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Australia batter Steve Smith says that India's Virat Kohli is 'the most Australian' player among the Indians. The comments come ahead of the upcoming five-Test Border-Gavaskar series in November later this year. India will travel to Australia with an aim to win their third consecutive Test series.

"I believe Virat Kohli is Australian in thoughts and action. The way he gets into a battle, the way he gets into the challenge and tries to get on top of the opposition. He's probably the most Australian of the Indian players, I'd say," Smith said in a video shared by Star Sports on social media platform X.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/he-needs-to-get-better-former-india-skipper-sourav-ganguly-on-rishabh-pants-test-comeback-757199">'He needs to get better...,' former India skipper Sourav Ganguly on Rishabh Pant's Test comeback</a>

The Aussie batter, one of the Fab Four, also spoke on his rivalry with the Indian batter and said: "There's no real, you know, I need to beat him or anything like that. It's just about going out and playing and trying to score as many runs as I can and helping Australia have success and that's what it's all about."

"We get on quite well, share messages every now and then and look, he's a great guy and obviously a wonderful player. It's going to be nice to come up against him again this summer," Smith added.

India have three Test series planned from September 19 - two at home and one away. They first play Bangladesh for two-Test series from September 19 before hosting New Zealand for a three-Test series and then travel to Australia.

Aussie Test opener Usman Khawaja also believes that it is a 'sign of respect' that Indians want to beat Australia in any form of cricket.

The Aussie opener also cited the rise of Indian Premier League (IPL) and India beating Australia in last two Test series Down Under.

"For Indians, it's always been the case to beat Australia. And more recently, you know, since the rise of India and IPL and everything else that happened, it's the same way with Australia against India," Khawaja said.

Australia batter Steve Smith says that India's Virat Kohli is 'the most Australian' player among the Indians. The comments come ahead of the upcoming five-Test Border-Gavaskar series in November later this year.

Australia batter Steve Smith says that India's Virat Kohli is 'the most Australian' player among the Indians. The comments come ahead of the upcoming five-Test Border-Gavaskar series in November later this year. India will travel to Australia with an aim to win their third consecutive Test series. "I believe Virat Kohli is Australian in thoughts and action. The way he gets into a battle, the way he gets into the challenge and tries to get on top of the opposition. He's probably the most Australian of the Indian players, I'd say," Smith said in a video shared by Star Sports on social media platform X. Also Read: 'He needs to get better...,' former India skipper Sourav Ganguly on Rishabh Pant's Test comeback The Aussie batter, one of the Fab Four, also spoke on his rivalry with the Indian batter and said: "There's no real, you know, I need to beat him or anything like that. It's just about going out and playing and trying to score as many runs as I can and helping Australia have success and that's what it's all about." "We get on quite well, share messages every now and then and look, he's a great guy and obviously a wonderful player. It's going to be nice to come up against him again this summer," Smith added. India have three Test series planned from September 19 - two at home and one away. They first play Bangladesh for two-Test series from September 19 before hosting New Zealand for a three-Test series and then travel to Australia. Aussie Test opener Usman Khawaja also believes that it is a 'sign of respect' that Indians want to beat Australia in any form of cricket. The Aussie opener also cited the rise of Indian Premier League (IPL) and India beating Australia in last two Test series Down Under. "For Indians, it's always been the case to beat Australia. And more recently, you know, since the rise of India and IPL and everything else that happened, it's the same way with Australia against India," Khawaja said.

'I need to beat him...,' Aussie Steve Smith on India's Virat Kohli ahead of upcoming Border-Gavaskar series

With less than 10 days to go before the start of the two-match Test series against Bangladesh, the suspense surrounding the Indian team’s middle-order set-up could be lifted according to a Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) source. According to reports, a BCCI official late Monday (Sep 9) evening&nbsp;confirmed that KL Rahul is all set to get the nod in the Playing XI ahead of Sarfaraz Khan. The duo is battling for a spot in the middle-order as India prepare for a crunch next few months in red-ball format with the Australia tour also on the horizon.

<h2>KL Rahul to play against Bangladesh?</h2>

"For people on the outside, they don't understand how a team works and what are the systems in place. In his last three Test matches, KL scored a century in South Africa, one of the best Test knocks in recent times and 86 at Hyderabad in the last Test he played before injury," a BCCI source said as quoted by PTI.

He confirmed that Rahul will start ahead. "He was not dropped but got injured. So, he is fit and available, scored a fifty in Duleep, got match time and will start," the source added.

India are set to return to Test action after&nbsp;March when they beat England 4-1 in the five-match series. Sarfaraz who made his debut during that series was in line to start for India, however, Rahul is likely to retain the faith of the team management. He last featured for the Indian team during the Hyderabad Test against England, where the hosts lost.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/pathum-nissanka-stars-with-unbeaten-ton-as-sri-lanka-record-first-test-win-in-england-after-a-decade-757243">Pathum Nissanka stars with unbeaten ton as Sri Lanka record first Test win in England after a decade</a>

Speculations were high after the loss that Rahul had been dropped, however, the source&nbsp;added that the Lucknow Super Giants captain was injured and will be back in the Playing XI for the opening Test in Chennai.

<h2>India’s squad for the 1st Test of the Bangladesh Test series:&nbsp;</h2>

Rohit Sharma (c), Yashasvi Jaiswal, Shubman Gill, Virat Kohli, KL Rahul, Sarfaraz Khan, Rishabh Pant (wk), Dhruv Jurel (wk), Ravichandran Ashwin, Ravindra Jadeja, Axar Patel, Kuldeep Yadav, Mohammed Siraj, Akash Deep, Jasprit Bumrah, Yash Dayal.

With less than 10 days to go before the start of the two-match Test series against Bangladesh, the suspense surrounding the Indian team’s middle-order set-up could be lifted according to a Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) source.

With less than 10 days to go before the start of the two-match Test series against Bangladesh, the suspense surrounding the Indian team’s middle-order set-up could be lifted according to a Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) source. According to reports, a BCCI official late Monday (Sep 9) evening confirmed that KL Rahul is all set to get the nod in the Playing XI ahead of Sarfaraz Khan. The duo is battling for a spot in the middle-order as India prepare for a crunch next few months in red-ball format with the Australia tour also on the horizon. KL Rahul to play against Bangladesh? "For people on the outside, they don't understand how a team works and what are the systems in place. In his last three Test matches, KL scored a century in South Africa, one of the best Test knocks in recent times and 86 at Hyderabad in the last Test he played before injury," a BCCI source said as quoted by PTI. He confirmed that Rahul will start ahead. "He was not dropped but got injured. So, he is fit and available, scored a fifty in Duleep, got match time and will start," the source added. India are set to return to Test action after March when they beat England 4-1 in the five-match series. Sarfaraz who made his debut during that series was in line to start for India, however, Rahul is likely to retain the faith of the team management. He last featured for the Indian team during the Hyderabad Test against England, where the hosts lost. ALSO READ | Pathum Nissanka stars with unbeaten ton as Sri Lanka record first Test win in England after a decade Speculations were high after the loss that Rahul had been dropped, however, the source added that the Lucknow Super Giants captain was injured and will be back in the Playing XI for the opening Test in Chennai. India’s squad for the 1st Test of the Bangladesh Test series: Rohit Sharma (c), Yashasvi Jaiswal, Shubman Gill, Virat Kohli, KL Rahul, Sarfaraz Khan, Rishabh Pant (wk), Dhruv Jurel (wk), Ravichandran Ashwin, Ravindra Jadeja, Axar Patel, Kuldeep Yadav, Mohammed Siraj, Akash Deep, Jasprit Bumrah, Yash Dayal.

IND vs BAN, 1st Test: KL Rahul likely to get the nod in Playing XI ahead of Sarfaraz Khan - Reports

The one-off Test between Afghanistan and New Zealand, at the Greater Noida Stadium, has been making the headlines for all the wrong reasons. So far, the first two days of the Test match resulted in not a single ball being bowled due to the wet outfield and substandard playing conditions. Now, few images showing a staffer using urinal washroom water for cleaning utensils have gone viral.

The image was shared by a user on X, who captioned the post, "Ok so catering here at Greater Noida stadium is using urinal washroom Water tap for their water needs very hygienic."

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Ok so catering here at Greater Noida stadium is using urinal washroom 
Water tap for their water needs 😯 
very hygienic 👍<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AFGvNZ?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AFGvNZ</a> TEST <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/afgvsnz?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#afgvsnz</a> test <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/gnoidastadium?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#gnoidastadium</a> <a href="https://t.co/VCWVA5r2vv">pic.twitter.com/VCWVA5r2vv</a>
— Nitin K Srivastav (@Nitin_sachin) <a href="https://twitter.com/Nitin_sachin/status/1833384560412750336?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 10, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Notably, the Shaheed Vijay Singh Pathik Sports Complex in Greater Noida, Uttar Pradesh, has been severely criticised&nbsp;for below-par infrastructure and lack of proper facilities for spectators. The ground conditions are also not up to the mark, as the second day's play also got cancelled, with not even the coin toss being possible, despite rain staying away for longer periods.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/musheer-khan-brother-of-india-batter-sarfaraz-khan-all-set-to-be-picked-for-upcoming-australia-tour-757466">Musheer Khan, brother of India batter Sarfaraz Khan, all set to be picked for upcoming Australia tour</a>

<h2>'This is a huge mess, we are never coming back'</h2>

Earlier, on Monday (Sep 9), an official from the Afghanistan Cricket Board (ACB), who remained unnamed, stated that the team would never return to the Greater Noida Stadium.&nbsp;Afghanistan play their home games in India due to the war-torn situation back home.

Speaking to PTI, the ACB official said, "This is a huge mess, we are never coming back here. The players are also unhappy with the facilities here. We had spoken with the concerned people well in advance and were assured by the stadium guys that everything will be in order."

The one-off Test between Afghanistan and New Zealand, at the Greater Noida Stadium, has been making the headlines for all the wrong reasons. So far, the first two days of the Test match resulted in not a single ball being bowled due to the wet outfield and substandard playing conditions.

The one-off Test between Afghanistan and New Zealand, at the Greater Noida Stadium, has been making the headlines for all the wrong reasons. So far, the first two days of the Test match resulted in not a single ball being bowled due to the wet outfield and substandard playing conditions. Now, few images showing a staffer using urinal washroom water for cleaning utensils have gone viral. The image was shared by a user on X, who captioned the post, "Ok so catering here at Greater Noida stadium is using urinal washroom Water tap for their water needs very hygienic." Ok so catering here at Greater Noida stadium is using urinal washroom Water tap for their water needs 😯 very hygienic 👍#AFGvNZ TEST #afgvsnz test #gnoidastadium pic.twitter.com/VCWVA5r2vv — Nitin K Srivastav (@Nitin_sachin) September 10, 2024 × Notably, the Shaheed Vijay Singh Pathik Sports Complex in Greater Noida, Uttar Pradesh, has been severely criticised for below-par infrastructure and lack of proper facilities for spectators. The ground conditions are also not up to the mark, as the second day's play also got cancelled, with not even the coin toss being possible, despite rain staying away for longer periods. Also read: Musheer Khan, brother of India batter Sarfaraz Khan, all set to be picked for upcoming Australia tour 'This is a huge mess, we are never coming back' Earlier, on Monday (Sep 9), an official from the Afghanistan Cricket Board (ACB), who remained unnamed, stated that the team would never return to the Greater Noida Stadium. Afghanistan play their home games in India due to the war-torn situation back home. Speaking to PTI, the ACB official said, "This is a huge mess, we are never coming back here. The players are also unhappy with the facilities here. We had spoken with the concerned people well in advance and were assured by the stadium guys that everything will be in order."

Afg vs NZ: DISGUSTING! Picture goes VIRAL of utensils being cleaned near urinal at Greater Noida stadium

England thrashed Ireland in a record-breaking 275-run win as they skittled out the hosts for just 45 in Monday's second women's one-day international (ODI) in Belfast.

Experienced opener Tammy Beaumont's unbeaten 150 -- her 10th century at this level -- powered England to a total of 320-8 in their 50 overs.

It was far too much for a fledgling Ireland team, who were bowled out inside 17 overs, with England captain Kate Cross taking 3-8 and new-ball partner Lauren Filer 3-10.

Ireland opener Una Raymond-Hoey's 22 was the only double-figure score of an innings that ended with England 2-0 up in a three-match series.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/nfl/news-watch--la-rams-wr-puka-nacua-carted-off-field-with-leg-injury-in-ot-loss-vs-lions-757223">WATCH | LA Rams WR Puka Nacua carted off field with leg injury in OT loss vs Lions</a>

England's largest women's ODI win in terms of runs was achieved by a mainly second-strong team, with the majority of their T20 World Cup squad not involved.

"Cricket is a sport of ups and downs, and today was definitely a down day," Ireland captain Gaby Lewis, one of three home batters out for a duck, told the Cricket Ireland website.&nbsp;

"We are a very young squad, we're learning on the go. We've got three bowlers under the age of 19, it's very hard on them."

