the team’s future’, his words for Khawaja were equally motivating, saying what he brings to the table at his best is irreplaceable. While the Bumrah-led Indian pace attack troubled Khawaja throughout the last home summer, the Aussie opener bounced back with his career-best 232 against Sri Lanka in the away series next, proving he still has plenty to offer. However, collecting just six runs across two innings against South Africa again brought his place in jeopardy, but McDonald seems unbothered by that. "He's on contract, he's an important player," McDonald said of Khawaja. "He gives us stability at his best at the top. And we like to look at our players at their best. "No doubt, a couple of failures here and people then start to talk about maybe it's the end. I don't see an end date with the way he's training, the way he's preparing, the way he's moving. He went back to Shield cricket and got 100 last [season]. So I think he's got plenty of runs left in him. It'll come down to his inner drive and the way he prepares. "It was a bit the same with Davey as well. The way he moved, we saw some positives in that. We knew that the runs were around the corner. We feel as though Usman's got a big part to play,” he continued. Who, alongside Khawaja? Australia tried several options in their past three series. While they started with rookie players like Nathan McSweeney and Sam Konstas, with both vacating that spot sooner, Australia tried Travis Head in Sri Lanka before handing a new role to number three Labuschagne for the WTC Final. Much to their worries, everyone failed. Commenting on the same while considering all options, McDonald said, "I'd like to think that we're being flexible around our options in the batting order. Other people are judging that and saying that's unsettling. I think we've got a group that understands when we're home, it looks a certain way, when we're away, it can potentially shift." Meanwhile, Australia’s next Test assignment is a three-match away tour of the West Indies starting June 25 in Barbados.

While the Bumrah-led Indian pace attack troubled Khawaja throughout the last home summer, the Aussie opener bounced back with his career-best 232 against Sri Lanka in the away series next, proving he still has plenty to offer.

Australia head coach vows to protect Usman Khawaja's Test career despite batting slump in WTC Final

Australia’s head coach Andrew McDonald has backed Marnus Labuschagne to get into the Ashes squad despite a poor World Test Championship (WTC) final performance. Labuschagne scored 39 runs in two innings during the WTC final where South Africa beat Australia by five wickets. After the defeat, McDonald was questioned on Labuschagne’s future in the side with a huge Australian summer awaiting as England will come for the Ashes.<h2>McDonald backs Labuschagne</h2>“He’s a big part of the future of the team,” McDonald said of Labuschagne. “Anyone that averages 46 in Test cricket at that age is important. We’ve got older players there who are closer to the end than the start, we’ve got some younger players coming in, and you definitely want guys that have got 60-odd Test matches."&nbsp;“At that age, he’s really important. If he can get his game in order for the next five years, he can underpin that batting order. At the moment, he’d be disappointed with the returns. He’s missed out on big scores.”&nbsp;Having narrowed South Africa to 138 in the first innings, and gaining a lead of 74 runs, it was the Proteas who were on the back foot in the match. However, Aiden Markram who was dismissed for a duck in the first innings came in handy in the decisive stage of the second innings as he scored 136 to take his team home.&nbsp;&nbsp;Australian management is also concerned by Steve Smith’s finger injury as he is likely to miss the opening contest against the West Indies. Australia will start their West Indies tour on June 25 with the first Test taking place in Barbados.&nbsp;&nbsp;On the other hand, South Africa became just the fourth team to beat Australia in a major ICC men’s final joining the likes of West Indies (1975 ODI World Cup final), Sri Lanka (1996 ODI World Cup final) and England (2010 T20 World Cup final).

Australia’s head coach Andrew McDonald has backed Marnus Labuschagne to get into the Ashes squad despite a poor World Test Championship (WTC) final performance.

Australia’s head coach Andrew McDonald has backed Marnus Labuschagne to get into the Ashes squad despite a poor World Test Championship (WTC) final performance. Labuschagne scored 39 runs in two innings during the WTC final where South Africa beat Australia by five wickets. After the defeat, McDonald was questioned on Labuschagne’s future in the side with a huge Australian summer awaiting as England will come for the Ashes. McDonald backs Labuschagne “He’s a big part of the future of the team,” McDonald said of Labuschagne. “Anyone that averages 46 in Test cricket at that age is important. We’ve got older players there who are closer to the end than the start, we’ve got some younger players coming in, and you definitely want guys that have got 60-odd Test matches." “At that age, he’s really important. If he can get his game in order for the next five years, he can underpin that batting order. At the moment, he’d be disappointed with the returns. He’s missed out on big scores.” Having narrowed South Africa to 138 in the first innings, and gaining a lead of 74 runs, it was the Proteas who were on the back foot in the match. However, Aiden Markram who was dismissed for a duck in the first innings came in handy in the decisive stage of the second innings as he scored 136 to take his team home. Australian management is also concerned by Steve Smith’s finger injury as he is likely to miss the opening contest against the West Indies. Australia will start their West Indies tour on June 25 with the first Test taking place in Barbados. On the other hand, South Africa became just the fourth team to beat Australia in a major ICC men’s final joining the likes of West Indies (1975 ODI World Cup final), Sri Lanka (1996 ODI World Cup final) and England (2010 T20 World Cup final).

Australia’s head coach Andrew McDonald has backed Marnus Labuschagne to get into the Ashes squad despite a poor World Test Championship (WTC) final performance.

'He’s a big part of the future': Andrew McDonald backs Marnus Labuschagne for Ashes despite poor WTC show

South African cricket witnessed a historic day on Saturday (June 14) after they ended their trophy drought in a senior ICC men’s tournament as they beat Australia in the World Test Championship (WTC) final. Playing at the iconic Lord’s Cricket Ground, the Proteas beat Australia by five wickets and thereby ended a 27-year wait for a senior men’s ICC trophy. One of the star players of the contest was Aiden Markram, who played a crucial 136-run knock in the second innings for the Proteas while skipper Temba Bavuma also had his part to play with a 66-run knock.&nbsp;&nbsp;After the match, former England captain, Kevin Pietersen hailed Markram for his impact, stating it as the best innings by a South African batter. It was Markram and Bavuma’s 147-run stand for the third wicket that propelled South Africa to a famous win on Saturday.&nbsp;<h2>Pietersen hails Markram</h2>"Probably the best innings any South African batter has ever played in Test match cricket. It might not go down as the most attacking or entertaining if you look back at South Africa’s Test history.”&nbsp;“But when you factor in the expectation, the stage, and the pressure after failing in the first innings, it was extraordinary. Whether you're a batter or a bowler, when your country is counting on you and you have to deliver — that pressure is immense," said Pietersen after South Africa won the WTC final.&nbsp;&nbsp;Having been narrowed to 138 in the first innings, and conceding a lead of 74 runs, it was the Proteas who were on the back foot. However, Markram who was dismissed for a duck in the first innings came in handy in the decisive stage as he scored 136 to take his team home.&nbsp;&nbsp;South Africa became just the fourth team to beat Australia in a major ICC men’s final joining the likes of West Indies (1975 ODI World Cup final), Sri Lanka (1996 ODI World Cup final) and England (2010 T20 World Cup final).

One of the star players of the WTC final was Aiden Markram, who played a crucial 136-run knock in the second innings for the Proteas while skipper Temba Bavuma also had his part to play with a 66-run knock. 

