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Matt Henry bowled New Zealand into a dominant position on the first day of the first Test against Zimbabwe at Queens Sports Club on Wednesday. Fast bowler Henry took six for 39 as Zimbabwe were bowled out for 149 after winning the toss and deciding to bat.&nbsp;New Zealand were 92 for no wicket at the close, with Devon Conway and Will Young unbeaten on 51 and 41 respectively. Henry, who was voted best player of a Twenty20 tri-series tournament which ended on Saturday, did not take long to adjust to red ball cricket in New Zealand's first Test since December last year.&nbsp;Henry dismissed both Zimbabwe opening batsmen, Brian Bennett (6) and Ben Curran (13) inside the first seven overs. He took two more wickets in an over interrupted by the lunch break, then came back to finish off the innings with his final two victims shortly after tea. Seamer Nathan Smith took three for 20 in 14 tight overs.&nbsp;Captain Craig Ervine, who took 23 balls to score his first run, top-scored for Zimbabwe with 39, eked out over 116 deliveries. Ervine and Nick Welch (27) put on 36 for the fourth wicket after Zimbabwe were reeling at 31 for three. But Henry returned for the last over before lunch to have Welch caught at second slip. Three balls later, after lunch, he had the experienced Sikandar Raza caught behind for two.&nbsp;Ervine and wicketkeeper Tafadzwa Tsiga (30) added 54 for the sixth wicket to lift Zimbabwe from 69 for five. Smith trapped both batsmen leg before wicket shortly before tea and Zimbabwe's resistance crumbled. In reply Conway and Young batted through to the close of play, scoring steadily after a cautious start.&nbsp;Zimbabwe opening bowler Blessing Muzarabani had an opening spell of eight overs but was unable to make a breakthrough. Conway reached his fifty in the penultimate over of the day, his first Test half-century since he made 76 against India in Pune last October. Seven innings since then had yielded a highest score of 22. Zimbabwe have played eight Tests since New Zealand last played a Test but have lost six, drawn one and had a single victory, against Bangladesh in Sylhet in April.&nbsp;Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Matt Henry puts New Zealand in control of first Test against Zimbabwe

Matt Henry bowled New Zealand into a dominant position on the first day of the first Test against Zimbabwe at Queens Sports Club on Wednesday. Fast bowler Henry took six for 39 as Zimbabwe were bowled out for 149 after winning the toss and deciding to bat. New Zealand were 92 for no wicket at the close, with Devon Conway and Will Young unbeaten on 51 and 41 respectively. Henry, who was voted best player of a Twenty20 tri-series tournament which ended on Saturday, did not take long to adjust to red ball cricket in New Zealand's first Test since December last year. Henry dismissed both Zimbabwe opening batsmen, Brian Bennett (6) and Ben Curran (13) inside the first seven overs. He took two more wickets in an over interrupted by the lunch break, then came back to finish off the innings with his final two victims shortly after tea. Seamer Nathan Smith took three for 20 in 14 tight overs. Captain Craig Ervine, who took 23 balls to score his first run, top-scored for Zimbabwe with 39, eked out over 116 deliveries. Ervine and Nick Welch (27) put on 36 for the fourth wicket after Zimbabwe were reeling at 31 for three. But Henry returned for the last over before lunch to have Welch caught at second slip. Three balls later, after lunch, he had the experienced Sikandar Raza caught behind for two. Ervine and wicketkeeper Tafadzwa Tsiga (30) added 54 for the sixth wicket to lift Zimbabwe from 69 for five. Smith trapped both batsmen leg before wicket shortly before tea and Zimbabwe's resistance crumbled. In reply Conway and Young batted through to the close of play, scoring steadily after a cautious start. Zimbabwe opening bowler Blessing Muzarabani had an opening spell of eight overs but was unable to make a breakthrough. Conway reached his fifty in the penultimate over of the day, his first Test half-century since he made 76 against India in Pune last October. Seven innings since then had yielded a highest score of 22. Zimbabwe have played eight Tests since New Zealand last played a Test but have lost six, drawn one and had a single victory, against Bangladesh in Sylhet in April. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

New Zealand were 92 for no wicket at the close, with Devon Conway and Will Young unbeaten on 51 and 41 respectively

With India preparing for the fifth and final Test of the Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy, there has been a pitch access controversy taking centre stage at The Oval. India skipper Shubman Gill has now spoken on the issue between head coach Gautam Gambhir and Oval pitch curator Lee Fortis. &nbsp;While India practiced on Tuesday, Gambhir had a heated confrontation with Lee over the practice facilities. Stepping aside, the Indian head coach gestured wildly, pointing a finger and mouthing a couple of words. India's batting coach, Sitanshu Kotak, was then spotted intervening, leading Lee aside and talking briefly to him. &nbsp;Whereas Kotak seemed to defuse the tension in explaining their position, Gambhir, standing close to the nets, wagged his finger at Lee and angrily declared, “You don't tell us what to do.” India assistant coach Ryan ten Doeschate joined Kotak in his exchange with Lee, as Gambhir kept on making his point from the other side. Lee uttered a few words to Gambhir before finally walking out of the scene. &nbsp;Lee was asked regarding the whole affair, but he preferred not to open up before the reporters and said, “It's not my job to be happy with him. I don't know, you have to ask him.” Kotak, and a couple of Indian management members, were observed attempting to clarify the situation to an English official. Kotak did most of the talking during that time. Addressing the pre-final Test press conference, Gill said, "I don't know what exactly happened yesterday and why the pitch curator did what he did. We have played four matches, and no one tried to stop us. Everyone has played so much cricket, and the coaches and the captain have gone and seen the wicket so many times. I don't know what the fuss was all about." He went on to clarify that it is not unusual for captains and coaches to walk over the pitch up close, a standard step in preparation, provided that the individual is barefoot or has rubber spikes on. "If a pitch curator is going to come and ask us to not look at the wicket and look at the wicket from three metres from behind, that is not something that has happened to us before. We have been playing cricket for such a long time and as long as you are under rubber spikes or you are barefoot, you are allowed to look at the wicket from close quarters, and that is the job of the coach and the captain. So I don't know why the curator didn't let us or didn't allow us to do that. It is not the first time that we were having a look at the wicket," he added. "We have been here for almost, I think, two months and like I said, a coach has every right to be able to go close quarters and have a look at the wicket and I didn't think there was anything wrong with that. I actually don't know why the curator would not allow us to go have a look at the wicket," the India captain signed off.

IND vs ENG 5th Test A coach has every right to look at wicket from close quarters says Gill on Gambhir Fortis argument

With India preparing for the fifth and final Test of the Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy, there has been a pitch access controversy taking centre stage at The Oval. India skipper Shubman Gill has now spoken on the issue between head coach Gautam Gambhir and Oval pitch curator Lee Fortis. While India practiced on Tuesday, Gambhir had a heated confrontation with Lee over the practice facilities. Stepping aside, the Indian head coach gestured wildly, pointing a finger and mouthing a couple of words. India's batting coach, Sitanshu Kotak, was then spotted intervening, leading Lee aside and talking briefly to him. Whereas Kotak seemed to defuse the tension in explaining their position, Gambhir, standing close to the nets, wagged his finger at Lee and angrily declared, “You don't tell us what to do.” India assistant coach Ryan ten Doeschate joined Kotak in his exchange with Lee, as Gambhir kept on making his point from the other side. Lee uttered a few words to Gambhir before finally walking out of the scene. Lee was asked regarding the whole affair, but he preferred not to open up before the reporters and said, “It's not my job to be happy with him. I don't know, you have to ask him.” Kotak, and a couple of Indian management members, were observed attempting to clarify the situation to an English official. Kotak did most of the talking during that time. Addressing the pre-final Test press conference, Gill said, "I don't know what exactly happened yesterday and why the pitch curator did what he did. We have played four matches, and no one tried to stop us. Everyone has played so much cricket, and the coaches and the captain have gone and seen the wicket so many times. I don't know what the fuss was all about." He went on to clarify that it is not unusual for captains and coaches to walk over the pitch up close, a standard step in preparation, provided that the individual is barefoot or has rubber spikes on. "If a pitch curator is going to come and ask us to not look at the wicket and look at the wicket from three metres from behind, that is not something that has happened to us before. We have been playing cricket for such a long time and as long as you are under rubber spikes or you are barefoot, you are allowed to look at the wicket from close quarters, and that is the job of the coach and the captain. So I don't know why the curator didn't let us or didn't allow us to do that. It is not the first time that we were having a look at the wicket," he added. "We have been here for almost, I think, two months and like I said, a coach has every right to be able to go close quarters and have a look at the wicket and I didn't think there was anything wrong with that. I actually don't know why the curator would not allow us to go have a look at the wicket," the India captain signed off.

India, trailing 1-2 in the series, stayed alive as the fourth Test ended in a draw. The visitors will look to conjure up a win to finish the five Tests series on 2-2

IND vs ENG, 5th Test: 'A coach has every right to look at wicket from close quarters', says Gill on Gambhir-Fortis argument

Athletes will be able to participate in the women's category for world ranking events like the World Championships only if they pass a one-off gene test as an attempt to safeguard the integrity of women's sport, World Athletics announced on Wednesday (July 30). The one-off test for the SRY gene that helps in establishing biological sex can be done through a cheek swab or blood sample.&nbsp;The test protocol will be monitored by member federations and the new rules take effect on September 1, before the September 13-21 World Athletics Championships in Tokyo.&nbsp;"It is really important in a sport that is permanently trying to attract more women that they enter a sport believing there is no biological glass ceiling," World Athletics President Sebastian Coe said in a statement. "The test to confirm biological sex is a very important step in ensuring this is the case. We are saying, at elite level, for you to compete in the female category, you have to be biologically female."It was always very clear to me and the World Athletics Council that gender cannot trump biology. We particularly want to thank our member federations for their support and commitment in the implementation of these new regulations." &nbsp;Athletics has debated qualification standards to participate in women's competitions for years, with uncertainty surrounding biological benefits for transgender competitors and individuals with differences in sex development (DSD). World Athletics excludes transgender women who have experienced male puberty from women's competitions, while it forces female DSD athletes who produce high levels of testosterone to reduce them in order to qualify.&nbsp;Earlier this year, a working group determined that those regulations were not stringent enough, with a pre-clearance test for the SRY gene being one of a number of recommendations the group put forward for new regulations. SRY gene confirms the existence of the Y chromosome, and it is a indicator for biological sex.&nbsp;The test was also sanctioned by World Boxing in May when they made sex testing compulsory for all boxers. Earlier this month, the European Court supported a 2023 judgment that double 800 metres Olympic champion Caster Semenya's challenge of an appeal to a Swiss Federal Tribunal to a Swiss law that excluded her from competition had not been heard adequately. Semenya was challenging World Athletics rules that female athletes with DSDs medically lower their testosterone levels.

Gene test now mandatory for female athletes says World Athletics

Athletes will be able to participate in the women's category for world ranking events like the World Championships only if they pass a one-off gene test as an attempt to safeguard the integrity of women's sport, World Athletics announced on Wednesday (July 30). The one-off test for the SRY gene that helps in establishing biological sex can be done through a cheek swab or blood sample. The test protocol will be monitored by member federations and the new rules take effect on September 1, before the September 13-21 World Athletics Championships in Tokyo. "It is really important in a sport that is permanently trying to attract more women that they enter a sport believing there is no biological glass ceiling," World Athletics President Sebastian Coe said in a statement. "The test to confirm biological sex is a very important step in ensuring this is the case. We are saying, at elite level, for you to compete in the female category, you have to be biologically female. "It was always very clear to me and the World Athletics Council that gender cannot trump biology. We particularly want to thank our member federations for their support and commitment in the implementation of these new regulations." Athletics has debated qualification standards to participate in women's competitions for years, with uncertainty surrounding biological benefits for transgender competitors and individuals with differences in sex development (DSD). World Athletics excludes transgender women who have experienced male puberty from women's competitions, while it forces female DSD athletes who produce high levels of testosterone to reduce them in order to qualify. Earlier this year, a working group determined that those regulations were not stringent enough, with a pre-clearance test for the SRY gene being one of a number of recommendations the group put forward for new regulations. SRY gene confirms the existence of the Y chromosome, and it is a indicator for biological sex. The test was also sanctioned by World Boxing in May when they made sex testing compulsory for all boxers. Earlier this month, the European Court supported a 2023 judgment that double 800 metres Olympic champion Caster Semenya's challenge of an appeal to a Swiss Federal Tribunal to a Swiss law that excluded her from competition had not been heard adequately. Semenya was challenging World Athletics rules that female athletes with DSDs medically lower their testosterone levels.

The once-in-a-lifetime test for the SRY gene, which helps in determining biological sex, can be done through a cheek swab or blood test

'Gene test now mandatory for female athletes', says World Athletics

England have named their playing XI ahead of the fifth and final Test of the ongoing Anderson-Tendulkar trophy, which will be played at the Kia Oval in London. The final Test match will begin on Thursday (Jul 31). Notably, it is a huge setback for England as they will miss the services of their skipper Ben Stokes, who is ruled out due to a shoulder injury. The hosts will also miss Jofra Archer, Brydon Carse and Liam Dawson.&nbsp;Left-handed batting all-rounder Jacob Bethell will replace Stokes while Surrey bowlers Gus Atkinson and Jamie Overton come into the side, along with Nottinghamshire pacer Josh Tongue. England have not picked any specialist spinner with Bethell and Root to command the spin department. Ollie Pope will lead the England team. This shall be the fifth Test for Pope as a skipper, having lost and drawn one. Interestingly, the only defeat for England under Ollie came at the very same venue where India and England are set to lock horns for the fifth Test.&nbsp;Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/the-highest-10th-wicket-partnership-in-tests-can-you-name-the-legendary-duo-1753880784465">What is the highest 10th wicket partnership in Test. Hint - it came in India vs England match</a>&nbsp;Meanwhile, several media reports suggest that India would be missing their ace pacer Jasprit Bumrah due to ‘workload management’. Debutant of Manchester Test, Anshul Kamboj, might not feature with Akashdeep Singh returning to the squad. There are high chances that Arshdeep Singh, will get his maiden Test cap at the Kia Oval.&nbsp;The Oval wicket is traditionally known to support the spinners as the game progresses. The Indian team will be scratching their heads over whom to play at no.8, left-arm chinaman Kuldeep Yadav or Shardul Thakur, who gives the Indian team batting depth.&nbsp;The Indian team will be in a state of dilemma as Shardul Thakur had amassed 117 runs ( two fifties), the last time India had played England at the Kia Oval. Addressing this issue, former India coach Sanjay Bangar said, ''That would sort a lot of the issues as far as bowling is concerned because (Mohammed) Siraj is anyway going to play. Maybe Anshul may miss out, and&nbsp;Akash Deep&nbsp;might just come back in. So one spot remains. Whether&nbsp;Shardul Thakur&nbsp;plays or there is a place for Kuldeep Yadav, I would be tempted to go with Kuldeep Yadav."