Beaumont, however, insisted: "I found it tough early on and Ireland were bowling tight lines with a slower pace on the pitch."

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.

England thrashed Ireland in a record-breaking 275-run win as they skittled out the hosts for just 45 in Monday's second women's one-day international (ODI) in Belfast.

England thrashed Ireland in a record-breaking 275-run win as they skittled out the hosts for just 45 in Monday's second women's one-day international (ODI) in Belfast. Experienced opener Tammy Beaumont's unbeaten 150 -- her 10th century at this level -- powered England to a total of 320-8 in their 50 overs. It was far too much for a fledgling Ireland team, who were bowled out inside 17 overs, with England captain Kate Cross taking 3-8 and new-ball partner Lauren Filer 3-10. Ireland opener Una Raymond-Hoey's 22 was the only double-figure score of an innings that ended with England 2-0 up in a three-match series. ALSO READ | WATCH | LA Rams WR Puka Nacua carted off field with leg injury in OT loss vs Lions England's largest women's ODI win in terms of runs was achieved by a mainly second-strong team, with the majority of their T20 World Cup squad not involved. "Cricket is a sport of ups and downs, and today was definitely a down day," Ireland captain Gaby Lewis, one of three home batters out for a duck, told the Cricket Ireland website. "We are a very young squad, we're learning on the go. We've got three bowlers under the age of 19, it's very hard on them." Beaumont, however, insisted: "I found it tough early on and Ireland were bowling tight lines with a slower pace on the pitch." 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.

England women bowl out Ireland for 45 in record-breaking win

Former India skipper Sourav Ganguly says the reason behind Pakistan Cricket's downfall is 'dearth of talent' in the country. The comments come days after Pakistan's 0-2 loss against Bangladesh in the home Test series. It is the first time Pakistan lost a Test to Bangladesh at home and that too by 10 wickets (first one in Rawalpindi).

"I see a genuine dearth of talent in the country. Every time we think of Pakistan, we remember Miandad, Wasim, Waqar, Saeed Anwar, Mohammad Yousuf, and Younis Khan."

"That's the memory of Pakistan for us, but that doesn’t win matches in the modern generation of cricket. Every generation has to produce outstanding players to win, and when I look at Pakistan in world cricket -- I saw them in the West Indies World Cup, in India during the World Cup, and now after the Bangladesh series loss -- there is a dearth of talent in that country," Ganguly said while talking to news agency PTI.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/dhoni-hit-me-for-a-100m-six-asked-why-did-you-bowl-a-bouncer-csk-pacer-recalls-advice-from-india-legend-757440">'Dhoni hit me for a 100m six, asked 'why did you bowl a bouncer?': CSK pacer recalls advice from India legend</a>

"The people connected with the sport in Pakistan will have to look into it. I'm not saying this with disrespect. Pakistan of the old had some great cricketers, which I don't see in this squad," Ganguly added.

Pakistan cricket is caught in turmoil ever since failing to make it to the semis of last year's ODI World Cup.

Babar Azam was removed from the captaincy across formats and Shan Masood was made Test skipper with pacer Shaheen Shah Afridi sharing the responsibility in the T20Is.

The changes, however, did not bear any fruit as Pakistan lost both T20I and Test series in Australia earlier this year - the first one since the ODI World Cup 2023.

After the Australia tour, Babar Azam was handed back the captaincy in the T20Is while Masood remained in position. The loss against Bangladesh, however, has put Masood under pressure and the upcoming home Tests against England could be his last as skipper if the team does not perform well.

Former India skipper Sourav Ganguly says the reason behind Pakistan Cricket's downfall is 'dearth of talent' in the country. The comments come days after Pakistan's 0-2 loss against Bangladesh in the home Test series.

Former India skipper Sourav Ganguly says the reason behind Pakistan Cricket's downfall is 'dearth of talent' in the country. The comments come days after Pakistan's 0-2 loss against Bangladesh in the home Test series. It is the first time Pakistan lost a Test to Bangladesh at home and that too by 10 wickets (first one in Rawalpindi). "I see a genuine dearth of talent in the country. Every time we think of Pakistan, we remember Miandad, Wasim, Waqar, Saeed Anwar, Mohammad Yousuf, and Younis Khan." "That's the memory of Pakistan for us, but that doesn’t win matches in the modern generation of cricket. Every generation has to produce outstanding players to win, and when I look at Pakistan in world cricket -- I saw them in the West Indies World Cup, in India during the World Cup, and now after the Bangladesh series loss -- there is a dearth of talent in that country," Ganguly said while talking to news agency PTI. Also Read: 'Dhoni hit me for a 100m six, asked 'why did you bowl a bouncer?': CSK pacer recalls advice from India legend "The people connected with the sport in Pakistan will have to look into it. I'm not saying this with disrespect. Pakistan of the old had some great cricketers, which I don't see in this squad," Ganguly added. Pakistan cricket is caught in turmoil ever since failing to make it to the semis of last year's ODI World Cup. Babar Azam was removed from the captaincy across formats and Shan Masood was made Test skipper with pacer Shaheen Shah Afridi sharing the responsibility in the T20Is. The changes, however, did not bear any fruit as Pakistan lost both T20I and Test series in Australia earlier this year - the first one since the ODI World Cup 2023. After the Australia tour, Babar Azam was handed back the captaincy in the T20Is while Masood remained in position. The loss against Bangladesh, however, has put Masood under pressure and the upcoming home Tests against England could be his last as skipper if the team does not perform well.

'Not saying this with...,' Former India skipper Sourav Ganguly on downfall of Pakistan Cricket

Musheer Khan, brother of India batter Sarfaraz Khan, is all but confirmed to travel to Australia for the upcoming India A tour. It is the shadow series to be played alongside India's five-Test tour of Australia in November later this year. India A will be playing three four-day Tests on the shadow tour.

The development was reported in the news agency PTI after Musheer's gutsy and match-winning 181 in the ongoing Duleep Trophy (domestic red-ball tournament) for India B.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/credit-to-sri-lanka-but-englands-oval-test-loss-not-due-to-complacency-reckons-stand-in-captain-ollie-pope-757359">Credit to Sri Lanka but England's Oval Test loss not due to 'complacency', reckons stand-in captain Ollie Pope</a>

India B were 94/7 against India A but Musheer stood tall and took the total score to 321 which helped his&nbsp;team get the first innings lead and eventually win the game.

Musheer's innings, which came on the back of a strong first-class season, led to him getting fast-tracked into the Indian set up. With India having already moved on from Ajinkya Rahane &amp; Cheteshwar Pujara and Virat Kohli &amp; Rohit Sharma nearing towards end, it looks right time to get the youngsters some experience.

Former India wicketkeeper-batter Vijay Dahiya also praised the young batter for his technique and told PTI: "What makes Musheer different is his mindset, which is very strong. I can't predict the future but if he keeps on scoring runs consistently, he could be a very good option for the Indian team."

“The standout thing about his batting is his consistency. He started off from where he left the last season. He scored runs in the Ranji Trophy semifinal and final and then a hundred on the opening day of domestic cricket in 2024," Dahiya added.

Musheer's brother Sarfaraz, who made his Test debut against England earlier this year, has also kept his place in the Test team, getting selected in squad for first Test against Bangladesh.

Musheer Khan, brother of India batter Sarfaraz Khan, is all but confirmed to travel to Australia for the upcoming India A tour. It is the shadow series to be played alongside India's five-Test tour of Australia in November later this year.

Musheer Khan, brother of India batter Sarfaraz Khan, is all but confirmed to travel to Australia for the upcoming India A tour. It is the shadow series to be played alongside India's five-Test tour of Australia in November later this year. India A will be playing three four-day Tests on the shadow tour. The development was reported in the news agency PTI after Musheer's gutsy and match-winning 181 in the ongoing Duleep Trophy (domestic red-ball tournament) for India B. Also Read: Credit to Sri Lanka but England's Oval Test loss not due to 'complacency', reckons stand-in captain Ollie Pope India B were 94/7 against India A but Musheer stood tall and took the total score to 321 which helped his team get the first innings lead and eventually win the game. Musheer's innings, which came on the back of a strong first-class season, led to him getting fast-tracked into the Indian set up. With India having already moved on from Ajinkya Rahane & Cheteshwar Pujara and Virat Kohli & Rohit Sharma nearing towards end, it looks right time to get the youngsters some experience. Former India wicketkeeper-batter Vijay Dahiya also praised the young batter for his technique and told PTI: "What makes Musheer different is his mindset, which is very strong. I can't predict the future but if he keeps on scoring runs consistently, he could be a very good option for the Indian team." “The standout thing about his batting is his consistency. He started off from where he left the last season. He scored runs in the Ranji Trophy semifinal and final and then a hundred on the opening day of domestic cricket in 2024," Dahiya added. Musheer's brother Sarfaraz, who made his Test debut against England earlier this year, has also kept his place in the Test team, getting selected in squad for first Test against Bangladesh.

Musheer Khan, brother of India batter Sarfaraz Khan, all set to be picked for upcoming Australia tour

The Indian men’s selection committee led by Ajit Agarkar made big changes to the Duleep Trophy squads on Tuesday (Sep 10) as players bound for the Indian team’s Bangladesh series were released. The biggest change sees Rinku Singh being roped in as a replacement for Rishabh Pant, who is set to feature for India in the red-ball format for the first time since his near-fatal car accident in December 2022. Mayank Agarwal, in the meantime, has been handed the India A team’s captaincy after Shubman Gill left the camp.

<h2>Rinku Singh roped in for Rishabh Pant</h2>

With the Indian team set to face Bangladesh in a two-match Test series, the 16-man squad will start its preparations in Chennai from Thursday (Sep 12). While Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma, Ravichandran Ashwin and Jasprit Bumrah will join directly from their holidays, the rest of the team, excluding Sarfaraz Khan, will join from the Duleep Trophy squad. Sarfaraz is unlikely to play in the opening Test against Bangladesh, starting&nbsp;September 19, so he will continue to play in the Duleep Trophy, provided no last-minute changes or injuries occur.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/afghan-cricket-board-vows-not-to-return-to-indias-greater-noida-stadium-after-opening-day-debacle-vs-nz-757343">AFG vs NZ: Afghan Cricket Board vows not to return to India's Greater Noida Stadium after opening day debacle</a>

For Rinku, it will be a change in guard having played in the Uttar Pradesh Premier League (UPPL) for Meerut. Rinku will have an opportunity to impress the selectors, having already cemented his position in the T20I set-up. The selection panel led by Agarkar has already hinted that players performing in the Duleep Trophy will be considered for the India A tour of Australia that starts in early November.

With Yashasvi Jaiswal and Pant having been called to the national team, Suyash Prabhudessai and Rinku Singh have been named as their replacements in the India B squad. Yash Dayal has received his first national team call-up, while Sarfaraz Khan will play in the second-round match before joining the national team.

The Indian men’s selection committee led by Ajit Agarkar made big changes to the Duleep Trophy squads on Tuesday (Sep 10) as players bound for the Indian team’s Bangladesh series were released.

The Indian men’s selection committee led by Ajit Agarkar made big changes to the Duleep Trophy squads on Tuesday (Sep 10) as players bound for the Indian team’s Bangladesh series were released. The biggest change sees Rinku Singh being roped in as a replacement for Rishabh Pant, who is set to feature for India in the red-ball format for the first time since his near-fatal car accident in December 2022. Mayank Agarwal, in the meantime, has been handed the India A team’s captaincy after Shubman Gill left the camp. Rinku Singh roped in for Rishabh Pant With the Indian team set to face Bangladesh in a two-match Test series, the 16-man squad will start its preparations in Chennai from Thursday (Sep 12). While Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma, Ravichandran Ashwin and Jasprit Bumrah will join directly from their holidays, the rest of the team, excluding Sarfaraz Khan, will join from the Duleep Trophy squad. Sarfaraz is unlikely to play in the opening Test against Bangladesh, starting September 19, so he will continue to play in the Duleep Trophy, provided no last-minute changes or injuries occur. ALSO READ | AFG vs NZ: Afghan Cricket Board vows not to return to India's Greater Noida Stadium after opening day debacle For Rinku, it will be a change in guard having played in the Uttar Pradesh Premier League (UPPL) for Meerut. Rinku will have an opportunity to impress the selectors, having already cemented his position in the T20I set-up. The selection panel led by Agarkar has already hinted that players performing in the Duleep Trophy will be considered for the India A tour of Australia that starts in early November. With Yashasvi Jaiswal and Pant having been called to the national team, Suyash Prabhudessai and Rinku Singh have been named as their replacements in the India B squad. Yash Dayal has received his first national team call-up, while Sarfaraz Khan will play in the second-round match before joining the national team.

