Ireland ended England's World Cup honeymoon in dramatic style on Wednesday, bowling out the host nation for a derisory 85 on the first day at Lord's as they eyed one of the biggest shocks in Test history.

Tim Murtagh, who is 37 years old, took a stunning five for 13 in nine overs on a ground where he plays for Middlesex.

Ireland then consolidated their position by making 207 in reply for a first-innings lead of 122.

When they were all out, there was still time for one more over and England felt compelled to have nightwatchman Jack Leach, rather than a specialist batsman, face Murtagh.

Leach somehow survived a maiden and England closed on nought for nought in their second innings.

Appropriately, it was tailender Murtagh who took Ireland into a hundred-run lead in their first Test against England after the visitors suffered a slump of their own when he pulled veteran paceman Stuart Broad for four. &nbsp;

In making 16, Murtagh scored more runs than he conceded while the fact 20 wickets fell broke a first-day record of 18 for a Lord's Test that had stood since 1896.

Ten days after England won the World Cup at the 'home of cricket' against New Zealand and a week ahead of the Ashes, Ireland ruthlessly exposed their batting fragility.

Just three England batsmen made it into double figures -- Joe Denly, who top-scored with 23, debutant Olly Stone and Sam Curran -- in an innings that was over inside 24 overs on a baking day in London.

It was the fourth time in 34 Tests that England had lost all 10 wickets in a session - a worrying sign ahead of the five-Test series against Australia.

Murtagh's ability was no secret but his superb return was the stuff of schoolboy fiction.

 
The seamer, who recently took his 800th first-class wicket, gave a classic demonstration of his skill after England captain Joe Root won the toss and batted on an emerald green pitch prepared by Irish groundsman Karl McDermott.

Fantastic session

"I'm not quite sure what's happened in the last two hours," an elated Murtagh told Sky Sports during the lunch interval. "It's a fantastic first session for us."

"I should know how to bowl on this ground -- I've been here long enough," added Murtagh, a Middlesex player for more than a decade.

The home side was soon in deep trouble despite Root's insistence they did not want to "sleepwalk" into this four-day match ahead of the Ashes.

Test debutant Jason Roy, fresh from his World Cup heroics, fell for five when Murtagh, short of express pace but remorselessly accurate, squared him up with first slip Paul Stirling holding the ensuing edge.

Debutant Mark Adair (3-32) had his first Test wicket when Denly was leg before wicket and he also captured the prize scalp of Root, plumb lbw for two.

When Jonny Bairstow was bowled for a duck -- one of three noughts in the England innings -- off an inside edge by Murtagh as he attempted a booming drive, England were 42-5.

And when Murtagh had Moeen Ali caught behind for a duck, the seamer had a place on the honours board for all those who take five wickets in a Test innings at Lord's.

Stone drove three fours in four balls from Stuart Thompson before he was bowled by Adair to end a stunning morning's play.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/england-collapse-to-85-all-out-in-ireland-test-238217">Ireland</a> made a steady start before captain William Porterfield, hit on the head by a Stone bouncer, pulled Curran to midwicket on 14.

But Andrew Balbirnie had a reprieve when, on 10, he edged Broad between Bairstow and first slip Root for a chance that belonged to the wicketkeeper.

Stirling had made 17 when Root, compounding a miserable day for the captain, dropped a slip catch off the unlucky Broad, leading the attack in the absence of the injured James Anderson.&nbsp;

Balbirnie rubbed salt into England's wounds with a 56-ball fifty that included nine fours. At tea, Ireland was 132-2 but they lost four wickets for nine runs, with Balbirnie bowled for 55 by Stone who, in common with Broad and Curran, took three wickets.

"Tim bowled well, he showed the length to bowl on this pitch," said Stone, who took 3-29.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Ireland ended England's World Cup honeymoon in dramatic style on Wednesday, bowling out the host nation for a derisory 85 on the first day at Lord's as they eyed one of the biggest shocks in Test history.

