Sri Lanka is set to lock horns with Ben Stokes-less England in the first Test of the three-match series, at Old Trafford, Manchester on Aug 21 (Wednesday). Ahead of the series opener, interim head coach Sanath Jayasuriya played down the hype around 'Bazball' and claimed that it is 'just media publicity' as the ultra-aggressive batting approach was evident even during his playing days, especially by Australian openers Adam Gilchrist and Matthew Hayden.

<h2>'Hayden and&nbsp;Gilchrist did it too.&nbsp;It has just been some media publicity'</h2>

Talking to the press about England's Bazball approach, Jayasuriya said, "You get various styles depending on the time. Matthew Hayden and Adam Gilchrist did it too during our time. This is something similar to what we have had in the past. There has just been some media publicity that this is something new. They try to play attacking cricket from the outset, but the end goal is to get to those totals of 300 or 400."

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/history-created-samoas-darius-visser-enters-record-books-with-39-runs-in-an-over-751538">HISTORY CREATED! Samoa's Darius Visser enters record books by smashing 39 runs in an over</a>

Jayasuriya, however, acknowledged&nbsp;England's aggressive batting approach in the first 10 overs, saying the visitors are aware of it. The Sri Lankan&nbsp;mentioned, "It's in the first ten overs that there will be the most pressure I think. If you look historically, they have been attacking in that first ten overs and getting runs on the board quickly. We have got some plans to counter that. And we know this is how they will play."

He further added, "We have to bowl in the right places, and if they hit the good balls, that's okay. We need to identify the right lengths given the conditions. There will be times when we need to cover the areas of the field where they are attacking, to cut down the boundaries."

England will be led by Ollie Pope after regular Test skipper Stokes injured himself during The Hundred. The hosts have already announced their playing XI for the Manchester Test.

England playing XI:&nbsp;Dan Lawrence, Ben Duckett, Ollie Pope (c), Joe Root, Harry Brook (vc), Jamie Smith (wk), Chris Woakes, Gus Atkinson, Matthew Potts, Mark Wood, Shoaib Bashir.

Sri Lanka squad:&nbsp;Dhananjaya De Silva (c), Kusal Mendis (vc), Dimuth Karunaratne, Nishan Madushka, Pathum Nissanka, Angelo Mathews, Dinesh Chandimal, Kamindu Mendis, Sadeera Samarawickrama, Asitha Fernando, Vishwa Fernando, Kasun Rajitha, Lahiru Kumara, Nisala Tharaka, Prabath Jayasuriya, Ramesh Mendis, Jeffrey Vandersay, Milan Rathnayake.&nbsp;

Sri Lanka is set to lock horns with Ben Stokes-less England in the first Test of the three-match series, at Old Trafford, Manchester on Aug 21 (Wednesday). Ahead of the series opener, interim head coach Sanath Jayasuriya played down the hype around 'Bazball' and claimed that it is 'just media publicity' as the ultra-aggressive batting approach was evident even during his playing days, especially by Australian openers Adam Gilchrist and Matthew Hayden.

Sri Lanka is set to lock horns with Ben Stokes-less England in the first Test of the three-match series, at Old Trafford, Manchester on Aug 21 (Wednesday). Ahead of the series opener, interim head coach Sanath Jayasuriya played down the hype around 'Bazball' and claimed that it is 'just media publicity' as the ultra-aggressive batting approach was evident even during his playing days, especially by Australian openers Adam Gilchrist and Matthew Hayden. 'Hayden and Gilchrist did it too. It has just been some media publicity' Talking to the press about England's Bazball approach, Jayasuriya said, "You get various styles depending on the time. Matthew Hayden and Adam Gilchrist did it too during our time. This is something similar to what we have had in the past. There has just been some media publicity that this is something new. They try to play attacking cricket from the outset, but the end goal is to get to those totals of 300 or 400." Also read: HISTORY CREATED! Samoa's Darius Visser enters record books by smashing 39 runs in an over Jayasuriya, however, acknowledged England's aggressive batting approach in the first 10 overs, saying the visitors are aware of it. The Sri Lankan mentioned, "It's in the first ten overs that there will be the most pressure I think. If you look historically, they have been attacking in that first ten overs and getting runs on the board quickly. We have got some plans to counter that. And we know this is how they will play." He further added, "We have to bowl in the right places, and if they hit the good balls, that's okay. We need to identify the right lengths given the conditions. There will be times when we need to cover the areas of the field where they are attacking, to cut down the boundaries." England will be led by Ollie Pope after regular Test skipper Stokes injured himself during The Hundred. The hosts have already announced their playing XI for the Manchester Test. England playing XI: Dan Lawrence, Ben Duckett, Ollie Pope (c), Joe Root, Harry Brook (vc), Jamie Smith (wk), Chris Woakes, Gus Atkinson, Matthew Potts, Mark Wood, Shoaib Bashir. Sri Lanka squad: Dhananjaya De Silva (c), Kusal Mendis (vc), Dimuth Karunaratne, Nishan Madushka, Pathum Nissanka, Angelo Mathews, Dinesh Chandimal, Kamindu Mendis, Sadeera Samarawickrama, Asitha Fernando, Vishwa Fernando, Kasun Rajitha, Lahiru Kumara, Nisala Tharaka, Prabath Jayasuriya, Ramesh Mendis, Jeffrey Vandersay, Milan Rathnayake.

Eng vs SL, 1st Test: Sanath Jayasuriya plays down 'Bazball' hype, says it is just 'media publicity'

On Tuesday (Aug 20), Samoa batter Darius Visser&nbsp;broke the men's T20I record for most runs in an over, smashing 39 runs in six balls,&nbsp;against Vanuatu during&nbsp;the T20 World Cup East Asia-Pacific Region Qualifier in&nbsp;Apia. As a result of his fireworks, Visser finished with 132 off 62 deliveries and starred in his side's narrow win. In what was just his third T20I, Visser became the first centurion from Samoa and the fourth batter, overall, to hit 6-sixes in an over.&nbsp;

<h2>How it all panned out</h2>

The 28-year-old Visser broke the&nbsp;record during the 15th over of Samoa's innings, hitting medium pacer Nalin Nipiko over the deep midwicket boundary in the first three deliveries, which was followed by a front-foot no-ball. The free-hit also met with the same fate, being hit for six over the leg side. After that, the next ball was a dot before Nipiko overstepped&nbsp;for the second time and then bowled another no-ball when Visser cleared the fine leg fence for another maximum.&nbsp;The last ball&nbsp;was a low full toss outside off stump and Visser, who was timing it with perfection, flicked it over deep square leg to smash 39 runs&nbsp;in an&nbsp;over.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/former-pak-batter-dismisses-this-india-stars-comeback-till-2025-champions-trophy-says-focus-on-ipl-2025-751344">Former Pak batter dismisses THIS India star's comeback till 2025 Champions Trophy, says 'focus on IPL 2025'</a>

<h2>Previous instances&nbsp;</h2>

Notably, before Visser's onslaught,&nbsp;there have been five such instances of a team scoring 36 runs in an over in men's T20Is. India's Yuvraj Singh was the first-ever batter to hit six sixes in an over, during India's Super 8 game versus England, in Durban, during the inaugural T20 World Cup in South Africa. In 2021, West Indies' Kieron Pollard repeated the feat against Sri Lanka's Akila Dananjaya whereas&nbsp;Nepal's Dipendra Singh Airee achieved it earlier this year.

The other two instances of 36-run overs also came recently, both in this year, however, they did not contain six sixes. One came when West Indies - thanks to power-hitter Nicholas Pooran - scored 36 against Afghanistan during the recently-held&nbsp;T20 World Cup whereas the other came courtesy of a combined effort from India's&nbsp;Rohit Sharma and Rinku Singh. The duo added&nbsp;36 runs in an over&nbsp;during a T20I against&nbsp;Afghanistan&nbsp;in Jan 2024.

Talking more about Visser, the right-hander&nbsp;also became the batter&nbsp;scoring the highest percentage of runs&nbsp;in an innings (132 out of 174; i.e. 75.86%). Courtesy of him, Samoa edged past Vanuatu by 10 runs after restricting them to 164/9.

On Tuesday (Aug 20), Samoa batter Darius Visser broke the men's T20I record for most runs in an over, smashing 39 runs in six balls, against Vanuatu during the T20 World Cup East Asia-Pacific Region Qualifier in Apia.

On Tuesday (Aug 20), Samoa batter Darius Visser broke the men's T20I record for most runs in an over, smashing 39 runs in six balls, against Vanuatu during the T20 World Cup East Asia-Pacific Region Qualifier in Apia. As a result of his fireworks, Visser finished with 132 off 62 deliveries and starred in his side's narrow win. In what was just his third T20I, Visser became the first centurion from Samoa and the fourth batter, overall, to hit 6-sixes in an over. How it all panned out The 28-year-old Visser broke the record during the 15th over of Samoa's innings, hitting medium pacer Nalin Nipiko over the deep midwicket boundary in the first three deliveries, which was followed by a front-foot no-ball. The free-hit also met with the same fate, being hit for six over the leg side. After that, the next ball was a dot before Nipiko overstepped for the second time and then bowled another no-ball when Visser cleared the fine leg fence for another maximum. The last ball was a low full toss outside off stump and Visser, who was timing it with perfection, flicked it over deep square leg to smash 39 runs in an over. Also read: Former Pak batter dismisses THIS India star's comeback till 2025 Champions Trophy, says 'focus on IPL 2025' Previous instances Notably, before Visser's onslaught, there have been five such instances of a team scoring 36 runs in an over in men's T20Is. India's Yuvraj Singh was the first-ever batter to hit six sixes in an over, during India's Super 8 game versus England, in Durban, during the inaugural T20 World Cup in South Africa. In 2021, West Indies' Kieron Pollard repeated the feat against Sri Lanka's Akila Dananjaya whereas Nepal's Dipendra Singh Airee achieved it earlier this year. The other two instances of 36-run overs also came recently, both in this year, however, they did not contain six sixes. One came when West Indies - thanks to power-hitter Nicholas Pooran - scored 36 against Afghanistan during the recently-held T20 World Cup whereas the other came courtesy of a combined effort from India's Rohit Sharma and Rinku Singh. The duo added 36 runs in an over during a T20I against Afghanistan in Jan 2024. Talking more about Visser, the right-hander also became the batter scoring the highest percentage of runs in an innings (132 out of 174; i.e. 75.86%). Courtesy of him, Samoa edged past Vanuatu by 10 runs after restricting them to 164/9.

HISTORY CREATED! Samoa's Darius Visser enters record books by smashing 39 runs in an over

Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) chairman Mohsin Naqvi has admitted that none of the country's stadiums currently meet international standards. It is to be noted that Pakistan is expected to host the ICC Champions Trophy early next year, their first ICC tournament since co-hosting 1996 ODI World Cup with India and Sri Lanka.

"There is a huge difference in international stadiums and those of ours. None of our stadiums are of international standard," said Naqvi while talking to media during inspection at Lahore's iconic Gaddafi Stadium.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/former-pak-batter-dismisses-this-india-stars-comeback-till-2025-champions-trophy-says-focus-on-ipl-2025-751344">Former Pak batter dismisses THIS India star's comeback till 2025 Champions Trophy, says 'focus on IPL 2025'</a>

He, however, felt confident of getting the work done before the tournament starts in February next year.

“The Frontier Works Organization (FWO) will make sure that all the stadiums in Pakistan become world-class. We will provide basic facilities in stadiums. The Champions Trophy will be held in Pakistan,” he added.

PCB has earmarked three venues in Karachi's National Stadium, Lahore's Gaddafi Stadium and Rawalpindi's Pindi Cricket Stadium to host the multi-nation tournament.

All three stadiums are currently undergoing renovation. PCB has also shifted the second Test against Bangladesh from Karachi to Rawalpindi in order to not disrupt the ongoing work.

There's, however, no clarity on India travelling to Pakistan for the tournament. India had also opted out of travelling to Pakistan for regional Asia Cup tournament in 2023. India's matches in the regional tournament were instead held in Sri Lanka.

Pakistan although, had travelled to India for the ODI World Cup 2023 shortly after the Asia Cup last year.

PCB has also submitted a draft schedule to the ICC for the tournament and has marked Lahore as the venue for hosting all of India's matches in the tournament including the semi-final and final.

Pakistan has now left it upon the ICC to deal with India's participation in the Champions Trophy.

Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) chairman Mohsin Naqvi has admitted that none of the country's stadiums currently meet international standards. It is to be noted that Pakistan is expected to host the ICC Champions Trophy early next year, their first ICC tournament since co-hosting 1996 ODI World Cup with India and Sri Lanka.

Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) chairman Mohsin Naqvi has admitted that none of the country's stadiums currently meet international standards. It is to be noted that Pakistan is expected to host the ICC Champions Trophy early next year, their first ICC tournament since co-hosting 1996 ODI World Cup with India and Sri Lanka. "There is a huge difference in international stadiums and those of ours. None of our stadiums are of international standard," said Naqvi while talking to media during inspection at Lahore's iconic Gaddafi Stadium. Also Read: Former Pak batter dismisses THIS India star's comeback till 2025 Champions Trophy, says 'focus on IPL 2025' He, however, felt confident of getting the work done before the tournament starts in February next year. “The Frontier Works Organization (FWO) will make sure that all the stadiums in Pakistan become world-class. We will provide basic facilities in stadiums. The Champions Trophy will be held in Pakistan,” he added. PCB has earmarked three venues in Karachi's National Stadium, Lahore's Gaddafi Stadium and Rawalpindi's Pindi Cricket Stadium to host the multi-nation tournament. All three stadiums are currently undergoing renovation. PCB has also shifted the second Test against Bangladesh from Karachi to Rawalpindi in order to not disrupt the ongoing work. There's, however, no clarity on India travelling to Pakistan for the tournament. India had also opted out of travelling to Pakistan for regional Asia Cup tournament in 2023. India's matches in the regional tournament were instead held in Sri Lanka. Pakistan although, had travelled to India for the ODI World Cup 2023 shortly after the Asia Cup last year. PCB has also submitted a draft schedule to the ICC for the tournament and has marked Lahore as the venue for hosting all of India's matches in the tournament including the semi-final and final. Pakistan has now left it upon the ICC to deal with India's participation in the Champions Trophy.

'The stadiums in Pakistan...,' PCB chief Mohsin Naqvi admits poor conditions ahead of Champions Trophy 2025

Australia women's cricket team captain Alyssa Healy has expressed reservation in playing the upcoming Women's T20 World Cup in Bangladesh. The comments come amid the unrest and ousting of Sheikh Hasina government in the host country.

"I find it really hard to see a cricket event going on over there at the moment and taking resources away from a country that is really struggling," Healy said as reported by ESPNCricinfo.

"They're needing everyone they can possibly get in there helping people that are dying."

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/pakistan-bowlers-aamer-jamal-and-abrar-ahmed-to-miss-first-test-against-bangladesh-751253">Pakistan bowlers Aamer Jamal and Abrar Ahmed to miss first Test against Bangladesh</a>

"I'd find it hard to fathom playing there at the moment, as a human being, I feel like it might be the wrong thing to do. But I'll leave it to the ICC to work out."

The International Cricket Council (ICC) approached India as the potential replacement but BCCI secretary Jay Shah denied the proposition. Currently, Sri Lanka is one of the options while Zimbabwe has also expressed interest in hosting the tournament.

"They [ICC] have asked us if we would conduct the World Cup. I have categorically said no," Jay Shah said to the Times of India, as quoted by ESPNcricinfo. "We're in the monsoon, and on top of that, we will host the Women's ODI World Cup next year. I don't want to give any kind of signals that I want to hold consecutive World Cups.”

Some of the participating countries, including India, Australia, and the UK, have already issued advisories against travelling to Bangladesh amid the unrest.

The ICC, meanwhile, is expected to take a decision on the matter later this week.

Although Bangladesh’s interim government is making a last-ditch effort to salvage the tournament, an ICC official, earlier last week, commented on the situation, saying they are considering all options, including shifting the T20 World Cup elsewhere.

"The ICC is closely monitoring developments in coordination with the Bangladesh Cricket Board [BCB], their security agencies and our own independent security consultants," an ICC statement said. "Our priority is the safety and well-being of all participants."&nbsp;

The Women's T20 World Cup is scheduled from October 3-20.

Australia women's cricket team captain Alyssa Healy has expressed reservation in playing the upcoming Women's T20 World Cup in Bangladesh. The comments come amid the unrest and ousting of Sheikh Hasina government in the host country.

Australia women's cricket team captain Alyssa Healy has expressed reservation in playing the upcoming Women's T20 World Cup in Bangladesh. The comments come amid the unrest and ousting of Sheikh Hasina government in the host country. "I find it really hard to see a cricket event going on over there at the moment and taking resources away from a country that is really struggling," Healy said as reported by ESPNCricinfo. "They're needing everyone they can possibly get in there helping people that are dying." Also Read: Pakistan bowlers Aamer Jamal and Abrar Ahmed to miss first Test against Bangladesh "I'd find it hard to fathom playing there at the moment, as a human being, I feel like it might be the wrong thing to do. But I'll leave it to the ICC to work out." The International Cricket Council (ICC) approached India as the potential replacement but BCCI secretary Jay Shah denied the proposition. Currently, Sri Lanka is one of the options while Zimbabwe has also expressed interest in hosting the tournament. "They [ICC] have asked us if we would conduct the World Cup. I have categorically said no," Jay Shah said to the Times of India, as quoted by ESPNcricinfo. "We're in the monsoon, and on top of that, we will host the Women's ODI World Cup next year. I don't want to give any kind of signals that I want to hold consecutive World Cups.” Some of the participating countries, including India, Australia, and the UK, have already issued advisories against travelling to Bangladesh amid the unrest. The ICC, meanwhile, is expected to take a decision on the matter later this week. Although Bangladesh’s interim government is making a last-ditch effort to salvage the tournament, an ICC official, earlier last week, commented on the situation, saying they are considering all options, including shifting the T20 World Cup elsewhere. "The ICC is closely monitoring developments in coordination with the Bangladesh Cricket Board [BCB], their security agencies and our own independent security consultants," an ICC statement said. "Our priority is the safety and well-being of all participants." The Women's T20 World Cup is scheduled from October 3-20.

'Wrong thing to do,' Australia skipper Alyssa Healy on hosting Women's T20 World Cup in Bangladesh

Former Pakistan batter Basit Ali has ruled out Ishan Kishan's comeback into the Indian team. Basit feels the swashbuckling wicketkeeper-batter will not be able to make a national comeback till the 2025 Champions Trophy, to be held early next year in Pakistan. Moreover, the ex-cricketer has advised Kishan to focus on IPL 2025 to stage a return in&nbsp;the Indian colours.&nbsp;

Kishan was part of Rohit Sharma-led India's 2023 ODI World Cup campaign, at home. He even played the home five T20Is versus Australia, soon after the ODI World Cup, but hasn't played for India since he opted to return home midway during the tour of South Africa in Dec-Jan. Since then, he has not been picked in the Indian team, lost his central contract and is playing in domestic tournaments in order to make a comeback. However, Basit feels he should 'focus on IPL 2025' as he won't be able to make a comeback till the next edition of the Champions Trophy.

Speaking on his YouTube channel, Basit said, "Ishan Kishan needs to focus on the IPL now because he doesn't have a chance of returning to the Indian team till the Australia series. In fact, there's no chance till the Champions Trophy. Let's see what happens after that."

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/get-back-to-the-high-standards-sunil-gavaskar-questions-virat-kohli-rohit-sharma-missing-duleep-trophy-751338">'Get back to the high standards...': Sunil Gavaskar questions Virat Kohli-Rohit Sharma missing Duleep Trophy</a>

Currently, Kishan is leading Jharkhand in the Buchi Babu Trophy. He impressed one and all in his side's tournament-opener, where Jharkand&nbsp;beat Madhya Pradesh by two wickets. The southpaw scored an impressive 86-ball century in the first innings (114 off 107 balls)&nbsp;and remained unbeaten on 41 to guide his side to a narrow win.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, India is gearing up for a hectic home season -- where they will host Bangladesh and New Zealand -- before the away tours to&nbsp;South Africa and Australia. With Rishabh Pant's return, KL Rahul's rise as a white-ball keeper-batter&nbsp;and Dhruv Jurel's emergence,&nbsp;Kishan's comeback is not going to be easy by any means.&nbsp;

Former Pakistan batter Basit Ali has ruled out Ishan Kishan's comeback into the Indian team. Basit feels the swashbuckling wicketkeeper-batter will not be able to make a national comeback till the 2025 Champions Trophy, to be held early next year in Pakistan.

Former Pakistan batter Basit Ali has ruled out Ishan Kishan's comeback into the Indian team. Basit feels the swashbuckling wicketkeeper-batter will not be able to make a national comeback till the 2025 Champions Trophy, to be held early next year in Pakistan. Moreover, the ex-cricketer has advised Kishan to focus on IPL 2025 to stage a return in the Indian colours. Kishan was part of Rohit Sharma-led India's 2023 ODI World Cup campaign, at home. He even played the home five T20Is versus Australia, soon after the ODI World Cup, but hasn't played for India since he opted to return home midway during the tour of South Africa in Dec-Jan. Since then, he has not been picked in the Indian team, lost his central contract and is playing in domestic tournaments in order to make a comeback. However, Basit feels he should 'focus on IPL 2025' as he won't be able to make a comeback till the next edition of the Champions Trophy. Speaking on his YouTube channel, Basit said, "Ishan Kishan needs to focus on the IPL now because he doesn't have a chance of returning to the Indian team till the Australia series. In fact, there's no chance till the Champions Trophy. Let's see what happens after that." Also read: 'Get back to the high standards...': Sunil Gavaskar questions Virat Kohli-Rohit Sharma missing Duleep Trophy Currently, Kishan is leading Jharkhand in the Buchi Babu Trophy. He impressed one and all in his side's tournament-opener, where Jharkand beat Madhya Pradesh by two wickets. The southpaw scored an impressive 86-ball century in the first innings (114 off 107 balls) and remained unbeaten on 41 to guide his side to a narrow win. Meanwhile, India is gearing up for a hectic home season -- where they will host Bangladesh and New Zealand -- before the away tours to South Africa and Australia. With Rishabh Pant's return, KL Rahul's rise as a white-ball keeper-batter and Dhruv Jurel's emergence, Kishan's comeback is not going to be easy by any means.

Former Pak batter dismisses THIS India star's comeback till 2025 Champions Trophy, says 'focus on IPL 2025'

BCCI recently announced four squads for the upcoming Duleep Trophy. The forthcoming domestic tournament will feature KL Rahul,&nbsp;Shubman Gill, Shreyas Iyer, Ravindra Jadeja, Rishabh Pant, Suryakumar Yadav, etc., however, the likes of Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, Jasprit Bumrah have not been included. While Bumrah's omission is justified as the selectors want the pacer to manage his workload, many have questioned Kohli and Rohit's absence, given there is a long red-ball season that awaits India with the Bangladesh, New Zealand, and Australia series.

Thus, former Indian captain Sunil Gavaskar isn't impressed. The veteran explained how it is essential for batters to play even during international breaks and a prolonged gap can dent them, especially in the 'mid-thirties'.

In his column for Mid-Day, Gavaskar wrote, "The selectors have not picked the skipper Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli for the Duleep Trophy so they will most likely go into the Bangladesh Test series without much match practice."

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/we-bowled-them-out-for-36-and-thought-hazlewood-claims-australia-desperate-to-end-losing-streak-vs-india-751246">We bowled them out for 36 and thought...: Hazlewood claims Australia desperate to end losing streak vs India</a>

<h2>'When there’s a long&nbsp;gap,&nbsp;muscle memory weakens and getting back to high standards....'</h2>

He added, "While it’s understandable that somebody like Jasprit Bumrah with his delicate back needs to be handled with care, the batters could have done with some batting time out in the middle. Once a player hits the mid-thirties in any sport, then regular competition will help him maintain the high standards he has set. When there’s a longish gap then the muscle memory weakens somewhat and to get back to the high standards from earlier is not easy."

Earlier, BCCI Secretary Jay Shah justified Rohit and Kohli's absence and stated&nbsp;that they don’t want them to pick up injuries while playing domestic cricket.

He told TOI,&nbsp;"It doesn’t make sense to add to Virat and Rohit’s load by asking them to play domestic cricket. They run the risk of getting injured."

Post the Duleep Trophy, India will start their home season with two Tests versus Bangladesh. The first Test will get underway on&nbsp;Sep&nbsp;19 in Chennai.

BCCI recently announced four squads for the upcoming Duleep Trophy. The forthcoming domestic tournament will feature KL Rahul, Shubman Gill, Shreyas Iyer, Ravindra Jadeja, Rishabh Pant, Suryakumar Yadav, etc.

BCCI recently announced four squads for the upcoming Duleep Trophy. The forthcoming domestic tournament will feature KL Rahul, Shubman Gill, Shreyas Iyer, Ravindra Jadeja, Rishabh Pant, Suryakumar Yadav, etc., however, the likes of Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, Jasprit Bumrah have not been included. While Bumrah's omission is justified as the selectors want the pacer to manage his workload, many have questioned Kohli and Rohit's absence, given there is a long red-ball season that awaits India with the Bangladesh, New Zealand, and Australia series. Thus, former Indian captain Sunil Gavaskar isn't impressed. The veteran explained how it is essential for batters to play even during international breaks and a prolonged gap can dent them, especially in the 'mid-thirties'. In his column for Mid-Day, Gavaskar wrote, "The selectors have not picked the skipper Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli for the Duleep Trophy so they will most likely go into the Bangladesh Test series without much match practice." Also read: We bowled them out for 36 and thought...: Hazlewood claims Australia desperate to end losing streak vs India 'When there’s a long gap, muscle memory weakens and getting back to high standards....' He added, "While it’s understandable that somebody like Jasprit Bumrah with his delicate back needs to be handled with care, the batters could have done with some batting time out in the middle. Once a player hits the mid-thirties in any sport, then regular competition will help him maintain the high standards he has set. When there’s a longish gap then the muscle memory weakens somewhat and to get back to the high standards from earlier is not easy." Earlier, BCCI Secretary Jay Shah justified Rohit and Kohli's absence and stated that they don’t want them to pick up injuries while playing domestic cricket. He told TOI, "It doesn’t make sense to add to Virat and Rohit’s load by asking them to play domestic cricket. They run the risk of getting injured." Post the Duleep Trophy, India will start their home season with two Tests versus Bangladesh. The first Test will get underway on Sep 19 in Chennai.