Duleep Trophy 2024: Rinku Singh roped in as Rishabh Pant replacement for India B

Tushar Deshpande is an integral part of the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) line-up. After joining the team in 2022, he didn't have the best of starts. Since 2023, he has been able to turn things around and become a regular in the playing XI. In 2023, he ended with 21 scalps as MS Dhoni &amp; Co. won the title for the fifth time. In 2024, he returned with 17 wickets. Although Deshpande has been expensive occasionally, he has made a mark of taking wickets at crucial junctures. The 29-year-old,&nbsp;who recently made his international debut during the Zimbabwe tour, recalled how Dhoni groomed him when he joined CSK and the advice he received from the India legend.

Talking to ESPNCricinfo, Deshpande said, "[Dhoni told me]: 'You have everything to succeed at international level. But you have to be calm during your run-up. Don't get distracted by the crowd. Just take a deep breath, stay calm and bowl.' If Mahi tells you that you have everything to be successful at the international level, boss, that itself is an achievement."

Deshpande recalled IPL 2023's opening game between then defending champions Gujarat Titans (GT) and CSK, in Ahmedabad. Back then, the Yellow Army failed to defend 178/7, with the Chennai pacer ending with figures of 3.2-0-51-1. Dhoni, however, backed Deshpande as the speedster remembered the former Indian captain saying, "Mahi came to me and said: 'You haven't made any mistakes. You bowled all good balls. It was not your day today. In the next match repeat the same."

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/credit-to-sri-lanka-but-englands-oval-test-loss-not-due-to-complacency-reckons-stand-in-captain-ollie-pope-757359">Credit to Sri Lanka but England's Oval Test loss not due to 'complacency', reckons stand-in captain Ollie Pope</a>

However, Deshpande's biggest learning from Dhoni came during a match simulation in the CSK nets. He revealed, "I was bowling good yorkers, but suddenly I bowled a bouncer and got hit for a 100-metre six. He asked me: 'Kyun daala bouncer?' [Why did you bowl the bouncer?] I told him I thought he was expecting the yorker. He told me: Don't play cricket in the mind. Yorker is a yorker and no one can hit you."

Deshpande added, "He was telling me we keep trying to play ahead of the game instead of staying in the present. The other thing he told me is to focus on my fitness, which is important for fast bowlers."

Under Dhoni, Deshpande has improved his bowling and made his international debut during India's five T20Is versus hosts Zimbabwe, following the 2024 T20 World Cup. Meanwhile, there remains no clarity regarding Dhoni's IPL future. He was succeeded by Ruturaj Gaikwad as the CSK captain ahead of IPL 2024.&nbsp;

Tushar Deshpande is an integral part of the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) line-up. After joining the team in 2022, he didn't have the best of starts. Since 2023, he has been able to turn things around and become a regular in the playing XI.

Tushar Deshpande is an integral part of the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) line-up. After joining the team in 2022, he didn't have the best of starts. Since 2023, he has been able to turn things around and become a regular in the playing XI. In 2023, he ended with 21 scalps as MS Dhoni & Co. won the title for the fifth time. In 2024, he returned with 17 wickets. Although Deshpande has been expensive occasionally, he has made a mark of taking wickets at crucial junctures. The 29-year-old, who recently made his international debut during the Zimbabwe tour, recalled how Dhoni groomed him when he joined CSK and the advice he received from the India legend. Talking to ESPNCricinfo, Deshpande said, "[Dhoni told me]: 'You have everything to succeed at international level. But you have to be calm during your run-up. Don't get distracted by the crowd. Just take a deep breath, stay calm and bowl.' If Mahi tells you that you have everything to be successful at the international level, boss, that itself is an achievement." Deshpande recalled IPL 2023's opening game between then defending champions Gujarat Titans (GT) and CSK, in Ahmedabad. Back then, the Yellow Army failed to defend 178/7, with the Chennai pacer ending with figures of 3.2-0-51-1. Dhoni, however, backed Deshpande as the speedster remembered the former Indian captain saying, "Mahi came to me and said: 'You haven't made any mistakes. You bowled all good balls. It was not your day today. In the next match repeat the same." Also read: Credit to Sri Lanka but England's Oval Test loss not due to 'complacency', reckons stand-in captain Ollie Pope However, Deshpande's biggest learning from Dhoni came during a match simulation in the CSK nets. He revealed, "I was bowling good yorkers, but suddenly I bowled a bouncer and got hit for a 100-metre six. He asked me: 'Kyun daala bouncer?' [Why did you bowl the bouncer?] I told him I thought he was expecting the yorker. He told me: Don't play cricket in the mind. Yorker is a yorker and no one can hit you." Deshpande added, "He was telling me we keep trying to play ahead of the game instead of staying in the present. The other thing he told me is to focus on my fitness, which is important for fast bowlers." Under Dhoni, Deshpande has improved his bowling and made his international debut during India's five T20Is versus hosts Zimbabwe, following the 2024 T20 World Cup. Meanwhile, there remains no clarity regarding Dhoni's IPL future. He was succeeded by Ruturaj Gaikwad as the CSK captain ahead of IPL 2024.

'Dhoni hit me for a 100m six, asked 'why did you bowl a bouncer?': CSK pacer recalls advice from India legend

England's stand-in captain Ollie Pope brushed aside claims of the home team being complacent following their eight-wicket loss to Sri Lanka in the third and final Test at The Oval, London on Monday (Sep 9). On Day 4, Sri Lanka needed another 125 runs to win -- chasing 219 -- and stormed past the target with eight wickets in hand, courtesy of opener Pathum Nissanka's unbeaten 127 and good support from Kusal Mendis (39) and Angelo Mathews (32*). Pope reckoned that England weren't complacent in the final Test, after an unassailable 2-0 lead, and blamed his side's batting in their second innings for the loss.

After the match, Pope said, "I don't think it was complacency at all. It's been a long summer, but that's nothing to do with the fact we lost this game. We still came to play with the same intentions, but this game, for some reason, it didn't quite come off. We didn't get enough runs after having a first-innings lead and I'd probably put it down to that."

He further opined, "It was just one of those days where it didn't come off. We played some really good cricket throughout the series and then in a couple of weeks' time we'll be able to look back on that day three, reflect on it and make a decision then."

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/they-disrespected-test-cricket-michael-vaughan-slams-england-after-disappointing-loss-at-oval-757319">'They disrespected Test cricket': Michael Vaughan slams England after disappointing loss at Oval</a>

England were asked to bat first in the third and final Test and rode on Pope's 154 to post 325. In reply, the Lankans only managed 263; conceding a 62-run lead. However, the visitors changed the complexion of the game during England's second essay, bundling them out for a paltry 156 courtesy of Lahiru Kumara's 4 for 21 and Vishwa Fernando's 3 for 40. Pope, hence, blamed his side's ordinary showing with the bat on Day 3 for the loss.

Pope added, "It's disappointing not to be on the right side of the result. Day three, we probably shot ourselves in the foot a little bit. We weren't at our best and credit to Sri Lanka. The way Nissanka played was high-class and they deserved to win this Test. But we weren't at our best as well."

Pope led the side in the absence of regular Test captain Ben Stokes, out of action due to a hamstring injury. The Oval Test also marked the end of England's home Test season in the ongoing English summer.&nbsp;They will now host Australia in three T20Is and five ODIs.

England's stand-in captain Ollie Pope brushed aside claims of the home team being complacent following their eight-wicket loss to Sri Lanka in the third and final Test at The Oval, London on Monday (Sep 9).

England's stand-in captain Ollie Pope brushed aside claims of the home team being complacent following their eight-wicket loss to Sri Lanka in the third and final Test at The Oval, London on Monday (Sep 9). On Day 4, Sri Lanka needed another 125 runs to win -- chasing 219 -- and stormed past the target with eight wickets in hand, courtesy of opener Pathum Nissanka's unbeaten 127 and good support from Kusal Mendis (39) and Angelo Mathews (32*). Pope reckoned that England weren't complacent in the final Test, after an unassailable 2-0 lead, and blamed his side's batting in their second innings for the loss. After the match, Pope said, "I don't think it was complacency at all. It's been a long summer, but that's nothing to do with the fact we lost this game. We still came to play with the same intentions, but this game, for some reason, it didn't quite come off. We didn't get enough runs after having a first-innings lead and I'd probably put it down to that." He further opined, "It was just one of those days where it didn't come off. We played some really good cricket throughout the series and then in a couple of weeks' time we'll be able to look back on that day three, reflect on it and make a decision then." Also read: 'They disrespected Test cricket': Michael Vaughan slams England after disappointing loss at Oval England were asked to bat first in the third and final Test and rode on Pope's 154 to post 325. In reply, the Lankans only managed 263; conceding a 62-run lead. However, the visitors changed the complexion of the game during England's second essay, bundling them out for a paltry 156 courtesy of Lahiru Kumara's 4 for 21 and Vishwa Fernando's 3 for 40. Pope, hence, blamed his side's ordinary showing with the bat on Day 3 for the loss. Pope added, "It's disappointing not to be on the right side of the result. Day three, we probably shot ourselves in the foot a little bit. We weren't at our best and credit to Sri Lanka. The way Nissanka played was high-class and they deserved to win this Test. But we weren't at our best as well." Pope led the side in the absence of regular Test captain Ben Stokes, out of action due to a hamstring injury. The Oval Test also marked the end of England's home Test season in the ongoing English summer. They will now host Australia in three T20Is and five ODIs.

Credit to Sri Lanka but England's Oval Test loss not due to 'complacency', reckons stand-in captain Ollie Pope

Pathum Nissanka's superb unbeaten century guided Sri Lanka to an ultimately commanding eight-wicket win at The Oval on Monday as they ended a decade-long wait for a Test-match victory in England.

Sri Lanka, set a target of 219, reached that total for the loss of two wickets before lunch on the fourth day, with Nissanka 127 not out and Angelo Mathews 32 not out in an unbroken stand of 111.

Victory gave Sri Lanka just a fourth Test win in England and first since a 100-run success at Headingley back in 2014.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/he-needs-to-get-better-former-india-skipper-sourav-ganguly-on-rishabh-pants-test-comeback-757199">'He needs to get better...,' former India skipper Sourav Ganguly on Rishabh Pant's Test comeback</a>

England, however, took this three-match series 2-1 after wins at Old Trafford (five wickets) and Lord's (190 runs).

But defeat meant England, who whitewashed the West Indies 3-0 earlier in the season, failed to achieve a first home campaign clean sweep since 2004, when Michael Vaughan oversaw seven successive wins.

Nissanka, named player-of-the-match after also making 64 in the first innings, told Sky Sports: "It was a great opportunity to play in England and I enjoyed that innings."

"I just wanted to play my normal game and I have done that," added the opener, who spent two years out of the Test side.

And for Sri Lanka captain Dhananjaya de Silva, there was no doubting the significance of leading his country to only their fourth win in 21 Tests in England.

"This is one of the happiest moments in my career and my life," said De Silva.

"We had a tough time in the last two weeks so to come here and get a win in English conditions against an English team, it is a very good moment for me, my team, and my country as well."

Sri Lanka resumed on 94-1, already well-placed to end a run of seven straight Test defeats by England.

Nissanka, recalled at Lord's, was 53 not out and Kusal Mendis unbeaten on 30.

Mendis, however, had added just nine runs to his score when he hooked a Gus Atkinson bouncer to fine leg, where Shoaib Bashir, doing well to sight the ball on a gloomy morning, held an excellent low catch diving to his left.

Sri Lanka were now 108-2 as Mathews, who made a brilliant 160 in their Headingley success a decade ago, walked in to bat.

England captain Ollie Pope, with Sri Lanka making good progress against the quicks at 137-2, brought on off-spinner Bashir.

Bashir, however, promptly conceded 10 runs in an over, Nissanka pulling a dragged down ball to square leg and Mathews sweeping another four.

The diminutive Nissanka's punched three off Atkinson through point saw the 26-year-old complete an excellent 107-ball hundred, including 11 fours.

And having reached the landmark, Nissanka hooked fast bowler Olly Stone for two sixes.

Nissanka ended the match by cutting Bashir for four, having already surpassed his previous highest Test score of 103 against the West Indies at North Sound in 2021.

<h2>- England 'shot ourselves in the foot' -</h2>

England squandered several strong positions, including collapsing from 261-3 to 325 all out in their first innings despite 154 from Pope -- his first century since stepping in for the injured Ben Stokes as skipper at the start of this series.

They also allowed Sri Lanka to recover from 93-5 to 263 in reply, with Pope deploying an all-spin attack after tea on a gloomy second day.

England led by 62 runs in the first innings.

But their top-order batted as if they had double that lead second time around, with England collapsing spectacularly to 82-7 before being dismissed for 156 in just 34 overs on Sunday.

Lahiru Kumara took 4-21 and left-arm swing bowler Vishwa Fernando 3-40 including the prize scalp of Joe Root for just 12.

Only wicketkeeper Jamie Smith's counter-attacking 67 off 50 balls, including 10 fours and a six, ensured Sri Lanka were chasing more than 200 for victory.

"It's disappointing not to be on the right side of the result," said Pope. "Day three (Sunday), we probably shot ourselves in the foot a little bit.

"We weren't at our best and credit to Sri Lanka. The way Nissanka played was high-class and they deserved to win this Test."