Ireland ended England's World Cup honeymoon in dramatic style on Wednesday, bowling out the host nation for a derisory 85 on the first day at Lord's as they eyed one of the biggest shocks in Test history. Tim Murtagh, who is 37 years old, took a stunning five for 13 in nine overs on a ground where he plays for Middlesex. Ireland then consolidated their position by making 207 in reply for a first-innings lead of 122. When they were all out, there was still time for one more over and England felt compelled to have nightwatchman Jack Leach, rather than a specialist batsman, face Murtagh. Leach somehow survived a maiden and England closed on nought for nought in their second innings. Appropriately, it was tailender Murtagh who took Ireland into a hundred-run lead in their first Test against England after the visitors suffered a slump of their own when he pulled veteran paceman Stuart Broad for four. In making 16, Murtagh scored more runs than he conceded while the fact 20 wickets fell broke a first-day record of 18 for a Lord's Test that had stood since 1896. Ten days after England won the World Cup at the 'home of cricket' against New Zealand and a week ahead of the Ashes, Ireland ruthlessly exposed their batting fragility. Just three England batsmen made it into double figures -- Joe Denly, who top-scored with 23, debutant Olly Stone and Sam Curran -- in an innings that was over inside 24 overs on a baking day in London. It was the fourth time in 34 Tests that England had lost all 10 wickets in a session - a worrying sign ahead of the five-Test series against Australia. Murtagh's ability was no secret but his superb return was the stuff of schoolboy fiction. The seamer, who recently took his 800th first-class wicket, gave a classic demonstration of his skill after England captain Joe Root won the toss and batted on an emerald green pitch prepared by Irish groundsman Karl McDermott. Fantastic session "I'm not quite sure what's happened in the last two hours," an elated Murtagh told Sky Sports during the lunch interval. "It's a fantastic first session for us." "I should know how to bowl on this ground -- I've been here long enough," added Murtagh, a Middlesex player for more than a decade. The home side was soon in deep trouble despite Root's insistence they did not want to "sleepwalk" into this four-day match ahead of the Ashes. Test debutant Jason Roy, fresh from his World Cup heroics, fell for five when Murtagh, short of express pace but remorselessly accurate, squared him up with first slip Paul Stirling holding the ensuing edge. Debutant Mark Adair (3-32) had his first Test wicket when Denly was leg before wicket and he also captured the prize scalp of Root, plumb lbw for two. When Jonny Bairstow was bowled for a duck -- one of three noughts in the England innings -- off an inside edge by Murtagh as he attempted a booming drive, England were 42-5. And when Murtagh had Moeen Ali caught behind for a duck, the seamer had a place on the honours board for all those who take five wickets in a Test innings at Lord's. Stone drove three fours in four balls from Stuart Thompson before he was bowled by Adair to end a stunning morning's play. Ireland made a steady start before captain William Porterfield, hit on the head by a Stone bouncer, pulled Curran to midwicket on 14. But Andrew Balbirnie had a reprieve when, on 10, he edged Broad between Bairstow and first slip Root for a chance that belonged to the wicketkeeper. Stirling had made 17 when Root, compounding a miserable day for the captain, dropped a slip catch off the unlucky Broad, leading the attack in the absence of the injured James Anderson. Balbirnie rubbed salt into England's wounds with a 56-ball fifty that included nine fours. At tea, Ireland was 132-2 but they lost four wickets for nine runs, with Balbirnie bowled for 55 by Stone who, in common with Broad and Curran, took three wickets. "Tim bowled well, he showed the length to bowl on this pitch," said Stone, who took 3-29.

Lord's Test: Murtagh rips through hapless England as Ireland take charge

Test cricket is all set to undergo a major change as Australia and England will lineup with names and jersey numbers on their Test whites in the upcoming Ashes series.

ODI and T20I jerseys have had personalisation on their backs since a long time, but Test matches had to wait for this change.

England Cricket official Twitter handle confirmed the jersey number of team's Test match skipper Joe Root and wrote "Names and numbers on the back of Test shirts," as the caption.

Earlier this year, there were reports that Ashes series between England and Australia would bring in the modernisation of cricketing kits.

Cricketing fans on Twitter seemed divided on this development in Test cricket and made their voices heard on the social-networking platform.

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Names and numbers on the back of Test shirts! 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿🏏 <a href="https://t.co/M660T2EI4Z">pic.twitter.com/M660T2EI4Z</a>
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"Absolutely no problem with numbers 1 to 11 etc but can`t see the benefit of names or random high numbers on shirts. I guess it`s all to do with increasing merchandise sales hoping a name will sell more. @YorkshireCCC," wrote one fan.