'Get back to the high standards...': Sunil Gavaskar questions Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma missing Duleep Trophy

Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) secretary Jay Shah has said that the decision on pacer Mohammed Shami playing in the Border-Gavaskar series will be taken based on his fitness. Shami is recovering from an ankle injury since 2023 ODI World Cup at home where he emerged as the highest wicket-taker.

"Shami playing the Australia series or not is a matter of his fitness, and a decision will be taken after the NCA report," said Shah while speaking to news agency ANI.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/as-a-player-he-always-has-a-plan-as-a-leader-he-surprises-you-mostly-vikram-rathour-on-rohit-sharma-751269">‘As a player he always has a plan, as a leader he surprises you mostly’ - Vikram Rathour on Rohit Sharma</a>

Shami is currently at the National Cricket Academy (NCA) Bengaluru, undergoing rehabilitation.

India are due to play five Tests in Australia from November later this year and would be looking for a third series win on the trot.

Talking about his performance, Shami has taken 31 wickets in eight Tests in Australia with two five-wicket hauls.

BCCI chief selector Ajit Agarkar seemed confident of Shami's recovery ahead of Australia series and said to cricket news outlet ESPNCricinfo: "Shami has started to bowl which is a good sign. September 19 is the first Test and that was always the goal. I do not know if that is his timeline for recovery, will have to ask the guys at the NCA about that."&nbsp;

Prior to that, India will also play home Tests against Bangladesh and New Zealand as well. The two-Test series against Bangladesh starts September 19 while the Kiwis will tour after that. India then flies Down Under.

Hazelwood desperate to beat India

Josh Hazlewood, who debuted during Australia's victorious 2014-15 home series win against India, recently claimed that Pat Cummins &amp; Co. are desperate to settle scores versus the Asian giants.

In the 2014/15 series, Australia beat India 2-0. Since then, they have lost all the four series (two in India, two at home).

Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) secretary Jay Shah has said that the decision on pacer Mohammed Shami playing in the Border-Gavaskar series will be taken based on his fitness.

Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) secretary Jay Shah has said that the decision on pacer Mohammed Shami playing in the Border-Gavaskar series will be taken based on his fitness. Shami is recovering from an ankle injury since 2023 ODI World Cup at home where he emerged as the highest wicket-taker. "Shami playing the Australia series or not is a matter of his fitness, and a decision will be taken after the NCA report," said Shah while speaking to news agency ANI. Also Read: ‘As a player he always has a plan, as a leader he surprises you mostly’ - Vikram Rathour on Rohit Sharma Shami is currently at the National Cricket Academy (NCA) Bengaluru, undergoing rehabilitation. India are due to play five Tests in Australia from November later this year and would be looking for a third series win on the trot. Talking about his performance, Shami has taken 31 wickets in eight Tests in Australia with two five-wicket hauls. BCCI chief selector Ajit Agarkar seemed confident of Shami's recovery ahead of Australia series and said to cricket news outlet ESPNCricinfo: "Shami has started to bowl which is a good sign. September 19 is the first Test and that was always the goal. I do not know if that is his timeline for recovery, will have to ask the guys at the NCA about that." Prior to that, India will also play home Tests against Bangladesh and New Zealand as well. The two-Test series against Bangladesh starts September 19 while the Kiwis will tour after that. India then flies Down Under. Hazelwood desperate to beat India Josh Hazlewood, who debuted during Australia's victorious 2014-15 home series win against India, recently claimed that Pat Cummins & Co. are desperate to settle scores versus the Asian giants. In the 2014/15 series, Australia beat India 2-0. Since then, they have lost all the four series (two in India, two at home).

'Decision will be taken after...,' BCCI secretary Jay Shah on Mohammed Shami playing Australia Tests

Bangladesh have some tough tours ahead. Before coming to India, for two Tests and three T20Is, the Bangla Tigers have a short tour of Pakistan. The forthcoming tour comprises just two Tests as the focus continues to be on the ongoing ICC Test Championship (WTC) 2023-25 cycle. The tour kicks off on Aug 21 and will conclude on Sep 7.

Here are all you need to know about&nbsp;the&nbsp;Pakistan vs Bangladesh Test series

When will the Pakistan versus Bangladesh Test series take place? 
Pakistan versus Bangladesh Test series will be held in Rawalpindi.&nbsp;The first Test will be held from Aug 21-25 and the second and final Test will be from Sep 3-7. One of the Tests were to be held in Karachi but got shifted due to the ongoing construction work for the 2025 Champions Trophy.

What are the match timings of the Pakistan versus&nbsp;Bangladesh Tests? 
The Test matches between Pakistan and Bangladesh will kickoff at 10.30 AM IST.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/we-bowled-them-out-for-36-and-thought-hazlewood-claims-australia-desperate-to-end-losing-streak-vs-india-751246">We bowled them out for 36 and thought...: Hazlewood claims Australia desperate to end losing streak vs India</a>

Where can I watch the Pakistan vs Bangladesh Test matches LIVE on TV in India? 
The Pakistan versus&nbsp;Bangladesh Tests&nbsp;will not be telecast LIVE in India.

How can I watch the Pakistan vs Bangladesh Test series live streaming in India? 
The Pakistan versus&nbsp;Bangladesh Test series' live streaming will also&nbsp;not be available&nbsp;in India.

Squads 
Pakistan: Shan Masood (captain), Saud Shakeel (vice-captain), Abdullah Shafique, Babar Azam, Khurram Shahzad, Mir Hamza, Mohammad Ali, Mohammad Huraira, Mohammad Rizwan (wicket-keeper), Naseem Shah, Saim Ayub, Salman Ali Agha, Sarfaraz Ahmed (wicket-keeper) and Shaheen Shah Afridi

Bangladesh: Najmul Hossain Shanto (captain), Mominul Haque, Shadman Islam, Mahmudul Hasan Joy, Shakib Al Hasan, Mehidy Hasan Miraz, Zakir Hasan, Litton Das, Mushfiqur Rahim, Hasan Mahmud, Taskin Ahmed, Taijul Islam, Khaled Ahmed, Shoriful Islam, Nahid Rana, Nayeem Hasan

At present, both Pakistan and Bangladesh are in the bottom-half of the WTC points table. While Pakistan are at the sixth spot, the Bangla Tigers are languishing at the eighth position. It will be interesting to see how the table appears post Bangladesh's tour of Pakistan.

Bangladesh have some tough tours ahead. Before coming to India, for two Tests and three T20Is, the Bangla Tigers have a short tour of Pakistan. The forthcoming tour comprises just two Tests as the focus continues to be on the ongoing ICC Test Championship (WTC) 2023-25 cycle.

Bangladesh have some tough tours ahead. Before coming to India, for two Tests and three T20Is, the Bangla Tigers have a short tour of Pakistan. The forthcoming tour comprises just two Tests as the focus continues to be on the ongoing ICC Test Championship (WTC) 2023-25 cycle. The tour kicks off on Aug 21 and will conclude on Sep 7. Here are all you need to know about the Pakistan vs Bangladesh Test series When will the Pakistan versus Bangladesh Test series take place? Pakistan versus Bangladesh Test series will be held in Rawalpindi. The first Test will be held from Aug 21-25 and the second and final Test will be from Sep 3-7. One of the Tests were to be held in Karachi but got shifted due to the ongoing construction work for the 2025 Champions Trophy. What are the match timings of the Pakistan versus Bangladesh Tests? The Test matches between Pakistan and Bangladesh will kickoff at 10.30 AM IST. Also read: We bowled them out for 36 and thought...: Hazlewood claims Australia desperate to end losing streak vs India Where can I watch the Pakistan vs Bangladesh Test matches LIVE on TV in India? The Pakistan versus Bangladesh Tests will not be telecast LIVE in India. How can I watch the Pakistan vs Bangladesh Test series live streaming in India? The Pakistan versus Bangladesh Test series' live streaming will also not be available in India. Squads Pakistan: Shan Masood (captain), Saud Shakeel (vice-captain), Abdullah Shafique, Babar Azam, Khurram Shahzad, Mir Hamza, Mohammad Ali, Mohammad Huraira, Mohammad Rizwan (wicket-keeper), Naseem Shah, Saim Ayub, Salman Ali Agha, Sarfaraz Ahmed (wicket-keeper) and Shaheen Shah Afridi Bangladesh: Najmul Hossain Shanto (captain), Mominul Haque, Shadman Islam, Mahmudul Hasan Joy, Shakib Al Hasan, Mehidy Hasan Miraz, Zakir Hasan, Litton Das, Mushfiqur Rahim, Hasan Mahmud, Taskin Ahmed, Taijul Islam, Khaled Ahmed, Shoriful Islam, Nahid Rana, Nayeem Hasan At present, both Pakistan and Bangladesh are in the bottom-half of the WTC points table. While Pakistan are at the sixth spot, the Bangla Tigers are languishing at the eighth position. It will be interesting to see how the table appears post Bangladesh's tour of Pakistan.

Bangladesh tour of Pakistan: All you need to know about Pak vs Ban series - live streaming, time, date

Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) secretary Jay Shah has declined to comment on IPL speedster Mayank Yadav's participation in the upcoming Border-Gavaskar Trophy against Australia.

India will be travelling to Australia in November later this year for a five-Test series and will be hoping to win it for the third consecutive time in Australia.

Speaking to news outlet Times of India, Shah said: "I cannot give you any answer on Mayank Yadav as there is no guarantee whether he will be in the team or not. But he is potentially a good fast bowler, and we are looking after him. He is currently in the NCA."

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/australia-test-captain-pat-cummins-outlines-plan-for-home-tests-against-india-we-are-well-placed-this-time-751102">Australia Test captain Pat Cummins outlines plan for home Tests against India - ‘We are well placed this time’</a>

The comments came after former India cricketer Wasim Jaffer wrote on social media platform X that India could win the series in Australia for the third time if their fast bowlers stay fit with Mayank being the dark horse.

“If Bumrah, Shami and Siraj stay fit and are able to play most of the series, India have a great opportunity for a hat-trick down under. Arshdeep could bring the left-arm option. And Mayank Yadav dark horse provided he's fit and available. #AUSvIND,” Jaffer had posted.

Mayank, who lit up IPL 2024, with his express pace while playing for Lucknow Super Giants, has been nursing an injury ever since. He could just play four matches in IPL 2024 and took seven wickets but bowled well in north of 150 kmph mark with the fastest ball being 156.7 kmph.

Ever since he made his debut in the IPL, their have been reports saying that Mayank could be included in the Indian cricket team for the Australia tour.

The board, however, decided to not rush him but work his strength building instead to avoid injuries in future.

Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) secretary Jay Shah has declined to comment on IPL speedster Mayank Yadav's participation in the upcoming Border-Gavaskar Trophy against Australia.

Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) secretary Jay Shah has declined to comment on IPL speedster Mayank Yadav's participation in the upcoming Border-Gavaskar Trophy against Australia. India will be travelling to Australia in November later this year for a five-Test series and will be hoping to win it for the third consecutive time in Australia. Speaking to news outlet Times of India, Shah said: "I cannot give you any answer on Mayank Yadav as there is no guarantee whether he will be in the team or not. But he is potentially a good fast bowler, and we are looking after him. He is currently in the NCA." Also Read: Australia Test captain Pat Cummins outlines plan for home Tests against India - ‘We are well placed this time’ The comments came after former India cricketer Wasim Jaffer wrote on social media platform X that India could win the series in Australia for the third time if their fast bowlers stay fit with Mayank being the dark horse. “If Bumrah, Shami and Siraj stay fit and are able to play most of the series, India have a great opportunity for a hat-trick down under. Arshdeep could bring the left-arm option. And Mayank Yadav dark horse provided he's fit and available. #AUSvIND,” Jaffer had posted. Mayank, who lit up IPL 2024, with his express pace while playing for Lucknow Super Giants, has been nursing an injury ever since. He could just play four matches in IPL 2024 and took seven wickets but bowled well in north of 150 kmph mark with the fastest ball being 156.7 kmph. Ever since he made his debut in the IPL, their have been reports saying that Mayank could be included in the Indian cricket team for the Australia tour. The board, however, decided to not rush him but work his strength building instead to avoid injuries in future.

'He will be in the team...,' BCCI secretary Jay Shah on pacer Mayank Yadav's spot in team for Australia Tests

Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has moved the second Test against Bangladesh from Karachi to Rawalpindi, the venue of first Test as well. The decision comes days after announcing that there would be no spectators during the Karachi Test.