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.

Pathum Nissanka's superb unbeaten century guided Sri Lanka to an ultimately commanding eight-wicket win at The Oval on Monday as they ended a decade-long wait for a Test-match victory in England.

Pathum Nissanka's superb unbeaten century guided Sri Lanka to an ultimately commanding eight-wicket win at The Oval on Monday as they ended a decade-long wait for a Test-match victory in England. Sri Lanka, set a target of 219, reached that total for the loss of two wickets before lunch on the fourth day, with Nissanka 127 not out and Angelo Mathews 32 not out in an unbroken stand of 111. Victory gave Sri Lanka just a fourth Test win in England and first since a 100-run success at Headingley back in 2014. Also Read: 'He needs to get better...,' former India skipper Sourav Ganguly on Rishabh Pant's Test comeback England, however, took this three-match series 2-1 after wins at Old Trafford (five wickets) and Lord's (190 runs). But defeat meant England, who whitewashed the West Indies 3-0 earlier in the season, failed to achieve a first home campaign clean sweep since 2004, when Michael Vaughan oversaw seven successive wins. Nissanka, named player-of-the-match after also making 64 in the first innings, told Sky Sports: "It was a great opportunity to play in England and I enjoyed that innings." "I just wanted to play my normal game and I have done that," added the opener, who spent two years out of the Test side. And for Sri Lanka captain Dhananjaya de Silva, there was no doubting the significance of leading his country to only their fourth win in 21 Tests in England. "This is one of the happiest moments in my career and my life," said De Silva. "We had a tough time in the last two weeks so to come here and get a win in English conditions against an English team, it is a very good moment for me, my team, and my country as well." Sri Lanka resumed on 94-1, already well-placed to end a run of seven straight Test defeats by England. Nissanka, recalled at Lord's, was 53 not out and Kusal Mendis unbeaten on 30. Mendis, however, had added just nine runs to his score when he hooked a Gus Atkinson bouncer to fine leg, where Shoaib Bashir, doing well to sight the ball on a gloomy morning, held an excellent low catch diving to his left. Sri Lanka were now 108-2 as Mathews, who made a brilliant 160 in their Headingley success a decade ago, walked in to bat. England captain Ollie Pope, with Sri Lanka making good progress against the quicks at 137-2, brought on off-spinner Bashir. Bashir, however, promptly conceded 10 runs in an over, Nissanka pulling a dragged down ball to square leg and Mathews sweeping another four. The diminutive Nissanka's punched three off Atkinson through point saw the 26-year-old complete an excellent 107-ball hundred, including 11 fours. And having reached the landmark, Nissanka hooked fast bowler Olly Stone for two sixes. Nissanka ended the match by cutting Bashir for four, having already surpassed his previous highest Test score of 103 against the West Indies at North Sound in 2021. - England 'shot ourselves in the foot' - England squandered several strong positions, including collapsing from 261-3 to 325 all out in their first innings despite 154 from Pope -- his first century since stepping in for the injured Ben Stokes as skipper at the start of this series. They also allowed Sri Lanka to recover from 93-5 to 263 in reply, with Pope deploying an all-spin attack after tea on a gloomy second day. England led by 62 runs in the first innings. But their top-order batted as if they had double that lead second time around, with England collapsing spectacularly to 82-7 before being dismissed for 156 in just 34 overs on Sunday. Lahiru Kumara took 4-21 and left-arm swing bowler Vishwa Fernando 3-40 including the prize scalp of Joe Root for just 12. Only wicketkeeper Jamie Smith's counter-attacking 67 off 50 balls, including 10 fours and a six, ensured Sri Lanka were chasing more than 200 for victory. "It's disappointing not to be on the right side of the result," said Pope. "Day three (Sunday), we probably shot ourselves in the foot a little bit. "We weren't at our best and credit to Sri Lanka. The way Nissanka played was high-class and they deserved to win this Test." 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.

Pathum Nissanka stars with unbeaten ton as Sri Lanka record first Test win in England after a decade

Former India skipper Sourav Ganguly thinks Rishabh Pant needs to get better in white-ball cricket. The comments came as Pant made a comeback in the Test side for the first time since his life-threatening car accident in December 2022.

“He will be an all-time great in Tests if he keeps performing like this. For me, he needs to get better in the shorter formats. With the talent he has, I’m sure with time, he will become one of the best,” said Ganguly, who also is the mentor of Pant-led Indian Premier League (IPL) franchise Delhi Capitals, at an event in Kolkata on Monday (Sep 9).

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/sign-of-respect-says-usman-khawaja-on-indians-wanting-to-beat-australia-757161">'Sign of respect...,' says Usman Khawaja on Indians wanting to beat Australia</a>

Ganguly, however, has no doubt that the wicketkeeper-batter is going to be one of the greats in the red-ball cricket.

“I consider Rishabh Pant one of India’s best Test batsmen. I’m not surprised that he’s back in the side, and he will continue to play for India in Tests,” he said.

Ganguly also spoke on India's upcoming Test series and said that the tour of Australia and England (next year) are going to be the most important ones.

“I am looking forward to their tour to Australia; that, for me, will be the real test for the squad. Then, when they tour England in July, these are the two most important tours, to be honest," he said.

Before travelling to Australia in November later this year, India host Bangladesh and New Zealand at home. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) announced the squad for first Test against Bangladesh which starts September 19 but pacer Mohammed Shami was not included in that due to injury.

Ganguly said India has a potent pace attack for the tour of Australia and England which will be boosted once Shami is back.

"I think the pace bowling department, with Bumrah and Siraj, and once Shami comes back, will be strong,” said the former skipper.

Former India skipper Sourav Ganguly thinks Rishabh Pant needs to get better in white-ball cricket. The comments came as Pant made a comeback in the Test side for the first time since his life-threatening car accident in December 2022.

Former India skipper Sourav Ganguly thinks Rishabh Pant needs to get better in white-ball cricket. The comments came as Pant made a comeback in the Test side for the first time since his life-threatening car accident in December 2022. “He will be an all-time great in Tests if he keeps performing like this. For me, he needs to get better in the shorter formats. With the talent he has, I’m sure with time, he will become one of the best,” said Ganguly, who also is the mentor of Pant-led Indian Premier League (IPL) franchise Delhi Capitals, at an event in Kolkata on Monday (Sep 9). Also Read: 'Sign of respect...,' says Usman Khawaja on Indians wanting to beat Australia Ganguly, however, has no doubt that the wicketkeeper-batter is going to be one of the greats in the red-ball cricket. “I consider Rishabh Pant one of India’s best Test batsmen. I’m not surprised that he’s back in the side, and he will continue to play for India in Tests,” he said. Ganguly also spoke on India's upcoming Test series and said that the tour of Australia and England (next year) are going to be the most important ones. “I am looking forward to their tour to Australia; that, for me, will be the real test for the squad. Then, when they tour England in July, these are the two most important tours, to be honest," he said. Before travelling to Australia in November later this year, India host Bangladesh and New Zealand at home. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) announced the squad for first Test against Bangladesh which starts September 19 but pacer Mohammed Shami was not included in that due to injury. Ganguly said India has a potent pace attack for the tour of Australia and England which will be boosted once Shami is back. "I think the pace bowling department, with Bumrah and Siraj, and once Shami comes back, will be strong,” said the former skipper.

'He needs to get better...,' former India skipper Sourav Ganguly on Rishabh Pant's Test comeback

Australia Test opener Usman Khawaja says that it is a 'sign of respect' that Indians want to beat Australia in any form of cricket. The comments come ahead of the upcoming five-Test Border-Gavaskar series scheduled to be played Down Under from November 22.

"I take it as a sign of respect and I know it that Indians love beating Australia in any sort of form of cricket. And the tradition that Australia has had over so many years as being one of the dominating teams in world cricket has staked that reputation," said Khawaja while speaking on Star Sports as reported by news agency PTI.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/boys-in-smaller-places-former-coach-rahul-dravid-reveals-reason-behind-indias-dominance-756944">'Boys in smaller places,' Former coach Rahul Dravid reveals reason behind India's dominance</a>

Khawaja also explained the reason for the intense rivalry between the two sides and said: "We're world number one, world number two teams really over the last two years. We were there at the last World Test Championship together. The rivalry has always been huge."

The Aussie opener also cited the rise of Indian Premier League (IPL) and India beating Australia in last two Test series Down Under.

"For Indians, it's always been the case to beat Australia. And more recently, you know, since the rise of India and IPL and everything else that happened, it's the same way with Australia against India," Khawaja said.

"And particularly since India's beaten Australia in Australia the last two times they've come out of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy. It just means a little bit more,” he added.

India have three Test series planned from September 19 - two at home and one away. They first play Bangladesh for two-Test series from September 19 before hosting New Zealand for a three-Test series.

India then travel to Australia for a five-Test Border-Gavaskar series with an aim to win their third consecutive Test series Down Under.

Australia Test opener Usman Khawaja says that it is a 'sign of respect' that Indians want to beat Australia in any form of cricket. The comments come ahead of the upcoming five-Test Border-Gavaskar series scheduled to be played Down Under from November 22.

Australia Test opener Usman Khawaja says that it is a 'sign of respect' that Indians want to beat Australia in any form of cricket. The comments come ahead of the upcoming five-Test Border-Gavaskar series scheduled to be played Down Under from November 22. "I take it as a sign of respect and I know it that Indians love beating Australia in any sort of form of cricket. And the tradition that Australia has had over so many years as being one of the dominating teams in world cricket has staked that reputation," said Khawaja while speaking on Star Sports as reported by news agency PTI. Also Read: 'Boys in smaller places,' Former coach Rahul Dravid reveals reason behind India's dominance Khawaja also explained the reason for the intense rivalry between the two sides and said: "We're world number one, world number two teams really over the last two years. We were there at the last World Test Championship together. The rivalry has always been huge." The Aussie opener also cited the rise of Indian Premier League (IPL) and India beating Australia in last two Test series Down Under. "For Indians, it's always been the case to beat Australia. And more recently, you know, since the rise of India and IPL and everything else that happened, it's the same way with Australia against India," Khawaja said. "And particularly since India's beaten Australia in Australia the last two times they've come out of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy. It just means a little bit more,” he added. India have three Test series planned from September 19 - two at home and one away. They first play Bangladesh for two-Test series from September 19 before hosting New Zealand for a three-Test series. India then travel to Australia for a five-Test Border-Gavaskar series with an aim to win their third consecutive Test series Down Under.

'Sign of respect...,' says Usman Khawaja on Indians wanting to beat Australia

Former head coach Rahul Dravid believes that the reason behind India's dominance in world cricket is 'talent coming from every corner of the country.' Dravid made the comments on sidelines of the 50-year-celebration of a cricket club.

"If you look at Indian cricket today, Indian cricket is extremely strong, it's extremely powerful," Dravid said the Mount Joy Cricket Club function as reported by the news agency PTI.&nbsp;

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"One of the big reasons for that is that talent comes from everywhere, from all over the country. If you go back to the time of, say, GR Vishwanath or even when I was starting out, most of the talent came from the big cities or a few states."

"Even if there were talented boys in smaller places, they had to come to the big cities to play cricket. But today I think you see in Indian cricket that boys are coming from everywhere," he added.

Dravid also cited the example of India's premier domestic tournament, the Ranji Trophy, where all the teams are now competitive.

"You just look at the standard of the Ranji Trophy. In the old days when you played in the South Zone, other than playing Hyderabad or Tamil Nadu, I think it is fair to say, without being disrespectful, that a lot of other teams you could take it not for granted but you could certainly take it a little bit more lightly."

"I don't think there is any team in the South Zone today that you can walk in and say you will beat comfortably," said Dravid.

The former coach recently joined Indian premier League (IPL) franchise Rajasthan Royals in head coach position. Before that, he worked with the India men's senior team for nearly three years and ended the 11-year ICC trophy drought with T20 World Cup 2024 victory.

Former head coach Rahul Dravid believes that the reason behind India's dominance in world cricket is 'talent coming from every corner of the country.' Dravid made the comments on sidelines of the 50-year-celebration of a cricket club.

Former head coach Rahul Dravid believes that the reason behind India's dominance in world cricket is 'talent coming from every corner of the country.' Dravid made the comments on sidelines of the 50-year-celebration of a cricket club. "If you look at Indian cricket today, Indian cricket is extremely strong, it's extremely powerful," Dravid said the Mount Joy Cricket Club function as reported by the news agency PTI. Also Read: Rishabh Pant makes comeback as India name 16-man squad for first Test vs Bangladesh "One of the big reasons for that is that talent comes from everywhere, from all over the country. If you go back to the time of, say, GR Vishwanath or even when I was starting out, most of the talent came from the big cities or a few states." "Even if there were talented boys in smaller places, they had to come to the big cities to play cricket. But today I think you see in Indian cricket that boys are coming from everywhere," he added. Dravid also cited the example of India's premier domestic tournament, the Ranji Trophy, where all the teams are now competitive. "You just look at the standard of the Ranji Trophy. In the old days when you played in the South Zone, other than playing Hyderabad or Tamil Nadu, I think it is fair to say, without being disrespectful, that a lot of other teams you could take it not for granted but you could certainly take it a little bit more lightly." "I don't think there is any team in the South Zone today that you can walk in and say you will beat comfortably," said Dravid. The former coach recently joined Indian premier League (IPL) franchise Rajasthan Royals in head coach position. Before that, he worked with the India men's senior team for nearly three years and ended the 11-year ICC trophy drought with T20 World Cup 2024 victory.