"Names r okay bt never got the idea about these random numbers in cricket...could still live with it in ODIs n T20s bt spare tests...names r fine bt w/o numbers @ICC," another fan tweeted.

"I like it! After all anything that makes the game easier to follow is good - think about people with visual impairments for example," one Twitter user wrote."A good addition.

Improves both the supporter and media experience of seeing who it is. The game moves on. It's fine. The world won`t fall off its axis," another Twitter user wrote.

On July 14, England scripted history as they managed to win their maiden 50-over World Cup and the side will look to continue their winning momentum going.

England will take on Ireland in a one-off four-day Test from July 24 and then the team will face Australia in the Ashes, beginning August 1.&nbsp;

Test cricket is all set to undergo a major change as Australia and England will lineup with names and jersey numbers on their Test whites in the upcoming Ashes series.

Test cricket is all set to undergo a major change as Australia and England will lineup with names and jersey numbers on their Test whites in the upcoming Ashes series. ODI and T20I jerseys have had personalisation on their backs since a long time, but Test matches had to wait for this change. England Cricket official Twitter handle confirmed the jersey number of team's Test match skipper Joe Root and wrote "Names and numbers on the back of Test shirts," as the caption. Earlier this year, there were reports that Ashes series between England and Australia would bring in the modernisation of cricketing kits. Cricketing fans on Twitter seemed divided on this development in Test cricket and made their voices heard on the social-networking platform. Names and numbers on the back of Test shirts! 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿🏏 pic.twitter.com/M660T2EI4Z — England Cricket (@englandcricket) July 22, 2019 × "Absolutely no problem with numbers 1 to 11 etc but can`t see the benefit of names or random high numbers on shirts. I guess it`s all to do with increasing merchandise sales hoping a name will sell more. @YorkshireCCC," wrote one fan. "Names r okay bt never got the idea about these random numbers in cricket...could still live with it in ODIs n T20s bt spare tests...names r fine bt w/o numbers @ICC," another fan tweeted. "I like it! After all anything that makes the game easier to follow is good - think about people with visual impairments for example," one Twitter user wrote."A good addition. Improves both the supporter and media experience of seeing who it is. The game moves on. It's fine. The world won`t fall off its axis," another Twitter user wrote. On July 14, England scripted history as they managed to win their maiden 50-over World Cup and the side will look to continue their winning momentum going. England will take on Ireland in a one-off four-day Test from July 24 and then the team will face Australia in the Ashes, beginning August 1.

In a first in Test cricket, Ashes jerseys to have players' names, numbers

Opening batsman Jason Roy and fast bowler Olly Stone will make their England Test debuts in a one-off match against Ireland starting at Lord's on Wednesday.

Surrey batsman Roy is set to earn his first Test cap after racking up an impressive 443 runs in England's triumphant 50-overs World Cup campaign.

Roy is poised to bat at the top of the order with Surrey teammate Rory Burns in a four-day match against Ireland and will have an opportunity to impress the selectors ahead of the Ashes series against Australia starting on Aug. 1.

"It's a very, very new challenge and something I have been excited for and nervous for the last couple of years," Roy told Sky Sports.

"I have been in a good place with my cricket and feel in the best place I can be to succeed. Whether that is the case, I don't know, no one knows.

"The reason I have been so successful in the last couple of years and playing such good cricket at the top of the order is because my defence has been in really good order."

Warwickshire paceman Stone will make his debut having recovered from a back injury that forced him to return home from England's tour of West Indies earlier this year.

The 25-year-old was included in the lineup after the experienced James Anderson failed to recover from a calf injury, which he picked up playing for his county Lancashire against Durham this month.

"He (Anderson) will continue to be assessed ahead of the first Ashes Test at Edgbaston on August 1," the ECB said in a statement on Tuesday.

Anderson, England's leading wicket-taker in Tests, is one of several England bowlers struggling with injury ahead of the five-Test Ashes series against Australia.

Fast bowlers Mark Wood and Jofra Archer, part of the World Cup-winning one-day team, were not available for selection for the Ireland Test because both have suffered side strains.