South African cricket witnessed a historic day on Saturday (June 14) after they ended their trophy drought in a senior ICC men’s tournament as they beat Australia in the World Test Championship (WTC) final. Playing at the iconic Lord’s Cricket Ground, the Proteas beat Australia by five wickets and thereby ended a 27-year wait for a senior men’s ICC trophy. One of the star players of the contest was Aiden Markram, who played a crucial 136-run knock in the second innings for the Proteas while skipper Temba Bavuma also had his part to play with a 66-run knock. After the match, former England captain, Kevin Pietersen hailed Markram for his impact, stating it as the best innings by a South African batter. It was Markram and Bavuma’s 147-run stand for the third wicket that propelled South Africa to a famous win on Saturday. Pietersen hails Markram "Probably the best innings any South African batter has ever played in Test match cricket. It might not go down as the most attacking or entertaining if you look back at South Africa’s Test history.” “But when you factor in the expectation, the stage, and the pressure after failing in the first innings, it was extraordinary. Whether you're a batter or a bowler, when your country is counting on you and you have to deliver — that pressure is immense," said Pietersen after South Africa won the WTC final. Having been narrowed to 138 in the first innings, and conceding a lead of 74 runs, it was the Proteas who were on the back foot. However, Markram who was dismissed for a duck in the first innings came in handy in the decisive stage as he scored 136 to take his team home. South Africa became just the fourth team to beat Australia in a major ICC men’s final joining the likes of West Indies (1975 ODI World Cup final), Sri Lanka (1996 ODI World Cup final) and England (2010 T20 World Cup final).

One of the star players of the WTC final was Aiden Markram, who played a crucial 136-run knock in the second innings for the Proteas while skipper Temba Bavuma also had his part to play with a 66-run knock.&nbsp;

Kevin Pietersen hails Aiden Markram after WTC title-winning knock, says 'best innings by a South African batter'

The Italian national team would like to avoid the misery of missing a third consecutive FIFA Men’s World Cup as they are set to appoint Gennaro Gattuso as their new head coach. According to a report on Saturday (June 14), the 2006 World Cup winner is set to be appointed as the head coach after Luciano Spalletti was fired last week. Italy have missed out on FIFA World Cup qualification on the last two occasions with their last match coming in the 20-14 edition.&nbsp;<h2>Gattuso to be appointed head coach</h2>After a humiliating 3-0 defeat to Norway in their 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier, the Italian Football Federation moved quickly and fired Spalletti. While Spalletti was still in charge of the game against Moldova, his fate was already sealed, prompting a change in guard.&nbsp;&nbsp;Claudio Ranieri was initially approached to take charge of the Italian side, however, he swiftly denied the request, claiming it was an honour for him.&nbsp;With not too many options available and Italy’s unwritten policy to appoint a native coach saw the ball land in the court of Gattuso.&nbsp;&nbsp;The former AC Milan midfielder is known for his no-nonsense approach and was previously in charge of Napoli, Valencia, Marseille and Hajduk Split.&nbsp;<h2>Italy’s road to 2026 FIFA World Cup</h2>Having missed out on the 2018 and 2022 World Cup, that may not be the case in 2026 as 48 teams will participate in the competition. The extra places should increase Italy’s chances of a place in the 2026 showpiece.&nbsp;&nbsp;Having played only two matches so far in Group I, Italy are nine points off top-placed Norway who are on 12 points. They have two matches in hand over the top-placed side and are currently sitting third behind Norway and Israel (six points in three matches).&nbsp;According to the current format, Italy will have to win Group I to book their place in the World Cup. However, they will need a helping hand from other teams as Norway have a nine-point lead over Italy.

The Italian national team would like to avoid the misery of missing a third consecutive FIFA Men’s World Cup as they are set to appoint Gennaro Gattuso as their new head coach. 

The Italian national team would like to avoid the misery of missing a third consecutive FIFA Men’s World Cup as they are set to appoint Gennaro Gattuso as their new head coach. According to a report on Saturday (June 14), the 2006 World Cup winner is set to be appointed as the head coach after Luciano Spalletti was fired last week. Italy have missed out on FIFA World Cup qualification on the last two occasions with their last match coming in the 20-14 edition. Gattuso to be appointed head coach After a humiliating 3-0 defeat to Norway in their 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier, the Italian Football Federation moved quickly and fired Spalletti. While Spalletti was still in charge of the game against Moldova, his fate was already sealed, prompting a change in guard. Claudio Ranieri was initially approached to take charge of the Italian side, however, he swiftly denied the request, claiming it was an honour for him. With not too many options available and Italy’s unwritten policy to appoint a native coach saw the ball land in the court of Gattuso. The former AC Milan midfielder is known for his no-nonsense approach and was previously in charge of Napoli, Valencia, Marseille and Hajduk Split. Italy’s road to 2026 FIFA World Cup Having missed out on the 2018 and 2022 World Cup, that may not be the case in 2026 as 48 teams will participate in the competition. The extra places should increase Italy’s chances of a place in the 2026 showpiece. Having played only two matches so far in Group I, Italy are nine points off top-placed Norway who are on 12 points. They have two matches in hand over the top-placed side and are currently sitting third behind Norway and Israel (six points in three matches). According to the current format, Italy will have to win Group I to book their place in the World Cup. However, they will need a helping hand from other teams as Norway have a nine-point lead over Italy.

The Italian national team would like to avoid the misery of missing a third consecutive FIFA Men’s World Cup as they are set to appoint Gennaro Gattuso as their new head coach.&nbsp;

Gennaro Gattuso set to take charge as new Italy national team head coach after Luciano Spalletti exit - Report

Australia's key batter Steve Smith is set to miss the opening Test against the West Indies after sustaining a finger injury while playing in the World Test Championship (WTC). As reported late Saturday evening (June 14), the news came as a minor relief, considering Smith was likely to undergo surgery on the injured finger. The Australian former captain sustained a finger injury on his little finger on Day 3 of the WTC final, where South Africa prevailed to end their ICC trophy drought.&nbsp;<h2>Smith to avoid surgery on injured finger</h2>"I'd say first Test may be unlikely, and then go from there, but it's bit early just to tell," Australia captain Pat Cummins said after the shock World Test Championship final loss against South Africa on Saturday.&nbsp;The 36-year-old batter was taken to hospital during the middle session after dropping a sharp chance at slip off Temba Bavuma when he was on two, with the South African captain adding a further 63 runs to his tally by stumps. He would later stitch an unbeaten stand of 143 runs for the third wicket with Aiden Markram (102 not out) which sees the Proteas within touching distance of a maiden ICC world title.&nbsp;Wearing a helmet while standing closer in slips than normal due to the slowish nature of the Lord's pitch, the Australian veteran took a painful blow on the right little finger after Mitchell Starc found the edge.&nbsp;Smith immediately left the field grimacing while spilling the catch that would have left South Africa at a precarious 3-76 and put Australia in a strong position to claim back-to-back WTC titles.&nbsp;Smith was assessed by medical staff in the Lord's medical rooms, before being taken to hospital for X-rays and further treatment.&nbsp;A compound dislocation is when bone pierces the skin, which could mean Smith needs surgery and a long rehabilitation.&nbsp;Smith was not in action on Day 4 of the WTC final and opted to sit out as Australia lost the WTC final to South Africa. It was the fourth time they had ever lost an ICC major men’s final with Smith being part of two.

Australia key batter Steve Smith is set to miss the opening Test against the West Indies after sustaining a finger injury while playing in the World Test Championship (WTC).