'Boys in smaller places,' Former coach Rahul Dravid reveals reason behind India's dominance

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) announced the India squad for the first Test against Bangladesh on Sunday (Sep 8). Rishabh Pant made a comeback into the Test team for the first time since his life-threatening accident in December 2022, while KL Rahul has also been included.

India are scheduled to play two Tests against Bangladesh, with the first Test starting on September 19 in Chennai and the second one scheduled for September 27 in Kanpur.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/dhruv-jurel-equals-ms-dhonis-iconic-record-in-ongoing-duleep-trophy-756914">Dhruv Jurel equals MS Dhoni's iconic record in ongoing Duleep Trophy</a>

Rohit Sharma continues to lead the side, with Virat Kohli also present. Yashasvi Jaiswal, Shubman Gill, KL Rahul, and Sarfaraz Khan are the other specialist batters in the side.&nbsp;

The selectors have also picked Dhruv Jurel as the second wicketkeeper in the side apart from Pant. Among the spinners, India's long-standing duo of Ravi Ashwin and Ravindra Jadeja are accompanied by Axar Patel and Kuldeep Yadav.&nbsp;

Mohammed Siraj, Jasprit Bumrah, Akash Deep, and Yash Dayal are the four pacers picked in the side. This is the first time Dayal has been given a call-up for the Test side.

The left-arm pacer most probably pipped Arshdeep Singh, India's T20I bowler, for the place. The selection is quite a turn around for Dayal, who was hit for five sixes in a row in an IPL match's last over a couple of years ago.

With BCCI announcing the team for only one Test, it is clear that they want to keep their options open before they select the squad for the five-Test Australia tour later in the year.

India team for first Test vs Bangladesh: Rohit Sharma (C), Yashasvi Jaiswal, Shubman Gill, Virat Kohli, KL Rahul, Sarfaraz Khan, Rishabh Pant (WK), Dhruv Jurel (WK), R Ashwin, R Jadeja, Axar Patel, Kuldeep Yadav, Mohd. Siraj, Akash Deep, Jasprit Bumrah, Yash Dayal.

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) announced the India squad for the first Test against Bangladesh on Sunday (Sep 8). Rishabh Pant made a comeback into the Test team for the first time since his life-threatening accident in December 2022, while KL Rahul has also been included.

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) announced the India squad for the first Test against Bangladesh on Sunday (Sep 8). Rishabh Pant made a comeback into the Test team for the first time since his life-threatening accident in December 2022, while KL Rahul has also been included. India are scheduled to play two Tests against Bangladesh, with the first Test starting on September 19 in Chennai and the second one scheduled for September 27 in Kanpur. Also Read: Dhruv Jurel equals MS Dhoni's iconic record in ongoing Duleep Trophy Rohit Sharma continues to lead the side, with Virat Kohli also present. Yashasvi Jaiswal, Shubman Gill, KL Rahul, and Sarfaraz Khan are the other specialist batters in the side. The selectors have also picked Dhruv Jurel as the second wicketkeeper in the side apart from Pant. Among the spinners, India's long-standing duo of Ravi Ashwin and Ravindra Jadeja are accompanied by Axar Patel and Kuldeep Yadav. Mohammed Siraj, Jasprit Bumrah, Akash Deep, and Yash Dayal are the four pacers picked in the side. This is the first time Dayal has been given a call-up for the Test side. The left-arm pacer most probably pipped Arshdeep Singh, India's T20I bowler, for the place. The selection is quite a turn around for Dayal, who was hit for five sixes in a row in an IPL match's last over a couple of years ago. With BCCI announcing the team for only one Test, it is clear that they want to keep their options open before they select the squad for the five-Test Australia tour later in the year. India team for first Test vs Bangladesh: Rohit Sharma (C), Yashasvi Jaiswal, Shubman Gill, Virat Kohli, KL Rahul, Sarfaraz Khan, Rishabh Pant (WK), Dhruv Jurel (WK), R Ashwin, R Jadeja, Axar Patel, Kuldeep Yadav, Mohd. Siraj, Akash Deep, Jasprit Bumrah, Yash Dayal.

Rishabh Pant makes comeback as India name 16-man squad for first Test vs Bangladesh

England fast bowler Chris Woakes was forced to bowl spin on day 2 of the third Test against Sri Lanka as umpires deemed bad light for fast bowling. Woakes, who had already bowled two balls in his over, bowled the rest four balls as off-spinner, a rare sight in cricket.

Woakes' teammate Joe Root, who is himself a part-time spinner, was seen laughing on the change while standing in slip. Have a look at the video below:

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STOP WHAT YOU'RE DOING! ⚠️ 
 
Bad light means Chris Woakes is bowling spin 😆 <a href="https://t.co/TPYSnwXiEN">pic.twitter.com/TPYSnwXiEN</a>
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As for match, Sri Lanka were 211/5 by the time stumps were called on day 2 (Saturday, Sep 7) in reply to England's first innings total of 325.

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England, who are already leading three-Test series 2-0, had Sri Lanka on rope at 93/5 before Dhananjaya de Silva and Kamindu Mendis saw off the day with an unbeaten 118-run partnership.

Come day 3, Sri Lanka could not take advantage of their resurrection as they were bowled out for 263, conceding a first innings lead of 62 runs.

The visitor's, however, hit England back hard in the second innings, taking out seven wickets for 80-odd runs with total lead less than 150 runs by the time this news was written on day 3, leaving Sri Lanka in great position to win the match.

PCB to host entire England Test series at home

Meanwhile,&nbsp;Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has all but confirmed that the upcoming three-Test home series England will be played entirely in the country. &nbsp;The news of series going to be held in Pakistan comes amid the reports of PCB thinking to move Karachi Test (second one) to outside the country.

It is because of the ongoing renovation work at multiple venues, including Karachi, for the ICC Champions Trophy. Pakistan are scheduled to the ICC tournament in February-March next year.

England fast bowler Chris Woakes was forced to bowl spin on day 2 of the third Test against Sri Lanka as umpires deemed bad light for fast bowling. Woakes, who had already bowled two balls in his over, bowled the rest four balls as off-spinner, a rare sight in cricket.

England fast bowler Chris Woakes was forced to bowl spin on day 2 of the third Test against Sri Lanka as umpires deemed bad light for fast bowling. Woakes, who had already bowled two balls in his over, bowled the rest four balls as off-spinner, a rare sight in cricket. Woakes' teammate Joe Root, who is himself a part-time spinner, was seen laughing on the change while standing in slip. Have a look at the video below: STOP WHAT YOU'RE DOING! ⚠️ Bad light means Chris Woakes is bowling spin 😆 pic.twitter.com/TPYSnwXiEN — England Cricket (@englandcricket) September 7, 2024 × As for match, Sri Lanka were 211/5 by the time stumps were called on day 2 (Saturday, Sep 7) in reply to England's first innings total of 325. Also Read: Dhruv Jurel equals MS Dhoni's iconic record in ongoing Duleep Trophy England, who are already leading three-Test series 2-0, had Sri Lanka on rope at 93/5 before Dhananjaya de Silva and Kamindu Mendis saw off the day with an unbeaten 118-run partnership. Come day 3, Sri Lanka could not take advantage of their resurrection as they were bowled out for 263, conceding a first innings lead of 62 runs. The visitor's, however, hit England back hard in the second innings, taking out seven wickets for 80-odd runs with total lead less than 150 runs by the time this news was written on day 3, leaving Sri Lanka in great position to win the match. PCB to host entire England Test series at home Meanwhile, Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has all but confirmed that the upcoming three-Test home series England will be played entirely in the country. The news of series going to be held in Pakistan comes amid the reports of PCB thinking to move Karachi Test (second one) to outside the country. It is because of the ongoing renovation work at multiple venues, including Karachi, for the ICC Champions Trophy. Pakistan are scheduled to the ICC tournament in February-March next year.

ENG vs SL, 3rd Test: Pacer Chris Woakes bowls spin amid bad light and Joe Root can't stop laughing - WATCH

India wicketkeeper Dhruv Jurel equalled an iconic feat during the ongoing Duleep Trophy (domestic red-ball tournament) while playing for Shubman Gill-led India A. Jurel took seven catches in second innings of India B - a feat only achieved by former India skipper Mahendra Singh Dhoni before him. Dhoni had taken seven catches while playing for East Zone in 2004-05.

Jurel took four catches off Akash Deep, who took a five-for for India A in the second innings, two off Khaleel Ahmed and one off Avesh Khan.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/necessary-for-me-shreyas-iyer-on-50-in-duleep-trophy-with-aim-to-make-india-test-comeback-756873">'Necessary for me...,' Shreyas Iyer on 50 in Duleep Trophy with aim to make India Test comeback</a>

Jurel's performance behind the stumps helped India A bowl out India B for 184 runs in the second innings. Jurel took the catches off Yashasvi Jaiswal, India B skipper Abhimanyu Eswaran, first innings centurion Musheer Khan, Sarfaraz Khan, Nitish Kumar Reddy, Sai Kishore and Navdeep Saini.

India A were set a target of 275 runs to win the match but could manage only 198 and lost by 76 runs. Jurel, as a batter, couldn't do much and managed only two across two innings, including a duck.

India A were on the top in the first innings with India B at 94/7 but Musheer's Player of the Match innings of 181 meant they posted 321 in the first innings.&nbsp;

India B couldn't come over that setback ever and managed just 231 runs in the first innings despite being 145/2 at one stage and conceded a handy lead of 70 runs which eventually proved to be the difference between the two sides.

India are scheduled to play 10 Tests in coming months and the performance in the ongoing Duleep Trophy between four teams India C and D being the other two teams, could affect players' selection chances.

India&nbsp;first play Bangladesh for two-Test series from September 19 before hosting New Zealand for a three-Test series.

India then travel to Australia for a five-Test Border-Gavaskar series with an aim to win their third consecutive Test series Down Under.

India wicketkeeper Dhruv Jurel equalled an iconic feat during the ongoing Duleep Trophy (domestic red-ball tournament) while playing for Shubman Gill-led India A.

India wicketkeeper Dhruv Jurel equalled an iconic feat during the ongoing Duleep Trophy (domestic red-ball tournament) while playing for Shubman Gill-led India A. Jurel took seven catches in second innings of India B - a feat only achieved by former India skipper Mahendra Singh Dhoni before him. Dhoni had taken seven catches while playing for East Zone in 2004-05. Jurel took four catches off Akash Deep, who took a five-for for India A in the second innings, two off Khaleel Ahmed and one off Avesh Khan. Also Read: 'Necessary for me...,' Shreyas Iyer on 50 in Duleep Trophy with aim to make India Test comeback Jurel's performance behind the stumps helped India A bowl out India B for 184 runs in the second innings. Jurel took the catches off Yashasvi Jaiswal, India B skipper Abhimanyu Eswaran, first innings centurion Musheer Khan, Sarfaraz Khan, Nitish Kumar Reddy, Sai Kishore and Navdeep Saini. India A were set a target of 275 runs to win the match but could manage only 198 and lost by 76 runs. Jurel, as a batter, couldn't do much and managed only two across two innings, including a duck. India A were on the top in the first innings with India B at 94/7 but Musheer's Player of the Match innings of 181 meant they posted 321 in the first innings. India B couldn't come over that setback ever and managed just 231 runs in the first innings despite being 145/2 at one stage and conceded a handy lead of 70 runs which eventually proved to be the difference between the two sides. India are scheduled to play 10 Tests in coming months and the performance in the ongoing Duleep Trophy between four teams India C and D being the other two teams, could affect players' selection chances. India first play Bangladesh for two-Test series from September 19 before hosting New Zealand for a three-Test series. India then travel to Australia for a five-Test Border-Gavaskar series with an aim to win their third consecutive Test series Down Under.

Dhruv Jurel equals MS Dhoni's iconic record in ongoing Duleep Trophy

Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has all but confirmed that the upcoming three-Test home series England will be played entirely in the country. The development was confirmed by PCB chief Mohsin Naqvi's spokesperson Mohammad Rafiullah to cricket news website ESPNCricinfo.

The news of series going to be held in Pakistan comes amid the reports of PCB thinking to move Karachi Test (second one) to outside the country. It is because of the ongoing renovation work at multiple venues, including Karachi, for the ICC Champions Trophy. Pakistan are scheduled to the ICC tournament in February-March next year.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/necessary-for-me-shreyas-iyer-on-50-in-duleep-trophy-with-aim-to-make-india-test-comeback-756873">'Necessary for me...,' Shreyas Iyer on 50 in Duleep Trophy with aim to make India Test comeback</a>

The stadium work made PCB think of playing one Test in Abu Dhabi in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) with Sharjah and Dubai out of the question due to upcoming Women's T20 World Cup shifted from Bangladesh.