Left-handed batting all-rounder Jacob Bethell will replace Stokes while Surrey bowlers Gus Atkinson and Jamie Overton come into the side, along with Nottinghamshire pacer Josh Tongue. 

England have named their playing XI ahead of the fifth and final Test of the ongoing Anderson-Tendulkar trophy, which will be played at the Kia Oval in London. The final Test match will begin on Thursday (Jul 31). Notably, it is a huge setback for England as they will miss the services of their skipper Ben Stokes, who is ruled out due to a shoulder injury. The hosts will also miss Jofra Archer, Brydon Carse and Liam Dawson. Left-handed batting all-rounder Jacob Bethell will replace Stokes while Surrey bowlers Gus Atkinson and Jamie Overton come into the side, along with Nottinghamshire pacer Josh Tongue. England have not picked any specialist spinner with Bethell and Root to command the spin department. Ollie Pope will lead the England team. This shall be the fifth Test for Pope as a skipper, having lost and drawn one. Interestingly, the only defeat for England under Ollie came at the very same venue where India and England are set to lock horns for the fifth Test. Also read | What is the highest 10th wicket partnership in Test. Hint - it came in India vs England match Meanwhile, several media reports suggest that India would be missing their ace pacer Jasprit Bumrah due to ‘workload management’. Debutant of Manchester Test, Anshul Kamboj, might not feature with Akashdeep Singh returning to the squad. There are high chances that Arshdeep Singh, will get his maiden Test cap at the Kia Oval. The Oval wicket is traditionally known to support the spinners as the game progresses. The Indian team will be scratching their heads over whom to play at no.8, left-arm chinaman Kuldeep Yadav or Shardul Thakur, who gives the Indian team batting depth. The Indian team will be in a state of dilemma as Shardul Thakur had amassed 117 runs ( two fifties), the last time India had played England at the Kia Oval. Addressing this issue, former India coach Sanjay Bangar said, ''That would sort a lot of the issues as far as bowling is concerned because (Mohammed) Siraj is anyway going to play. Maybe Anshul may miss out, and Akash Deep might just come back in. So one spot remains. Whether Shardul Thakur plays or there is a place for Kuldeep Yadav, I would be tempted to go with Kuldeep Yadav."

Left-handed batting all-rounder Jacob Bethell will replace Stokes while Surrey bowlers Gus Atkinson and Jamie Overton come into the side, along with Nottinghamshire pacer Josh Tongue.&nbsp;

IND vs ENG, 5th Test: Pope to lead England in final Test against India. Check playing XI inside

At just 12 years old, Yu Zidi is making waves in international swimming circuit. The Chinese sensation is competing in her first-ever World Aquatics Championships in Singapore — becoming the second-youngest competitor in the event’s history — and has already delivered a performance well beyond her years.&nbsp;In her debut race, the 200m individual medley, Yu finished fourth, missing out on a bronze medal by a razor-thin 0.06 seconds. Her time of 2:09.21 was more than a second faster than her previous best, and astonishingly, over nine seconds quicker than the U.S. girls’ national age-group record for 11-12-year-olds. She’s also faster than the boys’ record in that age bracket by three seconds.&nbsp;Now, the governing body of swimming on Wednesday (July 30) said it would "have a look" at its entry policy following Yu Zidi's appearance at the world championships. Chinese schoolgirl Yu was 0.06sec short of securing a medal on Monday in Singapore and may still make the podium, with two of her more favoured events still to come.&nbsp;The minimum age is 14 under World Aquatics regulations but younger competitors can qualify if -- as was the case with Yu -- they have met specific minimum standards. Brent Nowicki, its executive director, acknowledged they had been taken aback that someone so young as Yu had been sufficiently quick to qualify for the world championships.&nbsp;"Our 'A' standards are so paper-thin, they're so narrow that I don't think I ever, in my head, perceived that it was a possibility that a 12-year-old merited such a period," he said in Singapore. "I feel quite comfortable with where we are with our safeguarding strategy within our sport."&nbsp;But Nowicki conceded Yu might compel them to rethink. "She's terrific. I mean, there's a huge future there for her. Hopefully there might be some good things that might come out of this, and it might be terrific," he said. But he warned, “Obviously we have to ensure that that's what it is, right? We don't want to tip that balance and go the other way, and we have to be careful about that.” “We'll take a look and determine if we have to go further steps or if we're at a place we're okay with.”

As 12 year old Yu Zidi makes waves swimming governing body to look at age rules

At just 12 years old, Yu Zidi is making waves in international swimming circuit. The Chinese sensation is competing in her first-ever World Aquatics Championships in Singapore — becoming the second-youngest competitor in the event’s history — and has already delivered a performance well beyond her years. In her debut race, the 200m individual medley, Yu finished fourth, missing out on a bronze medal by a razor-thin 0.06 seconds. Her time of 2:09.21 was more than a second faster than her previous best, and astonishingly, over nine seconds quicker than the U.S. girls’ national age-group record for 11-12-year-olds. She’s also faster than the boys’ record in that age bracket by three seconds. Now, the governing body of swimming on Wednesday (July 30) said it would "have a look" at its entry policy following Yu Zidi's appearance at the world championships. Chinese schoolgirl Yu was 0.06sec short of securing a medal on Monday in Singapore and may still make the podium, with two of her more favoured events still to come. The minimum age is 14 under World Aquatics regulations but younger competitors can qualify if -- as was the case with Yu -- they have met specific minimum standards. Brent Nowicki, its executive director, acknowledged they had been taken aback that someone so young as Yu had been sufficiently quick to qualify for the world championships. "Our 'A' standards are so paper-thin, they're so narrow that I don't think I ever, in my head, perceived that it was a possibility that a 12-year-old merited such a period," he said in Singapore. "I feel quite comfortable with where we are with our safeguarding strategy within our sport." But Nowicki conceded Yu might compel them to rethink. "She's terrific. I mean, there's a huge future there for her. Hopefully there might be some good things that might come out of this, and it might be terrific," he said. But he warned, “Obviously we have to ensure that that's what it is, right? We don't want to tip that balance and go the other way, and we have to be careful about that.” “We'll take a look and determine if we have to go further steps or if we're at a place we're okay with.”

Under World Aquatics rules, the minimum age is 14 but younger swimmers can take part if they meet certain qualifying standards

As 12-year-old Yu Zidi makes waves, swimming governing body to 'look at age rules'

India Champions have withdrawn from their semi-final match against Pakistan Champions in the ongoing World Championship of Legends (WCL) 2025. The match was scheduled to be played on Thursday (Jul 31) in Birmingham. The decision by India Champions to not play the semi-final clash means that it would be considered a walkover and Pak Champions will play in the final of the tournament on August 2 against the winner of Australia Champions vs South Africa Champions also to be played on July 31.&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ben-stokes-reveals-ashes-factor-behind-missing-final-test-vs-india-1753878727659">Ben Stokes reveals Ashes factor behind missing final Test vs India</a>&nbsp;This withdrawal is second such decision by the Indian Champions. They had previously decided to not play in the group stage match against Pakistan Champions as well. The decision has been taken in the aftermath of the recent escalations of tensions between the two neighbouring countries.India and Pakistan situation boiled over after Pahalgam terror attack in India's Kashmir on April 22. In response, India targeted terror camps inside Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) after the mid-night on May 6. Pakistan, while declining to take the responsibility of terror attack, instead blamed India for aggression and tried to target India's border areas against which India retaliated swiftly with similar forcer and intensity.The decision by India Champions, however, was not influenced by the BCCI as the tournament does not fall under the purview of ICC - apex cricket body. There's also a cloud of doubt on India vs Pakistan clash in Asia Cup 2025 next month on September 14.“As of now, the BCCI does not come under the purview of the sports ministry as the National Sports Governance Bill is still to be passed. So, the ministry doesn’t have a say, but we will wait and see how the BCCI responds to public sentiment,” a sports ministry source told news agency PTI. Given past instances, however, BCCI is likely to pay heed to the government's advise on the matter.

The decision has been taken in the aftermath of the recent escalations of tensions between the two neighbouring countries. It would also be considered a walkover and Pak Champions will play in the final of the tournament on August 2

India Champions have withdrawn from their semi-final match against Pakistan Champions in the ongoing World Championship of Legends (WCL) 2025. The match was scheduled to be played on Thursday (Jul 31) in Birmingham. The decision by India Champions to not play the semi-final clash means that it would be considered a walkover and Pak Champions will play in the final of the tournament on August 2 against the winner of Australia Champions vs South Africa Champions also to be played on July 31. Also Read - Ben Stokes reveals Ashes factor behind missing final Test vs India This withdrawal is second such decision by the Indian Champions. They had previously decided to not play in the group stage match against Pakistan Champions as well. The decision has been taken in the aftermath of the recent escalations of tensions between the two neighbouring countries. India and Pakistan situation boiled over after Pahalgam terror attack in India's Kashmir on April 22. In response, India targeted terror camps inside Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) after the mid-night on May 6. Pakistan, while declining to take the responsibility of terror attack, instead blamed India for aggression and tried to target India's border areas against which India retaliated swiftly with similar forcer and intensity. The decision by India Champions, however, was not influenced by the BCCI as the tournament does not fall under the purview of ICC - apex cricket body. There's also a cloud of doubt on India vs Pakistan clash in Asia Cup 2025 next month on September 14. “As of now, the BCCI does not come under the purview of the sports ministry as the National Sports Governance Bill is still to be passed. So, the ministry doesn’t have a say, but we will wait and see how the BCCI responds to public sentiment,” a sports ministry source told news agency PTI. Given past instances, however, BCCI is likely to pay heed to the government's advise on the matter.

The decision has been taken in the aftermath of the recent escalations of tensions between the two neighbouring countries. It would also be considered a walkover and Pak Champions will play in the final of the tournament on August 2

Pak Champions enter WCL final after India Champions decline to play semis

Indian fans were left heartbroken when a well-defended delivery from tailender Mohammed Shami's bat rolled onto the stumps, shattering India's dreams of what could have been a famous victory at Lord's against England in the ongoing Test series. Moments like these remind us that in Test cricket, every run, every ball and every partnership count. From the opening stand to the last pair, each partnership can shape the outcome of a Test match.&nbsp;The Test format has seen impressive achievements, including top individual scores, record-breaking partnerships, batters accumulating runs and bowlers scalping numerous wickets. Interestingly, even the tailenders have an impressive record when it comes to forming partnerships. After excelling with the ball, they have proven their skill and talent with the bat as well.&nbsp;Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/icc-rankings-jadeja-regains-top-all-rounder-spot-abhishek-sharma-is-the-new-t20i-batter-1753867172177">ICC rankings: Jadeja sits atop in Test all-rounder, Abhishek Sharma is top T20I batter</a>&nbsp;An example of this was when former England batter Joe Root and retired English pacer James Anderson stitched a 198-run partnership for the 10th wicket. This is the highest tenth-wicket partnership in Test cricket and it occurred against India in 2014 at the Trent Bridge ground in Nottingham.&nbsp;It was the first Test during India's tour of England in 2014 and Indian skipper MS Dhoni won the toss and elected to bat first. Murali Vijay was the top scorer for the visitors, scoring 146 runs, while Dhoni contributed 82 runs. Fifties from tailenders Bhuvneshwar Kumar and Mohammed Shami helped India reach a total of 457 runs in the first innings.&nbsp;In response, England began their innings with a deficit of 457 runs to cut down. At one point, the score was 298/9 and it looked like India would take a lead of 100-plus runs. However, Joe Root and retired English pacer James Anderson buried India's hopes, taking England to 496 with a lead of 39 runs.&nbsp;Anderson shone in Nottingham, scoring a career-best 81 runs while Root stayed unbeaten on 150. The record-breaking partnership was finally broken by Bhuvneshwar Kumar. However, despite this impressive partnership, England was unable to secure a victory, as the Test ended in a draw.

The highest partnership for the last wicket in Test cricket is of 198 runs, where Joe Root and Jimmy Anderson scored a record-breaking partnership together and saved England from a potential defeat.

Indian fans were left heartbroken when a well-defended delivery from tailender Mohammed Shami's bat rolled onto the stumps, shattering India's dreams of what could have been a famous victory at Lord's against England in the ongoing Test series. Moments like these remind us that in Test cricket, every run, every ball and every partnership count. From the opening stand to the last pair, each partnership can shape the outcome of a Test match. The Test format has seen impressive achievements, including top individual scores, record-breaking partnerships, batters accumulating runs and bowlers scalping numerous wickets. Interestingly, even the tailenders have an impressive record when it comes to forming partnerships. After excelling with the ball, they have proven their skill and talent with the bat as well. Also read | ICC rankings: Jadeja sits atop in Test all-rounder, Abhishek Sharma is top T20I batter An example of this was when former England batter Joe Root and retired English pacer James Anderson stitched a 198-run partnership for the 10th wicket. This is the highest tenth-wicket partnership in Test cricket and it occurred against India in 2014 at the Trent Bridge ground in Nottingham. It was the first Test during India's tour of England in 2014 and Indian skipper MS Dhoni won the toss and elected to bat first. Murali Vijay was the top scorer for the visitors, scoring 146 runs, while Dhoni contributed 82 runs. Fifties from tailenders Bhuvneshwar Kumar and Mohammed Shami helped India reach a total of 457 runs in the first innings. In response, England began their innings with a deficit of 457 runs to cut down. At one point, the score was 298/9 and it looked like India would take a lead of 100-plus runs. However, Joe Root and retired English pacer James Anderson buried India's hopes, taking England to 496 with a lead of 39 runs. Anderson shone in Nottingham, scoring a career-best 81 runs while Root stayed unbeaten on 150. The record-breaking partnership was finally broken by Bhuvneshwar Kumar. However, despite this impressive partnership, England was unable to secure a victory, as the Test ended in a draw.