Australia's key batter Steve Smith is set to miss the opening Test against the West Indies after sustaining a finger injury while playing in the World Test Championship (WTC). As reported late Saturday evening (June 14), the news came as a minor relief, considering Smith was likely to undergo surgery on the injured finger. The Australian former captain sustained a finger injury on his little finger on Day 3 of the WTC final, where South Africa prevailed to end their ICC trophy drought. Smith to avoid surgery on injured finger "I'd say first Test may be unlikely, and then go from there, but it's bit early just to tell," Australia captain Pat Cummins said after the shock World Test Championship final loss against South Africa on Saturday. The 36-year-old batter was taken to hospital during the middle session after dropping a sharp chance at slip off Temba Bavuma when he was on two, with the South African captain adding a further 63 runs to his tally by stumps. He would later stitch an unbeaten stand of 143 runs for the third wicket with Aiden Markram (102 not out) which sees the Proteas within touching distance of a maiden ICC world title. Wearing a helmet while standing closer in slips than normal due to the slowish nature of the Lord's pitch, the Australian veteran took a painful blow on the right little finger after Mitchell Starc found the edge. Smith immediately left the field grimacing while spilling the catch that would have left South Africa at a precarious 3-76 and put Australia in a strong position to claim back-to-back WTC titles. Smith was assessed by medical staff in the Lord's medical rooms, before being taken to hospital for X-rays and further treatment. A compound dislocation is when bone pierces the skin, which could mean Smith needs surgery and a long rehabilitation. Smith was not in action on Day 4 of the WTC final and opted to sit out as Australia lost the WTC final to South Africa. It was the fourth time they had ever lost an ICC major men’s final with Smith being part of two.

Australia's key batter Steve Smith is set to miss the opening Test against the West Indies after sustaining a finger injury while playing in the World Test Championship (WTC).

Steve Smith avoids surgery on injured finger, set to miss series opener against West Indies

Lionel Messi and Inter Miami were held to a 0-0 draw by Egyptian side Al Ahly on Saturday as FIFA's new 32-team tournament got off to a smooth start in front of 60,927 fans in Florida.&nbsp;Messi was denied a storybook stoppage-time winner when he saw his curling shot from 20 yards out tipped on to the bar by Mohamed El Shenawy as Miami piled on the pressure in the final minutes of the game.&nbsp;Al Ahly, who were cheered on by over 10,000 of their supporters, were left to rue a first-half penalty from Egypt international Trezeguet which was saved by Miami's Argentine keeper Oscar Ustari.&nbsp;But the Egyptians also had El Shenawy to thank for another fine save in the dying seconds to keep out a header from Maxi Falcon as Miami pushed for three points in the Group A clash.&nbsp;For organisers FIFA, who have faced heavy skepticism over the necessity for the tournament, the absence of a goal was the only disappointment on a night that delivered everything else that their president Gianni Infantino had hoped for from the opening night.Fears of a low crowd for the opener eased as the seats in the 64,000 venue began to fill up with the stadium almost full at kick-off time.&nbsp;Thousands of fans of Al Ahly, record 12 times African Champions League winner and 45-time league champions of Egypt, arrived at Hard Rock Stadium well ahead of kick-off and made their presence felt with singing and chanting.&nbsp;The stadium, home to the NFL's Miami Dolphins, witnessed chaotic scenes last year at the final of the Copa America between Argentina and Colombia where fans broke into the ground after long delays to enter.<h2>Penalty drama</h2>But there was an efficient filter system set up for ticket and security checks well away from the stadium perimeter and there were no signs of any problems.&nbsp;Nor was there any indication of the controversial crackdown on illegal immigrants from US President Donald Trump's administration having any impact on the game in the heavily Hispanic South Florida community.&nbsp;While there were no goals to celebrate, the game was far from boring with Al Ahly enjoying the better of the first half before Miami improved significantly after the break.Al Ahly opened up Miami's defence with ease in the opening minutes of the game and Emam Ashour was denied by Ustari after being put through by Trezeguet.&nbsp;Palestine international striker Wessam Abou Ali had an effort ruled out for offside in the 31st minute and then the Denmark-born forward had a fierce strike tipped over by Ustari.The penalty came when Telasco Segovia bundled over Zizo but Trezeguet's spot kick was weak and parried out with the former Aston Villa forward unable to react fast enough to the rebound.&nbsp;Miami were stronger after the break with Messi going close in the 64th minute with a free-kick which grazed the post before hitting the side-netting, tricking part of the crowd into thinking he had scored.&nbsp;He nearly did in stoppage time, after a well-worked short-corner but the outstretched finger tip of El Shenawy was to deny him.&nbsp;Miami face Porto in Atlanta on Thursday before returning home to face Brazil's Palmeiras on Monday and while those should be tougher tests, their Argentina coach Javier Mascherano was upbeat.&nbsp;"The truth is we leave with the feeling that we could have won it in the second half. Going forward we have to do what we did in the second half, not have any fear, shed whatever baggage we had because when we play like that, we can play even with any team," he said.&nbsp;Al Ahly's Spanish coach Jose Riveiro, who only took charge of the team for this tournament, said his team should have finished the game off in the first half.&nbsp;"It's a game of mistakes. We had a decent amount of chances in the first half to put the game in a different space," he said before praising the team's fans.&nbsp;"It was like we were playing in Cairo and that was a surprise for me in my first official match with Al Ahly. To be here in the States and have it like you were playing at home is something that can probably only happen in this club," he said.&nbsp;Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Lionel Messi and Inter Miami were held to a 0-0 draw by Egyptian side Al Ahly on Saturday as FIFAs new 32-team tournament got off to a smooth start in front of 60,927 fans in Florida.

Lionel Messi and Inter Miami were held to a 0-0 draw by Egyptian side Al Ahly on Saturday as FIFA's new 32-team tournament got off to a smooth start in front of 60,927 fans in Florida. Messi was denied a storybook stoppage-time winner when he saw his curling shot from 20 yards out tipped on to the bar by Mohamed El Shenawy as Miami piled on the pressure in the final minutes of the game. Al Ahly, who were cheered on by over 10,000 of their supporters, were left to rue a first-half penalty from Egypt international Trezeguet which was saved by Miami's Argentine keeper Oscar Ustari. But the Egyptians also had El Shenawy to thank for another fine save in the dying seconds to keep out a header from Maxi Falcon as Miami pushed for three points in the Group A clash. For organisers FIFA, who have faced heavy skepticism over the necessity for the tournament, the absence of a goal was the only disappointment on a night that delivered everything else that their president Gianni Infantino had hoped for from the opening night. Fears of a low crowd for the opener eased as the seats in the 64,000 venue began to fill up with the stadium almost full at kick-off time. Thousands of fans of Al Ahly, record 12 times African Champions League winner and 45-time league champions of Egypt, arrived at Hard Rock Stadium well ahead of kick-off and made their presence felt with singing and chanting. The stadium, home to the NFL's Miami Dolphins, witnessed chaotic scenes last year at the final of the Copa America between Argentina and Colombia where fans broke into the ground after long delays to enter. Penalty drama But there was an efficient filter system set up for ticket and security checks well away from the stadium perimeter and there were no signs of any problems. Nor was there any indication of the controversial crackdown on illegal immigrants from US President Donald Trump's administration having any impact on the game in the heavily Hispanic South Florida community. While there were no goals to celebrate, the game was far from boring with Al Ahly enjoying the better of the first half before Miami improved significantly after the break. Al Ahly opened up Miami's defence with ease in the opening minutes of the game and Emam Ashour was denied by Ustari after being put through by Trezeguet. Palestine international striker Wessam Abou Ali had an effort ruled out for offside in the 31st minute and then the Denmark-born forward had a fierce strike tipped over by Ustari. The penalty came when Telasco Segovia bundled over Zizo but Trezeguet's spot kick was weak and parried out with the former Aston Villa forward unable to react fast enough to the rebound. Miami were stronger after the break with Messi going close in the 64th minute with a free-kick which grazed the post before hitting the side-netting, tricking part of the crowd into thinking he had scored. He nearly did in stoppage time, after a well-worked short-corner but the outstretched finger tip of El Shenawy was to deny him. Miami face Porto in Atlanta on Thursday before returning home to face Brazil's Palmeiras on Monday and while those should be tougher tests, their Argentina coach Javier Mascherano was upbeat. "The truth is we leave with the feeling that we could have won it in the second half. Going forward we have to do what we did in the second half, not have any fear, shed whatever baggage we had because when we play like that, we can play even with any team," he said. Al Ahly's Spanish coach Jose Riveiro, who only took charge of the team for this tournament, said his team should have finished the game off in the first half. "It's a game of mistakes. We had a decent amount of chances in the first half to put the game in a different space," he said before praising the team's fans. "It was like we were playing in Cairo and that was a surprise for me in my first official match with Al Ahly. To be here in the States and have it like you were playing at home is something that can probably only happen in this club," he said. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Lionel Messi and Inter Miami were held to a 0-0 draw by Egyptian side Al Ahly on Saturday as FIFA's new 32-team tournament got off to a smooth start in front of 60,927 fans in Florida.