Wood has been ruled out for four to six weeks, while Archer will have a period of rest before being considered for Ashes selection.

Having been awarded Test status in 2017, Ireland are chasing their first win in the longest format after losses to Pakistan and Afghanistan.

England team v Ireland: Joe Root (captain), Moeen Ali, Rory Burns, Sam Curran, Jonny Bairstow, Stuart Broad, Joe Denly, Jack Leach, Jason Roy, Olly Stone, Chris Woakes

Opening batsman Jason Roy and fast bowler Olly Stone will make their England Test debuts in a one-off match against Ireland starting at Lord's on Wednesday. Surrey batsman Roy is set to earn his first Test cap after racking up an impressive 443 runs in England's triumphant 50-overs World Cup campaign.

Opening batsman Jason Roy and fast bowler Olly Stone will make their England Test debuts in a one-off match against Ireland starting at Lord's on Wednesday. Surrey batsman Roy is set to earn his first Test cap after racking up an impressive 443 runs in England's triumphant 50-overs World Cup campaign. Roy is poised to bat at the top of the order with Surrey teammate Rory Burns in a four-day match against Ireland and will have an opportunity to impress the selectors ahead of the Ashes series against Australia starting on Aug. 1. "It's a very, very new challenge and something I have been excited for and nervous for the last couple of years," Roy told Sky Sports. "I have been in a good place with my cricket and feel in the best place I can be to succeed. Whether that is the case, I don't know, no one knows. "The reason I have been so successful in the last couple of years and playing such good cricket at the top of the order is because my defence has been in really good order." Warwickshire paceman Stone will make his debut having recovered from a back injury that forced him to return home from England's tour of West Indies earlier this year. The 25-year-old was included in the lineup after the experienced James Anderson failed to recover from a calf injury, which he picked up playing for his county Lancashire against Durham this month. "He (Anderson) will continue to be assessed ahead of the first Ashes Test at Edgbaston on August 1," the ECB said in a statement on Tuesday. Anderson, England's leading wicket-taker in Tests, is one of several England bowlers struggling with injury ahead of the five-Test Ashes series against Australia. Fast bowlers Mark Wood and Jofra Archer, part of the World Cup-winning one-day team, were not available for selection for the Ireland Test because both have suffered side strains. Wood has been ruled out for four to six weeks, while Archer will have a period of rest before being considered for Ashes selection. Having been awarded Test status in 2017, Ireland are chasing their first win in the longest format after losses to Pakistan and Afghanistan. England team v Ireland: Joe Root (captain), Moeen Ali, Rory Burns, Sam Curran, Jonny Bairstow, Stuart Broad, Joe Denly, Jack Leach, Jason Roy, Olly Stone, Chris Woakes

Jason Roy and Olly Stone to make Test debuts against Ireland

Australia retained the women's Ashes after the only Test match in the series played across multiple formats ended in a draw at Taunton on Sunday.

After Australia had declared their first innings on 420-8, England avoided the follow-on and asked Australia to bat again, declaring at 275-9.

However, the visitors elected not to set a victory target and had reached 230-7 at the end of play.

Elysse Perry was again the pick of the Australian batters, following up her first innings 116 with an unbeaten 76 in the second.

The result means Ashes holders Australia, who lead England 8-2 on points having won all three of the One-Day Internationals, will retain the trophy.

England can only level the series if they win the three remaining Twenty20 international games, starting on Friday.

"It's certainly a good position to be in. We had a hard four-day battle and it was a good challenge. Unfortunately, we couldn't get a result here, but it was a great Test," Australia skipper Meg Lanning said.

"It's been a lot closer than the scoreboard suggests, and we're really looking forward to the T20s."

A points system to determine the winner of a series has been used in women's cricket since the 2013 Ashes. Teams are awarded two points for victory in limited-overs games and six in Tests.

Drawn limited-overs games result in one point being awarded to both teams and two each if a Test ends in a stalemate.

Australia retained the women's Ashes after the only Test match in the series played across multiple formats ended in a draw at Taunton on Sunday. After Australia had declared their first innings on 420-8, England avoided the follow-on and asked Australia to bat again, declaring at 275-9.