PCB chairman Mohasin Naqvi, while inspecting Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore, apparently confirmed the England series being played in Pakistan with Multan and Rawalpindi as the venues.

It is, however, still unclear that which venue will host the relocated Karachi Test. With Shanghai Corporation Organisation (SCO) summit scheduled in Islamabad on October 15-16, Rawalpindi, the twin city of the capital, doesn't look an ideal venue for the second Test.

England Cricket Board (ECB), meanwhile, has also given the go-ahead to play the series in Pakistan. England coach Brendon McCullum, however, wants the venues to be finalised quickly so they can name the squad accordingly.

The series against England could be defining for Pakistan skipper Shan Masood who's undergoing some scrutiny following the two-Test series loss against Bangladesh.

Before losing 0-2 to Bangladesh at home, Pakistan also lost 0-3 against Australia earlier this year. This would be Masood's third series as Test skipper after replacing Babar Azam in the aftermath of 2023 ODI World Cup where Pakistan failed to make it to the semis.

Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has all but confirmed that the upcoming three-Test home series England will be played entirely in the country. The development was confirmed by PCB chief Mohsin Naqvi's spokesperson Mohammad Rafiullah to cricket news website ESPNCricinfo.

Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has all but confirmed that the upcoming three-Test home series England will be played entirely in the country. The development was confirmed by PCB chief Mohsin Naqvi's spokesperson Mohammad Rafiullah to cricket news website ESPNCricinfo. The news of series going to be held in Pakistan comes amid the reports of PCB thinking to move Karachi Test (second one) to outside the country. It is because of the ongoing renovation work at multiple venues, including Karachi, for the ICC Champions Trophy. Pakistan are scheduled to the ICC tournament in February-March next year. Also Read: 'Necessary for me...,' Shreyas Iyer on 50 in Duleep Trophy with aim to make India Test comeback The stadium work made PCB think of playing one Test in Abu Dhabi in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) with Sharjah and Dubai out of the question due to upcoming Women's T20 World Cup shifted from Bangladesh. PCB chairman Mohasin Naqvi, while inspecting Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore, apparently confirmed the England series being played in Pakistan with Multan and Rawalpindi as the venues. It is, however, still unclear that which venue will host the relocated Karachi Test. With Shanghai Corporation Organisation (SCO) summit scheduled in Islamabad on October 15-16, Rawalpindi, the twin city of the capital, doesn't look an ideal venue for the second Test. England Cricket Board (ECB), meanwhile, has also given the go-ahead to play the series in Pakistan. England coach Brendon McCullum, however, wants the venues to be finalised quickly so they can name the squad accordingly. The series against England could be defining for Pakistan skipper Shan Masood who's undergoing some scrutiny following the two-Test series loss against Bangladesh. Before losing 0-2 to Bangladesh at home, Pakistan also lost 0-3 against Australia earlier this year. This would be Masood's third series as Test skipper after replacing Babar Azam in the aftermath of 2023 ODI World Cup where Pakistan failed to make it to the semis.

PCB to host England Test series entirely in Pakistan

India batter Shreyas Iyer showed a lot of intent with bat in the second innings for India D in the ongoing Duleep Trophy (domestic red-ball tournament) against India C. Iyer, who leads India D, couldn't save his team from loss but did manage to score a flashy 50 on a difficult Anantpur pitch.

Iyer scored 54 off just 44 balls with nine fours and a six as his team folded up for 236 after being bowled out for 164 in the first innings where Iyer managed just 9 off 16.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/pakistan-will-host-champions-trophy-we-are-in-touch-with-bcci-secretary-says-pcb-chair-mohsin-naqvi-756847">‘Pakistan will host Champions Trophy, we are in touch with BCCI secretary’, says PCB chair Mohsin Naqvi</a>

"It was necessary for me to show intent because their bowlers were bowling great, in the right areas and the ball was seaming as well. I just wanted to take the attack and see if we could get a decent total on board. When the ball got old, it was stopping a bit. I wanted to capitalise on my intent, but, I would take that fifty any day," Shreyas Iyer said after the match.

"The pitch did not offer much, there was no spin for the bowlers. Saransh bowled in great areas. There were few patches on the pitch created by the fast bowlers where the ball spun from outside of the off-stump, other than that it was quite dead. Hopefully, we learn from this and move on," he added in his interview with the broadcaster.

Iyer was removed from Board of Control for Cricket in India's (BCCI) contract list for the ongoing year and is looking to make a comeback to the Test team.

India have three Test series planned from September 19 - two at home and one away. They first play Bangladesh for two-Test series from September 19 before hosting New Zealand for a three-Test series.

India then travel to Australia for a five-Test Border-Gavaskar series with an aim to win their third consecutive Test series Down Under.

India batter Shreyas Iyer showed a lot of intent with bat in the second innings for India D in the ongoing Duleep Trophy (domestic red-ball tournament) against India C.

India batter Shreyas Iyer showed a lot of intent with bat in the second innings for India D in the ongoing Duleep Trophy (domestic red-ball tournament) against India C. Iyer, who leads India D, couldn't save his team from loss but did manage to score a flashy 50 on a difficult Anantpur pitch. Iyer scored 54 off just 44 balls with nine fours and a six as his team folded up for 236 after being bowled out for 164 in the first innings where Iyer managed just 9 off 16. Also Read: ‘Pakistan will host Champions Trophy, we are in touch with BCCI secretary’, says PCB chair Mohsin Naqvi "It was necessary for me to show intent because their bowlers were bowling great, in the right areas and the ball was seaming as well. I just wanted to take the attack and see if we could get a decent total on board. When the ball got old, it was stopping a bit. I wanted to capitalise on my intent, but, I would take that fifty any day," Shreyas Iyer said after the match. "The pitch did not offer much, there was no spin for the bowlers. Saransh bowled in great areas. There were few patches on the pitch created by the fast bowlers where the ball spun from outside of the off-stump, other than that it was quite dead. Hopefully, we learn from this and move on," he added in his interview with the broadcaster. Iyer was removed from Board of Control for Cricket in India's (BCCI) contract list for the ongoing year and is looking to make a comeback to the Test team. India have three Test series planned from September 19 - two at home and one away. They first play Bangladesh for two-Test series from September 19 before hosting New Zealand for a three-Test series. India then travel to Australia for a five-Test Border-Gavaskar series with an aim to win their third consecutive Test series Down Under.

'Necessary for me...,' Shreyas Iyer on 50 in Duleep Trophy with aim to make India Test comeback

Pakistan Test coach Jason Gillespie thinks that skipper Shan Masood is not at fault for losing 0-2 in the home Test series against Bangladesh. Gillespie made the comments after the end of&nbsp;second Rawalpindi Test and stressed that the players are good enough.

"Shan, I feel, has led the side very well. We just haven't played well as a team and that's the reality. We need to sharpen up on certain areas and we will sharpen up. I want to back and believe in these players, they are good enough," he had said.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/much-information-out-aussie-all-rounder-cameron-green-warns-india-ahead-of-upcoming-test-series-756677">'Much information out...,' Aussie all-rounder Cameron Green warns India ahead of upcoming Test series</a>

Pakistan Test skipper Masood's position is under scrutiny after successive whitewash against Australia in Australia and against Bangladesh at home. Masood, however, isn't too worried about it.

"I am not worried for my job security. I took this job to make the changes we believe will help this team. If I believe this team can go in a certain direction, even if my personal failure takes Pakistan to that direction, I will be content. However much time I get, I'll be grateful for and do my best," he had said.

The Pak skipper although acknowledged that need of more red-ball exposure after losing two Test series.

"Bangladesh have two players who have played 70-90 Tests (Shakib Al Hasan and Mushfiqur Rahman), and Litton [Das] and Mehidy [Hasan Miraz] have played close to 40. We need the same level of red-ball exposure. Test cricket is the ultimate format of the game. You need experience. It's obvious we need more Test and red-ball cricket," he added.

Pakistan's next Test assignment is a home Test series against England. They are scheduled to play three Tests against the English side out of which one could be shifted out of the country due to ongoing revamp work at one of the venues.

Pakistan Test coach Jason Gillespie thinks that skipper Shan Masood is not at fault for losing 0-2 in the home Test series against Bangladesh. Gillespie made the comments after the end of second Rawalpindi Test and stressed that the players are good enough.

Pakistan Test coach Jason Gillespie thinks that skipper Shan Masood is not at fault for losing 0-2 in the home Test series against Bangladesh. Gillespie made the comments after the end of second Rawalpindi Test and stressed that the players are good enough. "Shan, I feel, has led the side very well. We just haven't played well as a team and that's the reality. We need to sharpen up on certain areas and we will sharpen up. I want to back and believe in these players, they are good enough," he had said. Also Read: 'Much information out...,' Aussie all-rounder Cameron Green warns India ahead of upcoming Test series Pakistan Test skipper Masood's position is under scrutiny after successive whitewash against Australia in Australia and against Bangladesh at home. Masood, however, isn't too worried about it. "I am not worried for my job security. I took this job to make the changes we believe will help this team. If I believe this team can go in a certain direction, even if my personal failure takes Pakistan to that direction, I will be content. However much time I get, I'll be grateful for and do my best," he had said. The Pak skipper although acknowledged that need of more red-ball exposure after losing two Test series. "Bangladesh have two players who have played 70-90 Tests (Shakib Al Hasan and Mushfiqur Rahman), and Litton [Das] and Mehidy [Hasan Miraz] have played close to 40. We need the same level of red-ball exposure. Test cricket is the ultimate format of the game. You need experience. It's obvious we need more Test and red-ball cricket," he added. Pakistan's next Test assignment is a home Test series against England. They are scheduled to play three Tests against the English side out of which one could be shifted out of the country due to ongoing revamp work at one of the venues.

'Haven't played well...,' Pakistan Test coach Jason Gillespie on skipper Shan Masood post series vs Bangladesh

Former Pakistan spinner Danish Kaneria feels that Pakistan cricket needs to learn from India coach Gautam Gambhir to be strong and "make the&nbsp;decision on the face."&nbsp;Kaneria made the remarks after Pakistan's recent 0-2 Test series loss against Bangladesh at home.&nbsp;

"Why today other teams are doing so well? Why is the Indian team doing so well? They had a Rahul Dravid who worked with the team very well now they have Gautam Gambhir, a fantastic cricketer and fantastic guy. The way he reacts, he tells on the face. He doesn't go back and do backbiting; he's on the face straight away. This is how you have to be. You have to be strong, and like a strong person, you have to make the decision on the face, not at the back,” said Kaneria while talking to news outlet Republic TV.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/much-information-out-aussie-all-rounder-cameron-green-warns-india-ahead-of-upcoming-test-series-756677">'Much information out...,' Aussie all-rounder Cameron Green warns India ahead of upcoming Test series</a>

There are reports doing&nbsp;rounds which suggest that Pakistan's white-ball skipper Babar Azam may be removed amid the rut of form. Babar was recently handed the captaincy back after being sacked in the aftermath of the 2023 ODI World Cup where Pakistan failed to make it to the semis.

“Everything is taken for granted; that's why the downfall of Pakistan cricket has gone through making captains, changing captain. That will not work. Stick to your captain stick with him," Kaneria said.

"Okay, I have made him the captain for one year. I will ask him. I will ask him to give me an answer after one year. Nobody will touch him you have full support from me, but you need to perform. If you don't perform, you go out, so that's the thing you have to make tough decisions. Why, if you don't make tough decisions, things will not work," he added.

Pakistan Test skipper Shan Masood's position is also under scrutiny after successive whitewash against Australia in Australia and against Bangladesh at home. Their next Test assignment is a home Test series against England.

Former Pakistan spinner Danish Kaneria feels that Pakistan cricket needs to learn from India coach Gautam Gambhir to be strong and "make the decision on the face.

Former Pakistan spinner Danish Kaneria feels that Pakistan cricket needs to learn from India coach Gautam Gambhir to be strong and "make the decision on the face." Kaneria made the remarks after Pakistan's recent 0-2 Test series loss against Bangladesh at home. "Why today other teams are doing so well? Why is the Indian team doing so well? They had a Rahul Dravid who worked with the team very well now they have Gautam Gambhir, a fantastic cricketer and fantastic guy. The way he reacts, he tells on the face. He doesn't go back and do backbiting; he's on the face straight away. This is how you have to be. You have to be strong, and like a strong person, you have to make the decision on the face, not at the back,” said Kaneria while talking to news outlet Republic TV. Also Read: 'Much information out...,' Aussie all-rounder Cameron Green warns India ahead of upcoming Test series There are reports doing rounds which suggest that Pakistan's white-ball skipper Babar Azam may be removed amid the rut of form. Babar was recently handed the captaincy back after being sacked in the aftermath of the 2023 ODI World Cup where Pakistan failed to make it to the semis. “Everything is taken for granted; that's why the downfall of Pakistan cricket has gone through making captains, changing captain. That will not work. Stick to your captain stick with him," Kaneria said. "Okay, I have made him the captain for one year. I will ask him. I will ask him to give me an answer after one year. Nobody will touch him you have full support from me, but you need to perform. If you don't perform, you go out, so that's the thing you have to make tough decisions. Why, if you don't make tough decisions, things will not work," he added. Pakistan Test skipper Shan Masood's position is also under scrutiny after successive whitewash against Australia in Australia and against Bangladesh at home. Their next Test assignment is a home Test series against England.