The highest partnership for the last wicket in Test cricket is of 198 runs, where Joe Root and Jimmy Anderson scored a record-breaking partnership together and saved England from a potential defeat.

What is the highest 10th wicket partnership in Test. Hint - it came in India vs England match

The National Basketball Association (NBA) announced on Wednesday that the Memphis Grizzlies and the Orlando Magic will play regular-season games in Berlin on Thursday, January 15, 2026, and in London on Sunday, January 18, 2026. The league also announced that it will play regular-season games in Manchester and Paris in 2027 and in Berlin and Paris in 2028.&nbsp;The games will be held at Uber Arena (Berlin), The O2 (London), Co-op Live (Manchester), and the Accor Arena (Paris). The dates and participating teams for the games in 2027 and 2028 will be announced before the 2026-27 and 2027-28 NBA seasons, respectively. The NBA Berlin Game 2026 will mark the 14th game featuring an NBA team in Germany since 1984 and the league’s first regular-season game in the country. The NBA London Game 2026 will be the 19th game featuring an NBA team in the UK since 1993 and the league’s 10th regular-season game in London.&nbsp;The game in Manchester in 2027 will mark the second game featuring an NBA team in Manchester (2013) and the league’s first regular-season game in the city. The game in Paris in 2027 will mark the 16th game featuring an NBA team in France since 1991 and the league’s sixth regular-season game in Paris.&nbsp;The Grizzlies, who will be playing their fifth and sixth games in Europe and first in Berlin and London, feature two-time NBA All-Star Ja Morant, two-time NBA All-Star and 2022-23 NBA Defensive Player of the Year Jaren Jackson Jr., two-time NBA champion Kentavious Caldwell-Pope, 2024-25 NBA All-Rookie First Team members Zach Edey and Jaylen Wells, and 2025 No. 11 overall pick Cedric Coward.&nbsp;The Magic, who will be playing its fourth and fifth games in Europe, first in Berlin, third in London 1993 and 2016) and 14th and 15th games outside of the U.S. and Canada, currently features 2024 NBA All-Star Paolo Banchero, German brothers Franz and Moritz Wagner, second-year German forward Tristan da Silva, 2023-24 Kia All-Defensive Second Team member Jalen Suggs, and 2020-21 Kia All-Rookie Second Team member Desmond Bane.&nbsp;Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

NBA regular-season games set for Berlin, London, Manchester and Paris as part of 3-year slate in Europe

The National Basketball Association (NBA) announced on Wednesday that the Memphis Grizzlies and the Orlando Magic will play regular-season games in Berlin on Thursday, January 15, 2026, and in London on Sunday, January 18, 2026. The league also announced that it will play regular-season games in Manchester and Paris in 2027 and in Berlin and Paris in 2028. The games will be held at Uber Arena (Berlin), The O2 (London), Co-op Live (Manchester), and the Accor Arena (Paris). The dates and participating teams for the games in 2027 and 2028 will be announced before the 2026-27 and 2027-28 NBA seasons, respectively. The NBA Berlin Game 2026 will mark the 14th game featuring an NBA team in Germany since 1984 and the league’s first regular-season game in the country. The NBA London Game 2026 will be the 19th game featuring an NBA team in the UK since 1993 and the league’s 10th regular-season game in London. The game in Manchester in 2027 will mark the second game featuring an NBA team in Manchester (2013) and the league’s first regular-season game in the city. The game in Paris in 2027 will mark the 16th game featuring an NBA team in France since 1991 and the league’s sixth regular-season game in Paris. The Grizzlies, who will be playing their fifth and sixth games in Europe and first in Berlin and London, feature two-time NBA All-Star Ja Morant, two-time NBA All-Star and 2022-23 NBA Defensive Player of the Year Jaren Jackson Jr., two-time NBA champion Kentavious Caldwell-Pope, 2024-25 NBA All-Rookie First Team members Zach Edey and Jaylen Wells, and 2025 No. 11 overall pick Cedric Coward. The Magic, who will be playing its fourth and fifth games in Europe, first in Berlin, third in London 1993 and 2016) and 14th and 15th games outside of the U.S. and Canada, currently features 2024 NBA All-Star Paolo Banchero, German brothers Franz and Moritz Wagner, second-year German forward Tristan da Silva, 2023-24 Kia All-Defensive Second Team member Jalen Suggs, and 2020-21 Kia All-Rookie Second Team member Desmond Bane. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

The league also announced that it will play regular-season games in Manchester and Paris in 2027 and in Berlin and Paris in 2028

Former India bowling coach Bharat Arun has joined Indian Premier League (IPL) franchise Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) as bowling consultant ahead of the upcoming season. He joins the team after parting ways with Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) which are undergoing a complete staff overhaul after deciding to let go head coach Chandrakant Pandit on Tuesday (Jul 29). Arun was with the KKR from 2022 to 2024 but a contract extension after KKR's IPL 2024 title win saw him stay with the franchise till the most recent IPL 2025 season.&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ben-stokes-reveals-ashes-factor-behind-missing-final-test-vs-india-1753878727659">Ben Stokes reveals Ashes factor behind missing final Test vs India</a>&nbsp;"It's an honour to join the Lucknow Super Giants, a franchise that reflects professionalism, ambition, and vision at every level," Arun was quoted saying in a statement. "My conversations with Dr. Sanjiv Goenka and the management were incredibly energizing - there is a clear intent to invest in young Indian talent and build a long-term legacy."What excites me most is the vision for long-term development. LSG has invested in a young, talented, and dynamic group of Indian fast bowlers - Akash deep, Avesh Khan, Mayank Yadav, Prince Yadav, Mohsin Khan, and Akash Singh - and I see immense potential in each of them. My mission is to help shape them into a cohesive, fearless, and tactically sharp pace unit that can challenge the best batting line-ups in the world."Apart from being the bowling consultant, Arun will also see overall development of franchise's fast bowlers which also includes scouting for fresh talent. Arun has been a known name in the cricket coaching area for quite some time. He has also spent two years with the Royal Challengers Bengaluru from 2015 to 2017. He was also part of the Indian national team set up on two occasions - from 2014 to 2015 and 2017 to 2021.

Arun has been a known name in the cricket coaching area for quite some time. He was also part of the Indian national team set up on two occasions - from 2014 to 2015 and 2017 to 2021. Before joining KKR, he also spent time with RCB in the IPL.

Former India bowling coach Bharat Arun has joined Indian Premier League (IPL) franchise Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) as bowling consultant ahead of the upcoming season. He joins the team after parting ways with Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) which are undergoing a complete staff overhaul after deciding to let go head coach Chandrakant Pandit on Tuesday (Jul 29). Arun was with the KKR from 2022 to 2024 but a contract extension after KKR's IPL 2024 title win saw him stay with the franchise till the most recent IPL 2025 season. Also Read - Ben Stokes reveals Ashes factor behind missing final Test vs India "It's an honour to join the Lucknow Super Giants, a franchise that reflects professionalism, ambition, and vision at every level," Arun was quoted saying in a statement. "My conversations with Dr. Sanjiv Goenka and the management were incredibly energizing - there is a clear intent to invest in young Indian talent and build a long-term legacy. "What excites me most is the vision for long-term development. LSG has invested in a young, talented, and dynamic group of Indian fast bowlers - Akash deep, Avesh Khan, Mayank Yadav, Prince Yadav, Mohsin Khan, and Akash Singh - and I see immense potential in each of them. My mission is to help shape them into a cohesive, fearless, and tactically sharp pace unit that can challenge the best batting line-ups in the world." Apart from being the bowling consultant, Arun will also see overall development of franchise's fast bowlers which also includes scouting for fresh talent. Arun has been a known name in the cricket coaching area for quite some time. He has also spent two years with the Royal Challengers Bengaluru from 2015 to 2017. He was also part of the Indian national team set up on two occasions - from 2014 to 2015 and 2017 to 2021.

Arun has been a known name in the cricket coaching area for quite some time. He was also part of the Indian national team set up on two occasions - from 2014 to 2015 and 2017 to 2021. Before joining KKR, he also spent time with RCB in the IPL.

Former India assistant coach Bharat Arun leaves KKR to join LSG as bowling coach

Former Zimbabwe captain Brendan Taylor is ready to make his international comeback in the second Test against New Zealand, having completed a three-and-a-half-year suspension for violating the ICC's anti-corruption code, according to ESPNcricinfo. Taylor's suspension came to an end on July 25, and he is likely to be in the Zimbabwe side for the second Test, which will get underway on August 7 in Bulawayo. "He'll clearly be available for the second Test," Zimbabwe captain Craig Ervine said of Taylor's return to the team, as quoted to ESPNcricinfo. &nbsp;"But I also know how much effort he has put in during his role — particularly the past eight, ten (or) 12 months — for this to be possible. I'm absolutely thrilled that he'll be returning into the arena in the next couple of days, and looking forward to what he can bring to the team and to the group," he further added. &nbsp;The 39-year-old has not played any type of representative cricket since he suddenly retired in September 2021. As part of his suspension, he was also not permitted to train with national or domestic franchises. But he did make use of training facilities at a well-known private school in Harare, and in an interview with ESPNcricinfo earlier this year, Taylor said he is in possibly the best physical condition of his life, having rehabbed from substance abuse. Zimbabwe had already named a 16-man squad for the Test series against New Zealand, including a decently experienced batting line-up, and Tafadzwa Tsiga as the choice wicketkeeper-batter to have, who opened in the first Test. Taylor, who has primarily batted at no. 4 throughout his Test career, might fall back into the role if picked. This might mean a bit of a reshuffle, pushing an individual like Sean Williams one slot further down to tighten the middle order. But the team management will have to try and get the right balance, particularly in the bowling unit. &nbsp;Taylor had previously said he wasn't going to walk straight back into the XI and that his comeback was essentially about contributing to Zimbabwe cricket. Taylor, who was at the time also handed a one month suspension for failing a dope test which was linked to his intake of cocaine during the episode, was banned after admitting receiving $15,000 in 2019. "I've been humbled in the right way," Taylor was quoted saying to ESPNcricinfo.&nbsp;"I am looking forward to genuinely just adding value, which I maybe didn't do to the best of my ability when I was here previously," he added. Taylor has represented Zimbabwe in 34 Tests from 2004 to 2021, averaging 36.25 with the bat. He has six Test hundreds to his name, including a memorable unbeaten 105 in the second innings against Bangladesh in 2011, Zimbabwe's first Test after a six-year gap. &nbsp;His return is at a busy period for Zimbabwean cricket. They have already played seven Tests in 2025, with only one win, and have four more scheduled, two of each against New Zealand and Afghanistan. Although Taylor is not expected to be a part of Zimbabwe's T20 strategy just yet, he may well have a spot in the ODI system, particularly with the 2027 World Cup in mind.

After three years, Brendan Taylor makes Zimbabwe Test comeback post ICC suspension

Former Zimbabwe captain Brendan Taylor is ready to make his international comeback in the second Test against New Zealand, having completed a three-and-a-half-year suspension for violating the ICC's anti-corruption code, according to ESPNcricinfo. Taylor's suspension came to an end on July 25, and he is likely to be in the Zimbabwe side for the second Test, which will get underway on August 7 in Bulawayo. "He'll clearly be available for the second Test," Zimbabwe captain Craig Ervine said of Taylor's return to the team, as quoted to ESPNcricinfo. "But I also know how much effort he has put in during his role — particularly the past eight, ten (or) 12 months — for this to be possible. I'm absolutely thrilled that he'll be returning into the arena in the next couple of days, and looking forward to what he can bring to the team and to the group," he further added. The 39-year-old has not played any type of representative cricket since he suddenly retired in September 2021. As part of his suspension, he was also not permitted to train with national or domestic franchises. But he did make use of training facilities at a well-known private school in Harare, and in an interview with ESPNcricinfo earlier this year, Taylor said he is in possibly the best physical condition of his life, having rehabbed from substance abuse. Zimbabwe had already named a 16-man squad for the Test series against New Zealand, including a decently experienced batting line-up, and Tafadzwa Tsiga as the choice wicketkeeper-batter to have, who opened in the first Test. Taylor, who has primarily batted at no. 4 throughout his Test career, might fall back into the role if picked. This might mean a bit of a reshuffle, pushing an individual like Sean Williams one slot further down to tighten the middle order. But the team management will have to try and get the right balance, particularly in the bowling unit. Taylor had previously said he wasn't going to walk straight back into the XI and that his comeback was essentially about contributing to Zimbabwe cricket. Taylor, who was at the time also handed a one month suspension for failing a dope test which was linked to his intake of cocaine during the episode, was banned after admitting receiving $15,000 in 2019. "I've been humbled in the right way," Taylor was quoted saying to ESPNcricinfo. "I am looking forward to genuinely just adding value, which I maybe didn't do to the best of my ability when I was here previously," he added. Taylor has represented Zimbabwe in 34 Tests from 2004 to 2021, averaging 36.25 with the bat. He has six Test hundreds to his name, including a memorable unbeaten 105 in the second innings against Bangladesh in 2011, Zimbabwe's first Test after a six-year gap. His return is at a busy period for Zimbabwean cricket. They have already played seven Tests in 2025, with only one win, and have four more scheduled, two of each against New Zealand and Afghanistan. Although Taylor is not expected to be a part of Zimbabwe's T20 strategy just yet, he may well have a spot in the ODI system, particularly with the 2027 World Cup in mind.