The steps have been taken as National Stadium in Karachi is undergoing construction and renovation for the upcoming Champions Trophy. Pakistan are scheduled to host their first ICC tournament in February-March next year since co-hosting 1996 ODI World Cup.

"We have been guided by the construction experts on the timelines for the readiness of the [National Stadium in Karachi]. They advised that while construction could continue during playing hours, the resulting noise pollution would disturb the cricketers. Additionally, the dust from the construction work could also affect the health and wellbeing of the players, officials, broadcasters, and media," read a statement from the PCB.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/australia-test-captain-pat-cummins-outlines-plan-for-home-tests-against-india-we-are-well-placed-this-time-751102">Australia Test captain Pat Cummins outlines plan for home Tests against India - ‘We are well placed this time’</a>

"Given that construction must continue uninterrupted to ensure the venue is operationally ready for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, the PCB, after consulting all stakeholders and reviewing operational and logistical matters, has decided to hold both Tests in Rawalpindi," it further added.

Bangladesh are in Pakistan for a two-Test series, with the first Test scheduled to be played from August 21 in Rawalpindi.

Pakistan are expected to play seven home Tests in the coming month and are looking to equally share the hosting between three venues: Rawalpindi, Karachi and Multan.

Multan would have been a viable option to shift the second Test against Bangladesh but it is already slated to host the first Test against England in October.

The Karachi Test against England, scheduled to be played from October 15, is so far expected to have spectators present.

As for Bangladesh, they are touring Pakistan for the first time since 2020, when Covid-19 pandemic cut short their trip.&nbsp;

Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has moved the second Test against Bangladesh from Karachi to Rawalpindi, the venue of first Test as well. The decision comes days after announcing that there would be no spectators during the Karachi Test.

Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has moved the second Test against Bangladesh from Karachi to Rawalpindi, the venue of first Test as well. The decision comes days after announcing that there would be no spectators during the Karachi Test. The steps have been taken as National Stadium in Karachi is undergoing construction and renovation for the upcoming Champions Trophy. Pakistan are scheduled to host their first ICC tournament in February-March next year since co-hosting 1996 ODI World Cup. "We have been guided by the construction experts on the timelines for the readiness of the [National Stadium in Karachi]. They advised that while construction could continue during playing hours, the resulting noise pollution would disturb the cricketers. Additionally, the dust from the construction work could also affect the health and wellbeing of the players, officials, broadcasters, and media," read a statement from the PCB. Also Read: Australia Test captain Pat Cummins outlines plan for home Tests against India - ‘We are well placed this time’ "Given that construction must continue uninterrupted to ensure the venue is operationally ready for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, the PCB, after consulting all stakeholders and reviewing operational and logistical matters, has decided to hold both Tests in Rawalpindi," it further added. Bangladesh are in Pakistan for a two-Test series, with the first Test scheduled to be played from August 21 in Rawalpindi. Pakistan are expected to play seven home Tests in the coming month and are looking to equally share the hosting between three venues: Rawalpindi, Karachi and Multan. Multan would have been a viable option to shift the second Test against Bangladesh but it is already slated to host the first Test against England in October. The Karachi Test against England, scheduled to be played from October 15, is so far expected to have spectators present. As for Bangladesh, they are touring Pakistan for the first time since 2020, when Covid-19 pandemic cut short their trip.

Pakistan shift Karachi Test against Bangladesh to Rawalpindi | Read Why

Former Pakistan captain Salman Butt has slammed the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) as the national side struggles with injury issues. Butt, who has been critical about the Pakistan cricket team’s fielding performance pointed out that PCB&nbsp;has not made changes in the team set-up despite a horror show in the T20 World Cup in the USA and the West Indies. Pakistan were knocked out of the T20 World Cup in the group stage with questions raised about the team’s performance on the field.

<h2>Butt critical of PCB’s decision</h2>

"Entire Pakistan is talking about the fitness of the team and it brought a storm in Pakistan, players at the junior level were asked to run. This came after people said players weren't fit in the T20 World Cup 2024. No one questioned the physios or trainers, but instead, they started making players at the district level push hard for fitness. Those who made errors are still there," said Butt on Youtube Channel.

According to Butt, the trainers and the physios need to be changed if the team is to push for the next stage. Pakistan cricket has been in turmoil in recent times having seen early exits in the T20 World Cup and the ODI World Cup in&nbsp;recent times. The team’s recent policies have seen Gary Kirsten and Jason Gillespie as part of the coaching staff.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/he-will-have-to-bcci-secretary-jay-shah-on-ishan-kishans-chances-to-make-comeback-for-india-750921">'He will have to...,' BCCI secretary Jay Shah on Ishan Kishan's chances to make comeback for India</a>

The team has also gone back to Babar Azam as the skipper who had given away the captaincy after the ODI World Cup in India. Interestingly, Shaheen Shah Afridi who was installed as the captain of the T20I side was sacked after the dismal show in the away T20I series against New Zealand. Questions were also raised about Afridi’s captaincy after he failed to lead his Pakistan Super League (PSL) side to a single win.

Former Pakistan captain Salman Butt has slammed the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) as the national side struggles with injury issues. Butt, who has been critical about the Pakistan cricket team’s fielding performance pointed out that PCB has not made changes in the team set-up despite a horror show in the T20 World Cup in the USA and the West Indies.

Former Pakistan captain Salman Butt has slammed the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) as the national side struggles with injury issues. Butt, who has been critical about the Pakistan cricket team’s fielding performance pointed out that PCB has not made changes in the team set-up despite a horror show in the T20 World Cup in the USA and the West Indies. Pakistan were knocked out of the T20 World Cup in the group stage with questions raised about the team’s performance on the field. Butt critical of PCB’s decision "Entire Pakistan is talking about the fitness of the team and it brought a storm in Pakistan, players at the junior level were asked to run. This came after people said players weren't fit in the T20 World Cup 2024. No one questioned the physios or trainers, but instead, they started making players at the district level push hard for fitness. Those who made errors are still there," said Butt on Youtube Channel. According to Butt, the trainers and the physios need to be changed if the team is to push for the next stage. Pakistan cricket has been in turmoil in recent times having seen early exits in the T20 World Cup and the ODI World Cup in recent times. The team’s recent policies have seen Gary Kirsten and Jason Gillespie as part of the coaching staff. ALSO READ | 'He will have to...,' BCCI secretary Jay Shah on Ishan Kishan's chances to make comeback for India The team has also gone back to Babar Azam as the skipper who had given away the captaincy after the ODI World Cup in India. Interestingly, Shaheen Shah Afridi who was installed as the captain of the T20I side was sacked after the dismal show in the away T20I series against New Zealand. Questions were also raised about Afridi’s captaincy after he failed to lead his Pakistan Super League (PSL) side to a single win.

'Those who made errors are still there': Former Pakistan captain Salman Butt slams PCB over fitness issues

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) secretary Jay Shah has sent a blunt message to wicketkeeper-batter Ishan Kishan on his chances of a potential comeback in the Indian cricket team.

Kishan has been out of favour ever since he took a break from the South Africa Test series in December 2023, citing mental health reasons.

He is currently playing in the&nbsp;domestic red-ball tournament (Buchi Babu invitational) to get selectors' attention but Shah was very clear about his message.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/unsure-of-batting-order-this-summer-opener-khawaja-wants-to-see-steve-smith-back-to-number-four-in-tests-750909">Unsure of batting order this summer, opener Khawaja wants to see Steve Smith back to number four in Tests</a>

“He will have to follow the rules. He will have to play domestic cricket,” Shah said while speaking to news outlet Times of India.

Ishan turned up for Jharkhand in the tournament and scored an 86-ball 114 to help his team surpass opposition Madhya Pradesh's first innings total of 225.

Kishan, who made his Test debut for India in July 2023 against West Indies, hit two consecutive sixes to reach his hundred on return to red-ball cricket.

He'll next play in Duleep Trophy for Team D with some other big names including Rishabh Pant, Shubman Gill, Axar Patel and Shreyas Iyer.

It is to be noted that Srikar Bharat is also in the Team D squad along with Kishan as another wicketkeeper-batter.

<h2>Bumrah names favourite captain</h2>

Having debuted under MS Dhoni in 2016, Bumrah has played under a few captains, including batting stalwarts Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma. Bumrah rose to the limelight under Dhoni’s captaincy, became a force to reckon with under Kohli, and now playing under Rohit, he is the best in the world.&nbsp;

Speaking at the Express Adda in Ahmedabad, Bumrah revealed his favourite captain of the three, “There are great captains, but I’ll take my name — I am my favourite captain.”

Meanwhile, Bumrah led India in just one Test (against England at the Oval in 2022), which they lost, and against Ireland in the three-match T20Is last year, winning 2-0.

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) secretary Jay Shah has sent a blunt message to wicketkeeper-batter Ishan Kishan on his chances of a potential comeback in the Indian cricket team.

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) secretary Jay Shah has sent a blunt message to wicketkeeper-batter Ishan Kishan on his chances of a potential comeback in the Indian cricket team. Kishan has been out of favour ever since he took a break from the South Africa Test series in December 2023, citing mental health reasons. He is currently playing in the domestic red-ball tournament (Buchi Babu invitational) to get selectors' attention but Shah was very clear about his message. Also Read: Unsure of batting order this summer, opener Khawaja wants to see Steve Smith back to number four in Tests “He will have to follow the rules. He will have to play domestic cricket,” Shah said while speaking to news outlet Times of India. Ishan turned up for Jharkhand in the tournament and scored an 86-ball 114 to help his team surpass opposition Madhya Pradesh's first innings total of 225. Kishan, who made his Test debut for India in July 2023 against West Indies, hit two consecutive sixes to reach his hundred on return to red-ball cricket. He'll next play in Duleep Trophy for Team D with some other big names including Rishabh Pant, Shubman Gill, Axar Patel and Shreyas Iyer. It is to be noted that Srikar Bharat is also in the Team D squad along with Kishan as another wicketkeeper-batter. Bumrah names favourite captain Having debuted under MS Dhoni in 2016, Bumrah has played under a few captains, including batting stalwarts Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma. Bumrah rose to the limelight under Dhoni’s captaincy, became a force to reckon with under Kohli, and now playing under Rohit, he is the best in the world. Speaking at the Express Adda in Ahmedabad, Bumrah revealed his favourite captain of the three, “There are great captains, but I’ll take my name — I am my favourite captain.” Meanwhile, Bumrah led India in just one Test (against England at the Oval in 2022), which they lost, and against Ireland in the three-match T20Is last year, winning 2-0.

'He will have to...,' BCCI secretary Jay Shah on Ishan Kishan's chances to make comeback for India

Sachin Tendulkar dominated world cricket during his playing days from 1989-2013. During his illustrious 24-year-long career, he ended with 34,357 international runs (most-ever), with 15,921 coming in Tests (in 200 matches). To date, Master Blaster is the leading run-getter in Tests, by a country-mile, and also is the player with most Test matches under his belt (200). Recently, in an interaction, former Australia captain Ricky Ponting -- who ended with&nbsp;13,378 runs in Tests (second-most) --&nbsp;backed England's Joe Root to break Tendulkar's record of most runs in the purest format.

Ponting&nbsp;told The ICC Review, "He (Root) could potentially do that. He is 33 years of age…(more than) 3000 runs behind. It depends on how many Test matches they play, but if they're playing 10 to 14 Test matches a year, and if you're scoring 800 to 1,000 runs a year, then that sort of says he's only three or four years off getting there. So that'll take him to 37 (years of age)."

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The Aussie further opined, "If his hunger's still there, then there's every chance that he could do it. He is someone that, in the last couple of years, has gotten better and better."

Ponting has backed Root especially since the Englishman has overcome his inability to convert half-centuries into daddy hundreds.

He added, "There's always talk around batters reaching their prime in their early 30s and he's certainly done that. It's been his conversion rates being the big thing. Four or five years ago, he was making a lot of 50s and struggling to go on and make hundreds and he's gone the other way recently. Almost every time he gets to 50 now, he goes on and makes a big hundred. So that's been the real turnaround for him."

While there are many other contenders as well, such as Virat Kohli, Kane Williamson, Steve Smith, etc., Smith and Kohli have not had the best run in recent times. While Williamson has had a better run, no team plays as many Tests as England. Thus, Root -- with 12,027 Test runs in 143&nbsp;games -- has a very strong chance to break Tendulkar's record (for most runs as well as most matches). He has a significant lead over Smith, Kohli and Williamson -- with the trio not even part of the 10k-run club. In addition,&nbsp;England play a lot more Tests than any team; giving an&nbsp;edge to the Englishman.

Sachin Tendulkar dominated world cricket during his playing days from 1989-2013. During his illustrious 24-year-long career, he ended with 34,357 international runs (most-ever), with 15,921 coming in Tests (in 200 matches).