'Make the decision on...,' Ex-spinner Danish Kaneria wants Pakistan cricket to learn from India coach Gambhir

Australia all-rounder Cameron Green is 'looking forward' to the five-Test home series against India to get one up on potential World Test Championship (WTC) 2023/25 Final opponents. Australia had beaten India in the last WTC Final as well despite losing two consecutive Test series against them at own home ground.

"Yeah, I think it's always an amazing rivalry and I think lots of things come out of the tournament every single time we go versus each other. So yeah, I'm sure this series won't be any less. So yeah, looking forward to it," Green said during a conversation on Star Sports.

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"Every single point is pretty crucial for the World Test Championship. Any way you can kind of get an idea of how to get one up on your opponent, I think we'll try and take," he added.

With India and Australia being the top two Test teams on the current WTC points table, Green noted that the upcoming home Test series is an opportunity to get some information.

"If it is a bit of a preview for a World Test Championship final again, I think yeah, we've been trying to get as much information out of India and see how we can win it again," said the Aussie all-rounder.

Ever since winning the 2024 T20 World Cup earlier this year the Indian cricket team has not played a lot of cricket apart from a couple of limited-over series.

Their next assignment is a two-Test home series against Bangladesh before hosting New Zealand for a three-Test series. India then travels to Australia for a five-Test Border-Gavaskar series which starts late November.

India last lost a Test series against Australia in 2014 and have&nbsp;won four series (two home and two away) against them since then.

Australia all-rounder Cameron Green is 'looking forward' to the five-Test home series against India to get one up on potential World Test Championship (WTC) 2023/25 Final opponents.

Australia all-rounder Cameron Green is 'looking forward' to the five-Test home series against India to get one up on potential World Test Championship (WTC) 2023/25 Final opponents. Australia had beaten India in the last WTC Final as well despite losing two consecutive Test series against them at own home ground. "Yeah, I think it's always an amazing rivalry and I think lots of things come out of the tournament every single time we go versus each other. So yeah, I'm sure this series won't be any less. So yeah, looking forward to it," Green said during a conversation on Star Sports. Also Read: Blow to England as Mark Wood ruled out of Pakistan, New Zealand tours with elbow injury "Every single point is pretty crucial for the World Test Championship. Any way you can kind of get an idea of how to get one up on your opponent, I think we'll try and take," he added. With India and Australia being the top two Test teams on the current WTC points table, Green noted that the upcoming home Test series is an opportunity to get some information. "If it is a bit of a preview for a World Test Championship final again, I think yeah, we've been trying to get as much information out of India and see how we can win it again," said the Aussie all-rounder. Ever since winning the 2024 T20 World Cup earlier this year the Indian cricket team has not played a lot of cricket apart from a couple of limited-over series. Their next assignment is a two-Test home series against Bangladesh before hosting New Zealand for a three-Test series. India then travels to Australia for a five-Test Border-Gavaskar series which starts late November. India last lost a Test series against Australia in 2014 and have won four series (two home and two away) against them since then.

'Much information out...,' Aussie all-rounder Cameron Green warns India ahead of upcoming Test series

Veteran Indian off-spinner lauded Bangladesh for their recent Test series whitewash over hosts Pakistan but feels disappointed to see the state of Pakistan cricket. Shan Masood-led Pakistan were whitewashed by the Bangla Tigers in a two-match Test series after the visitors' six-wicket win, in pursuit of 185, in the second and final Test in Rawalpindi on Tuesday (Sep 3). Notably, Pakistan's last Test win at home came in Feb, 2021.

On his YouTube channel, Ashwin pointed out, "What a victory for Bangladesh but what a disappointment for Pakistan. It's quite disappointing because Pakistan is not an easy team to beat. But more than 1000 days at home Pakistan haven't won at home. Pakistani cricket fans are passionate."

<h2>'I FEEL FOR PAKISTAN CRICKET'S HISTORY'</h2>

Ashwin, India's second-highest wicket-taker in Tests (516&nbsp;scalps), pointed the legacy of Pakistan cricket to express his shock at the Asian giants' current performance. He opined, "You know who I feel for the most? It's Pakistan cricket's history. Waqar Younis, Wasim Akram, Shoaib Akhtar, Imran Khan, Inzamam-ul-Haq, Ijaz Ahmed,, Salim Malik, Saeed Anwar, Amer Sohail... I can just keep on going. What legacy that country and their cricket team has."

Ashwin further lauded Bangladesh and said, "Of course, Bangladesh have come a long way. I don't take anything away from them. Last year, when we toured Bangladesh, we knew what a good Test side Bangladesh is. They have got a lot of experience in Shakib Al Hasan, Mushfiqur Rahim, Mehidy Hasan and they have also got some good young talent."

"Keeping all this aside, to see where Pakistan cricket where it is now... It was difficult to beat them even 10 years ago when Misbah, Younis Khan were there and they played their home matches in the UAE. You had the likes of Yasir Shah, you had two left-arm spinners in Adbur Rahman and Zulfiqar Babar coming in. Where they (Pakistan team) are right now, I can't believe it," the wily spinner further mentioned.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/he-is-very-one-sided-rishabh-pant-on-difference-in-working-styles-between-gautam-gambhir-and-rahul-dravid-756365">He is very one-sided...: Rishabh Pant on difference in working styles between Gautam Gambhir and Rahul Dravid</a>

Ashwin symphathised with Masood, who has now lost five successive Tests since taking over from Babar Azam as the Test skipper. He added, "I feel terribly bad for someone like Shan Masood. Shan Masood is a very smart cricketer. I know that guy. He speaks a lot of sense. He can be a really good captain for Pakistan. But handling a Pakistan team at this point, where somebody like Babar Azam is not the captain and he's the poster boy of Pakistan, it cannot be an easy dressing room."

Veteran Indian off-spinner lauded Bangladesh for their recent Test series whitewash over hosts Pakistan but feels disappointed to see the state of Pakistan cricket.

Veteran Indian off-spinner lauded Bangladesh for their recent Test series whitewash over hosts Pakistan but feels disappointed to see the state of Pakistan cricket. Shan Masood-led Pakistan were whitewashed by the Bangla Tigers in a two-match Test series after the visitors' six-wicket win, in pursuit of 185, in the second and final Test in Rawalpindi on Tuesday (Sep 3). Notably, Pakistan's last Test win at home came in Feb, 2021. On his YouTube channel, Ashwin pointed out, "What a victory for Bangladesh but what a disappointment for Pakistan. It's quite disappointing because Pakistan is not an easy team to beat. But more than 1000 days at home Pakistan haven't won at home. Pakistani cricket fans are passionate." 'I FEEL FOR PAKISTAN CRICKET'S HISTORY' Ashwin, India's second-highest wicket-taker in Tests (516 scalps), pointed the legacy of Pakistan cricket to express his shock at the Asian giants' current performance. He opined, "You know who I feel for the most? It's Pakistan cricket's history. Waqar Younis, Wasim Akram, Shoaib Akhtar, Imran Khan, Inzamam-ul-Haq, Ijaz Ahmed,, Salim Malik, Saeed Anwar, Amer Sohail... I can just keep on going. What legacy that country and their cricket team has." Ashwin further lauded Bangladesh and said, "Of course, Bangladesh have come a long way. I don't take anything away from them. Last year, when we toured Bangladesh, we knew what a good Test side Bangladesh is. They have got a lot of experience in Shakib Al Hasan, Mushfiqur Rahim, Mehidy Hasan and they have also got some good young talent." "Keeping all this aside, to see where Pakistan cricket where it is now... It was difficult to beat them even 10 years ago when Misbah, Younis Khan were there and they played their home matches in the UAE. You had the likes of Yasir Shah, you had two left-arm spinners in Adbur Rahman and Zulfiqar Babar coming in. Where they (Pakistan team) are right now, I can't believe it," the wily spinner further mentioned. Also read: He is very one-sided...: Rishabh Pant on difference in working styles between Gautam Gambhir and Rahul Dravid Ashwin symphathised with Masood, who has now lost five successive Tests since taking over from Babar Azam as the Test skipper. He added, "I feel terribly bad for someone like Shan Masood. Shan Masood is a very smart cricketer. I know that guy. He speaks a lot of sense. He can be a really good captain for Pakistan. But handling a Pakistan team at this point, where somebody like Babar Azam is not the captain and he's the poster boy of Pakistan, it cannot be an easy dressing room."

They haven't won a home Test in over 1,000 days: Ashwin DISAPPOINTED for Pakistan after Bangladesh series

Post the 2024 T20 World Cup win, Rahul Dravid's coaching tenure came to an end and he was succeeded by Gautam Gambhir. Under Gambhir, India's first assignment was a white-ball tour of Sri Lanka where the Men in Blue whitewashed the Lankans&nbsp;in the&nbsp;T20Is (3-0) but lost the three ODIs 2-0. Ahead of the ongoing Duleep Trophy, wicketkeeper-batter Rishabh Pant -- who is representing India B in the domestic tournament -- spoke on the difference in working styles of former coach Dravid and his successor Gambhir.

<h2>'Dravid was very balanced, Gambhir is one-sided about the fact that you've to win'</h2>

Speaking on JioCinema, Pant said, "I feel Rahul bhai was very balanced as a human being and as a coach. It could be both good and bad. There are positives and negatives, and it depends on where individuals want to focus. Gauti bhai (Gambhir) is more aggressive, he's very one-sided about the fact that you have to win. But you need to find the right balance and improve."

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rishabh-pant-realises-bangladesh-threat-says-cannot-afford-to-underestimate-any-team-756170">Rishabh Pant realises Bangladesh threat, says ‘cannot afford to underestimate any team'</a>

Under Gambhir, India got off to a mediocre start but will look to make amends in their forthcoming home season, where they host Bangladesh for two Tests and New Zealand in a&nbsp;three-match Test series later. Soon after, India's litmus test will begin when they travel to Australia for a five-match Test series, i.e. the next edition of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, starting on Nov 22. It will be the biggest challenge for Gambhir since taking over as India's head coach.

Talking about Dravid, he took over as the India coach in late 2021 and served until the end of the 2024 T20 WC. He was initially set to end his term after the home ODI WC last year, however, he received a six-month extension. It proved to be a masterstroke as Dravid helped Rohit Sharma-led India end their 11-year-long ICC-title drought in the T20 WC, held in West Indies and USA.

Post the 2024 T20 World Cup win, Rahul Dravid's coaching tenure came to an end and he was succeeded by Gautam Gambhir. Under Gambhir, India's first assignment was a white-ball tour of Sri Lanka where the Men in Blue whitewashed the Lankans in the T20Is (3-0) but lost the three ODIs 2-0.

Post the 2024 T20 World Cup win, Rahul Dravid's coaching tenure came to an end and he was succeeded by Gautam Gambhir. Under Gambhir, India's first assignment was a white-ball tour of Sri Lanka where the Men in Blue whitewashed the Lankans in the T20Is (3-0) but lost the three ODIs 2-0. Ahead of the ongoing Duleep Trophy, wicketkeeper-batter Rishabh Pant -- who is representing India B in the domestic tournament -- spoke on the difference in working styles of former coach Dravid and his successor Gambhir. 'Dravid was very balanced, Gambhir is one-sided about the fact that you've to win' Speaking on JioCinema, Pant said, "I feel Rahul bhai was very balanced as a human being and as a coach. It could be both good and bad. There are positives and negatives, and it depends on where individuals want to focus. Gauti bhai (Gambhir) is more aggressive, he's very one-sided about the fact that you have to win. But you need to find the right balance and improve." Also read: Rishabh Pant realises Bangladesh threat, says ‘cannot afford to underestimate any team' Under Gambhir, India got off to a mediocre start but will look to make amends in their forthcoming home season, where they host Bangladesh for two Tests and New Zealand in a three-match Test series later. Soon after, India's litmus test will begin when they travel to Australia for a five-match Test series, i.e. the next edition of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, starting on Nov 22. It will be the biggest challenge for Gambhir since taking over as India's head coach. Talking about Dravid, he took over as the India coach in late 2021 and served until the end of the 2024 T20 WC. He was initially set to end his term after the home ODI WC last year, however, he received a six-month extension. It proved to be a masterstroke as Dravid helped Rohit Sharma-led India end their 11-year-long ICC-title drought in the T20 WC, held in West Indies and USA.