Australia retained the women's Ashes after the only Test match in the series played across multiple formats ended in a draw at Taunton on Sunday. After Australia had declared their first innings on 420-8, England avoided the follow-on and asked Australia to bat again, declaring at 275-9. However, the visitors elected not to set a victory target and had reached 230-7 at the end of play. Elysse Perry was again the pick of the Australian batters, following up her first innings 116 with an unbeaten 76 in the second. The result means Ashes holders Australia, who lead England 8-2 on points having won all three of the One-Day Internationals, will retain the trophy. England can only level the series if they win the three remaining Twenty20 international games, starting on Friday. "It's certainly a good position to be in. We had a hard four-day battle and it was a good challenge. Unfortunately, we couldn't get a result here, but it was a great Test," Australia skipper Meg Lanning said. "It's been a lot closer than the scoreboard suggests, and we're really looking forward to the T20s." A points system to determine the winner of a series has been used in women's cricket since the 2013 Ashes. Teams are awarded two points for victory in limited-overs games and six in Tests. Drawn limited-overs games result in one point being awarded to both teams and two each if a Test ends in a stalemate.

Australia retain women's Ashes after draw in only Test

Sixteen months after leaving Test cricket in disgrace over the ball-tampering furore, Steve Smith's preparations for the Ashes have gone up to a manic level as the former skipper looks to return to red ball cricket in top form.

Australia captain Tim Paine said former skipper Smith had given batting coach Graeme Hick long and taxing work-outs in the nets as he looks to hone his formidable game ahead of the Ashes opener in Edgbaston on August&nbsp;1.

Renowned for his obsessive approach to training, Smith is back in the Test squad along with David Warner and Cameron Bancroft, the other two players hit with long bans for their involvement in the Cape Town scandal in March, 2018.

"You don't become one of the best players in the world and average 60 in Test cricket if you don't have some sort of a mission," Paine told reporters of Smith at the team's training base in Southampton.

"The boys have been having a bit of a laugh the last couple of days because nothing's changed - he's hit a million balls and our coach's arm is falling off already on day two of the trip.

"It's great to see that him, and David (Warner) and Cameron Bancroft have come back in and fitted perfectly in our group.

"They are guys who have always trained at exceptionally high standards and set the standard for others.

"The three of them have been outstanding since they've been back and involved."

Australia are bidding to retain the urn and erase the disappointment of their one-day World Cup campaign, which ended in the semi-finals at the hands of hosts and eventual champions England.

Australia will play a four-day intra-squad match starting on Tuesday, with two sides padded out by Australia A players.

With the final Ashes squad to be named after, Paine said it would be no gentle hit in the park.

"Both sides will be looking to win and both sides will have individual players wanting to do really well to press their final case for Ashes selection," he said.

"At the moment it's a fair dinkum game of cricket and that's been made really clear.

"We're looking at it as a real opportunity to test each other's skills so when we get to the first Test we know exactly where we're at and everyone's had a perfect preparation, and everyone's been put on pressure."

Top order batsman Usman Khawaja, who suffered a hamstring strain during the World Cup semi-final, is being rested for the unofficial match but Paine said he was expected to be fully fit and available for selection for Edgbaston.

"I don't think he's in serious doubt (for the Test)," Paine said. "He's in a rehab stage so the decision has been made that he won't play at this stage.

"There is a possibility, maybe, if something were to happen to someone else he might be right for the back end of the (practice) game."

Sixteen months after leaving Test cricket in disgrace over the ball-tampering furore, Steve Smith's preparations for the Ashes have gone up to a manic level as the former skipper looks to return to red ball cricket in top form.