FIFA Club World Cup 2025: Lionel Messi denied late winner as Inter Miami draw with Al Ahly

From Temba Bavuma to Imran Khan, meet 5 Oldest Captains to win an ICC Trophy

Cricket has had heroes from all walks of life, but there were those for whom the success came late. Here’s a look at the five oldest captains to win an ICC trophy.

From Temba Bavuma to Imran Khan, meet 5 oldest captains to win an ICC trophy

One of the two unbeaten streaks was always supposed to end with the conclusion of the WTC Final 2025 between South Africa and Australia. The one-off contest at the Mecca of Cricket, Lord’s, saw one prevailing over the other as South African captain Temba Bavuma stood tall with his ‘unbeaten streak’.<h2>What was the streak? &nbsp;</h2>For the fun factor, and perhaps more significantly, in this game’s context, either Bavuma or Josh Hazlewood had to concede their respective winning streaks; however, with South Africa beating Australia for their maiden WTC crown by five wickets, Temba had the last laugh. &nbsp;South African captain Bavuma has won all the Tests he has captained - nine in total to date, starting from 2023. Although the Proteas had lost a few Tests during this window, Bavuma was not the team captain in any of them.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/wtc-final-2025-aus-vs-sa-temba-bavuma-dedicates-maiden-crown-to-doubters-hails-aiden-markram-for-historic-feat-australia-lords-1749912274018">South Africa captain Bavuma dedicates maiden WTC crown to ‘doubters’, hails Rabada, Markram for historic feat</a> &nbsp;On the other hand, Hazlewood had a unique ‘unbeaten finals streak’ to his name before this game, having won all finals he participated in, including winning this year’s IPL with Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) – also their maiden title. However, with Australia losing their fourth ICC final across formats (to date), his streak is now over. &nbsp;Here is the list of captains with the most Test wins in their first 10 matches –&nbsp; &nbsp;<ul><li>9 - Percy Chapman (1926-30)</li><li>9 - Temba Bavuma (2023-25)</li><li>8 - Johnny Douglas (1911-14)</li><li>8 - Warwick Armstrong (1920-21)</li><li>8 - Lindsay Hassett (1949-51)</li><li>8 - Waqar Younis (1993-02)</li><li>8 - Ricky Ponting (2004-05)</li><li>8 - Ben Stokes (2020-22)</li></ul><h3>‘Need a bit of luck’ – Markram &nbsp;</h3>While chasing 282, Markram stood out for the Proteas, scoring a match-winning 136 in the fourth innings, with Bavuma hitting an excellent 66. The pair stitched a 157-run stand for the third wicket, laying the foundation of a historic five-wicket win in the WTC Final.&nbsp; &nbsp;Speaking on his performance, the Player of the Final said, “Weird how things work out if you get a duck in the first innings and you come into the second innings with quite a few concerns.&nbsp; &nbsp;“Ultimately, you need a bit of luck here and there and spend some time in the middle and find some runs. I'm just really grateful it worked out nicely. Lord's is the place every Test cricketer wants to play.&nbsp; &nbsp;“Playing a final here is incredibly special with all the members there, but also plenty of South African fans that made the trip and plenty at home as well that have supported us through it. It was one of the most special days,” he said.&nbsp;

WTC Final: ‘Unbeaten’ Bavuma breaks Hazlewood’s ‘finals streak’ | Know how

One of the two unbeaten streaks was always supposed to end with the conclusion of the WTC Final 2025 between South Africa and Australia. The one-off contest at the Mecca of Cricket, Lord’s, saw one prevailing over the other as South African captain Temba Bavuma stood tall with his ‘unbeaten streak’. What was the streak? For the fun factor, and perhaps more significantly, in this game’s context, either Bavuma or Josh Hazlewood had to concede their respective winning streaks; however, with South Africa beating Australia for their maiden WTC crown by five wickets, Temba had the last laugh. South African captain Bavuma has won all the Tests he has captained - nine in total to date, starting from 2023. Although the Proteas had lost a few Tests during this window, Bavuma was not the team captain in any of them. Also read | South Africa captain Bavuma dedicates maiden WTC crown to ‘doubters’, hails Rabada, Markram for historic feat On the other hand, Hazlewood had a unique ‘unbeaten finals streak’ to his name before this game, having won all finals he participated in, including winning this year’s IPL with Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) – also their maiden title. However, with Australia losing their fourth ICC final across formats (to date), his streak is now over. Here is the list of captains with the most Test wins in their first 10 matches – 9 - Percy Chapman (1926-30) 9 - Temba Bavuma (2023-25) 8 - Johnny Douglas (1911-14) 8 - Warwick Armstrong (1920-21) 8 - Lindsay Hassett (1949-51) 8 - Waqar Younis (1993-02) 8 - Ricky Ponting (2004-05) 8 - Ben Stokes (2020-22) ‘Need a bit of luck’ – Markram While chasing 282, Markram stood out for the Proteas, scoring a match-winning 136 in the fourth innings, with Bavuma hitting an excellent 66. The pair stitched a 157-run stand for the third wicket, laying the foundation of a historic five-wicket win in the WTC Final. Speaking on his performance, the Player of the Final said, “Weird how things work out if you get a duck in the first innings and you come into the second innings with quite a few concerns. “Ultimately, you need a bit of luck here and there and spend some time in the middle and find some runs. I'm just really grateful it worked out nicely. Lord's is the place every Test cricketer wants to play. “Playing a final here is incredibly special with all the members there, but also plenty of South African fans that made the trip and plenty at home as well that have supported us through it. It was one of the most special days,” he said.

For the fun factor, and perhaps more significantly, in this game’s context, either Bavuma or Josh Hazlewood had to concede their respective winning streaks.&nbsp;

WTC Final: ‘Unbeaten’ Bavuma breaks Hazlewood’s ‘finals streak’ as Proteas end ICC trophy drought