He is very one-sided...: Rishabh Pant on difference in working styles of Gautam Gambhir and Rahul Dravid

Australia's dashing opener Travis Head smashed a quickfire 25-ball 80 during Mitchell Marsh-led side's convincing seven-wicket win over Scotland in the three-match T20I series opener on Wednesday (Sep 4). Head was on a roll in his side's 155-run chase as the left-hander started on a dominating note. As a result, Head slammed the highest score&nbsp;by a batter inside the powerplay, effectively making the run-chase a one-sided affair. During the first six overs, the swashbuckling batter slammed 73 runs (off 22 balls), laced with 16 boundaries.&nbsp;

Highest score by&nbsp;a batter inside Powerplay (T20Is) 
73(22) Travis Head vs Sco Edinburgh 2024 
67(25) Paul Stirling vs WI St George's 2020 
66(23) Colin Munro vs WI Mt Maunganui 2018 
64(24) Quinton de Kock vs WI Centurion 2023

Note: Players from full member sides.

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While Australia lost Fraser-McGurk early in the chase, in the first over for a 3-ball duck, Head and captain Marsh accelerated and made a mockery of the 155-run target within the first six overs with their strokeplay. In the fifth over, Marsh smashed Jack Jarvis for 30 runs, including three 4s and equal number of 6s. In the following over, Head joined the party and scored 26 runs&nbsp;off Brad Wheal, with five 4s and a six. Thus, Australia also managed the highest team total in powerplay in T20Is.&nbsp;

Highest Powerplay totals in T20Is 
113/1 Aus vs Sco Edinburgh 2024 
102/0 SA vs WI Centurion 2023 
98/4 WI vs SL Coolidge 2021 
93/0 Ire vs WI St George's 2020 
92/1 WI vs Afg Gros Islet 2024 
 
Note: Matches involving at least one full member side.

Early in the contest, Australia rode on Xavier&nbsp;Bartlett (2 for 23), Sean Abbott (3 for 39) and Adam Zampa (2 for 33) to restrict&nbsp;Richie Berrington-led Scotland for a modest 154 for 6 after opting to bowl first. None of the Scottish batters went on to score big as Australia restricted them to a below-par total. Eventually, Head closed the game by virtue of his batting blitz in the powerplay before ending with a splendid&nbsp;25-ball 80 to give his side a 1-0 lead.

The second and penultimate T20I will be held at the same venue on Friday (Sep 6).

Australia's dashing opener Travis Head smashed a quickfire 25-ball 80 during Mitchell Marsh-led side's convincing seven-wicket win over Scotland in the three-match T20I series opener on Wednesday (Sep 4).

Australia's dashing opener Travis Head smashed a quickfire 25-ball 80 during Mitchell Marsh-led side's convincing seven-wicket win over Scotland in the three-match T20I series opener on Wednesday (Sep 4). Head was on a roll in his side's 155-run chase as the left-hander started on a dominating note. As a result, Head slammed the highest score by a batter inside the powerplay, effectively making the run-chase a one-sided affair. During the first six overs, the swashbuckling batter slammed 73 runs (off 22 balls), laced with 16 boundaries. Highest score by a batter inside Powerplay (T20Is) 73(22) Travis Head vs Sco Edinburgh 2024 67(25) Paul Stirling vs WI St George's 2020 66(23) Colin Munro vs WI Mt Maunganui 2018 64(24) Quinton de Kock vs WI Centurion 2023 Note: Players from full member sides. Also read: Border-Gavaskar Trophy: India will make Australia run in their own backyard, claims former BCCI chief selector While Australia lost Fraser-McGurk early in the chase, in the first over for a 3-ball duck, Head and captain Marsh accelerated and made a mockery of the 155-run target within the first six overs with their strokeplay. In the fifth over, Marsh smashed Jack Jarvis for 30 runs, including three 4s and equal number of 6s. In the following over, Head joined the party and scored 26 runs off Brad Wheal, with five 4s and a six. Thus, Australia also managed the highest team total in powerplay in T20Is. Highest Powerplay totals in T20Is 113/1 Aus vs Sco Edinburgh 2024 102/0 SA vs WI Centurion 2023 98/4 WI vs SL Coolidge 2021 93/0 Ire vs WI St George's 2020 92/1 WI vs Afg Gros Islet 2024 Note: Matches involving at least one full member side. Early in the contest, Australia rode on Xavier Bartlett (2 for 23), Sean Abbott (3 for 39) and Adam Zampa (2 for 33) to restrict Richie Berrington-led Scotland for a modest 154 for 6 after opting to bowl first. None of the Scottish batters went on to score big as Australia restricted them to a below-par total. Eventually, Head closed the game by virtue of his batting blitz in the powerplay before ending with a splendid 25-ball 80 to give his side a 1-0 lead. The second and penultimate T20I will be held at the same venue on Friday (Sep 6).

Travis Head attains THIS unique feat as sensational 80 in Australia's 1st T20I win over Scotland

Pakistan captain Shan Masood has cleared the air on a reported rift between him and star pacer Shaheen Shah Afridi after the hosts lost to Bangladesh in the second Test match on Tuesday (Sep 3). A video that went viral showed Shaheen shrugging off Shan in anger, highlighting the discontent between the players. However, Shan has now taken to the media and stated that it was an injury where Shan was touched that prompted Shaheen to shrug him off.

<h2>Shan clears the air on Shaheen&nbsp;incident</h2>

"There’s nothing more to it," Masood stated, downplaying any suggestions of discord. I think there was an incident going around where I had put my hands on Shaheen's shoulder, and he had shrugged it off. He was not angry with me. He had got hit by Nahid Rana and I had touched that exact place," Masood said during the post-match press conference.

Another incident in the warm-up that went viral saw Shan lash out at Shaheen, but that too was miscommunication. According to the Pakistan captain, he was furious with head coach Jason Gillespie for using the old ball and not pointing out the pacer.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tennis/news-us-open-2024-aryna-sabalenka-demolishes-zheng-to-reach-fourth-semis-taylor-fritz-stuns-alexander-zverev-755678">US Open 2024: Aryna Sabalenka demolishes Zheng to reach fourth semis; Taylor Fritz stuns Alexander Zverev</a>

<h2>Bangladesh embarrass Pakistan</h2>

Bangladesh inflicted an embarrassing whitewash on hosts Pakistan in the two-match Test series on Tuesday after a six-wicket win in Rawalpindi. Having already won the first Test by 10 wickets, Bangladesh won the second Test to register a historic series win. This is Bangladesh’s third series win on foreign soil having beaten West Indies in 2009 and then Zimbabwe in 2021. For Pakistan, this remains the lowest point in their Test cricket history with the 2-0 defeat against Bangladesh.

With a draw required to win the series, Bangladesh went one better as they won the match by six wickets at the same venue. Having been 26/6 at one stage in the first innings, Bangladesh did well to get back into the match as they only trailed by 12 runs. Pakistan, however, were brought down to their knees in the second innings as they were bowled out for 172 runs, setting a 185-run target for the visitors to win.

Pakistan captain Shan Masood has cleared the air on a reported rift between him and star pacer Shaheen Shah Afridi after the hosts lost to Bangladesh in the second Test match on Tuesday (Sep 3).

Pakistan captain Shan Masood has cleared the air on a reported rift between him and star pacer Shaheen Shah Afridi after the hosts lost to Bangladesh in the second Test match on Tuesday (Sep 3). A video that went viral showed Shaheen shrugging off Shan in anger, highlighting the discontent between the players. However, Shan has now taken to the media and stated that it was an injury where Shan was touched that prompted Shaheen to shrug him off. Shan clears the air on Shaheen incident "There’s nothing more to it," Masood stated, downplaying any suggestions of discord. I think there was an incident going around where I had put my hands on Shaheen's shoulder, and he had shrugged it off. He was not angry with me. He had got hit by Nahid Rana and I had touched that exact place," Masood said during the post-match press conference. Another incident in the warm-up that went viral saw Shan lash out at Shaheen, but that too was miscommunication. According to the Pakistan captain, he was furious with head coach Jason Gillespie for using the old ball and not pointing out the pacer. ALSO READ | US Open 2024: Aryna Sabalenka demolishes Zheng to reach fourth semis; Taylor Fritz stuns Alexander Zverev Bangladesh embarrass Pakistan Bangladesh inflicted an embarrassing whitewash on hosts Pakistan in the two-match Test series on Tuesday after a six-wicket win in Rawalpindi. Having already won the first Test by 10 wickets, Bangladesh won the second Test to register a historic series win. This is Bangladesh’s third series win on foreign soil having beaten West Indies in 2009 and then Zimbabwe in 2021. For Pakistan, this remains the lowest point in their Test cricket history with the 2-0 defeat against Bangladesh. With a draw required to win the series, Bangladesh went one better as they won the match by six wickets at the same venue. Having been 26/6 at one stage in the first innings, Bangladesh did well to get back into the match as they only trailed by 12 runs. Pakistan, however, were brought down to their knees in the second innings as they were bowled out for 172 runs, setting a 185-run target for the visitors to win.

Pakistan captain Shan Masood opens up on rumoured tension with Shaheen Afridi, says 'he was suffering from...'

England Test skipper Ben Stokes has expressed 'surprise' over the appointment of Brendon McCullum as the English side's all-format coach. McCullum had been England's Test coach since 2022 and now has been given the added responsibility of white-ball as well. He replaces Matthew Mott who was sacked following England's failure to defend the T20 World Cup title, earlier in 2024.

"I was very surprised by the news. First and foremost, I think it's an unbelievable move for English cricket to go back to having a coach in charge of all the teams. You look at what Baz has achieved with the Test side, it's been amazing," said Stokes as reported by news agency IANS citing cricket news website ESPNCricinfo.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/ipl-2025-rahul-dravid-set-be-back-at-rajasthan-royals-as-head-coach-755848">IPL 2025: Rahul Dravid set to be back at Rajasthan Royals as head coach</a>

Stokes, however, is super excited for McCullum to work with white-ball skipper Jos Buttler during a time when England is facing criticism for failing to defend both their ODI World Cup and T20 World Cup titles.

"I'm really excited for the white-ball team to have the opportunity to be able to work with Baz, listen to him speak, and hear his opinions. I think Jos is going to really, really enjoy having him as his coach to work with," Stokes said.

"And you look at all the new faces who are coming into that white-ball team now, I couldn't think of a better person for them to come in and work under at international level for the first time. He just gives everyone the platform to go out and enjoy themselves. Baz never puts any added pressure on anybody's shoulders," he added.

McCullum will start his twin role from&nbsp;January 2025. Interim white-ball head coach Marcus Trescothick will fulfil his role during the upcoming Australia series as well as the Caribbean tour in November as well.

"I've thoroughly enjoyed my time with the Test team, and I'm excited to extend my role to include the white-ball sides," McCullum said on his appointment.

McCullum had shown little to no interest in the role earlier, given the hectic schedule of England. He, however, took the job after assurance from the director of men's cricket Rob Key.

England Test skipper Ben Stokes has expressed 'surprise' over the appointment of Brendon McCullum as the English side's all-format coach. McCullum had been England's Test coach since 2022 and now has been given the added responsibility of white-ball as well.

England Test skipper Ben Stokes has expressed 'surprise' over the appointment of Brendon McCullum as the English side's all-format coach. McCullum had been England's Test coach since 2022 and now has been given the added responsibility of white-ball as well. He replaces Matthew Mott who was sacked following England's failure to defend the T20 World Cup title, earlier in 2024. "I was very surprised by the news. First and foremost, I think it's an unbelievable move for English cricket to go back to having a coach in charge of all the teams. You look at what Baz has achieved with the Test side, it's been amazing," said Stokes as reported by news agency IANS citing cricket news website ESPNCricinfo. Also Read: IPL 2025: Rahul Dravid set to be back at Rajasthan Royals as head coach Stokes, however, is super excited for McCullum to work with white-ball skipper Jos Buttler during a time when England is facing criticism for failing to defend both their ODI World Cup and T20 World Cup titles. "I'm really excited for the white-ball team to have the opportunity to be able to work with Baz, listen to him speak, and hear his opinions. I think Jos is going to really, really enjoy having him as his coach to work with," Stokes said. "And you look at all the new faces who are coming into that white-ball team now, I couldn't think of a better person for them to come in and work under at international level for the first time. He just gives everyone the platform to go out and enjoy themselves. Baz never puts any added pressure on anybody's shoulders," he added. McCullum will start his twin role from January 2025. Interim white-ball head coach Marcus Trescothick will fulfil his role during the upcoming Australia series as well as the Caribbean tour in November as well. "I've thoroughly enjoyed my time with the Test team, and I'm excited to extend my role to include the white-ball sides," McCullum said on his appointment. McCullum had shown little to no interest in the role earlier, given the hectic schedule of England. He, however, took the job after assurance from the director of men's cricket Rob Key.

'Unbelievable move...,' England Test skipper Ben Stokes 'surprised' as Brendon McCullum named white-ball coach

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