Sachin Tendulkar dominated world cricket during his playing days from 1989-2013. During his illustrious 24-year-long career, he ended with 34,357 international runs (most-ever), with 15,921 coming in Tests (in 200 matches). To date, Master Blaster is the leading run-getter in Tests, by a country-mile, and also is the player with most Test matches under his belt (200). Recently, in an interaction, former Australia captain Ricky Ponting -- who ended with 13,378 runs in Tests (second-most) -- backed England's Joe Root to break Tendulkar's record of most runs in the purest format. Ponting told The ICC Review, "He (Root) could potentially do that. He is 33 years of age…(more than) 3000 runs behind. It depends on how many Test matches they play, but if they're playing 10 to 14 Test matches a year, and if you're scoring 800 to 1,000 runs a year, then that sort of says he's only three or four years off getting there. So that'll take him to 37 (years of age)." Also read: BCCI Secretary Jay Shah promises '15-day gap' between IPL and WTC finals The Aussie further opined, "If his hunger's still there, then there's every chance that he could do it. He is someone that, in the last couple of years, has gotten better and better." Ponting has backed Root especially since the Englishman has overcome his inability to convert half-centuries into daddy hundreds. He added, "There's always talk around batters reaching their prime in their early 30s and he's certainly done that. It's been his conversion rates being the big thing. Four or five years ago, he was making a lot of 50s and struggling to go on and make hundreds and he's gone the other way recently. Almost every time he gets to 50 now, he goes on and makes a big hundred. So that's been the real turnaround for him." While there are many other contenders as well, such as Virat Kohli, Kane Williamson, Steve Smith, etc., Smith and Kohli have not had the best run in recent times. While Williamson has had a better run, no team plays as many Tests as England. Thus, Root -- with 12,027 Test runs in 143 games -- has a very strong chance to break Tendulkar's record (for most runs as well as most matches). He has a significant lead over Smith, Kohli and Williamson -- with the trio not even part of the 10k-run club. In addition, England play a lot more Tests than any team; giving an edge to the Englishman.

Not Virat Kohli! Ricky Ponting backs THIS player to break Sachin Tendulkar's world record in Tests

With less than six months to go before the start of the 2025 Champions Trophy in Pakistan, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) is pulling out audacious plans to renovate the stadiums. One of the key features of the renovation includes upgrading the floodlights in the stadiums for the Champions Trophy. However, the PCB is in the headlines as it plans to rent the towers for the floodlights during the showpiece event according to a PTI report published on Friday (Aug 16).

<h2>PCB to rent towers for Champions Trophy</h2>

This part of the project includes installing new floodlights in Lahore and Karachi while moving the old ones to other cities. The PCB has decided to move the floodlights already installed in Karachi to Quetta and those in Lahore to Rawalpindi to save costs. According to reports, the PCB is looking to get sponsors for the towers and a tender has already been released for the same.

"The idea behind this process is to ensure smaller venues are also equipped with light towers for domestic cricket and major venues like Karachi, Lahore and Rawalpindi where most of the international games and CT matches would be played get towers which ensure international standard and uninterrupted provision of light during matches," a PCB source said.&nbsp;

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The Champions Trophy is set to start in the first week of February with India and Pakistan set to be included in the same group. The PCB wants to keep no stone unturned for the tournament as it will return to the global stage as hosts for a major tournament for the first time since 2008. They last hosted the Asia Cup in 2008 and have since not hosted a major event having faced security issues.

The majority of the eight nations are expected to travel to Pakistan for the Champions Trophy but suspense remains on India’s participation. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is yet to receive clearance from the External Affairs Ministry to travel to Pakistan and participate in the tournament under a hybrid model.

With less than six months to go before the start of the 2025 Champions Trophy in Pakistan, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) is pulling out audacious plans to renovate the stadiums.

With less than six months to go before the start of the 2025 Champions Trophy in Pakistan, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) is pulling out audacious plans to renovate the stadiums. One of the key features of the renovation includes upgrading the floodlights in the stadiums for the Champions Trophy. However, the PCB is in the headlines as it plans to rent the towers for the floodlights during the showpiece event according to a PTI report published on Friday (Aug 16). PCB to rent towers for Champions Trophy This part of the project includes installing new floodlights in Lahore and Karachi while moving the old ones to other cities. The PCB has decided to move the floodlights already installed in Karachi to Quetta and those in Lahore to Rawalpindi to save costs. According to reports, the PCB is looking to get sponsors for the towers and a tender has already been released for the same. "The idea behind this process is to ensure smaller venues are also equipped with light towers for domestic cricket and major venues like Karachi, Lahore and Rawalpindi where most of the international games and CT matches would be played get towers which ensure international standard and uninterrupted provision of light during matches," a PCB source said. ALSO READ | ‘I am struggling with my anxiety, I have nightmares, flashbacks’ – Flintoff recalls horrific road crash The Champions Trophy is set to start in the first week of February with India and Pakistan set to be included in the same group. The PCB wants to keep no stone unturned for the tournament as it will return to the global stage as hosts for a major tournament for the first time since 2008. They last hosted the Asia Cup in 2008 and have since not hosted a major event having faced security issues. The majority of the eight nations are expected to travel to Pakistan for the Champions Trophy but suspense remains on India’s participation. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is yet to receive clearance from the External Affairs Ministry to travel to Pakistan and participate in the tournament under a hybrid model.

Champions Trophy 2025: PCB to rent 'light towers' for stadiums in Lahore, Karachi

India have hosted only a handful of day-night Tests so far. The Indian men's team hosted its first-ever day-night Test, also their first overall, in late 2019 when Bangladesh toured India for two Tests. Since then, India have only hosted two more pink-ball Tests on Indian soil. Recently, BCCI Secretary Jay Shah explained the board's reluctance to host day-night games in the purest format. Shah expressed how such contests end in 2-3 days, demeaning the traditional five-day format,&nbsp;and lead to loss for broadcasters as well as spectators.&nbsp;

During an interaction with TOI, Shah said, "You buy a ticket for a five-day match, but the game ends in 2-3 days…There is no refund. I am slightly emotional about this."

India defeated Bangladesh within three days when they hosted their first-ever day-night Test. The match was held at the iconic Eden Gardens, Kolkata where Virat Kohli &amp; Co. won by an innings and&nbsp;46 runs. Post the Covid-19 outbreak, when India played their first&nbsp;Test series on home, they hosted England in a five-match series. The fourth and penultimate Test was held at the Narendra Modi Cricket Stadium, Ahmedabad. The contest also ended soon, in two days, with India winning by ten wickets.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/who-am-i-to-tell-gautam-gambhir-jay-shah-take-goes-viral-on-indias-one-coach-stance-750561">'Who am I to tell Gautam Gambhir..?', Jay Shah's take goes VIRAL on India's one coach stance</a>

The last day-night Test in India took place in early 2022, when Rohit Sharma took over as India's all-format skipper post Kohli's resignation as the red-ball skipper. It was the second and final Test between India and Sri Lanka, held at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru, where the home side won&nbsp;by 238 runs. The contest again ended in three days.

While India isn't hosting day-night Tests, the national side will play a pink-ball Test during their upcoming tour of Australia, later this year. Before that, India will play host to Bangladesh and New Zealand -- with no pink-ball contest -- prior to their departure Down Under. In Australia, they play five Tests with the second match being a day-night contest, in Adelaide Oval, Adelaide. India's last day-night Test on foreign soil was also at the same venue, in late 2020, when Kohli-led India succumbed to an embarrassing eight-wicket loss after falling for 36 in their second innings.&nbsp;

India have hosted only a handful of day-night Tests so far. The Indian men's team hosted its first-ever day-night Test, also their first overall, in late 2019 when Bangladesh toured India for two Tests.

India have hosted only a handful of day-night Tests so far. The Indian men's team hosted its first-ever day-night Test, also their first overall, in late 2019 when Bangladesh toured India for two Tests. Since then, India have only hosted two more pink-ball Tests on Indian soil. Recently, BCCI Secretary Jay Shah explained the board's reluctance to host day-night games in the purest format. Shah expressed how such contests end in 2-3 days, demeaning the traditional five-day format, and lead to loss for broadcasters as well as spectators. During an interaction with TOI, Shah said, "You buy a ticket for a five-day match, but the game ends in 2-3 days…There is no refund. I am slightly emotional about this." India defeated Bangladesh within three days when they hosted their first-ever day-night Test. The match was held at the iconic Eden Gardens, Kolkata where Virat Kohli & Co. won by an innings and 46 runs. Post the Covid-19 outbreak, when India played their first Test series on home, they hosted England in a five-match series. The fourth and penultimate Test was held at the Narendra Modi Cricket Stadium, Ahmedabad. The contest also ended soon, in two days, with India winning by ten wickets. Also read: 'Who am I to tell Gautam Gambhir..?', Jay Shah's take goes VIRAL on India's one coach stance The last day-night Test in India took place in early 2022, when Rohit Sharma took over as India's all-format skipper post Kohli's resignation as the red-ball skipper. It was the second and final Test between India and Sri Lanka, held at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru, where the home side won by 238 runs. The contest again ended in three days. While India isn't hosting day-night Tests, the national side will play a pink-ball Test during their upcoming tour of Australia, later this year. Before that, India will play host to Bangladesh and New Zealand -- with no pink-ball contest -- prior to their departure Down Under. In Australia, they play five Tests with the second match being a day-night contest, in Adelaide Oval, Adelaide. India's last day-night Test on foreign soil was also at the same venue, in late 2020, when Kohli-led India succumbed to an embarrassing eight-wicket loss after falling for 36 in their second innings.

Slightly emotional: BCCI Secretary Jay Shah explains board's reluctance to host day-night Tests

Rahul Dravid ended his Team India coaching tenure post India's T20 World Cup triumph in June, in West Indies and the USA. As he made it clear that he wasn't keen on an extension, Gautam Gambhir replaced Dravid as India's all-format coach. Just like some other cricketing boards, like England Cricket Board (ECB), Cricket South Africa (CSA), Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB),&nbsp;many believed the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) would also not go for a one coach formula for all formats. However, the board stuck to the tried-and-tested approach while naming Gambhir as head coach across&nbsp;formats. Recently, BCCI Secretary Jay Shah explained BCCI's stance on having one coach.&nbsp;

Speaking to The Times of India, BCCI secretary&nbsp;Shah explained,&nbsp;"We've to listen to the coach we recruit. Once we have selected Gautam Gambhir and if he is interested to coach in all three formats, who am I to say 'you can't coach a particular format'. More or less 70 per cent players are the same in all three formats."

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Mentioning that India had enough back-ups for the head coach role, Shah pointed out, "We have coaches from the NCA. When Rahul Dravid was taking a break, VVS Laxman used to step in."

Gambhir has been appointed as India's head coach until the 2027 ODI World Cup. His tenure started with India's bittersweet tour of Sri Lanka, which ended recently, where the Men in Blue won the three T20Is (3-0) but lost the three ODIs (2-0).&nbsp;

Apart from having a new coach, there have been some changes at the leadership front as well. With Rohit Sharma's T20I retirement, Suryakumar Yadav has been appointed as the new captain whereas the Hitman&nbsp;continues to lead the side in Tests and ODIs. While Shubman Gill was India's vice-captain in the&nbsp;white-ball tour of Sri Lanka.&nbsp;

At present, the national side is on a break. India will commence their hectic home season from next month, starting with the Bangladesh series. They host the Bangla Tigers for two Tests and three T20Is.&nbsp;

Rahul Dravid ended his Team India coaching tenure post India's T20 World Cup triumph in June, in West Indies and the USA. As he made it clear that he wasn't keen on an extension, Gautam Gambhir replaced Dravid as India's all-format coach.

Rahul Dravid ended his Team India coaching tenure post India's T20 World Cup triumph in June, in West Indies and the USA. As he made it clear that he wasn't keen on an extension, Gautam Gambhir replaced Dravid as India's all-format coach. Just like some other cricketing boards, like England Cricket Board (ECB), Cricket South Africa (CSA), Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), many believed the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) would also not go for a one coach formula for all formats. However, the board stuck to the tried-and-tested approach while naming Gambhir as head coach across formats. Recently, BCCI Secretary Jay Shah explained BCCI's stance on having one coach. Speaking to The Times of India, BCCI secretary Shah explained, "We've to listen to the coach we recruit. Once we have selected Gautam Gambhir and if he is interested to coach in all three formats, who am I to say 'you can't coach a particular format'. More or less 70 per cent players are the same in all three formats." Also read: Not Virat Kohli! Ricky Ponting backs THIS player to break Sachin Tendulkar's world record in Tests Mentioning that India had enough back-ups for the head coach role, Shah pointed out, "We have coaches from the NCA. When Rahul Dravid was taking a break, VVS Laxman used to step in." Gambhir has been appointed as India's head coach until the 2027 ODI World Cup. His tenure started with India's bittersweet tour of Sri Lanka, which ended recently, where the Men in Blue won the three T20Is (3-0) but lost the three ODIs (2-0). Apart from having a new coach, there have been some changes at the leadership front as well. With Rohit Sharma's T20I retirement, Suryakumar Yadav has been appointed as the new captain whereas the Hitman continues to lead the side in Tests and ODIs. While Shubman Gill was India's vice-captain in the white-ball tour of Sri Lanka. At present, the national side is on a break. India will commence their hectic home season from next month, starting with the Bangladesh series. They host the Bangla Tigers for two Tests and three T20Is.