Temba Bavuma said some doubters questioned South Africa’s route to the WTC final, where they beat the defending champions Australia to lift their maiden crown on Saturday (June 14) at Lord's, dedicating this victory to them. The Proteas scripted history by winning the third edition of the World Test Championship (WTC) - their second in major cricket tournaments and first since 1998 - when they won the inaugural ICC Champions Trophy title.&nbsp;Bavuma was at the heart of the run chase at Lord's, and alongside the centurion and the Player of the Final, Aiden Markram, both stitched a 157-run stand for the third wicket, laying the foundation of a brilliant five-wicket win in the WTC Final.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/wtc-final-2025-australia-cricket-world-goes-crazy-over-south-africa-maiden-crown-check-reactions-1749904470997">Cricket world goes crazy over South Africa’s maiden WTC crown, hails Bavuma - Check reactions</a> &nbsp;“Us a team, we got ourselves into the final; there were doubters with the route we took, supposedly beating weaker teams. This is for them. I'm sure the people back home will be celebrating,” Bavuma said at the post-match presentation. &nbsp;Hailing his batting partner (Markram) and his team’s ace quick Kagiso Rabada for their match-winning outings, Bavuma said, “KG (Kagiso Rabada) is a massive player; in a couple of years, he will be in the ICC Hall of Fame. He was under controversy, but he did what he does. Markram was unbelievable, stats are important, but the character is what we look at, and Aiden has that. Another massive player for us.” &nbsp;While Markram made this one-off Test about himself with his brilliant 136 in the fourth innings, Rabada was the one who prepared the base for everyone to pounce and celebrate on. The right-arm quick made it to the honours board (in the first innings) with his second five-for at the venue, also becoming only the second bowler to pick a five-wicket haul in a WTC Final. &nbsp;Meanwhile, during the chase, Bavuma suffered a hamstring injury but decided against retiring out, taking perhaps the bravest call during this contest. While he had Markram’s backing in doing so, the seasoned opener showered praises on his team captain for getting them across the winning line. &nbsp;“A lot of it came from him (Bavuma) - he has always led from the front, found a way to score runs, and those sort of knocks are something people will remember you for,” Markram said of Bavuma. &nbsp;Besides, across both innings, Bavuma was the second-highest run-scorer for the Proteas. While he scored 36 in the first innings, with David Bedingham top-scoring with a gritty 45, he hit a match-winning 66 in the second.&nbsp;

Bavuma dedicates maiden WTC crown to ‘doubters’, hails Markram for historic feat

Temba Bavuma said some doubters questioned South Africa’s route to the WTC final, where they beat the defending champions Australia to lift their maiden crown on Saturday (June 14) at Lord's, dedicating this victory to them. The Proteas scripted history by winning the third edition of the World Test Championship (WTC) - their second in major cricket tournaments and first since 1998 - when they won the inaugural ICC Champions Trophy title. Bavuma was at the heart of the run chase at Lord's, and alongside the centurion and the Player of the Final, Aiden Markram, both stitched a 157-run stand for the third wicket, laying the foundation of a brilliant five-wicket win in the WTC Final. Also read | Cricket world goes crazy over South Africa’s maiden WTC crown, hails Bavuma - Check reactions “Us a team, we got ourselves into the final; there were doubters with the route we took, supposedly beating weaker teams. This is for them. I'm sure the people back home will be celebrating,” Bavuma said at the post-match presentation. Hailing his batting partner (Markram) and his team’s ace quick Kagiso Rabada for their match-winning outings, Bavuma said, “KG (Kagiso Rabada) is a massive player; in a couple of years, he will be in the ICC Hall of Fame. He was under controversy, but he did what he does. Markram was unbelievable, stats are important, but the character is what we look at, and Aiden has that. Another massive player for us.” While Markram made this one-off Test about himself with his brilliant 136 in the fourth innings, Rabada was the one who prepared the base for everyone to pounce and celebrate on. The right-arm quick made it to the honours board (in the first innings) with his second five-for at the venue, also becoming only the second bowler to pick a five-wicket haul in a WTC Final. Meanwhile, during the chase, Bavuma suffered a hamstring injury but decided against retiring out, taking perhaps the bravest call during this contest. While he had Markram’s backing in doing so, the seasoned opener showered praises on his team captain for getting them across the winning line. “A lot of it came from him (Bavuma) - he has always led from the front, found a way to score runs, and those sort of knocks are something people will remember you for,” Markram said of Bavuma. Besides, across both innings, Bavuma was the second-highest run-scorer for the Proteas. While he scored 36 in the first innings, with David Bedingham top-scoring with a gritty 45, he hit a match-winning 66 in the second.

Bavuma was at the heart of the run chase at Lord's, and alongside the centurion and the Player of the Final, Aiden Markram, both stitched a 157-run stand for the third wicket, laying the foundation of a brilliant five-wicket win in the WTC Final.&nbsp;

South Africa captain Bavuma dedicates maiden WTC crown to ‘doubters’, hails Rabada, Markram for historic feat

After Australia defeat to South Africa in the World Test Championship final, here is a look at five biggest defeats they have suffered in an ICC tournament. 

After Australia defeat to South Africa in the World Test Championship final, here is a look at five biggest defeats they have suffered in an ICC tournament.&nbsp;

Australia’s 5 most significant defeats in ICC events featuring 2025 WTC final

South Africa finally ended their 27-year wait for an ICC trophy as they beat Australia in the World Test Championship (WTC) final on Saturday (June 14) by five wickets. In what is a historic day for South African cricket, Temba Bavuma joined Hansie Cronje as the only captain to lift a senior ICC men’s trophy. After the win, he rejoiced the moment as his side conquered the biggest prize in red-ball cricket.<h2>Temba Bavuma rejoices historic triumph</h2>“Special moment for us as a team, special moment back home will take a couple of days to sink in. The energy was there, we have been wanting this as a team, we have been knocking on the door, we have gone through the heartache, the disappointments, seen it with the past players and the sun is on us. Hopefully, this is one of many,” Bavuma said during the post-match.&nbsp;Needing 69 more runs to win the WTC title on Saturday, Bavuma and Co completed the chase in the first session of Day 4. Overnight batters, Bavuma (66) and Aiden Markram (136) laid the foundation for the win as they stitched a stand of 147 runs for the fourth wicket.&nbsp;David Bedingham (21) and Kyle Verreynne (4) later completed the chase as South Africa won by five wickets at the Home of Cricket.&nbsp;The triumph comes after a series of near misses for the Proteas in the near history having most recently lost the 2024 T20 World Cup final to India. They also reached multiple ODI World Cup semifinals, highlighting their tags as chokers.&nbsp;On the other hand, the defeat for Australia is their fourth in an ICC event in a senior men’s event. They lost the 1975 and 1996 ODI World Cup final while they later lost the 2010 T20 World Cup. &nbsp;

South Africa finally ended their 27-year wait for an ICC trophy as they beat Australia in the World Test Championship (WTC) final on Saturday (June 14) by five wickets.

South Africa finally ended their 27-year wait for an ICC trophy as they beat Australia in the World Test Championship (WTC) final on Saturday (June 14) by five wickets. In what is a historic day for South African cricket, Temba Bavuma joined Hansie Cronje as the only captain to lift a senior ICC men’s trophy. After the win, he rejoiced the moment as his side conquered the biggest prize in red-ball cricket. Temba Bavuma rejoices historic triumph “Special moment for us as a team, special moment back home will take a couple of days to sink in. The energy was there, we have been wanting this as a team, we have been knocking on the door, we have gone through the heartache, the disappointments, seen it with the past players and the sun is on us. Hopefully, this is one of many,” Bavuma said during the post-match. Needing 69 more runs to win the WTC title on Saturday, Bavuma and Co completed the chase in the first session of Day 4. Overnight batters, Bavuma (66) and Aiden Markram (136) laid the foundation for the win as they stitched a stand of 147 runs for the fourth wicket. David Bedingham (21) and Kyle Verreynne (4) later completed the chase as South Africa won by five wickets at the Home of Cricket. The triumph comes after a series of near misses for the Proteas in the near history having most recently lost the 2024 T20 World Cup final to India. They also reached multiple ODI World Cup semifinals, highlighting their tags as chokers. On the other hand, the defeat for Australia is their fourth in an ICC event in a senior men’s event. They lost the 1975 and 1996 ODI World Cup final while they later lost the 2010 T20 World Cup.

South Africa finally ended their 27-year wait for an ICC trophy as they beat Australia in the World Test Championship (WTC) final on Saturday (June 14) by five wickets.