Taylor's ban officially ended on July 25, and he's now expected to be included in Zimbabwe's squad for the second Test, scheduled to begin on August 7 in Bulawayo

After three years, Brendan Taylor to make Zimbabwe Test comeback post ICC suspension

England Test skipper Ben Stokes says that it wasn't 'worth the risk' playing as a batter in the final Test against India so he decided to skip it altogether. The England captain was anyway not going to bowl after picking up a shoulder niggle in the fourth Test in Manchester which ended in a draw. Notably, Stokes has takes most wickets in the series from either side and has taken his team to a 2-1 lead heading into the final match. The decision also had an Ashes factor for which England travel to Australia in next 14 weeks time in what could be tenure defining series for Stokes as captain.&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/how-do-india-win-final-test-at-the-oval-vs-england-wicketkeeper-must-score-a-fifty-1753874635568">How do India win final Test at The Oval vs ENG - wicketkeeper must score a fifty</a>&nbsp;“We took as long as we could to make the decision,” Stokes said on his withdrawal from the Test. “I came down [to the Oval] this morning to give myself every chance just to play as a batter – bowling was ruled out as soon as we got the scan results. It’s one of those where weighing up the risk and reward, the risk was way too high. Hearing where it could head to, it wasn’t something that was worth taking a risk on. I wouldn’t expect to put any of my players at risk of an injury like this. So I’ll start rehabbing now and focus on what we’ve got coming up in the winter. Once this series was done I was feet up anyway, so it doesn’t make too much difference.”Stokes suffered a grade-three muscle tear in his shoulder after bowling 140 overs in the previous four Tests. The recovery time for such an injury, depending on the severity, is estimated to be between six to 10 weeks - just in time before England travel Down Under. Jacob Bethell replaces Stokes in the playing XI while Ollie Pope will take on the captaincy duties at the Oval.England Playing XI vs India for 5th Test: Zak Crawley, Ben Duckett, Ollie Pope (c), Joe Root, Harry Brook, Jacob Bethell, Jamie Smith (wk), Chris Woakes, Gus Atkinson, Jamie Overton, Josh Tongue

Stokes suffered a grade-three muscle tear in his shoulder after bowling 140 overs in the previous four Tests. The recovery time for such an injury, depending on the severity, is estimated to be between six to 10 weeks - just in time before England travel Down Under for away Ashes.

England Test skipper Ben Stokes says that it wasn't 'worth the risk' playing as a batter in the final Test against India so he decided to skip it altogether. The England captain was anyway not going to bowl after picking up a shoulder niggle in the fourth Test in Manchester which ended in a draw. Notably, Stokes has takes most wickets in the series from either side and has taken his team to a 2-1 lead heading into the final match. The decision also had an Ashes factor for which England travel to Australia in next 14 weeks time in what could be tenure defining series for Stokes as captain. Also Read - How do India win final Test at The Oval vs ENG - wicketkeeper must score a fifty “We took as long as we could to make the decision,” Stokes said on his withdrawal from the Test. “I came down [to the Oval] this morning to give myself every chance just to play as a batter – bowling was ruled out as soon as we got the scan results. It’s one of those where weighing up the risk and reward, the risk was way too high. Hearing where it could head to, it wasn’t something that was worth taking a risk on. I wouldn’t expect to put any of my players at risk of an injury like this. So I’ll start rehabbing now and focus on what we’ve got coming up in the winter. Once this series was done I was feet up anyway, so it doesn’t make too much difference.” Stokes suffered a grade-three muscle tear in his shoulder after bowling 140 overs in the previous four Tests. The recovery time for such an injury, depending on the severity, is estimated to be between six to 10 weeks - just in time before England travel Down Under. Jacob Bethell replaces Stokes in the playing XI while Ollie Pope will take on the captaincy duties at the Oval. England Playing XI vs India for 5th Test: Zak Crawley, Ben Duckett, Ollie Pope (c), Joe Root, Harry Brook, Jacob Bethell, Jamie Smith (wk), Chris Woakes, Gus Atkinson, Jamie Overton, Josh Tongue

Stokes suffered a grade-three muscle tear in his shoulder after bowling 140 overs in the previous four Tests. The recovery time for such an injury, depending on the severity, is estimated to be between six to 10 weeks - just in time before England travel Down Under for away Ashes.

Ben Stokes reveals Ashes factor behind missing final Test vs India

Olympic and world champion in biathlon Laura Dahlmeier has passed away at the age of 31, as per her management company. The German athlete was on a trip in the Karakoram mountains in Pakistan occupied Kashmir, when she suffered severe injuries in an accident. Dahlmeier was caught in a rockfall around noon on Monday at an altitude of approximately 5,700 metres, according to her management.&nbsp;Earlier in the day, rescuers including local mountaineers and porters resumed their efforts on Wednesday (July 30) to reach German Olympic gold medalist Laura Dahlmeier, who is injured, on a peak in the Karakoram mountain range, officials informed. Faizullah Faraq, the spokesperson for the Pakistan-occupied Kashmir Gilgit-Baltistan regional government, said rescuers were in a race against time to reach Dahlmeier despite adverse weather on the Laila Peak, where she has been stranded since Monday after a mountaineering accident.&nbsp;Dahlmeier, the 2017 women's Biathlon World Cup winner, was ascending Laila Peak in the Karakoram range when she was hit by falling rocks. Mountaineers, including two Americans who were making the same climb, are trying to join the rescue mission. Military helicopters were on standby but have failed to take-off due to poor visibility and continued bad weather and rain, said Faraq.&nbsp;Dahlmeier, 31 years old, will be brought to the city of Skardu when rescued, Faraq said. Local officials started the rescue operation on Monday after Dahlmeier's climbing partner, Marina Eva, sent out a distress signal that she was able to make her way down to base camp with assistance from rescuers on Tuesday.&nbsp;Dahlmeier was injured at an altitude of approximately 5,700 metres at about noon on Monday, according to her management team in Germany. German television station ZDF said she was seriously injured in a rockslide. "There is still no news about her condition," Alpine Club of Pakistan Vice President Karrar Haidri was quoted saying to the Associated Press.&nbsp;"She sustained serious injuries, but she has oxygen with her, and injured climbers have been known to survive for days. With heavy clouds choking the sky and rain falling on the high slopes of Laila Peak, rescuers are pushing through dangerous terrain to reach her," Haidri said. &nbsp;The area has also been hit by over-normal seasonal rains, which have caused flash floods and landslides. At least 20 Pakistani tourists have gone missing since last week after floodwaters washed them away close to the northern district of Chilas.<h2>Who was Laura Dahlmeier?</h2>With two Olympic gold medals at the Pyeongchang Winter Games in 2018 in South Korea and seven world championships titles overall, Dahlmeier is among the most accomplished German biathletes of this era. She was honoured as German athlete of the year in 2017 but unexpectedly retired in May 2019 at only 25 years old to become a ski and mountain-climbing instructor in her native town of Garmisch-Partenkirchen in the Bavarian Alps.&nbsp;Since then, Dahlmeier has been involved in some tough mountaineering expeditions, including ascent of the 7,100-meter Korzhenevskaya Peak in Tajikistan in 2023, along with ascent of the 6,800-meter Ama Dablam in Nepal in 2024 in a women's record time. She had been staying in northern Pakistan with friends since the end of June and had already managed to climb the 6,200-meter Great Trango Tower on July 8, her management confirmed, calling Dahlmeier an "experienced and risk-aware climber."&nbsp;Dahlmeier's uncertain fate has prompted concern both in Germany and around the world. German Federal President Frank-Walter Steinmeier on Wednesday said that he was "deeply concerned" by the “tragic mountaineering accident.”

Former German Olympic champion dies after mountaineering accident in PoK. Here's what we know

Olympic and world champion in biathlon Laura Dahlmeier has passed away at the age of 31, as per her management company. The German athlete was on a trip in the Karakoram mountains in Pakistan occupied Kashmir, when she suffered severe injuries in an accident. Dahlmeier was caught in a rockfall around noon on Monday at an altitude of approximately 5,700 metres, according to her management. Earlier in the day, rescuers including local mountaineers and porters resumed their efforts on Wednesday (July 30) to reach German Olympic gold medalist Laura Dahlmeier, who is injured, on a peak in the Karakoram mountain range, officials informed. Faizullah Faraq, the spokesperson for the Pakistan-occupied Kashmir Gilgit-Baltistan regional government, said rescuers were in a race against time to reach Dahlmeier despite adverse weather on the Laila Peak, where she has been stranded since Monday after a mountaineering accident. Dahlmeier, the 2017 women's Biathlon World Cup winner, was ascending Laila Peak in the Karakoram range when she was hit by falling rocks. Mountaineers, including two Americans who were making the same climb, are trying to join the rescue mission. Military helicopters were on standby but have failed to take-off due to poor visibility and continued bad weather and rain, said Faraq. Dahlmeier, 31 years old, will be brought to the city of Skardu when rescued, Faraq said. Local officials started the rescue operation on Monday after Dahlmeier's climbing partner, Marina Eva, sent out a distress signal that she was able to make her way down to base camp with assistance from rescuers on Tuesday. Dahlmeier was injured at an altitude of approximately 5,700 metres at about noon on Monday, according to her management team in Germany. German television station ZDF said she was seriously injured in a rockslide. "There is still no news about her condition," Alpine Club of Pakistan Vice President Karrar Haidri was quoted saying to the Associated Press. "She sustained serious injuries, but she has oxygen with her, and injured climbers have been known to survive for days. With heavy clouds choking the sky and rain falling on the high slopes of Laila Peak, rescuers are pushing through dangerous terrain to reach her," Haidri said. The area has also been hit by over-normal seasonal rains, which have caused flash floods and landslides. At least 20 Pakistani tourists have gone missing since last week after floodwaters washed them away close to the northern district of Chilas. Who was Laura Dahlmeier? With two Olympic gold medals at the Pyeongchang Winter Games in 2018 in South Korea and seven world championships titles overall, Dahlmeier is among the most accomplished German biathletes of this era. She was honoured as German athlete of the year in 2017 but unexpectedly retired in May 2019 at only 25 years old to become a ski and mountain-climbing instructor in her native town of Garmisch-Partenkirchen in the Bavarian Alps. Since then, Dahlmeier has been involved in some tough mountaineering expeditions, including ascent of the 7,100-meter Korzhenevskaya Peak in Tajikistan in 2023, along with ascent of the 6,800-meter Ama Dablam in Nepal in 2024 in a women's record time. She had been staying in northern Pakistan with friends since the end of June and had already managed to climb the 6,200-meter Great Trango Tower on July 8, her management confirmed, calling Dahlmeier an "experienced and risk-aware climber." Dahlmeier's uncertain fate has prompted concern both in Germany and around the world. German Federal President Frank-Walter Steinmeier on Wednesday said that he was "deeply concerned" by the “tragic mountaineering accident.”

Laura Dahlmeier scripted Olympic history at PyeongChang 2018, when she became the first female biathlete to win sprint and pursuit gold at the same Winter Games

Manchester United defender Luke Shaw has backed under-fire manager Ruben Amorim as the club continues its pre-season in the United States. Speaking after United’s latest win against West Ham, Shaw highlighted the toxic and unhealthy culture in the team’s dressing room and insisted Amorim is doing his best to change it. United had a horrible 2024-25 season where they finished 15th in the Premier League and missed out on the Europa League title after defeat against Spurs in May.<h2>Shaw backs Amorim</h2>"It's not hard to see from the outside what it's been like," said Shaw.&nbsp;"A lot of the time I've been here over the last few years, it's been extremely negative.&nbsp;"It can be quite toxic to the environment, it's not healthy at all. We need an environment that's healthy, that's positive, that's got good energy and happiness. When you have all those things, you feel free and you express yourself more.&nbsp;"Ruben brings demands. Mentality is a big thing. He talks a lot about it.&nbsp;"He demands 100% and doesn't want anything less. If someone's doing 85-90%, it's not enough. I think, especially this year, if you're not doing the right things, you won't play,” the England defender added.&nbsp;ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-will-india-s-bad-luck-turn-good-in-oval-test-rare-1-32768-probability-predicts-team-can-lose-15th-consecutive-toss-1753856381670">Will India's bad luck turn good in Oval Test? Rare 1/32768 probability predicts team can lose 15th consecutive toss</a>&nbsp;The Red Devils endured their worst season in the Premier League era, finishing with 42 points in 38 matches. They scored 44 goals and conceded 54, meaning for the second consecutive season, United ended with a negative goal difference. The club sacked Erik ten Hag in October and loaned out players like Jadon Sancho and Marcus Rashford.&nbsp;The club had already made plans for the upcoming season, signing players like Matheus Cunha and Bryan Mbeumo. On the other hand, players like Rashford, Alejandro Garnacho, Jadon Sancho, Tyrell Malacia and Antony are out of Amorim’s plans.&nbsp;The Red Devils will start their Premier League campaign on Sunday (Aug 17) with them facing Arsenal at Old Trafford in a high-voltage clash.

Speaking after Manchester United’s latest win against West Ham, Luke Shaw highlighted the toxic and unhealthy culture in the team’s dressing room and insisted Amorim is doing his best to change it. 