'Who am I to tell Gautam Gambhir..?', Jay Shah's take goes VIRAL on India's one coach stance

Sri Lanka will look to register back-to-back series wins as they take on England in the three-match Test series starting on Wednesday (Aug 21). The three-match Test series will be important in the World Test Championship (WTC) rankings as both nations look to gain vital points. Ahead of the series here is all you need to know about it including the live streaming, dates and timings. England will head into the standings sitting sixth in the WTC standings while Sri Lanka are fourth in the standings.

<h2>When will the Sri Lanka tour of England begin?</h2>

Sri Lanka tour of England will begin on August 21 with the white ball tour ending on September 10.

<h2>What will be the match timings of the England vs Sri Lanka Tests, according to Indian Standard Time (IST)?</h2>

The England vs Sri Lanka Tests will begin at 3:30 pm&nbsp;IST and 10:00 am&nbsp;(local time).

<h2>At what time will the toss take place during the England vs Sri Lanka Test series?</h2>

The ENG vs SL toss will take place 30 minutes before the scheduled start of play, i.e. 3:30 pm&nbsp;IST.

<h2>When will the England vs Sri Lanka Test series begin?</h2>

The England vs Sri Lanka Test series will begin on Wednesday (August 21).

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<h2>Which TV channels will telecast England vs Sri Lanka matches in India?</h2>

Sony Sports Network has the broadcasting rights to matches played in Sri Lanka for India. Sony Ten 5 will live telecast with English Commentary. Sony TEN 3 will live telecast IND vs SL matches with Hindi Commentary.

<h2>How to watch the live streaming of England vs Sri Lanka matches in India?</h2>

Sony LIV will livestream&nbsp;the England vs Sri Lanka matches in India.

<h2>Schedule for England vs Sri Lanka Test Series</h2>

1st Test – Wednesday, August 26, Manchester

2nd Test – Thursday, August 27, London

3rd Test – Friday, September 29, London

Sri Lanka will look to register back-to-back series wins as they take on England in the three-match Test series starting on Wednesday (Aug 21). The three-match Test series will be important in the World Test Championship (WTC) rankings as both nations look to gain vital points.

Sri Lanka will look to register back-to-back series wins as they take on England in the three-match Test series starting on Wednesday (Aug 21). The three-match Test series will be important in the World Test Championship (WTC) rankings as both nations look to gain vital points. Ahead of the series here is all you need to know about it including the live streaming, dates and timings. England will head into the standings sitting sixth in the WTC standings while Sri Lanka are fourth in the standings. When will the Sri Lanka tour of England begin? Sri Lanka tour of England will begin on August 21 with the white ball tour ending on September 10. What will be the match timings of the England vs Sri Lanka Tests, according to Indian Standard Time (IST)? The England vs Sri Lanka Tests will begin at 3:30 pm IST and 10:00 am (local time). At what time will the toss take place during the England vs Sri Lanka Test series? The ENG vs SL toss will take place 30 minutes before the scheduled start of play, i.e. 3:30 pm IST. When will the England vs Sri Lanka Test series begin? The England vs Sri Lanka Test series will begin on Wednesday (August 21). ALSO READ | BCCI's Jay Shah says ‘no’ to ICC’s offer of hosting 2024 Women’s T20 World Cup Which TV channels will telecast England vs Sri Lanka matches in India? Sony Sports Network has the broadcasting rights to matches played in Sri Lanka for India. Sony Ten 5 will live telecast with English Commentary. Sony TEN 3 will live telecast IND vs SL matches with Hindi Commentary. How to watch the live streaming of England vs Sri Lanka matches in India? Sony LIV will livestream the England vs Sri Lanka matches in India. Schedule for England vs Sri Lanka Test Series 1st Test – Wednesday, August 26, Manchester 2nd Test – Thursday, August 27, London 3rd Test – Friday, September 29, London

Sri Lanka tour of England: All you need to know about England vs Sri Lanka series - live streaming, time, date

Former India cricketer and legendary Test batter VVS Laxman is all set to extend his stay as the head of the National Cricket Academy (NCA), according to&nbsp;the latest reports on Thursday (Aug 15). Laxman, who has been the head of the NCA and led the team in Rahul Dravid’s absence, will now get an extended term as the NCA moves to a new state-of-the-art facility. NCA will be opening a new facility in the coming days and Laxman will be the man to lead it as the Board of Control for Cricket India (BCCI) looks forward to the transition.

<h2>Laxman set to stay at NCA</h2>

The move to extend his contract comes after Laxman was approached by several teams in the Indian Premier League (IPL). Teams like Delhi Capitals and Punjab Kings were bidding to sign him as coach for the IPL 2025, but that would have meant Laxman would have to resign from his NCA post. However, according to ESPNcricinfo, the legendary batter will continue to head the Bengaluru-based facility and won’t join any IPL side.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/bccis-jay-shah-says-no-to-iccs-offer-of-hosting-2024-womens-t20-world-cup-750372">BCCI's Jay Shah says ‘no’ to ICC’s offer of hosting 2024 Women’s T20 World Cup</a>

<h2>NCA set for major overhaul</h2>

“Very excited to announce that the @BCCI’s new National Cricket Academy (NCA) is almost complete and will be opening shortly in Bengaluru. The new NCA will feature three world-class playing grounds, 45 practice pitches, indoor cricket pitches, an Olympic-size swimming pool and state-of-the-art training, recovery and sports science facilities. This initiative will help our nation’s current and future cricketers develop their skills in the best possible environment!” Jay Shah wrote on&nbsp;X earlier in the month.

The plan is set to lift Indian cricket and provide world-class facilities for the upcoming generation of cricketers. The NCA serves as the centre of preparation for Indian players contracted to the BCCI but the latest developments will also see domestic players use the facilities.

Former India cricketer and legendary Test batter VVS Laxman is all set to extend his stay as the head of the National Cricket Academy (NCA), according to the latest reports on Thursday (Aug 15).

Former India cricketer and legendary Test batter VVS Laxman is all set to extend his stay as the head of the National Cricket Academy (NCA), according to the latest reports on Thursday (Aug 15). Laxman, who has been the head of the NCA and led the team in Rahul Dravid’s absence, will now get an extended term as the NCA moves to a new state-of-the-art facility. NCA will be opening a new facility in the coming days and Laxman will be the man to lead it as the Board of Control for Cricket India (BCCI) looks forward to the transition. Laxman set to stay at NCA The move to extend his contract comes after Laxman was approached by several teams in the Indian Premier League (IPL). Teams like Delhi Capitals and Punjab Kings were bidding to sign him as coach for the IPL 2025, but that would have meant Laxman would have to resign from his NCA post. However, according to ESPNcricinfo, the legendary batter will continue to head the Bengaluru-based facility and won’t join any IPL side. ALSO READ | BCCI's Jay Shah says ‘no’ to ICC’s offer of hosting 2024 Women’s T20 World Cup NCA set for major overhaul “Very excited to announce that the @BCCI’s new National Cricket Academy (NCA) is almost complete and will be opening shortly in Bengaluru. The new NCA will feature three world-class playing grounds, 45 practice pitches, indoor cricket pitches, an Olympic-size swimming pool and state-of-the-art training, recovery and sports science facilities. This initiative will help our nation’s current and future cricketers develop their skills in the best possible environment!” Jay Shah wrote on X earlier in the month. The plan is set to lift Indian cricket and provide world-class facilities for the upcoming generation of cricketers. The NCA serves as the centre of preparation for Indian players contracted to the BCCI but the latest developments will also see domestic players use the facilities.

VVS Laxman to get contract extension as head of National Cricket Academy

BCCI Secretary Jay Shah has promised a good '15-day gap' between IPL and World Test Championship&nbsp;(WTC) finals going ahead. The last two WTC finals -- since the championship came into the scene in late 2019 -- were held soon after IPL. Many criticised the narrow gap as India lost the two WTC finals with ease. Virat Kohli-led India lost the WTC 2021 final to New Zealand, by eigth&nbsp;wickets in Southampton, whereas Rohit Sharma &amp; Co. lost the 2023&nbsp;final to&nbsp;Australia by 209 runs at The Oval, London. The last WTC final kicked off on June 7, with the IPL 2023 finale&nbsp;ending&nbsp;in the wee hours of May 30.

Shah stated that Team India&nbsp;have&nbsp;always reached for the final on time irrespective of the IPL schedule and lauded them&nbsp;for making it to&nbsp;the finals on both occasions so far. He told TOI, "The team didn't reach late for previous WTC finals. We had no choice. From now on, we will be having a 15-day gap between the end of IPL and the WTC final. But we should also appreciate the fact that we have qualified for the final twice."

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Ahead of the inaugural WTC final, held in 2021, that year's IPL came to a sudden halt due to the second wave of Covid-19 in India. Back then, the IPL was called off midway in early May and, hence, the&nbsp;national side got enough time to reach the United Kingdom, on June 3, and prepare&nbsp;post fulfilling the quarantine rules. They even played an intra-squad match. However, Kohli &amp; Co.&nbsp;lost to the Kiwis by eight wickets in Southampton.

Last year, the narrow gap between IPL and WTC final came to the forefront. The Indian players left in batches due to IPL 2023 and, thus, got&nbsp;lesser time to prepare and&nbsp;lost to Australia without much fight.

Questions have also been raised as to why the two WTC finals have been&nbsp;held in England and Wales only. The 2025 WTC final&nbsp;is also likely to be held in English conditions,&nbsp;although no venue has been confirmed as of now.

Looking at the WTC points table&nbsp;currently, India (win percentage of 68.52) and Australia (win percentage of 62.5) are favourites to meet once again in next year's finale.

BCCI Secretary Jay Shah has promised a good '15-day gap' between IPL and World Test Championship (WTC) finals going ahead. The last two WTC finals -- since the championship came into the scene in late 2019 -- were held soon after IPL.

BCCI Secretary Jay Shah has promised a good '15-day gap' between IPL and World Test Championship (WTC) finals going ahead. The last two WTC finals -- since the championship came into the scene in late 2019 -- were held soon after IPL. Many criticised the narrow gap as India lost the two WTC finals with ease. Virat Kohli-led India lost the WTC 2021 final to New Zealand, by eigth wickets in Southampton, whereas Rohit Sharma & Co. lost the 2023 final to Australia by 209 runs at The Oval, London. The last WTC final kicked off on June 7, with the IPL 2023 finale ending in the wee hours of May 30. Shah stated that Team India have always reached for the final on time irrespective of the IPL schedule and lauded them for making it to the finals on both occasions so far. He told TOI, "The team didn't reach late for previous WTC finals. We had no choice. From now on, we will be having a 15-day gap between the end of IPL and the WTC final. But we should also appreciate the fact that we have qualified for the final twice." Also read: BGT 2024/25: Shastri responds to Ponting's 'Australia will win 3-1' remark, backs India to complete hat-trick Ahead of the inaugural WTC final, held in 2021, that year's IPL came to a sudden halt due to the second wave of Covid-19 in India. Back then, the IPL was called off midway in early May and, hence, the national side got enough time to reach the United Kingdom, on June 3, and prepare post fulfilling the quarantine rules. They even played an intra-squad match. However, Kohli & Co. lost to the Kiwis by eight wickets in Southampton. Last year, the narrow gap between IPL and WTC final came to the forefront. The Indian players left in batches due to IPL 2023 and, thus, got lesser time to prepare and lost to Australia without much fight. Questions have also been raised as to why the two WTC finals have been held in England and Wales only. The 2025 WTC final is also likely to be held in English conditions, although no venue has been confirmed as of now. Looking at the WTC points table currently, India (win percentage of 68.52) and Australia (win percentage of 62.5) are favourites to meet once again in next year's finale.

BCCI Secretary Jay Shah promises '15-day gap' between IPL and WTC finals

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has opted to replace Dharamsala with Gwalior as one of the venues of the T20I matches during Bangladesh’s tour of India in September and October. The news was confirmed by the BCCI on Tuesday (Aug 13) with little over a month to go for the series to start. The announcement of the new venue was made due to "upgrades and renovation work being carried out by the Himachal Pradesh Cricket Association in the dressing rooms,"&nbsp;the board said in a release.

<h2>Gwalior to replace Dharamsala</h2>

The match was supposed to take place on Sunday (Oct 6) in Dharamsala. However, the HPCA was unable to meet the deadline to make the stadium available which meant that the BCCI was on a hunt for a new venue. The newly-built Shrimant Madhavrao Scindia Cricket Stadium in Gwalior emerged as the option with fond memories of Indian cricket. In February 2009, Sachin Tendulkar became the first male cricketer to score an ODI double hundred at the same venue.

Interestingly, this will be India’s first international men’s match at the venue since that historic feat achieved by Tendulkar.