SA vs AUS, WTC 2025 Final: Temba Bavuma rejoices South Africa's historic triumph, says 'special moment for us'

Having come close to claiming an ICC title on several occasions before, South Africa finally accomplished their most desired dream of winning a major world tournament. They <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/wtc-final-2025-aus-vs-sa-lords-south-africa-beat-australia-to-clinch-first-icc-trophy-since-1998-1749899764038">defeated the defending WTC champions, Australia, by five wickets</a> on Saturday (June 14) at Lord's and were crowned the new World Test Championship winners.&nbsp;The South African dugout, their fans present at the venue, and the cricketing fraternity following this from all across hailed Proteas skipper Temba Bavuma for scripting history, with the internet going gaga over their first ICC title win in 27 years. &nbsp;Even last year against India in the T20 World Cup Final in Barbados, South Africa lost from a winning position, conceding the game in the final overs of the chase; they, however, corrected their mistakes and stood tall to claim their maiden WTC crown and their second major ICC title since winning the inaugural Champions Trophy edition in 1998. &nbsp;While they made headlines with a record chase at the venue, Proteas winning it also broke Aussie quick Josh Hazlewood’s unbeaten record in finals across all competitions. On the flip side, captain Bavuma maintained his unbeaten streak as the Test skipper. &nbsp;Chasing 282, South Africa lost a wicket early on but later stabilised the innings with two stand-out partnerships, including a 157-run stand for the third wicket between Aiden Markram and Bavuma, which propelled them to a historic victory.&nbsp;The cricket world was elated with South Africa’s win. Check out the best reactions.&nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">27 years, 27 long years, and South Africa has won an ICC trophy after a test for the ages This test had everything, but most of all it had Temba Bavuma &amp; Aiden Markram.&mdash; Joy Bhattacharjya (@joybhattacharj) <a href="https://twitter.com/joybhattacharj/status/1933855632064438374?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 14, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">FINALly! 🥳💛 Congrats Proteas! 🇿🇦👏🏻 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WorldTestChampionship?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WorldTestChampionship</a> <a href="https://t.co/ewUANIt8Gt">pic.twitter.com/ewUANIt8Gt</a>&mdash; Chennai Super Kings (@ChennaiIPL) <a href="https://twitter.com/ChennaiIPL/status/1933859034198860043?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 14, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">South Africa 👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼&mdash; Kevin Pietersen🦏 (@KP24) <a href="https://twitter.com/KP24/status/1933862767162785892?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 14, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Well done <a href="https://twitter.com/ProteasMenCSA?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ProteasMenCSA</a> .. everything went right from the toss already .. enjoy the celebrations 🥂🥂🥂 👏&mdash; Herschelle Gibbs (@hershybru) <a href="https://twitter.com/hershybru/status/1933855370432385464?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 14, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Jubilation for South Africa! 🇿🇦🎉 Congratulations to the newly crowned World Test Champions!👏 A nation that has given so much to the game finally gets its long overdue moment of glory.❤️ Thoroughly deserved. Truly special.🏆<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WTC2025?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WTC2025</a>&mdash; Lasith Malinga (@malinga_ninety9) <a href="https://twitter.com/malinga_ninety9/status/1933858611471470849?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 14, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Test cricket continues to weave its magic. In a final where every session had its own story, <a href="https://twitter.com/ProteasMenCSA?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ProteasMenCSA</a> found calm in the storm. Markram’s composure and Bavuma’s grit under pressure stood tall in the fourth innings. A century that will be remembered, a partnership that…&mdash; Sachin Tendulkar (@sachin_rt) <a href="https://twitter.com/sachin_rt/status/1933866344052576506?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 14, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">HOME!!!!! 🏆&mdash; Dale Steyn (@DaleSteyn62) <a href="https://twitter.com/DaleSteyn62/status/1933853351860675021?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 14, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Lord Bavuma 🙇‍♂️ It’s time for Africa 🫡 <a href="https://t.co/mKTBEiK4Ex">pic.twitter.com/mKTBEiK4Ex</a>&mdash; Aakash Chopra (@cricketaakash) <a href="https://twitter.com/cricketaakash/status/1933854462881440196?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 14, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Congratulations to the entire cricket fraternity in South Africa. Richly deserved and long time coming! 🏆🇿🇦 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WtcFinal2025?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WtcFinal2025</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SAvAus?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SAvAus</a>&mdash; Chetan Narula (@chetannarula) <a href="https://twitter.com/chetannarula/status/1933853982557933709?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 14, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">One of the most phenomenally responsible, nerveless 4th innings centuries in the game from Aiden Markram. Fitting that the former ICCU19World Cup winning captain &amp; (K G Rabada) helps guide Temba Bavuma’s team to the 🌈 Nation’s greatest cricketing moment. ICC WTC Champs 2025.&mdash; Ian Raphael Bishop (@irbishi) <a href="https://twitter.com/irbishi/status/1933850308045648037?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 14, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Bosh and Boom 💥 What a win for <a href="https://twitter.com/ProteasMenCSA?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ProteasMenCSA</a> they have out skilled and out wanted the Australians. tremendously led by Temba Bavuma. They’re a team that shows how powerful purpose, passion and belief are in shaping the path to a trophy. A glorious day for South Africa&mdash; Kumar Sangakkara (@KumarSanga2) <a href="https://twitter.com/KumarSanga2/status/1933853674469576817?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 14, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Cricket world goes crazy over South Africa’s maiden WTC crown, check reactions

Having come close to claiming an ICC title on several occasions before, South Africa finally accomplished their most desired dream of winning a major world tournament. They defeated the defending WTC champions, Australia, by five wickets on Saturday (June 14) at Lord's and were crowned the new World Test Championship winners. The South African dugout, their fans present at the venue, and the cricketing fraternity following this from all across hailed Proteas skipper Temba Bavuma for scripting history, with the internet going gaga over their first ICC title win in 27 years. Even last year against India in the T20 World Cup Final in Barbados, South Africa lost from a winning position, conceding the game in the final overs of the chase; they, however, corrected their mistakes and stood tall to claim their maiden WTC crown and their second major ICC title since winning the inaugural Champions Trophy edition in 1998. While they made headlines with a record chase at the venue, Proteas winning it also broke Aussie quick Josh Hazlewood’s unbeaten record in finals across all competitions. On the flip side, captain Bavuma maintained his unbeaten streak as the Test skipper. Chasing 282, South Africa lost a wicket early on but later stabilised the innings with two stand-out partnerships, including a 157-run stand for the third wicket between Aiden Markram and Bavuma, which propelled them to a historic victory. The cricket world was elated with South Africa’s win. Check out the best reactions.

Chasing 282, South Africa lost a wicket early on but later stabilised the innings with two stand-out partnerships, including a 157-run stand for the third wicket between Aiden Markram and Bavuma, which propelled them to a historic victory.