Sixteen months after leaving Test cricket in disgrace over the ball-tampering furore, Steve Smith's preparations for the Ashes have gone up to a manic level as the former skipper looks to return to red ball cricket in top form. Australia captain Tim Paine said former skipper Smith had given batting coach Graeme Hick long and taxing work-outs in the nets as he looks to hone his formidable game ahead of the Ashes opener in Edgbaston on August 1. Renowned for his obsessive approach to training, Smith is back in the Test squad along with David Warner and Cameron Bancroft, the other two players hit with long bans for their involvement in the Cape Town scandal in March, 2018. "You don't become one of the best players in the world and average 60 in Test cricket if you don't have some sort of a mission," Paine told reporters of Smith at the team's training base in Southampton. "The boys have been having a bit of a laugh the last couple of days because nothing's changed - he's hit a million balls and our coach's arm is falling off already on day two of the trip. "It's great to see that him, and David (Warner) and Cameron Bancroft have come back in and fitted perfectly in our group. "They are guys who have always trained at exceptionally high standards and set the standard for others. "The three of them have been outstanding since they've been back and involved." Australia are bidding to retain the urn and erase the disappointment of their one-day World Cup campaign, which ended in the semi-finals at the hands of hosts and eventual champions England. Australia will play a four-day intra-squad match starting on Tuesday, with two sides padded out by Australia A players. With the final Ashes squad to be named after, Paine said it would be no gentle hit in the park. "Both sides will be looking to win and both sides will have individual players wanting to do really well to press their final case for Ashes selection," he said. "At the moment it's a fair dinkum game of cricket and that's been made really clear. "We're looking at it as a real opportunity to test each other's skills so when we get to the first Test we know exactly where we're at and everyone's had a perfect preparation, and everyone's been put on pressure." Top order batsman Usman Khawaja, who suffered a hamstring strain during the World Cup semi-final, is being rested for the unofficial match but Paine said he was expected to be fully fit and available for selection for Edgbaston. "I don't think he's in serious doubt (for the Test)," Paine said. "He's in a rehab stage so the decision has been made that he won't play at this stage. "There is a possibility, maybe, if something were to happen to someone else he might be right for the back end of the (practice) game."

Steve Smith raring to go, Usman Khawaja expected to be fit for Ashes opener

Opening batsman Jason Roy has been named in England's Test squad for the first time for the one-off match against Ireland starting at Lord's next Wednesday.

Roy racked up 443 runs in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ben-stokes-likely-to-receive-knighthood-for-world-cup-final-heroics-236474">England's </a>triumphant 50-overs World Cup campaign but is not a regular top-order batsman for Surrey in red-ball cricket.

The 28-year-old is expected to open the batting with Surrey teammate Rory Burns and will have an opportunity to impress the selectors ahead of the Ashes series against Australia starting on Aug. 1.

Somerset all-rounder Lewis Gregory has also been called up for the first time, while uncapped fast bowler Olly Stone, who picked up an injury on this year's tour of West Indies, returned to the squad.

England's leading wicket-taker James Anderson was included, despite picking up a calf injury this month.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-euphoric-reactions-of-british-grandma-to-englands-historic-world-cup-triumph-236364">England </a>World Cup winners Jos Buttler and Ben Stokes were rested for the Ireland Test but have been included in a 16-man pre-Ashes training camp this weekend.

Fast bowlers Mark Wood and Jofra Archer were not considered for selection because both players have suffered side strains.

Wood has been ruled out for four to six weeks while Archer will have a period of rest before being considered for Ashes selection.

England squad:

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/world-cup-winner-joe-root-thanks-countrymen-for-unbelievable-support-236706">Joe Root</a> (captain), Moeen Ali, James Anderson, Jonny Bairstow (wicketkeeper), Stuart Broad, Rory Burns, Sam Curran, Joe Denly, Lewis Gregory, Jack Leach, Jason Roy, Olly Stone, Chris Woakes.

Opening batsman Jason Roy has been named in England's Test squad for the first time for the one-off match against Ireland starting at Lord's next Wednesday. Roy racked up 443 runs in England's triumphant 50-overs World Cup campaign but is not a regular top-order batsman for Surrey in red-ball cricket.