Manchester United defender Luke Shaw has backed under-fire manager Ruben Amorim as the club continues its pre-season in the United States. Speaking after United’s latest win against West Ham, Shaw highlighted the toxic and unhealthy culture in the team’s dressing room and insisted Amorim is doing his best to change it. United had a horrible 2024-25 season where they finished 15th in the Premier League and missed out on the Europa League title after defeat against Spurs in May. Shaw backs Amorim "It's not hard to see from the outside what it's been like," said Shaw. "A lot of the time I've been here over the last few years, it's been extremely negative. "It can be quite toxic to the environment, it's not healthy at all. We need an environment that's healthy, that's positive, that's got good energy and happiness. When you have all those things, you feel free and you express yourself more. "Ruben brings demands. Mentality is a big thing. He talks a lot about it. "He demands 100% and doesn't want anything less. If someone's doing 85-90%, it's not enough. I think, especially this year, if you're not doing the right things, you won't play,” the England defender added. ALSO READ | Will India's bad luck turn good in Oval Test? Rare 1/32768 probability predicts team can lose 15th consecutive toss The Red Devils endured their worst season in the Premier League era, finishing with 42 points in 38 matches. They scored 44 goals and conceded 54, meaning for the second consecutive season, United ended with a negative goal difference. The club sacked Erik ten Hag in October and loaned out players like Jadon Sancho and Marcus Rashford. The club had already made plans for the upcoming season, signing players like Matheus Cunha and Bryan Mbeumo. On the other hand, players like Rashford, Alejandro Garnacho, Jadon Sancho, Tyrell Malacia and Antony are out of Amorim’s plans. The Red Devils will start their Premier League campaign on Sunday (Aug 17) with them facing Arsenal at Old Trafford in a high-voltage clash.

Speaking after Manchester United’s latest win against West Ham, Luke Shaw highlighted the toxic and unhealthy culture in the team’s dressing room and insisted Amorim is doing his best to change it.&nbsp;

Luke Shaw throws weight behind Amorim's hard-line approach, says 'need to improve toxic, unhealthy culture'

The ongoing India vs England Test series is now down to one Test which India must win if they are to draw level in the five-game series. Trailing 1-2 after four Tests, India go into the must-win fifth Test, set to be played at the Oval from July 31 (Thursday) with high confidence after earning a hard-fought draw in Manchester. The Oval in London has been one of India's most favorite grounds albeit just two wins in 15 Tests but seven draws and six losses.&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/icc-proposal-may-leave-out-pakistan-nz-from-competing-in-la-2028-olympics-report-1753864567925">ICC proposal may leave out Pak, NZ from competing in LA 2028 Olympics - Report</a>&nbsp;India's two wins at the Oval came in 1971 and 2021 by four wickets and 157 runs respectively. India lost the toss both times and were asked to bowl first in 1971 and bat first in 2021. Despite the limited data available for analysis, there's one thing which is common in both the wins India registered at the Oval - the wicketkeeper scoring a fifty-plus score in one of the innings of the Test.In 1971, it was Farokh Engineer who scored 59 in India's first innings at number 7 but the team still conceded a first innings defeat. The second India won at the Oval, in 2021, Rishabh Pant scored 50 in India's second innings.For the upcoming Test the same venue, India, however, will be without Pant after he was ruled out due a foot injury sustained in the fourth Test while batting. Dhurv Jurel is expected to replace Pant after keeping wickets for him for most part in the last two Tests. It'll be a big task for Jurel with the bat that he has to do now in the final Test at the Oval if India are to win and draw level in the series.Additionally, India will also be without premium pacer Jasprit Bumrah in the Test but England will be without skipper Ben Stokes, express pacer Jofra Archer and Brydon Carse as well.

India's two wins at the Oval came in 1971 and 2021 by four wickets and 157 runs respectively. There's one thing which is common in both the wins India registered at the Oval - the wicketkeeper scoring a fifty-plus score in one of the innings of the Test.

The ongoing India vs England Test series is now down to one Test which India must win if they are to draw level in the five-game series. Trailing 1-2 after four Tests, India go into the must-win fifth Test, set to be played at the Oval from July 31 (Thursday) with high confidence after earning a hard-fought draw in Manchester. The Oval in London has been one of India's most favorite grounds albeit just two wins in 15 Tests but seven draws and six losses. Also Read - ICC proposal may leave out Pak, NZ from competing in LA 2028 Olympics - Report India's two wins at the Oval came in 1971 and 2021 by four wickets and 157 runs respectively. India lost the toss both times and were asked to bowl first in 1971 and bat first in 2021. Despite the limited data available for analysis, there's one thing which is common in both the wins India registered at the Oval - the wicketkeeper scoring a fifty-plus score in one of the innings of the Test. In 1971, it was Farokh Engineer who scored 59 in India's first innings at number 7 but the team still conceded a first innings defeat. The second India won at the Oval, in 2021, Rishabh Pant scored 50 in India's second innings. For the upcoming Test the same venue, India, however, will be without Pant after he was ruled out due a foot injury sustained in the fourth Test while batting. Dhurv Jurel is expected to replace Pant after keeping wickets for him for most part in the last two Tests. It'll be a big task for Jurel with the bat that he has to do now in the final Test at the Oval if India are to win and draw level in the series. Additionally, India will also be without premium pacer Jasprit Bumrah in the Test but England will be without skipper Ben Stokes, express pacer Jofra Archer and Brydon Carse as well.

India's two wins at the Oval came in 1971 and 2021 by four wickets and 157 runs respectively. There's one thing which is common in both the wins India registered at the Oval - the wicketkeeper scoring a fifty-plus score in one of the innings of the Test.

How do India win final Test at The Oval vs England - wicketkeeper must score a fifty

Ravindra Jadeja’s brilliant unbeaten 107 at Old Trafford has propelled him back to the top of the ICC Test all-rounder rankings. The Indian all-rounder reached 422 rating points, extending his lead by 13 points as announced by the ICC on Wednesday (Jul 30). Jadeja played a crucial role in helping India to register a draw, giving them a chance to level the ongoing Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy, which India trail by 1-2. Meanwhile, England Test captain Ben Stokes, after scoring a century and picking a fifer in the Manchester Test, climbed three positions. Stokes now sits two positions below Jadeja with 301 rating points.&nbsp;The English Talisman has made significant progress in the rankings, climbing eight positions to reach 34th place in batting and moving up three spots to rank 42nd in bowling. Veteran batter Joe Root, who recently surpassed Ricky Ponting to become the second-leading run-scorer in Test cricket, has also extended his lead in the batting rankings (904) after scoring 150 runs during the fourth Test. He now leads second-placed Kane Williamson by 37 rating points.&nbsp;Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/who-has-the-most-dot-balls-in-t20s-the-answer-will-surprise-you-sunil-narine-maiden-over-maiden-super-over-dot-balls-1753862952833">Who has bowled most dot balls in T20s? The answer will surprise you</a>&nbsp;In the T20I international batting rankings, Indian southpaw batter Abhishek Sharma has dethroned his SunRisers Hyderabad (SRH) opening partner to claim the top position. Notably, Head missed the recently-concluded T20I series between the West Indies and Australia, which the visitors won by a 5-0. Abhishek now has 829 rating points, which is also his career-best rating.&nbsp;The T20I batting rankings has seen significant changes as well. Australia's Josh Inglis has moved up six places to ninth position after scoring two half-centuries during the West Indies series. Tim David and Cameron Green also reached their career-best rankings with Tim moving to 18th and the latter advancing to 24th, respectively.

Indian all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja has reclaimed his top position in the ICC Test all-rounder rankings. Meanwhile, Indian southpaw batter Abhisek Sharma has overtaken Travis Head to become the no.1 T20I batter.

Ravindra Jadeja’s brilliant unbeaten 107 at Old Trafford has propelled him back to the top of the ICC Test all-rounder rankings. The Indian all-rounder reached 422 rating points, extending his lead by 13 points as announced by the ICC on Wednesday (Jul 30). Jadeja played a crucial role in helping India to register a draw, giving them a chance to level the ongoing Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy, which India trail by 1-2. Meanwhile, England Test captain Ben Stokes, after scoring a century and picking a fifer in the Manchester Test, climbed three positions. Stokes now sits two positions below Jadeja with 301 rating points. The English Talisman has made significant progress in the rankings, climbing eight positions to reach 34th place in batting and moving up three spots to rank 42nd in bowling. Veteran batter Joe Root, who recently surpassed Ricky Ponting to become the second-leading run-scorer in Test cricket, has also extended his lead in the batting rankings (904) after scoring 150 runs during the fourth Test. He now leads second-placed Kane Williamson by 37 rating points. Also read | Who has bowled most dot balls in T20s? The answer will surprise you In the T20I international batting rankings, Indian southpaw batter Abhishek Sharma has dethroned his SunRisers Hyderabad (SRH) opening partner to claim the top position. Notably, Head missed the recently-concluded T20I series between the West Indies and Australia, which the visitors won by a 5-0. Abhishek now has 829 rating points, which is also his career-best rating. The T20I batting rankings has seen significant changes as well. Australia's Josh Inglis has moved up six places to ninth position after scoring two half-centuries during the West Indies series. Tim David and Cameron Green also reached their career-best rankings with Tim moving to 18th and the latter advancing to 24th, respectively.

Indian all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja has reclaimed his top position in the ICC Test all-rounder rankings. Meanwhile, Indian southpaw batter Abhishek Sharma has overtaken Travis Head to become the no.1 T20I batter.

ICC rankings: Jadeja sits atop in Test all-rounder, Abhishek Sharma is top T20I batter

Indian chess is going through what many are calling its “Golden Age”—a period defined by unprecedented success, a surge of young prodigies, and a cultural shift that has transformed chess from a niche pursuit into a mainstream aspiration. From bustling metros to small-town academies, the game is drawing record participation, fuelled by strong grassroots programmes, world-class coaching, and sustained government and corporate support. Speaking to WION exclusively, former three-time Women’s World Champion Susan Polgar reflects on the factors behind this meteoric rise, the challenges of sustaining it, and why she believes India could dominate global chess for decades to come—just as the Soviet Union once did. In this candid conversation, she also shares her impressions of India’s latest star, Divya Deshmukh, whose recent triumph in Batumi has cemented her place among the country’s most exciting talents.&nbsp;Q. You’ve described this as the “Golden Age” of Indian chess. In your view, what specific factors have contributed most to India’s meteoric rise in the sport over the last decade?&nbsp;&nbsp;More opportunities, coaching, and support. This is a combination of the hard work of excellent coaches, government (national, state, and regional, etc.) and corporate support, federation, and new shift in culture, etc. When families and youngsters see that there are big financial opportunities in chess, it becomes more logical to get into the game. More kids equal bigger pool of talent. I believe that this trend will continue in the foreseeable future for India like the Soviet Union for many decades before.&nbsp;&nbsp;Q. You’ve spoken about the importance of government and corporate sponsorship. What more needs to be done at a national and grassroots level to sustain and expand this golden era?&nbsp;&nbsp;The message needs to continue! It is important and beneficial to invest in young talents. But there also has to be accountability. More success means more support. If young players are too comfortable being just decent to make a living and not care to reach the pinnacle, the level will drop.&nbsp;&nbsp;Q. You’ve praised young Indian players for their fearlessness. How can they preserve this bold approach as they mature and face higher stakes?&nbsp;&nbsp;More and more training. Hard work helps fuel self-confidence. Bigger self-confidence will help get better results. It is hard to get to the top. But it is much harder to stay at the top because there will always be new talents who are hungrier and more motivated. No player can stay at the top for a lifetime. Therefore, ride the strong waves and do not slow down when they have the opportunities now.&nbsp;&nbsp;Q. You’ve compared Divya’s intangible qualities to those you saw in Gukesh. Could you elaborate on what exactly you look for in such prodigies?&nbsp;There are several things such as: Ability to shake off losses and come back strong. Will to win versus playing it too safe and strong nerves, etc. However, unlike Gukesh with fewer problem areas, Divya has to work harder on her weaknesses if she wants to win the next Candidates Tournament and/or Women’s World Championship match. In a long classical chess event/match with 14 games, her weaknesses will be more exposed and possibly exploited by opponents. She is young but time is the essence.&nbsp;&nbsp;Q. What specifically about Divya’s performance in Batumi impressed you the most?&nbsp;Her will to win, strong nerves, resiliency, adaptability (in different time control) and fighting spirit is what impressed me the most.

WION Exclusive Hard to get to the top but much harder to stay there says three time Womens World Chess champion Susan Polgar

Indian chess is going through what many are calling its “Golden Age”—a period defined by unprecedented success, a surge of young prodigies, and a cultural shift that has transformed chess from a niche pursuit into a mainstream aspiration. From bustling metros to small-town academies, the game is drawing record participation, fuelled by strong grassroots programmes, world-class coaching, and sustained government and corporate support. Speaking to WION exclusively, former three-time Women’s World Champion Susan Polgar reflects on the factors behind this meteoric rise, the challenges of sustaining it, and why she believes India could dominate global chess for decades to come—just as the Soviet Union once did. In this candid conversation, she also shares her impressions of India’s latest star, Divya Deshmukh, whose recent triumph in Batumi has cemented her place among the country’s most exciting talents. Q. You’ve described this as the “Golden Age” of Indian chess. In your view, what specific factors have contributed most to India’s meteoric rise in the sport over the last decade? More opportunities, coaching, and support. This is a combination of the hard work of excellent coaches, government (national, state, and regional, etc.) and corporate support, federation, and new shift in culture, etc. When families and youngsters see that there are big financial opportunities in chess, it becomes more logical to get into the game. More kids equal bigger pool of talent. I believe that this trend will continue in the foreseeable future for India like the Soviet Union for many decades before. Q. You’ve spoken about the importance of government and corporate sponsorship. What more needs to be done at a national and grassroots level to sustain and expand this golden era? The message needs to continue! It is important and beneficial to invest in young talents. But there also has to be accountability. More success means more support. If young players are too comfortable being just decent to make a living and not care to reach the pinnacle, the level will drop. Q. You’ve praised young Indian players for their fearlessness. How can they preserve this bold approach as they mature and face higher stakes? More and more training. Hard work helps fuel self-confidence. Bigger self-confidence will help get better results. It is hard to get to the top. But it is much harder to stay at the top because there will always be new talents who are hungrier and more motivated. No player can stay at the top for a lifetime. Therefore, ride the strong waves and do not slow down when they have the opportunities now. Q. You’ve compared Divya’s intangible qualities to those you saw in Gukesh. Could you elaborate on what exactly you look for in such prodigies? There are several things such as: Ability to shake off losses and come back strong. Will to win versus playing it too safe and strong nerves, etc. However, unlike Gukesh with fewer problem areas, Divya has to work harder on her weaknesses if she wants to win the next Candidates Tournament and/or Women’s World Championship match. In a long classical chess event/match with 14 games, her weaknesses will be more exposed and possibly exploited by opponents. She is young but time is the essence. Q. What specifically about Divya’s performance in Batumi impressed you the most? Her will to win, strong nerves, resiliency, adaptability (in different time control) and fighting spirit is what impressed me the most.