Cricket world goes crazy over South Africa’s maiden WTC crown, hails Bavuma - Check reactions

The wait for an ICC trophy ends with the maiden World Test Championship (WTC) crown for South Africa, as they beat the defending champions Australia in a four-day classic at Lord’s by five wickets. The African nation realised its dream inside the first session on day four in London, claiming its first ICC trophy in 27 years, having last won the inaugural ICC Champions Trophy title in 1998.&nbsp;Aiden Markram was the star of the inning for the Proteas, slamming a brilliant 136 to see his team home. Chasing a mammoth 282 on a challenging seaming track, South Africa lost opener Ryan Rickelton on just six. With the seasoned opener Markram and newcomer at three, Wiaan Mulder, the Proteas feared suffering the first-inning fate; however, much to their relief and delight, the pair weathered the new-ball storm and began building a partnership.&nbsp;Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/eng-vs-ind-2025-anderson-tendulkar-trophy-launch-called-off-in-wake-of-ahmedabad-plane-crash-1749898578334">BCCI-ECB call off Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy launch in wake of Ahmedabad plane crash</a> &nbsp;But before they could launch a counter late on day three, Mitchell Starc accounted for Mulder, caught at the cover on 27, bringing in captain Temba Bavuma to the crease.&nbsp; &nbsp;That, however, was the game-changing moment for South Africa, as the pair looked determined to chase glory. And as fate and their cricketing awareness had it, they did that, stitching a 157-run stand for the third wicket, which saw Markram completing his hundred and Bavuma his fifty despite his hamstring injury. &nbsp;While they put their team in the winning position at stumps on day three, with their scorecard reading 212 for two, needing 60 runs with eight wickets remaining, both departed on day four. Aussie captain Pat Cummins accounted for Bavuma on 66, and Josh Hazlewood dismissed Markram just close to the target. &nbsp;Kyle Verreynne and Tristan Stubbs completed the formalities, helping South Africa win the WTC Final 2025 by five wickets.<h3>Rabada show at Lord’s &nbsp;</h3>Kagiso Rabada proved why he is among the top Test bowlers worldwide with his first-inning heroics. After asking Australia to bat first at Lord’s, South Africa dismissed them for a paltry 212, with Rabada returning with his second five-for at the venue and becoming the second bowler after New Zealand's Kyle Jamieson to pick a five-wicket haul in a WTC Final. &nbsp;On the other hand, Cummins made the second innings about himself with his 6/28, dismissing the Proteas on just 138. With a considerable lead, Australia looked like going for a massive third-inning total, only to fall prey to Rabada and Lungi Ngidi’s combination, getting all out on 207, setting 282 to win for the Proteas. &nbsp;Markram’s heroics saw them complete the joint-second highest run-chase at Lord’s and lift an ICC trophy for the first time since 1998.&nbsp;

WTC Final: South Africa beat Australia to clinch first ICC trophy since 1998

The wait for an ICC trophy ends with the maiden World Test Championship (WTC) crown for South Africa, as they beat the defending champions Australia in a four-day classic at Lord’s by five wickets. The African nation realised its dream inside the first session on day four in London, claiming its first ICC trophy in 27 years, having last won the inaugural ICC Champions Trophy title in 1998. Aiden Markram was the star of the inning for the Proteas, slamming a brilliant 136 to see his team home. Chasing a mammoth 282 on a challenging seaming track, South Africa lost opener Ryan Rickelton on just six. With the seasoned opener Markram and newcomer at three, Wiaan Mulder, the Proteas feared suffering the first-inning fate; however, much to their relief and delight, the pair weathered the new-ball storm and began building a partnership. Also read | BCCI-ECB call off Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy launch in wake of Ahmedabad plane crash But before they could launch a counter late on day three, Mitchell Starc accounted for Mulder, caught at the cover on 27, bringing in captain Temba Bavuma to the crease. That, however, was the game-changing moment for South Africa, as the pair looked determined to chase glory. And as fate and their cricketing awareness had it, they did that, stitching a 157-run stand for the third wicket, which saw Markram completing his hundred and Bavuma his fifty despite his hamstring injury. While they put their team in the winning position at stumps on day three, with their scorecard reading 212 for two, needing 60 runs with eight wickets remaining, both departed on day four. Aussie captain Pat Cummins accounted for Bavuma on 66, and Josh Hazlewood dismissed Markram just close to the target. Kyle Verreynne and Tristan Stubbs completed the formalities, helping South Africa win the WTC Final 2025 by five wickets. Rabada show at Lord’s Kagiso Rabada proved why he is among the top Test bowlers worldwide with his first-inning heroics. After asking Australia to bat first at Lord’s, South Africa dismissed them for a paltry 212, with Rabada returning with his second five-for at the venue and becoming the second bowler after New Zealand's Kyle Jamieson to pick a five-wicket haul in a WTC Final. On the other hand, Cummins made the second innings about himself with his 6/28, dismissing the Proteas on just 138. With a considerable lead, Australia looked like going for a massive third-inning total, only to fall prey to Rabada and Lungi Ngidi’s combination, getting all out on 207, setting 282 to win for the Proteas. Markram’s heroics saw them complete the joint-second highest run-chase at Lord’s and lift an ICC trophy for the first time since 1998.

While South Africa won its second ICC title on Saturday, Australia lost its fourth across format.&nbsp;

WTC Final 2025: South Africa beat Australia to clinch first ICC trophy since 1998

The Indian Cricket Board (BCCI) and the ECB have jointly decided to call off the much-anticipated Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy launch, scheduled for Saturday (June 14) on the sidelines of the ongoing WTC Final 2025 at Lord’s. The decision is either postponed or cancelled altogether in the wake of the tragic Ahmedabad plane crash on Thursday afternoon (June 11). Both board officials, however, are deciding on a flexible new date.&nbsp;“Given the tragic events in India, the announcement may wait a while out of respect (for the lives lost),” an unnamed ECB official said in a chat with Cricbuzz on Saturday.&nbsp;&nbsp;“The BCCI are still deciding on the right time for the announcement. The announcement had been kept flexible due to the tragedy.”&nbsp;Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-steve-smith-doubtful-for-crucial-west-indies-tour-post-wtc-final-here-s-what-we-know-1749878914104">Steve Smith doubtful for crucial West Indies tour post-WTC final? Here's what we know</a> &nbsp;Meanwhile, the tragedy occurred when an Air India Boeing 787 Dreamliner crashed into a building shortly after taking off from Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport on Thursday. The New Delhi-London bound flight crashed in the residential area in Meghani, claiming around 275 lives, including 230 passengers, two pilots and ten cabin crew members on board. &nbsp;The latest report suggests that the organisers had already invited the two protagonists - Sachin and Anderson for the proposed grand launch of the Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy - the new symbol for the England-India bilateral Test series in England, while the decision to cancel the event came at the last minute.<h3>Pataudi legacy to continue &nbsp;</h3>The ECB earlier decided to retire the Pataudi Trophy, awarded to the winner of the Test series between India and England, played in England; however, the latest reports suggest that there is a change of heart within the ECB to continue the Pataudi legacy. &nbsp;With Sachin and the ICC chairman Jay Shah playing a crucial role in ensuring that the Pataudi legacy continues to stick around, the ECB official said, “Yes, there is a confirmed plan to retain the Pataudi link in the England-India series.” &nbsp;The reports also suggest that the authorities will name a medallion in the name of the late MAK Pataudi, to be awarded to the winning captain. &nbsp;Meanwhile, India and England will play a five-match Test series starting June 20 in Leeds.&nbsp; &nbsp;The Indian Team is currently playing a four-day intra-squad game against India-A in Kent.&nbsp;

Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy launch called off in wake of Ahmedabad plane crash

The Indian Cricket Board (BCCI) and the ECB have jointly decided to call off the much-anticipated Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy launch, scheduled for Saturday (June 14) on the sidelines of the ongoing WTC Final 2025 at Lord’s. The decision is either postponed or cancelled altogether in the wake of the tragic Ahmedabad plane crash on Thursday afternoon (June 11). Both board officials, however, are deciding on a flexible new date. “Given the tragic events in India, the announcement may wait a while out of respect (for the lives lost),” an unnamed ECB official said in a chat with Cricbuzz on Saturday. “The BCCI are still deciding on the right time for the announcement. The announcement had been kept flexible due to the tragedy.” Also read | Steve Smith doubtful for crucial West Indies tour post-WTC final? Here's what we know Meanwhile, the tragedy occurred when an Air India Boeing 787 Dreamliner crashed into a building shortly after taking off from Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport on Thursday. The New Delhi-London bound flight crashed in the residential area in Meghani, claiming around 275 lives, including 230 passengers, two pilots and ten cabin crew members on board. The latest report suggests that the organisers had already invited the two protagonists - Sachin and Anderson for the proposed grand launch of the Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy - the new symbol for the England-India bilateral Test series in England, while the decision to cancel the event came at the last minute. Pataudi legacy to continue The ECB earlier decided to retire the Pataudi Trophy, awarded to the winner of the Test series between India and England, played in England; however, the latest reports suggest that there is a change of heart within the ECB to continue the Pataudi legacy. With Sachin and the ICC chairman Jay Shah playing a crucial role in ensuring that the Pataudi legacy continues to stick around, the ECB official said, “Yes, there is a confirmed plan to retain the Pataudi link in the England-India series.” The reports also suggest that the authorities will name a medallion in the name of the late MAK Pataudi, to be awarded to the winning captain. Meanwhile, India and England will play a five-match Test series starting June 20 in Leeds. The Indian Team is currently playing a four-day intra-squad game against India-A in Kent.