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<h2>BCCI opts to swap venue</h2>

The BCCI has also opted to swap venues during England’s tour of India in 2025 for the ODI series. The series which will serve as a warm-up for the 2025 Champions Trophy will now see slight change as Eden Gardens will host the opening match instead of the second and Chennai in turn will host the second match.

"The venue change was necessitated following a request from Kolkata Police to the Cricket Association of Bengal regarding their prior Republic Day commitments and obligations," the BCCI said.

Apart from those slight changes, the plans for the remainder of the season remain the same with India expecting to play one more series between the Champions Trophy and the Indian Premier League 2025 (IPL).

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has opted to replace Dharamsala with Gwalior as one of the venues of the T20I matches during Bangladesh’s tour of India in September and October.

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has opted to replace Dharamsala with Gwalior as one of the venues of the T20I matches during Bangladesh’s tour of India in September and October. The news was confirmed by the BCCI on Tuesday (Aug 13) with little over a month to go for the series to start. The announcement of the new venue was made due to "upgrades and renovation work being carried out by the Himachal Pradesh Cricket Association in the dressing rooms," the board said in a release. Gwalior to replace Dharamsala The match was supposed to take place on Sunday (Oct 6) in Dharamsala. However, the HPCA was unable to meet the deadline to make the stadium available which meant that the BCCI was on a hunt for a new venue. The newly-built Shrimant Madhavrao Scindia Cricket Stadium in Gwalior emerged as the option with fond memories of Indian cricket. In February 2009, Sachin Tendulkar became the first male cricketer to score an ODI double hundred at the same venue. Interestingly, this will be India’s first international men’s match at the venue since that historic feat achieved by Tendulkar. ALSO READ | Manchester United complete double swoop of Matthijs de Ligt, Noussair Mazraoui from Bayern Munich BCCI opts to swap venue The BCCI has also opted to swap venues during England’s tour of India in 2025 for the ODI series. The series which will serve as a warm-up for the 2025 Champions Trophy will now see slight change as Eden Gardens will host the opening match instead of the second and Chennai in turn will host the second match. "The venue change was necessitated following a request from Kolkata Police to the Cricket Association of Bengal regarding their prior Republic Day commitments and obligations," the BCCI said. Apart from those slight changes, the plans for the remainder of the season remain the same with India expecting to play one more series between the Champions Trophy and the Indian Premier League 2025 (IPL).

Bangladesh tour of India: Gwalior replaces Dharamsala for T20I contest, confirms BCCI

Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has suspended the sale of tickets for home Test against Bangladesh in Karachi. The National Stadium in the city is going under renovation and upgradation for the Champions Trophy in February-March next year,&nbsp;the PCB informed in a statement.

"The health and safety of our fans is our utmost priority," read the statement issued by the PCB.&nbsp;

"After careful consideration of all available options, we have decided that the safest course of action is to hold the second Test in front of an empty stadium."

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"While we deeply regret any inconvenience this may cause, we want to assure our valued fans that the ongoing stadium upgrades are aimed at enhancing their experience," it further added.

Bangladesh are in Pakistan for two-Test series with the first Test scheduled to be played from August 21 in Rawalpindi.

As reported by the cricket news website ESPNCricinfo, the decision to host the Test without spectators instead of moving it to another venue would have incurred losses for the PCB.

Pakistan are expected to play seven home Tests in the coming month and are looking to equally share the hosting between three venues: Rawalpindi, Karachi and Multan.

Multan would have been a viable option to shift the second Test against Bangladesh but it is already slated to host the first Test against England in October.

The Karachi Test against England, scheduled to be played from October 15, is so far expected to have spectators present.

As for Bangladesh, they are touring Pakistan for the first time since 2020, when Covid-19 pandemic cut short their trip. Bangladesh itself are going through a turmoil at home.

They landed in Lahore four days ago where they would train at Gaddafi Stadium before going to Rawalpindi for the first Test.

Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has suspended the sale of tickets for home Test against Bangladesh in Karachi. The National Stadium in the city is going under renovation and upgradation for the Champions Trophy in February-March next year, the PCB informed in a statement.

Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has suspended the sale of tickets for home Test against Bangladesh in Karachi. The National Stadium in the city is going under renovation and upgradation for the Champions Trophy in February-March next year, the PCB informed in a statement. "The health and safety of our fans is our utmost priority," read the statement issued by the PCB. "After careful consideration of all available options, we have decided that the safest course of action is to hold the second Test in front of an empty stadium." Also Read: Arshad Nadeem gets PKR 100 million cash prize and car with 'Olympic Record' number for Paris gold "While we deeply regret any inconvenience this may cause, we want to assure our valued fans that the ongoing stadium upgrades are aimed at enhancing their experience," it further added. Bangladesh are in Pakistan for two-Test series with the first Test scheduled to be played from August 21 in Rawalpindi. As reported by the cricket news website ESPNCricinfo, the decision to host the Test without spectators instead of moving it to another venue would have incurred losses for the PCB. Pakistan are expected to play seven home Tests in the coming month and are looking to equally share the hosting between three venues: Rawalpindi, Karachi and Multan. Multan would have been a viable option to shift the second Test against Bangladesh but it is already slated to host the first Test against England in October. The Karachi Test against England, scheduled to be played from October 15, is so far expected to have spectators present. As for Bangladesh, they are touring Pakistan for the first time since 2020, when Covid-19 pandemic cut short their trip. Bangladesh itself are going through a turmoil at home. They landed in Lahore four days ago where they would train at Gaddafi Stadium before going to Rawalpindi for the first Test.

Pakistan to play Karachi Test against Bangladesh without crowd ahead of Champions Trophy | Read Why

India and Australia will lock horns in a five-match Test series, later this year, in Australia. The forthcoming 2024/25 Border-Gavaskar Trophy is keenly awaited as it will be the first time since the 1991-92 season that the two heavyweights will square off in a five-match Test series. Recently, former Aussie captain Ricky Ponting made a bold early prediction, calling for the Pat Cummins-led side's 3-1 win. However, former India head coach Ravi Shastri responded to Ponting's remark and backed India to win their third successive Test series on Australian soil.

<h2>'REMEMBER, INDIA HAVE BEATEN AUSTRALIA TWICE, IT WILL BE A HAT-TRICK'</h2>

Shastri said on the ICC Review Show, "The Border-Gavaskar Trophy in Australia over five Test matches is going to be a humdinger. Remember, India have beaten Australia twice on the last two tours and Australia have not had a hand on the Border-Gavaskar Trophy in almost a decade and that's the reason why everyone will be waiting for these two heavyweights of Test match cricket over the last five to eight years to go head-to-head."

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/bgt-2024-25-3-1-to-ricky-ponting-makes-brave-early-prediction-for-india-vs-australia-five-tests-749765">BGT 2024-25: '3-1 to...,' Ricky Ponting makes BRAVE early prediction for India vs Australia five Tests</a>

Shastri, under whom India won their maiden Test series in Australia in 2018/19 and replicated the same in 2020/21, further opined, "It is going to be one heck of a series and India have every chance of making it a hat-trick because they've got their bowlers fit and if they can bat well, they can tickle (beat) Australia once again."

The former Indian all-rounder is wary of Australia being desperate to settle scores with India. In this regard, Shastri stated, "We know what Australia will be wanting (revenge). They will be thirsty, they'd be looking to go at the throats of the Indians because they’ve been beaten there (in Australia) twice. The attack is pretty much the same. One of the greatest fast bowling attacks – [one of the greatest] all-round attacks when you add Nathan Lyon there – in a long, long time. And one of the best in the history of the game. They'll be looking for those 20 wickets, game after game to help Australia win the series."

He added, "It's going to be India's batting against the Australian fast bowlers. And of course, the Indian bowling attack is going to be something everyone will be waiting to see. With (Jasprit) Bumrah fit, (Mohammed) Shami fit, you've got Mohammed Siraj there. You've got the likes of (Ravichandran) Ashwin and (Ravindra) Jadeja and some very good bench strength as well."

India have not lost the BG Trophy since the 2017 edition. In addition, they won the last two Test series on Australian soil. Hence, Aussies won't rule out India by any means and come hard at them.

India and Australia will lock horns in a five-match Test series, later this year, in Australia. The forthcoming 2024/25 Border-Gavaskar Trophy is keenly awaited as it will be the first time since the 1991-92 season that the two heavyweights will square off in a five-match Test series.

India and Australia will lock horns in a five-match Test series, later this year, in Australia. The forthcoming 2024/25 Border-Gavaskar Trophy is keenly awaited as it will be the first time since the 1991-92 season that the two heavyweights will square off in a five-match Test series. Recently, former Aussie captain Ricky Ponting made a bold early prediction, calling for the Pat Cummins-led side's 3-1 win. However, former India head coach Ravi Shastri responded to Ponting's remark and backed India to win their third successive Test series on Australian soil. 'REMEMBER, INDIA HAVE BEATEN AUSTRALIA TWICE, IT WILL BE A HAT-TRICK' Shastri said on the ICC Review Show, "The Border-Gavaskar Trophy in Australia over five Test matches is going to be a humdinger. Remember, India have beaten Australia twice on the last two tours and Australia have not had a hand on the Border-Gavaskar Trophy in almost a decade and that's the reason why everyone will be waiting for these two heavyweights of Test match cricket over the last five to eight years to go head-to-head." Also read: BGT 2024-25: '3-1 to...,' Ricky Ponting makes BRAVE early prediction for India vs Australia five Tests Shastri, under whom India won their maiden Test series in Australia in 2018/19 and replicated the same in 2020/21, further opined, "It is going to be one heck of a series and India have every chance of making it a hat-trick because they've got their bowlers fit and if they can bat well, they can tickle (beat) Australia once again." The former Indian all-rounder is wary of Australia being desperate to settle scores with India. In this regard, Shastri stated, "We know what Australia will be wanting (revenge). They will be thirsty, they'd be looking to go at the throats of the Indians because they’ve been beaten there (in Australia) twice. The attack is pretty much the same. One of the greatest fast bowling attacks – [one of the greatest] all-round attacks when you add Nathan Lyon there – in a long, long time. And one of the best in the history of the game. They'll be looking for those 20 wickets, game after game to help Australia win the series." He added, "It's going to be India's batting against the Australian fast bowlers. And of course, the Indian bowling attack is going to be something everyone will be waiting to see. With (Jasprit) Bumrah fit, (Mohammed) Shami fit, you've got Mohammed Siraj there. You've got the likes of (Ravichandran) Ashwin and (Ravindra) Jadeja and some very good bench strength as well." India have not lost the BG Trophy since the 2017 edition. In addition, they won the last two Test series on Australian soil. Hence, Aussies won't rule out India by any means and come hard at them.

BGT 2024/25: Shastri responds to Ponting's 'Australia will win 3-1' remark, backs India to complete hat-trick

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Ahead of India's home season, former South African pacer Morne Morkel has been appointed India's bowling coach. His contract commences on September 1. The development was confirmed by BCCI Secretary Jay Shah. Morkel was not able to join the Indian team during their recent tour of Sri Lanka, due to personal reasons. However, he is now set to take over as the bowling coach with the commencement of India's hectic home season.&nbsp;

Earlier, it was reported that current head coach Gautam Gambhir had recommended Morkel's name as the bowling coach, as per a report in Cricbuzz. The two played together during KKR's golden days, during Gambhir's captaincy tenure, and were also part of Lucknow Super Giants (LSG)'s backroom team. The South African, thus, completes Gambhir-led coaching staff which comprises assistant coach Abhishek Nayar (batting) and T Dilip (fielding).

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/people-think-they-have-big-egos-dravids-remark-on-managing-rohit-virat-bumrah-ashwin-goes-viral-750049">'People think they have big egos,' Dravid's remark on managing Rohit, Virat, Bumrah, Ashwin goes VIRAL</a>

Morkel had a fruitful career at the international level. He represented South Africa in 86 Tests,&nbsp;117 ODIs and 44 T20Is. He accounted for 309 Test scalps -- including 18 five-fers -- 188 ODI wickets and 47 victims in T20Is. In the IPL, the 39-year-old featured for KKR, Delhi Daredevils (now known as Delhi Capitals) and Rajasthan Royals (RR).&nbsp;

It will be interesting to see how Morkel -- who retired from international cricket in 2018 -- operates with Indian pacers such as Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Shami, Mohammed Siraj, etc.&nbsp;

<section itemprop="articleBody">
Notably, Morkel served as Babar Azam-led Pakistan's bowling coach during last year's ODI World Cup in India. He, however, stepped down from the role months before his contract was to end&nbsp;with the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB).

At present, the Indian team is on a break. They will kick off&nbsp;their home season with two Tests versus Bangladesh, starting next month.&nbsp;
</section>
</section>

Ahead of India's home season, former South African pacer Morne Morkel has been appointed India's bowling coach. His contract commences on September 1. The development was confirmed by BCCI Secretary Jay Shah.