Speaking to WION, former three-time Women’s World Champion Susan Polgar reflects on the factors behind this meteoric rise, the challenges of sustaining it, and why she believes India could dominate global chess for decades to come

WION Exclusive—'Hard to get to the top but much harder to stay there', says three-time Women's World Chess champion Susan Polgar

Injured England captain Ben Stokes has been officially ruled out of the final Test match against India as the hosts suffer a minor injury crisis. In an announcement made on Wednesday (July 30), Stokes was officially ruled out while Jofra Archer and Brydon Carse rested for the key clash. Ollie Pope will take charge of the English side at The Oval with Stokes out as the hosts currently lead the five-match Test series 2-1.&nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Gutted for the skipper, who misses out on our final Test of the summer 🙏 <a href="https://t.co/LgtwXPqntE">pic.twitter.com/LgtwXPqntE</a>&mdash; England Cricket (@englandcricket) <a href="https://twitter.com/englandcricket/status/1950498249615544428?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 30, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h2>Ben Stokes ruled out</h2>In an announcement made on Wednesday, Stokes was ruled out due to a biceps tendon injury that he suffered during the Old Trafford Test. Despite his injury, Stokes continued to bat and bowl and even scalped a five-for along with a 141-run knock in the first innings. He played a key role for the hosts but could not help them win the match as Indian batters showed a resolute batting display on the final day at Old Trafford.&nbsp;&nbsp;On the other hand, Archer and Caryse have been rested as part of the workload management, with Gus Atkinson and Jamie Overton coming into the Playing XI. Atkinson has not played since the Zimbabwe series and was injured for the last few weeks.&nbsp;&nbsp;For Overton, it will be a return to the red-ball format for him for the first time in over three years. His only Test match for England came in June 2022 against New Zealand and he has since been out of the side.&nbsp;&nbsp;ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-will-india-s-bad-luck-turn-good-in-oval-test-rare-1-32768-probability-predicts-team-can-lose-15th-consecutive-toss-1753856381670">Will India's bad luck turn good in Oval Test? Rare 1/32768 probability predicts team can lose 15th consecutive toss</a><h2>England need a draw to seal series</h2>England will need a draw in the final Test match against India to seal the five-match Test series, with them currently leading 2-1. The hosts won the Headingley Test, followed by a thrilling win at Lord’s in the final session of Day 5. India’s solitary win in the series came at Edgbaston, which was also their first at the venue.&nbsp;The final Test match in the Anderson-Tendulkar series will begin on Thursday (July 31).<h2>England Playing XI</h2>Zak Crawley, Ben Duckett, Ollie Pope (capt), Joe Root, Harry Brook, Jacob Bethell, Jamie Smith (wk), Chris Woakes, Gus Atkinson, Jamie Overton, Josh Tongue&nbsp;

In an announcement made on Wednesday (July 30), Ben Stokes was officially ruled out while Jofra Archer and Brydon Carse rested for the key clash.

Injured England captain Ben Stokes has been officially ruled out of the final Test match against India as the hosts suffer a minor injury crisis. In an announcement made on Wednesday (July 30), Stokes was officially ruled out while Jofra Archer and Brydon Carse rested for the key clash. Ollie Pope will take charge of the English side at The Oval with Stokes out as the hosts currently lead the five-match Test series 2-1.

In an announcement made on Wednesday (July 30), Ben Stokes was officially ruled out while Jofra Archer and Brydon Carse rested for the key clash.

IND vs ENG: Injured Ben Stokes ruled out of Oval Test; Jofra Archer, Brydon Carse rested

T20 cricket is all about power hitting, scoring boundaries and getting as many runs as possible in as few balls. West Indies batters are renowned for their sheer power, with players like Chris Gayle, Andre Russell, Kieron Pollard, Darren Sammy, and many others leading the charge. In all the T20 leagues played around the globe, West Indies players are a treat to watch, thanks to their ability to change the game in no time.&nbsp;In the batter-friendly world of T20 cricket, few bowlers have still managed to deliver dot balls consistently. But here’s the surprise: the leader of the pack isn’t Jasprit Bumrah, despite his ability to bowl tight overs and toe-crushing yorkers. Well, the record belongs to West Indies great and Kolkata Knight Riders' (KKR) off-spinner Sunil Narine, who has bowled an impressive 5,421 dot balls out of 12,358 total balls; that's almost 44 per cent.&nbsp;Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/5-players-with-most-test-runs-in-england-no-indian-makes-the-cut-don-bradman-allan-border-viv-richards-steven-smith-garry-sobers-1753855629981">5 players with most Test runs in England: No Indian makes the cut</a>&nbsp;Out of his total deliveries, 4,902 were nudged for singles, 789 turned into doubles and 32 went for triples. He conceded 784 boundaries and 447 balls were directly sent beyond the boundary ropes. Narine kept a tight economy of 6.18 and has picked up 575 wickets so far, striking once every 22 balls. Narine has been vital for KKR in the Indian Premier League (IPL), picking up 192 wickets, making him the leading wicket-taker for KKR and third overall in IPL history.<h2>Narine loves bowling maiden overs</h2>Adding another feather to his cap, Narine has 31 maidens, the most by any bowler in the shortest format of the game. One interesting fact about Sunil Narine is that he is the only player in T20 history to bowl a ‘wicket-maiden super over’. This remarkable achievement occurred during a Caribbean Premier League (CPL) match in 2014 (Guyana Amazon Warriors vs. Trinidad and Tobago Red Steel). The match ended in a tie, with both teams scoring 118 runs in 20 overs, which led to a super over to determine the winner. Narine, representing Guyana Amazon Warriors, defended 12 runs against Nicholas Pooran and Ross Taylor, bowling all six balls without conceding a single run and dismissing Pooran as well.&nbsp;

In the batter-dominated era of T20 cricket, there have been few bowlers who have kept things tight by delivering dot balls consistently. But any guesses who leads the pack for most dot balls bowled?

T20 cricket is all about power hitting, scoring boundaries and getting as many runs as possible in as few balls. West Indies batters are renowned for their sheer power, with players like Chris Gayle, Andre Russell, Kieron Pollard, Darren Sammy, and many others leading the charge. In all the T20 leagues played around the globe, West Indies players are a treat to watch, thanks to their ability to change the game in no time. In the batter-friendly world of T20 cricket, few bowlers have still managed to deliver dot balls consistently. But here’s the surprise: the leader of the pack isn’t Jasprit Bumrah, despite his ability to bowl tight overs and toe-crushing yorkers. Well, the record belongs to West Indies great and Kolkata Knight Riders' (KKR) off-spinner Sunil Narine, who has bowled an impressive 5,421 dot balls out of 12,358 total balls; that's almost 44 per cent. Also read | 5 players with most Test runs in England: No Indian makes the cut Out of his total deliveries, 4,902 were nudged for singles, 789 turned into doubles and 32 went for triples. He conceded 784 boundaries and 447 balls were directly sent beyond the boundary ropes. Narine kept a tight economy of 6.18 and has picked up 575 wickets so far, striking once every 22 balls. Narine has been vital for KKR in the Indian Premier League (IPL), picking up 192 wickets, making him the leading wicket-taker for KKR and third overall in IPL history. Narine loves bowling maiden overs Adding another feather to his cap, Narine has 31 maidens, the most by any bowler in the shortest format of the game. One interesting fact about Sunil Narine is that he is the only player in T20 history to bowl a ‘wicket-maiden super over’. This remarkable achievement occurred during a Caribbean Premier League (CPL) match in 2014 (Guyana Amazon Warriors vs. Trinidad and Tobago Red Steel). The match ended in a tie, with both teams scoring 118 runs in 20 overs, which led to a super over to determine the winner. Narine, representing Guyana Amazon Warriors, defended 12 runs against Nicholas Pooran and Ross Taylor, bowling all six balls without conceding a single run and dismissing Pooran as well.

In the batter-dominated era of T20 cricket, there have been few bowlers who have kept things tight by delivering dot balls consistently. But any guesses who leads the pack for most dot balls bowled?

Who has bowled most dot balls in T20s? The answer will surprise you

Los Angeles Olympics 2028 is all set to welcome back cricket in the quadrennial games for the first time since 1900, but it would be a six-team event only. The limited number of spots means that not all the top cricket playing nations might be able to make the cut. The International Cricket Council (ICC), while yet to announce a formal process to pick out the teams, met in Singapore recently and almost but decided on five of six spots via regional qualifiers. The process proposed hasn't gone down well with a couple of nations.&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-vs-pak-asia-cup-2025-what-happens-if-bcci-says-no-to-playing-pakistan-1753796473943">BCCI yet to decide on India vs Pak in Asia Cup. What happens if board says no</a>&nbsp;According to the UK-based news outlet The Guardian, the regional qualifiers mean that highest ranking team in each continent, that is Europe, Asia, Oceania, Africa and Americas, will play in the LA 28 games. This means India from Asia, Australia from Oceania, Great Britain from Europe and South Africa from Africa will get a spot based on T20 ranking - leaving Pakistan and New Zealand out which have already expressed discontent about the process.The USA is expected to get a spot from Americas given they are the host and that could endanger chances of West Indies. The spot could go to Caribbean if the USA cricket boards fails to resign in time as demanded by the ICC owing to their governance issues. The process to fill the last spot is yet to shared by the apex cricket council. As for women's teams, the qualification will be determined by the standings in T20 World Cup next year which gives England an edge being the host.If cricket becomes successful as an event in Olympics, the ICC may pursue for a bigger tournament in Brisbane 2032 games. Also, the game could get further boost in Olympics if Ahmedabad (India) manages to win 2036 games bid to host.

India from Asia, Australia from Oceania, Great Britain from Europe and South Africa from Africa will get a spot based on T20 ranking - leaving Pakistan and New Zealand out as per the proposed regional qualifier process by the ICC.

Los Angeles Olympics 2028 is all set to welcome back cricket in the quadrennial games for the first time since 1900, but it would be a six-team event only. The limited number of spots means that not all the top cricket playing nations might be able to make the cut. The International Cricket Council (ICC), while yet to announce a formal process to pick out the teams, met in Singapore recently and almost but decided on five of six spots via regional qualifiers. The process proposed hasn't gone down well with a couple of nations. Also Read - BCCI yet to decide on India vs Pak in Asia Cup. What happens if board says no According to the UK-based news outlet The Guardian, the regional qualifiers mean that highest ranking team in each continent, that is Europe, Asia, Oceania, Africa and Americas, will play in the LA 28 games. This means India from Asia, Australia from Oceania, Great Britain from Europe and South Africa from Africa will get a spot based on T20 ranking - leaving Pakistan and New Zealand out which have already expressed discontent about the process. The USA is expected to get a spot from Americas given they are the host and that could endanger chances of West Indies. The spot could go to Caribbean if the USA cricket boards fails to resign in time as demanded by the ICC owing to their governance issues. The process to fill the last spot is yet to shared by the apex cricket council. As for women's teams, the qualification will be determined by the standings in T20 World Cup next year which gives England an edge being the host. If cricket becomes successful as an event in Olympics, the ICC may pursue for a bigger tournament in Brisbane 2032 games. Also, the game could get further boost in Olympics if Ahmedabad (India) manages to win 2036 games bid to host.

India from Asia, Australia from Oceania, Great Britain from Europe and South Africa from Africa will get a spot based on T20 ranking - leaving Pakistan and New Zealand out as per the proposed regional qualifier process by the ICC.

ICC proposal may leave out Pakistan, NZ from competing in LA 2028 Olympics - Report

Liverpool forward Luis Diaz completed an $88 million switch to German powerhouse and defending Bundesliga champions Bayern Munich on Wednesday (July 30). In an announcement made by the record German champions, Diaz will be the latest addition to the already prolific forward line of the Bavarians, as they try to challenge for European glory. The witch also means Liverpool will have one vacant spot on the team roster as they continue their pursuit of Alexander Isak from Newcastle United in the transfer window.&nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Say ¡𝑯𝒐𝒍𝒂! to our new number 1️⃣4️⃣ 👋 Get your hands on the new jersey of <a href="https://twitter.com/LuisFDiaz19?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@LuisFDiaz19</a> 👉 <a href="https://t.co/S6BwkN0yKz">https://t.co/S6BwkN0yKz</a><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/FCBayern?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#FCBayern</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MiaSanMia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MiaSanMia</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ServusLuis?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ServusLuis</a> <a href="https://t.co/KR4tQYR4Oy">pic.twitter.com/KR4tQYR4Oy</a>&mdash; FC Bayern (@FCBayernEN) <a href="https://twitter.com/FCBayernEN/status/1950472979999297767?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 30, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h2>Diaz completes Liverpool switch</h2>Playing a major role in Liverpool’s 20th league title win in the 2024-25 season, Diaz scored 13 goals in 36 matches as the Merseyside club eased their way in England’s top flight. With Liverpool already adding Florian Wirtz and Hugo Ekitike, the void left by Diaz and the sudden death of Diogo has already been filled by the club. For Bayern, though, it was a win-win situation as they already have the likes of Kingsley Coman, Jamal Musiala, and others in the attacking third. Diaz will wear No.14 at Bayern, a number once donned by Xabi Alonso at the club.&nbsp;&nbsp;"I arrived with all the dreams in the world, and I am leaving proud of everything we achieved together," Diaz wrote on Instagram.&nbsp;ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-eng-5th-test-bumrah-is-fit-to-bowl-as-per-his-workload-says-india-batting-coach-sitanshu-kotak-1753810202717">IND vs ENG, 5th Test: 'Bumrah is fit to bowl as per his workload', says India batting coach Sitanshu Kotak</a>&nbsp;"I have met incredible people, fabulous colleagues, coaches who helped me a lot, and extraordinary fans. Liverpool is, indeed, a special team, and I will keep everyone in my heart.&nbsp;"It's good to be leaving with the feeling of a duty fulfilled, and, most of all, to be leaving a champion. It would have been the perfect goodbye if we hadn't lost one of ours in such a tragic way.&nbsp;"I carry everyone with me in my heart, but one of them in particular: Diogo. I will never forget him. We will never forget him. Thank you for everything."&nbsp;For Liverpool, it will be an opportunity to reinvest the money as they put weight behind the transfer of Alexander Isak from Newcastle. The Reds have already generated $174mn in transfer activity, which could see them lure Isak from Newcastle.