The latest report suggests that the organisers had already invited Sachin and Anderson for the proposed grand launch, but the decision to cancel the event came at the last minute.

BCCI-ECB call off Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy launch in wake of Ahmedabad plane crash

The World Test Championship (WTC) final is all set for a frantic conclusion as South Africa sit in pole position to end their drought of ICC trophies. Needing 69 runs more to win on Day 4, South Africa are all but going to win the 2025 edition of the WTC final. However, it is the next three editions that are already part of the conversation. According to a prominent report, England is set to host the final of the next three editions.<h2>England to host WTC final until 2031?</h2>It is reported that the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) has received a letter from the International Cricket Council (ICC), giving them the hosting rights for the WTC final in the next three cycles. If this is the case, then England and Wales will keep the WTC final until 2031 with all of those contests set to take place in English summer.&nbsp;This means the WTC finals will take place between June and August, most probably in June.&nbsp;The decision won’t go well with former India captain Rohit Sharma, who had earlier stated that the WTC final should be played around the world and at any time of the year and not necessarily in England alone.&nbsp;“Why after the IPL final? Why cannot it be March? June is not the only month we should play the final,” Rohit said following India’s defeat to Australia.&nbsp;“It can be played any time of the year and anywhere in the world, not just in England.”Since its inception in 2021, the WTC finals have been home to England with New Zealand winning the inaugural edition. Australia won the second edition in 2023 beating India in the final at the Oval.&nbsp;Lord’s is currently hosting the third final at the time of writing as South Africa sit in pole position to clinch the coveted silverware.&nbsp;If the reports are true, Cardiff is likely to get hosting rights for at least one final as part of the England and Wales Cricket Board.&nbsp;Interestingly, despite being the hosts on multiple occasions England are yet to taste glory in the red-ball format.

According to a prominent report, England is set to host the World Test Championship final for the next three editions until 2031. 

The World Test Championship (WTC) final is all set for a frantic conclusion as South Africa sit in pole position to end their drought of ICC trophies. Needing 69 runs more to win on Day 4, South Africa are all but going to win the 2025 edition of the WTC final. However, it is the next three editions that are already part of the conversation. According to a prominent report, England is set to host the final of the next three editions. England to host WTC final until 2031? It is reported that the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) has received a letter from the International Cricket Council (ICC), giving them the hosting rights for the WTC final in the next three cycles. If this is the case, then England and Wales will keep the WTC final until 2031 with all of those contests set to take place in English summer. This means the WTC finals will take place between June and August, most probably in June. The decision won’t go well with former India captain Rohit Sharma, who had earlier stated that the WTC final should be played around the world and at any time of the year and not necessarily in England alone. “Why after the IPL final? Why cannot it be March? June is not the only month we should play the final,” Rohit said following India’s defeat to Australia. “It can be played any time of the year and anywhere in the world, not just in England.” Since its inception in 2021, the WTC finals have been home to England with New Zealand winning the inaugural edition. Australia won the second edition in 2023 beating India in the final at the Oval. Lord’s is currently hosting the third final at the time of writing as South Africa sit in pole position to clinch the coveted silverware. If the reports are true, Cardiff is likely to get hosting rights for at least one final as part of the England and Wales Cricket Board. Interestingly, despite being the hosts on multiple occasions England are yet to taste glory in the red-ball format.

According to a prominent report, England is set to host the World Test Championship final for the next three editions until 2031.&nbsp;

England to host next three editions of World Test Championship final - Report

Australia could be handed a major blow in the upcoming West Indies tour as key batter and former captain Steve Smith could be ruled out owing to a finger injury. Playing on Friday (June 13) at the Lord’s Cricket Ground in the World Test Championship (WTC) final, Smith sustained a compound dislocation of a finger. This comes just 12 days before the Aussies are set to travel to the Caribbean islands for the start of the latest WTC cycle.<h2>Here's what we know about Steve Smith’s injury</h2>The 36-year-old batter was taken to hospital during the middle session after dropping a sharp chance at slip off Temba Bavuma when he was on two, with the South African captain adding a further 63 runs to his tally by stumps. Bavuma would later stitch an unbeaten stand of 143 runs for the third wicket with Aiden Markram (102 not out) which sees the Proteas within touching distance of a maiden ICC world title.&nbsp;Wearing a helmet while standing closer in slips than normal due to the slowish nature of the Lord's pitch, the Australian veteran took a painful blow on the right little finger after Mitchell Starc found the edge.&nbsp;Smith immediately left the field grimacing while spilling the catch that would have left South Africa at a precarious 3-76 and put Australia in a strong position to claim back-to-back WTC titles.&nbsp;Smith was assessed by medical staff in the Lord's medical rooms, before being taken to hospital for X-rays and further treatment.&nbsp;A compound dislocation is when bone pierces the skin, which could mean Smith needs surgery and a long rehabilitation.&nbsp;If this is the case, Smith could be ruled out of Australia's tour of the West Indies which starts on June 25. The first Test will be played in Barbados followed by matches in Grenada and Jamaica.

The 36-year-old batter was taken to hospital during the middle session after dropping a sharp chance at slip off Temba Bavuma when he was on two, with the South African captain adding a further 63 runs to his tally by stumps.

Australia could be handed a major blow in the upcoming West Indies tour as key batter and former captain Steve Smith could be ruled out owing to a finger injury. Playing on Friday (June 13) at the Lord’s Cricket Ground in the World Test Championship (WTC) final, Smith sustained a compound dislocation of a finger. This comes just 12 days before the Aussies are set to travel to the Caribbean islands for the start of the latest WTC cycle. Here's what we know about Steve Smith’s injury The 36-year-old batter was taken to hospital during the middle session after dropping a sharp chance at slip off Temba Bavuma when he was on two, with the South African captain adding a further 63 runs to his tally by stumps. Bavuma would later stitch an unbeaten stand of 143 runs for the third wicket with Aiden Markram (102 not out) which sees the Proteas within touching distance of a maiden ICC world title. Wearing a helmet while standing closer in slips than normal due to the slowish nature of the Lord's pitch, the Australian veteran took a painful blow on the right little finger after Mitchell Starc found the edge. Smith immediately left the field grimacing while spilling the catch that would have left South Africa at a precarious 3-76 and put Australia in a strong position to claim back-to-back WTC titles. Smith was assessed by medical staff in the Lord's medical rooms, before being taken to hospital for X-rays and further treatment. A compound dislocation is when bone pierces the skin, which could mean Smith needs surgery and a long rehabilitation. If this is the case, Smith could be ruled out of Australia's tour of the West Indies which starts on June 25. The first Test will be played in Barbados followed by matches in Grenada and Jamaica.

The 36-year-old batter was taken to hospital during the middle session after dropping a sharp chance at slip off Temba Bavuma when he was on two, with the South African captain adding a further 63 runs to his tally by stumps.

Steve Smith doubtful for crucial West Indies tour post-WTC final? Here's what we know

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