Opening batsman Jason Roy has been named in England's Test squad for the first time for the one-off match against Ireland starting at Lord's next Wednesday. Roy racked up 443 runs in England's triumphant 50-overs World Cup campaign but is not a regular top-order batsman for Surrey in red-ball cricket. The 28-year-old is expected to open the batting with Surrey teammate Rory Burns and will have an opportunity to impress the selectors ahead of the Ashes series against Australia starting on Aug. 1. Somerset all-rounder Lewis Gregory has also been called up for the first time, while uncapped fast bowler Olly Stone, who picked up an injury on this year's tour of West Indies, returned to the squad. England's leading wicket-taker James Anderson was included, despite picking up a calf injury this month. England World Cup winners Jos Buttler and Ben Stokes were rested for the Ireland Test but have been included in a 16-man pre-Ashes training camp this weekend. Fast bowlers Mark Wood and Jofra Archer were not considered for selection because both players have suffered side strains. Wood has been ruled out for four to six weeks while Archer will have a period of rest before being considered for Ashes selection. England squad: Joe Root (captain), Moeen Ali, James Anderson, Jonny Bairstow (wicketkeeper), Stuart Broad, Rory Burns, Sam Curran, Joe Denly, Lewis Gregory, Jack Leach, Jason Roy, Olly Stone, Chris Woakes.

Jason Roy set to make England Test debut against Ireland at Lord's

Member of the 2019 World Cup-winning team, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-euphoric-reactions-of-british-grandma-to-englands-historic-world-cup-triumph-236364">English </a>batsman Joe Root on Wednesday expressed gratitude towards his nation for extending unbelievable support to the team.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/world-cup-success-can-spur-england-to-ashes-glory-says-joe-root-236292">Root </a>in a tweet said that he enjoyed the journey with his "some fantastic" teammates who are his friends as well.

He added that he is looking forward to the Ashes series.

"Having finally had time to try and let things sink in, I would like to thank the nation for unbelievable support and some lovely messages. It's been one hell of a journey with some fantastic lads that I'm lucky enough to call friends. Ashes next!!!!" Root tweeted.

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Having finally had time to try and let things sink in, I would like to thank the nation for unbelievable support and some lovely messages. It’s been one hell of a journey with some fantastic lads that I’m lucky enough to call friends. Ashes next!!!! 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿
— Joe Root (@root66) <a href="https://twitter.com/root66/status/1151408366771740673?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 17, 2019</a></blockquote>
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<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/world-cup-final-jofra-archer-reveals-ben-stokes-pre-super-over-advice-236203">England </a>beat New Zealand at the World Cup on the basis of boundary countback rule as the two teams could not be separated despite the 50-over match and subsequent super over.

Earlier this week, Root had said that the upcoming Ashes will be bigger than the recently concluded 50-over tournament.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/allah-was-with-us-captain-morgan-hails-diverse-cultures-as-england-win-world-cup-with-rest-of-world-236174">England </a>will host Australia for the Ashes series, which is set to take place from August 1 to September 16.

The English batsman further added that the transition from one-day to Duke ball cricket will be easy for the team as England are set to play against Ireland in a four-day Test at Lord's from July 24.

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🦁🦁🦁 <a href="https://t.co/TJW5CGrwaK">pic.twitter.com/TJW5CGrwaK</a>
— Joe Root (@root66) <a href="https://twitter.com/root66/status/1151243021180112897?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 16, 2019</a></blockquote>
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England are expected to announce their squad for series against Ireland on Wednesday.

Member of the 2019 World Cup-winning team, English batsman Joe Root on Wednesday expressed gratitude towards his nation for extending unbelievable support to the team.

Member of the 2019 World Cup-winning team, English batsman Joe Root on Wednesday expressed gratitude towards his nation for extending unbelievable support to the team. Root in a tweet said that he enjoyed the journey with his "some fantastic" teammates who are his friends as well. He added that he is looking forward to the Ashes series. "Having finally had time to try and let things sink in, I would like to thank the nation for unbelievable support and some lovely messages. It's been one hell of a journey with some fantastic lads that I'm lucky enough to call friends. Ashes next!!!!" Root tweeted. Having finally had time to try and let things sink in, I would like to thank the nation for unbelievable support and some lovely messages. It’s been one hell of a journey with some fantastic lads that I’m lucky enough to call friends. Ashes next!!!! 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿 — Joe Root (@root66) July 17, 2019 × England beat New Zealand at the World Cup on the basis of boundary countback rule as the two teams could not be separated despite the 50-over match and subsequent super over. Earlier this week, Root had said that the upcoming Ashes will be bigger than the recently concluded 50-over tournament. England will host Australia for the Ashes series, which is set to take place from August 1 to September 16. The English batsman further added that the transition from one-day to Duke ball cricket will be easy for the team as England are set to play against Ireland in a four-day Test at Lord's from July 24. 🦁🦁🦁 pic.twitter.com/TJW5CGrwaK — Joe Root (@root66) July 16, 2019 × England are expected to announce their squad for series against Ireland on Wednesday.