In an announcement made by the record German champions Bayern Munich, Luis Diaz will be the latest addition to the already prolific forward line of the Bavarians, as they try to challenge for European glory. 

Liverpool forward Luis Diaz completed an $88 million switch to German powerhouse and defending Bundesliga champions Bayern Munich on Wednesday (July 30). In an announcement made by the record German champions, Diaz will be the latest addition to the already prolific forward line of the Bavarians, as they try to challenge for European glory. The witch also means Liverpool will have one vacant spot on the team roster as they continue their pursuit of Alexander Isak from Newcastle United in the transfer window.

In an announcement made by the record German champions Bayern Munich, Luis Diaz will be the latest addition to the already prolific forward line of the Bavarians, as they try to challenge for European glory.&nbsp;

Liverpool forward Luis Diaz completes Bayern Munich switch in $88mn deal

It was a sorrowful July 2025 for Liverpool and its fans as the month started with the tragic death of star forward Diogo Jota, and the club went into a state of mourning. Still in the grief of Jota’s death, Liverpool have been in a ‘show must go on’ state as they continue to make headlines in the transfer window with the signings of Florian Wirtz, Hugo Ekitike, and now with the potential arrival of Alexander Isak. So are Liverpool the new irresistible force in European football as the defending Premier League champions are set to break the bank yet again?<h2>The irresistible force of Liverpool</h2>Already blessed with a lethal attack, Liverpool’s forward line consists of Mohamed Salah, Alexis Mac Allister, Cody Gakpo, Darwin Nunez (unless he leaves) and others. However, adding the attacking talent of Ekitike, Wirtz and Isak, they could have one of the best attacking lines in Europe. Isak has been Newcastle’s best player in the last three seasons, helping the club reach the Champions League on two occasions.&nbsp;&nbsp;While Luis Diaz is on his way out, Ekitike is already a proven talent in his position. The Frenchman has played a huge role in recent years for Eintracht Frankfurt to help them clinch Champions League qualification. He scored 15 goals and assisted eight further goals to help Frankfurt finish third in the Bundesliga.&nbsp;&nbsp;On the other hand, Wirtz has already proven himself in the Bundesliga, playing a pivotal role in Bayer Leverkusen clinching their maiden Bundesliga title in 2023-24. In Leverkusen’s title-winning season, he bagged 11 goals and 11 assists, while last season he amassed a tally of 10 goals and 12 assists.&nbsp;&nbsp;Isak’s numbers also make for significant reading, bagging impressive numbers with Newcastle United over the last three seasons. In the 2024-25 Premier League season, he scored 23 goals and assisted six goals as Newcastle sealed Champions League qualification for the second time in three seasons.&nbsp;&nbsp;ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-eng-5th-test-bumrah-is-fit-to-bowl-as-per-his-workload-says-india-batting-coach-sitanshu-kotak-1753810202717">IND vs ENG, 5th Test: 'Bumrah is fit to bowl as per his workload', says India batting coach Sitanshu Kotak</a>&nbsp;Combining the above trio with the strength of Mohamed Salah, Liverpool’s attacking third could be the best in the business.&nbsp;&nbsp;While Manchester City and Real Madrid showed flaws in the final third last season, Liverpool could only get better with every deal done. Bayern Munich and Paris Saint-Germain can potentially challenge the threat of Liverpool, but the Reds’ dominance can’t be denied. Interestingly, they were the most in-form team in the Champions League last season until the league phase, when they notched seven wins in eight matches. Their 86 goals in the 2024-25 season was also the best tally for any team in England’s top flight.

Still in the grief of Diogo Jota’s death, Liverpool have been in a ‘show must go on’ state as they continue to make headlines in the transfer window with the signings of Florian Wirtz, Hugo Ekitike and now with the potential arrival of Alexander Isak

It was a sorrowful July 2025 for Liverpool and its fans as the month started with the tragic death of star forward Diogo Jota, and the club went into a state of mourning. Still in the grief of Jota’s death, Liverpool have been in a ‘show must go on’ state as they continue to make headlines in the transfer window with the signings of Florian Wirtz, Hugo Ekitike, and now with the potential arrival of Alexander Isak. So are Liverpool the new irresistible force in European football as the defending Premier League champions are set to break the bank yet again? The irresistible force of Liverpool Already blessed with a lethal attack, Liverpool’s forward line consists of Mohamed Salah, Alexis Mac Allister, Cody Gakpo, Darwin Nunez (unless he leaves) and others. However, adding the attacking talent of Ekitike, Wirtz and Isak, they could have one of the best attacking lines in Europe. Isak has been Newcastle’s best player in the last three seasons, helping the club reach the Champions League on two occasions. While Luis Diaz is on his way out, Ekitike is already a proven talent in his position. The Frenchman has played a huge role in recent years for Eintracht Frankfurt to help them clinch Champions League qualification. He scored 15 goals and assisted eight further goals to help Frankfurt finish third in the Bundesliga. On the other hand, Wirtz has already proven himself in the Bundesliga, playing a pivotal role in Bayer Leverkusen clinching their maiden Bundesliga title in 2023-24. In Leverkusen’s title-winning season, he bagged 11 goals and 11 assists, while last season he amassed a tally of 10 goals and 12 assists. Isak’s numbers also make for significant reading, bagging impressive numbers with Newcastle United over the last three seasons. In the 2024-25 Premier League season, he scored 23 goals and assisted six goals as Newcastle sealed Champions League qualification for the second time in three seasons. ALSO READ | IND vs ENG, 5th Test: 'Bumrah is fit to bowl as per his workload', says India batting coach Sitanshu Kotak Combining the above trio with the strength of Mohamed Salah, Liverpool’s attacking third could be the best in the business. While Manchester City and Real Madrid showed flaws in the final third last season, Liverpool could only get better with every deal done. Bayern Munich and Paris Saint-Germain can potentially challenge the threat of Liverpool, but the Reds’ dominance can’t be denied. Interestingly, they were the most in-form team in the Champions League last season until the league phase, when they notched seven wins in eight matches. Their 86 goals in the 2024-25 season was also the best tally for any team in England’s top flight.

Still in the grief of Diogo Jota’s death, Liverpool have been in a ‘show must go on’ state as they continue to make headlines in the transfer window with the signings of Florian Wirtz, Hugo Ekitike and now with the potential arrival of Alexander Isak

Explained: Why Liverpool could be the new irresistible force in Europe as Alexander Isak nears Anfield switch

Team India will have a task in their hand as they face England in the final Test of the five-match Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy on Thursday (July 31). Trailing 1-2 in the series, Shubman Gill &amp; Co. will need to win at any cost or else walk empty-handed in the five-match series. While winning a match is in India’s hands and down to their efforts, one factor is not in control of the visitors, as they now stand a rare probability of losing 15 consecutive tosses in international cricket.<h2>Rare probability could be a reality</h2>As things stand, India have lost 14 consecutive tosses, achieving the rare feat which has a probability of 1/16384. However, if the Gill loses another toss, fifth in a row in the ongoing series, the probability will reach 1/32678. No team in international cricket has achieved this unfortunate feat, but with one more toss, it could soon become a reality. The visitors have lost all four tosses so far in the series and Gill has continued to ride on the poor luck at toss despite taking over from Rohit Sharma.&nbsp;Across formats, three Indian captains have taken charge of the side, but none has succeeded in winning a toss. Suryakumar Yadav was the last Indian captain to win a toss when he did so against England in the third T20I in January 2025. Since then, India have lost all tosses in the Champions Trophy 2025 (five matches) while also losing tosses in five matches against England in the build-up to the tournament.&nbsp;ALSO READ |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-eng-5th-test-bumrah-is-fit-to-bowl-as-per-his-workload-says-india-batting-coach-sitanshu-kotak-1753810202717"> IND vs ENG, 5th Test: 'Bumrah is fit to bowl as per his workload', says India batting coach Sitanshu Kotak</a>&nbsp;Rohit Sharma was the man in charge for the Champions Trophy before Gill became the permanent captain in the Test format. However, like Suryakumar Yadav and Rohit, Gill has also continued with the flip of the coin.<h2>India eye parity in series</h2>Trailing 1-2 in the series, India are in a must-win territory ahead of the final contest of the series. India managed to escape Manchester with a draw, but another similar result will see England clinch the series. The Indian team will heavily rely on the services of Shubman Gill and Co., while they will miss Rishabh Pant, who has already been ruled out of The Oval Test. In 15 matches at the venue, the visitors have won only two matches, while seven other matches have ended in draws.

While winning a match is in India’s hands and down to their efforts, one factor is not in control of the visitors, as they now stand a rare probability of losing 15 consecutive tosses in international cricket.

Team India will have a task in their hand as they face England in the final Test of the five-match Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy on Thursday (July 31). Trailing 1-2 in the series, Shubman Gill & Co. will need to win at any cost or else walk empty-handed in the five-match series. While winning a match is in India’s hands and down to their efforts, one factor is not in control of the visitors, as they now stand a rare probability of losing 15 consecutive tosses in international cricket. Rare probability could be a reality As things stand, India have lost 14 consecutive tosses, achieving the rare feat which has a probability of 1/16384. However, if the Gill loses another toss, fifth in a row in the ongoing series, the probability will reach 1/32678. No team in international cricket has achieved this unfortunate feat, but with one more toss, it could soon become a reality. The visitors have lost all four tosses so far in the series and Gill has continued to ride on the poor luck at toss despite taking over from Rohit Sharma. Across formats, three Indian captains have taken charge of the side, but none has succeeded in winning a toss. Suryakumar Yadav was the last Indian captain to win a toss when he did so against England in the third T20I in January 2025. Since then, India have lost all tosses in the Champions Trophy 2025 (five matches) while also losing tosses in five matches against England in the build-up to the tournament. ALSO READ | IND vs ENG, 5th Test: 'Bumrah is fit to bowl as per his workload', says India batting coach Sitanshu Kotak Rohit Sharma was the man in charge for the Champions Trophy before Gill became the permanent captain in the Test format. However, like Suryakumar Yadav and Rohit, Gill has also continued with the flip of the coin. India eye parity in series Trailing 1-2 in the series, India are in a must-win territory ahead of the final contest of the series. India managed to escape Manchester with a draw, but another similar result will see England clinch the series. The Indian team will heavily rely on the services of Shubman Gill and Co., while they will miss Rishabh Pant, who has already been ruled out of The Oval Test. In 15 matches at the venue, the visitors have won only two matches, while seven other matches have ended in draws.

While winning a match is in India’s hands and down to their efforts, one factor is not in control of the visitors, as they now stand a rare probability of losing 15 consecutive tosses in international cricket.

Will India's bad luck turn good in Oval Test? Rare 1/32768 probability predicts team can lose 15th consecutive toss

Test cricket is the purest and oldest format of the game, where your skill, determination, and patience are tested every minute, every ball, every session, and each day. One must remain vigilant at all times and keep their eyes firmly on the ball with full concentration. Additionally, scoring in England poses different challenges, such as overcast conditions, rain showers, the lateral movement of the ball and varied pitch behaviour. Despite these difficulties, here are five batters who have scored the most runs against England in Test cricket.<h2>1. Don Bradman&nbsp;</h2>Former Aussie legend Don Bradman leads the tally with 2,674 runs in 19 Tests at an astonishing average of 102.84, with 11 centuries. His highest score was 334 against England at Leeds.&nbsp;<h2>2. Allan Border</h2>Allan Border amassed 2,082 runs in 25 Tests at an average of 65.06, hitting five centuries. He was a key figure in Australia’s batting lineup during the 1980s and early 1990s. Under his captaincy, Australia won its first ICC title at the 1987 World Cup, where they defeated England by seven runs in the summit clash.<h2>3. Viv Richards&nbsp;</h2>West Indies' legendary batter Viv Richards piled up 2,057 runs in 24 Tests, including five centuries and 12 half-centuries. Richards was a fearless and powerful player who showed the dominance of West Indies cricket in the 1970s and 80s. Notably, he was named 'Player of the Match' in the 1979 Prudential World Cup final for scoring an unbeaten 138 runs off 157 balls.<h2>4. Steven Smith&nbsp;</h2>Australian stalwart Steven Smith has scored 2,000 runs in 19 Tests and is the only active player on this list. In 36 innings so far, he has never been dismissed for a duck. Additionally, he holds the record for the most runs scored by an overseas batter at Lord's (604 runs in six outings).<h2>5. Garry Sobers&nbsp;</h2>Former West Indies all-rounder Garry Sobers piled up 1,820 runs in 21 Tests with five centuries. Sobers was equally effective with the ball, picking 102 Test wickets against England. Interestingly, Sobers became the first batsman ever to hit six sixes in a single over of six consecutive balls in first-class cricket (1986).

Batting in England involves numerous challenges and few players have scored many runs despite these difficulties. Here are the five batters with the most Test runs in England.