Ahead of India's home season, former South African pacer Morne Morkel has been appointed India's bowling coach. His contract commences on September 1. The development was confirmed by BCCI Secretary Jay Shah. Morkel was not able to join the Indian team during their recent tour of Sri Lanka, due to personal reasons. However, he is now set to take over as the bowling coach with the commencement of India's hectic home season. Earlier, it was reported that current head coach Gautam Gambhir had recommended Morkel's name as the bowling coach, as per a report in Cricbuzz. The two played together during KKR's golden days, during Gambhir's captaincy tenure, and were also part of Lucknow Super Giants (LSG)'s backroom team. The South African, thus, completes Gambhir-led coaching staff which comprises assistant coach Abhishek Nayar (batting) and T Dilip (fielding). Also Read: 'People think they have big egos,' Dravid's remark on managing Rohit, Virat, Bumrah, Ashwin goes VIRAL Morkel had a fruitful career at the international level. He represented South Africa in 86 Tests, 117 ODIs and 44 T20Is. He accounted for 309 Test scalps -- including 18 five-fers -- 188 ODI wickets and 47 victims in T20Is. In the IPL, the 39-year-old featured for KKR, Delhi Daredevils (now known as Delhi Capitals) and Rajasthan Royals (RR). It will be interesting to see how Morkel -- who retired from international cricket in 2018 -- operates with Indian pacers such as Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Shami, Mohammed Siraj, etc. Notably, Morkel served as Babar Azam-led Pakistan's bowling coach during last year's ODI World Cup in India. He, however, stepped down from the role months before his contract was to end with the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB). At present, the Indian team is on a break. They will kick off their home season with two Tests versus Bangladesh, starting next month.

Official! Former South Africa pacer Morne Morkel named Team India's bowling coach

Former India coach Rahul Dravid heaped praise on India's senior players such as Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, R Ashwin and&nbsp;Jasprit Bumrah. Dravid recently ended his coaching tenure with the senior men's cricket team, following the Rohit-led India's 2024 T20 World Cup triumph, and was all praise for the senior players, saying they are not at all difficult to manage. Dravid took over as India's full-time coach in late 2021 and held the post till this year's T20 WC, in West Indies and the USA. Under him, India played the WTC 2023 final, 2023 ODI WC final, won the Asia Cup (ODIs) and the T20 WC, to end their 13-year-long ICC title drought.

<h2>'Many think they have big egos and are very difficult to manage'</h2>

Speaking on the senior cricketers, Dravid told Star Sports, "There were a lot of other senior players as well, whether it was Virat, Bumrah, or Ashwin in Test cricket that we played. So many of them – just because a lot of Indian cricketers are big names, and they are superstars, and rightly so, and they’re followed by so many people – sometimes people think that they have big egos and that they are very difficult to manage."

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/it-was-a-privilege-to-work-with-rohit-rahul-dravid-praises-indian-skipper-after-successful-spell-749754">'It was a privilege to work with Rohit': Rahul Dravid praises Indian skipper after successful stint</a>

He added, "A lot of these superstars are actually very humble about their preparation. They are humble about their work ethic. And that is why they are superstars. Look at Ashwin today; at this age, he’s willing to adapt, he’s willing to learn. So just one example. Of course, at times you have to manage them, manage their bodies, manage the workload, a lot of those things. But to be honest, it was not very difficult."

Post Dravid's end of tenure,&nbsp;former Indian opener Gautam Gambhir has taken rein of the team until the 2027 ODI WC. Moreover, a lot of changes have happened in Indian cricket. Rohit, Kohli and Ravindra Jadeja retired from T20Is, with Suryakumar Yadav succeeding Hitman as the T20I captain. Rohit remains the Test and ODI skipper.

Former India coach Rahul Dravid heaped praise on India's senior players such as Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, R Ashwin and Jasprit Bumrah. Dravid recently ended his coaching tenure with the senior men's cricket team, following the Rohit-led India's 2024 T20 World Cup triumph, and was all praise for the senior players, saying they are not at all difficult to manage.

Former India coach Rahul Dravid heaped praise on India's senior players such as Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, R Ashwin and Jasprit Bumrah. Dravid recently ended his coaching tenure with the senior men's cricket team, following the Rohit-led India's 2024 T20 World Cup triumph, and was all praise for the senior players, saying they are not at all difficult to manage. Dravid took over as India's full-time coach in late 2021 and held the post till this year's T20 WC, in West Indies and the USA. Under him, India played the WTC 2023 final, 2023 ODI WC final, won the Asia Cup (ODIs) and the T20 WC, to end their 13-year-long ICC title drought. 'Many think they have big egos and are very difficult to manage' Speaking on the senior cricketers, Dravid told Star Sports, "There were a lot of other senior players as well, whether it was Virat, Bumrah, or Ashwin in Test cricket that we played. So many of them – just because a lot of Indian cricketers are big names, and they are superstars, and rightly so, and they’re followed by so many people – sometimes people think that they have big egos and that they are very difficult to manage." Also read: 'It was a privilege to work with Rohit': Rahul Dravid praises Indian skipper after successful stint He added, "A lot of these superstars are actually very humble about their preparation. They are humble about their work ethic. And that is why they are superstars. Look at Ashwin today; at this age, he’s willing to adapt, he’s willing to learn. So just one example. Of course, at times you have to manage them, manage their bodies, manage the workload, a lot of those things. But to be honest, it was not very difficult." Post Dravid's end of tenure, former Indian opener Gautam Gambhir has taken rein of the team until the 2027 ODI WC. Moreover, a lot of changes have happened in Indian cricket. Rohit, Kohli and Ravindra Jadeja retired from T20Is, with Suryakumar Yadav succeeding Hitman as the T20I captain. Rohit remains the Test and ODI skipper.

'People think they have big egos,' Dravid's remark on managing Rohit, Virat, Bumrah, Ashwin goes VIRAL

Ahead of their upcoming home series, England has dealt with a huge blow as Test captain Ben Stokes has been ruled out for the remainder of the English summer after tearing his hamstring. Stokes injured his hamstring recently during&nbsp;The Hundred, being held in England and Wales. The England all-rounder was carried off the pitch, while representing the&nbsp;Manchester Originals, and now has subsequently been ruled out of the entire summer season.

The England Cricket Board (ECB) statement read, "England Men's Test Captain Ben Stokes has been ruled out for the rest of the summer after tearing his left hamstring while playing for Northern Superchargers in The Hundred on Sunday. As a result of the scans conducted in Leeds on Tuesday, Stokes will miss England's three-match Rothesay Test series against Sri Lanka, which begins at Emirates Old Trafford on Wednesday, 21 August. There will be no addition to the squad for this series."

<section>
England squad for Sri Lanka Tests:&nbsp;Ollie Pope (captain), Gus Atkinson, Shoaib Bashir, Harry Brook, Jordan Cox, Ben Duckett, Dan Lawrence, Matthew Potts, Joe Root, Jamie Smith, Olly Stone, Chris Woakes, Mark Wood
</section>

<section>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/west-indies-vs-south-africa-2nd-test-live-streaming-when-and-where-to-watch-wi-vs-sa-series-decider-749811">West Indies vs South Africa, 2nd Test Live Streaming: When and Where to watch WI vs SA series decider</a></section>

ECB also stated that Stokes will be aiming to return for England's tour of Pakistan, later this year. In the veteran's absence, vice-captain Ollie Pope will lead the Three Lions in the upcoming three-match Test series versus Sri Lanka, starting later this month on Aug 21. After the Test series, England's white-ball team will take centrestage in the remaining English summer, where they will host arch-rivals Australia in three T20Is and five ODIs in September.&nbsp;

Stokes, with&nbsp;6,508 runs and 203 wickets in 105 Tests, will be missed by the Test side during their Lanka home series, with vital points up for grabs in the ongoing 2023-25 ICC World Test Championship cycle.

Ahead of their upcoming home series, England has dealt with a huge blow as Test captain Ben Stokes has been ruled out for the remainder of the English summer after tearing his hamstring.

Ahead of their upcoming home series, England has dealt with a huge blow as Test captain Ben Stokes has been ruled out for the remainder of the English summer after tearing his hamstring. Stokes injured his hamstring recently during The Hundred, being held in England and Wales. The England all-rounder was carried off the pitch, while representing the Manchester Originals, and now has subsequently been ruled out of the entire summer season. The England Cricket Board (ECB) statement read, "England Men's Test Captain Ben Stokes has been ruled out for the rest of the summer after tearing his left hamstring while playing for Northern Superchargers in The Hundred on Sunday. As a result of the scans conducted in Leeds on Tuesday, Stokes will miss England's three-match Rothesay Test series against Sri Lanka, which begins at Emirates Old Trafford on Wednesday, 21 August. There will be no addition to the squad for this series." England squad for Sri Lanka Tests: Ollie Pope (captain), Gus Atkinson, Shoaib Bashir, Harry Brook, Jordan Cox, Ben Duckett, Dan Lawrence, Matthew Potts, Joe Root, Jamie Smith, Olly Stone, Chris Woakes, Mark Wood Also read: West Indies vs South Africa, 2nd Test Live Streaming: When and Where to watch WI vs SA series decider ECB also stated that Stokes will be aiming to return for England's tour of Pakistan, later this year. In the veteran's absence, vice-captain Ollie Pope will lead the Three Lions in the upcoming three-match Test series versus Sri Lanka, starting later this month on Aug 21. After the Test series, England's white-ball team will take centrestage in the remaining English summer, where they will host arch-rivals Australia in three T20Is and five ODIs in September. Stokes, with 6,508 runs and 203 wickets in 105 Tests, will be missed by the Test side during their Lanka home series, with vital points up for grabs in the ongoing 2023-25 ICC World Test Championship cycle.

ENG vs SL: Big blow! England captain Ben Stokes ruled out of remaining English summer after hamstring tear

Former England batter Graham Thorpe died in a train mishap, it was revealed at the opening of inquest into his death. Thorpe was hit by the train on the morning of August 4 at Esher railway station in Surrey, England.

His wife, Amanda, told the Times in a interview on Monday (Aug 4) that Thorpe died by suicide. A date for full inquest is expected to be set later.

Thorpe left behind his wife Amanda and their two daughters Kitty, 22, and Emma, 19, as well as his first wife Nicky and their two children, Henry and Amelia.&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/still-feel-i-could-englands-james-anderson-mulls-playing-franchise-cricket-post-recent-test-retirement-749831">'Still feel I could...,' England's James Anderson mulls playing franchise cricket post recent Test retirement</a>

Amanda told The Times, "Despite having a wife and two daughters whom he loved and who loved him, he did not get better. He was so unwell in recent times and he really did believe that we would be better off without him and we are devastated that he acted on that and took his own life."

"Despite glimpses of hope and of the old Graham, he continued to suffer from depression and anxiety, which at times got very severe. We supported him as a family and he tried many, many treatments but unfortunately none of them really seemed to work," she added.

Thorpe's daughter Kitty stated, "We are not ashamed of talking about it. There is nothing to hide and it is not a stigma. We were trying to help him get better before and trying to protect him, which is why we said nothing.

The Surrey area coroner Simon Wickens, who got the referral from the British Transport Police, recorded the cause of death as one of multiple injuries.

“Officers were called to Esher railway station at 8.26am on August 4 to reports of a casualty on the tracks. Paramedics also attended, however sadly a person was pronounced dead at the scene. The incident is not being treated as suspicious,” the&nbsp;police earlier informed regarding the accident, reported the Guardian.

Former England batter Graham Thorpe died in a train mishap, it was revealed at the opening of inquest into his death. Thorpe was hit by the train on the morning of August 4 at Esher railway station in Surrey, England.

Former England batter Graham Thorpe died in a train mishap, it was revealed at the opening of inquest into his death. Thorpe was hit by the train on the morning of August 4 at Esher railway station in Surrey, England. His wife, Amanda, told the Times in a interview on Monday (Aug 4) that Thorpe died by suicide. A date for full inquest is expected to be set later. Thorpe left behind his wife Amanda and their two daughters Kitty, 22, and Emma, 19, as well as his first wife Nicky and their two children, Henry and Amelia. Also Read: 'Still feel I could...,' England's James Anderson mulls playing franchise cricket post recent Test retirement Amanda told The Times, "Despite having a wife and two daughters whom he loved and who loved him, he did not get better. He was so unwell in recent times and he really did believe that we would be better off without him and we are devastated that he acted on that and took his own life." "Despite glimpses of hope and of the old Graham, he continued to suffer from depression and anxiety, which at times got very severe. We supported him as a family and he tried many, many treatments but unfortunately none of them really seemed to work," she added. Thorpe's daughter Kitty stated, "We are not ashamed of talking about it. There is nothing to hide and it is not a stigma. We were trying to help him get better before and trying to protect him, which is why we said nothing. The Surrey area coroner Simon Wickens, who got the referral from the British Transport Police, recorded the cause of death as one of multiple injuries. “Officers were called to Esher railway station at 8.26am on August 4 to reports of a casualty on the tracks. Paramedics also attended, however sadly a person was pronounced dead at the scene. The incident is not being treated as suspicious,” the police earlier informed regarding the accident, reported the Guardian.

Ex-England cricketer Graham Thorpe died after being hit by train, revealed in inquest

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