Test cricket is the purest and oldest format of the game, where your skill, determination, and patience are tested every minute, every ball, every session, and each day. One must remain vigilant at all times and keep their eyes firmly on the ball with full concentration. Additionally, scoring in England poses different challenges, such as overcast conditions, rain showers, the lateral movement of the ball and varied pitch behaviour. Despite these difficulties, here are five batters who have scored the most runs against England in Test cricket. 1. Don Bradman Former Aussie legend Don Bradman leads the tally with 2,674 runs in 19 Tests at an astonishing average of 102.84, with 11 centuries. His highest score was 334 against England at Leeds. 2. Allan Border Allan Border amassed 2,082 runs in 25 Tests at an average of 65.06, hitting five centuries. He was a key figure in Australia’s batting lineup during the 1980s and early 1990s. Under his captaincy, Australia won its first ICC title at the 1987 World Cup, where they defeated England by seven runs in the summit clash. 3. Viv Richards West Indies' legendary batter Viv Richards piled up 2,057 runs in 24 Tests, including five centuries and 12 half-centuries. Richards was a fearless and powerful player who showed the dominance of West Indies cricket in the 1970s and 80s. Notably, he was named 'Player of the Match' in the 1979 Prudential World Cup final for scoring an unbeaten 138 runs off 157 balls. 4. Steven Smith Australian stalwart Steven Smith has scored 2,000 runs in 19 Tests and is the only active player on this list. In 36 innings so far, he has never been dismissed for a duck. Additionally, he holds the record for the most runs scored by an overseas batter at Lord's (604 runs in six outings). 5. Garry Sobers Former West Indies all-rounder Garry Sobers piled up 1,820 runs in 21 Tests with five centuries. Sobers was equally effective with the ball, picking 102 Test wickets against England. Interestingly, Sobers became the first batsman ever to hit six sixes in a single over of six consecutive balls in first-class cricket (1986).

Batting in England involves numerous challenges and few players have scored many runs despite these difficulties. Here are the five batters with most Test runs in England.

5 players with most Test runs in England: No Indian makes the cut

India’s Jasprit Bumrah is all set to miss the final Test against England starting on Thursday (July 31) after the Board of Control for Cricket in India’s (BCCI) medical team advised. According to a media report, Bumrah won’t be in contention for The Oval Test with Akash Deep set to return after spending time on the bench due to a groin issue. Bumrah had earlier missed the Edgbaston Test as part of the workload management program.<h2>Bumrah to miss Oval Test?</h2>According to a reliable cricket website, Espncricinfo, Bumrah won’t be part of the Indian team for the final Test. Considering India will have some important series and tournaments to play in the coming months, the BCCI and its medical team are not risking Bumrah’s availability. He missed out on the Indian team’s Champions Trophy triumph in the UAE earlier in the year, having sustained a back issue during the Sydney Test.&nbsp;On the other hand, Akash Deep will return to the side having sat out of the Old Trafford Test due to a groin issue. He is likely to take Bumrah’s place in the Playing XI, while Shardul Thakur is also expected to make way for Arshdeep Singh.&nbsp;Arshdeep could be handed his debut cap in the Oval Test, considering India need bowling depth. In the batting unit, Sai Sudharsan could be shown faith again, but few reports have suggested that Abhimanyu Easwaran could be handed a debut as well, with Team India struggling for a genuine batter at No.3.&nbsp;ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-eng-5th-test-bumrah-is-fit-to-bowl-as-per-his-workload-says-india-batting-coach-sitanshu-kotak-1753810202717">IND vs ENG, 5th Test: 'Bumrah is fit to bowl as per his workload', says India batting coach Sitanshu Kotak</a><h2>India eye parity in series</h2>Trailing 1-2 in the series, India are in a must-win territory ahead of the final contest of the series. India managed to escape Manchester with a draw, but another similar result will see England clinch the series. The Indian team will heavily rely on the services of Shubman Gill and Co., while they will miss Rishabh Pant, who has already been ruled out of The Oval Test. In 15 matches at the venue, the visitors have won only two matches, while seven other matches have ended in draws.

According to a media report, Jasprit Bumrah won’t be in contention for The Oval Test with Akash Deep set to return after spending time on the bench due to a groin issue. Bumrah had earlier missed the Edgbaston Test as part of the workload management program.

India’s Jasprit Bumrah is all set to miss the final Test against England starting on Thursday (July 31) after the Board of Control for Cricket in India’s (BCCI) medical team advised. According to a media report, Bumrah won’t be in contention for The Oval Test with Akash Deep set to return after spending time on the bench due to a groin issue. Bumrah had earlier missed the Edgbaston Test as part of the workload management program. Bumrah to miss Oval Test? According to a reliable cricket website, Espncricinfo, Bumrah won’t be part of the Indian team for the final Test. Considering India will have some important series and tournaments to play in the coming months, the BCCI and its medical team are not risking Bumrah’s availability. He missed out on the Indian team’s Champions Trophy triumph in the UAE earlier in the year, having sustained a back issue during the Sydney Test. On the other hand, Akash Deep will return to the side having sat out of the Old Trafford Test due to a groin issue. He is likely to take Bumrah’s place in the Playing XI, while Shardul Thakur is also expected to make way for Arshdeep Singh. Arshdeep could be handed his debut cap in the Oval Test, considering India need bowling depth. In the batting unit, Sai Sudharsan could be shown faith again, but few reports have suggested that Abhimanyu Easwaran could be handed a debut as well, with Team India struggling for a genuine batter at No.3. ALSO READ | IND vs ENG, 5th Test: 'Bumrah is fit to bowl as per his workload', says India batting coach Sitanshu Kotak India eye parity in series Trailing 1-2 in the series, India are in a must-win territory ahead of the final contest of the series. India managed to escape Manchester with a draw, but another similar result will see England clinch the series. The Indian team will heavily rely on the services of Shubman Gill and Co., while they will miss Rishabh Pant, who has already been ruled out of The Oval Test. In 15 matches at the venue, the visitors have won only two matches, while seven other matches have ended in draws.

According to a media report, Jasprit Bumrah won’t be in contention for The Oval Test with Akash Deep set to return after spending time on the bench due to a groin issue. Bumrah had earlier missed the Edgbaston Test as part of the workload management program.

IND vs ENG: Jasprit Bumrah to skip Oval Test after advice from BCCI's medical team - Report

&nbsp;It was an entertaining day on Tuesday (July 29), just 48 hours before the start of the fifth and final Test match between India and England, after head coach Gautam Gambhir got into an altercation with The Oval pitch curator Lee Fortis. In a video going viral, Gambhir was seen in a heated argument with Fortis over the use of the practice pitch, with the latter stating he will have to report the incident. However, now an old picture of Fortis with McCullum on the picture is going viral, exposing the curator’s double standards.<h2>Fortus's old pic goes viral</h2>After the heated argument on Tuesday, it was reported that Fortis threatened to report Gambhir for coming in contact with the pitch, which is to be used for the final Test starting on Thursday. However, in an old picture from 2023, curator Fortis is seen standing on a pitch with Brendon McCullum during the Ashes contest. This has prompted backlash from Indian fans who questioned Fortis’s double standards for different coaches.&nbsp;ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-eng-5th-test-bumrah-is-fit-to-bowl-as-per-his-workload-says-india-batting-coach-sitanshu-kotak-1753810202717">IND vs ENG, 5th Test: 'Bumrah is fit to bowl as per his workload', says India batting coach Sitanshu Kotak</a><h2>What was the Gambhir-Fortis incident?</h2>On Tuesday, out for practice, Gambhir was seen exchanging words with Fortis and later pointing out a finger as he lost his cool. He was not pleased with the curator’s reaction while repeatedly speaking and pointing another finger at the pitch.&nbsp;

In a video going viral, Gambhir was seen in a heated argument with Fortis over the use of the practice pitch, with the latter stating he will have to report the incident. Now an old picture of Fortis with McCullum on the picture is going viral, exposing the curator’s double standards.

While WION could not verify the reason for the spat, it is reported that Gambhir was not happy with the pitch curator’s reaction when he approached the pitch set to be used for Thursday’s contest.&nbsp;"You don't tell us what to do," Gambhir can be heard reiterating multiple times. "You can't tell any of us what to do. You are just a ground staff," he added.&nbsp;In the video, Gambhir was initially spotted walking away from Fortis, but he still continued to raise his point while Fortis was taken away by India’s batting coach Sitanshu Kotak.

It was an entertaining day on Tuesday (July 29), just 48 hours before the start of the fifth and final Test match between India and England, after head coach Gautam Gambhir got into an altercation with The Oval pitch curator Lee Fortis. In a video going viral, Gambhir was seen in a heated argument with Fortis over the use of the practice pitch, with the latter stating he will have to report the incident. However, now an old picture of Fortis with McCullum on the picture is going viral, exposing the curator’s double standards. Fortus's old pic goes viral After the heated argument on Tuesday, it was reported that Fortis threatened to report Gambhir for coming in contact with the pitch, which is to be used for the final Test starting on Thursday. However, in an old picture from 2023, curator Fortis is seen standing on a pitch with Brendon McCullum during the Ashes contest. This has prompted backlash from Indian fans who questioned Fortis’s double standards for different coaches. ALSO READ | IND vs ENG, 5th Test: 'Bumrah is fit to bowl as per his workload', says India batting coach Sitanshu Kotak What was the Gambhir-Fortis incident? On Tuesday, out for practice, Gambhir was seen exchanging words with Fortis and later pointing out a finger as he lost his cool. He was not pleased with the curator’s reaction while repeatedly speaking and pointing another finger at the pitch.

In a video going viral, Gambhir was seen in a heated argument with Fortis over the use of the practice pitch, with the latter stating he will have to report the incident. Now an old picture of Fortis with McCullum on the picture is going viral, exposing the curator’s double standards.

IND vs ENG: Oval curator's double standards exposed, old picture goes viral after altercation with Gambhir

The status of the Asia Cup 2025 could now be in limbo as fans and sponsors have continued to boycott the India vs Pakistan contest, and the latest warning came in the World Championship of Legends. On Wednesday (July 20), a major Indian sponsor in the ongoing WCL 2025 in England’s Birmingham pulled out after India were drawn against Pakistan in the semifinal clash. The sponsor released a statement stating, “terror and cricket cannot go hand in hand.”<h2>Major sponsor pulls out of WCL 2025</h2>“We applaud Team India @India_Champions for their outstanding performance in the World Championship of Legends, you’ve made the nation proud. However, the upcoming semi-final against Pakistan is not just another game. Terror and cricket cannot go hand in hand. EaseMyTrip, we stand with India,” founder Nishant Pitti said in a statement.&nbsp;“We cannot support any event that attempts to normalise relations with a country that promotes terrorism. The people of India have spoken and we hear them. EaseMyTrip will not be associated with the India vs Pakistan match in WCL. Some things are bigger than sport. Nation first, business later. Always. Jai Hind,” added the statement.&nbsp;With India and Pakistan paired up in the Asia Cup 2025, it has not received huge stardom with fans and sponsors ready to boycott the clash after the recent terror attacks in Pahalgam. Indian fans, former cricketers and politicians have called for a boycott of any ties with Pakistan.&nbsp;ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-eng-5th-test-bumrah-is-fit-to-bowl-as-per-his-workload-says-india-batting-coach-sitanshu-kotak-1753810202717">IND vs ENG, 5th Test: 'Bumrah is fit to bowl as per his workload', says India batting coach Sitanshu Kotak</a>&nbsp;Earlier in a league game of the WCL 2025 against Pakistan, former India cricketers Harbhajan Singh, Shikhar Dhawan and Yusuf Pathan opted out after fan backlash. The match was consequently called off with players giving priority to national integrity.&nbsp;If the backlash continues, the Asia Cup match between India and Pakistan on September 14 could be in limbo. On Monday, Indian politician and leader of All India Majlis-e-Ittehadul Muslimeen (AIMIM), Asaduddin Owaisi, slammed the Asia Cricket Council (ACC) and called for a boycott of the India vs Pakistan clash in the upcoming Asia Cup 2025.

On Wednesday (July 20), a major Indian sponsor in the ongoing WCL 2025 in England’s Birmingham pulled out after India were drawn against Pakistan in the semifinal clash. The sponsor released a statement stating, “terror and cricket cannot go hand in hand.”

The status of the Asia Cup 2025 could now be in limbo as fans and sponsors have continued to boycott the India vs Pakistan contest, and the latest warning came in the World Championship of Legends. On Wednesday (July 20), a major Indian sponsor in the ongoing WCL 2025 in England’s Birmingham pulled out after India were drawn against Pakistan in the semifinal clash. The sponsor released a statement stating, “terror and cricket cannot go hand in hand.” Major sponsor pulls out of WCL 2025 “We applaud Team India @India_Champions for their outstanding performance in the World Championship of Legends, you’ve made the nation proud. However, the upcoming semi-final against Pakistan is not just another game. Terror and cricket cannot go hand in hand. EaseMyTrip, we stand with India,” founder Nishant Pitti said in a statement. “We cannot support any event that attempts to normalise relations with a country that promotes terrorism. The people of India have spoken and we hear them. EaseMyTrip will not be associated with the India vs Pakistan match in WCL. Some things are bigger than sport. Nation first, business later. Always. Jai Hind,” added the statement. With India and Pakistan paired up in the Asia Cup 2025, it has not received huge stardom with fans and sponsors ready to boycott the clash after the recent terror attacks in Pahalgam. Indian fans, former cricketers and politicians have called for a boycott of any ties with Pakistan. ALSO READ | IND vs ENG, 5th Test: 'Bumrah is fit to bowl as per his workload', says India batting coach Sitanshu Kotak Earlier in a league game of the WCL 2025 against Pakistan, former India cricketers Harbhajan Singh, Shikhar Dhawan and Yusuf Pathan opted out after fan backlash. The match was consequently called off with players giving priority to national integrity. If the backlash continues, the Asia Cup match between India and Pakistan on September 14 could be in limbo. On Monday, Indian politician and leader of All India Majlis-e-Ittehadul Muslimeen (AIMIM), Asaduddin Owaisi, slammed the Asia Cricket Council (ACC) and called for a boycott of the India vs Pakistan clash in the upcoming Asia Cup 2025.

On Wednesday (July 20), a major Indian sponsor in the ongoing WCL 2025 in England’s Birmingham pulled out after India were drawn against Pakistan in the semifinal clash. The sponsor released a statement stating, “terror and cricket cannot go hand in hand.”

India vs Pakistan, WCL: Major Indian sponsor withdraws, comments 'terror and cricket cannot go hand in hand'

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India vs Pakistan, WCL: Major Indian sponsor withdraws ahead of semifinal