World Cup winner Joe Root thanks countrymen for unbelievable support

Former Australia captain Ricky Ponting believes England's success in their home World Cup may bode ill for Australia's hopes of retaining the Ashes.

England knocked Australia out of the semi-finals with an <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/england-thrash-australia-by-eight-wickets-to-reach-world-cup-final-235127">emphatic eight-wicket win</a> and another over New Zealand in Sunday's final will see the hosts head into next month's five-Test Ashes series with significant momentum.

"It probably does, to be honest," Ponting said, when asked whether England's 50-over success could spill over.

"The country will be on a bit of a wave and a bit of a high, the players will certainly be on a huge high after that World Cup.

"But who knows if they don't (win), it might have an adverse effect on their Ashes campaign as well.

"You can take lots of things from different series.

"It's a completely different series going into an Ashes and there will be quite a few different players in their Test team than will be in this one-day team. They'll have different captains as well.

"But I'm sure if they happen to win the World Cup, they'll take as much as they can from it going into the Ashes."

Australia hold the urn after thrashing England 4-0 on home soil in the 2017-18 Ashes.

The first Ashes Test starts at Edgbaston on August&nbsp;1.

Ponting, hired as an assistant coach to Justin Langer for Australia's World Cup campaign, watched Aaron Finch's side fall to South Africa and England in successive matches to bow out of the tournament after they had been the first side to book their place in the semi-finals.

Injuries did not help Australia's cause and Ponting was not prepared to wear the blame for the side's tactical preparations.

"Tactically, I think we got things right. Personnel-wise, we picked the best team that we could for every game," Ponting told Cricket Australia's website (cricket.com.au).

"Unusually for Australian teams in World Cups, we played our worst cricket in the most critical moments.

"That'll be the thing that gets spoken about the most and see if there's any reason behind it."

Former Australia captain Ricky Ponting believes England's success in their home World Cup may bode ill for Australia's hopes of retaining the Ashes. England knocked Australia out of the semi-finals with an emphatic eight-wicket win and another over New Zealand in Sunday's final will see the hosts head into next month's five-Test Ashes series with significant momentum.

Former Australia captain Ricky Ponting believes England's success in their home World Cup may bode ill for Australia's hopes of retaining the Ashes. England knocked Australia out of the semi-finals with an emphatic eight-wicket win and another over New Zealand in Sunday's final will see the hosts head into next month's five-Test Ashes series with significant momentum. "It probably does, to be honest," Ponting said, when asked whether England's 50-over success could spill over. "The country will be on a bit of a wave and a bit of a high, the players will certainly be on a huge high after that World Cup. "But who knows if they don't (win), it might have an adverse effect on their Ashes campaign as well. "You can take lots of things from different series. "It's a completely different series going into an Ashes and there will be quite a few different players in their Test team than will be in this one-day team. They'll have different captains as well. "But I'm sure if they happen to win the World Cup, they'll take as much as they can from it going into the Ashes." Australia hold the urn after thrashing England 4-0 on home soil in the 2017-18 Ashes. The first Ashes Test starts at Edgbaston on August 1. Ponting, hired as an assistant coach to Justin Langer for Australia's World Cup campaign, watched Aaron Finch's side fall to South Africa and England in successive matches to bow out of the tournament after they had been the first side to book their place in the semi-finals. Injuries did not help Australia's cause and Ponting was not prepared to wear the blame for the side's tactical preparations. "Tactically, I think we got things right. Personnel-wise, we picked the best team that we could for every game," Ponting told Cricket Australia's website (cricket.com.au). "Unusually for Australian teams in World Cups, we played our worst cricket in the most critical moments. "That'll be the thing that gets spoken about the most and see if there's any reason behind it."

England could bring World Cup high into Ashes, says Ricky Ponting

Former England opening batsman Marcus Trescothick announced on Thursday he would be retiring from cricket at the end of the season, aged 43.

In 27 seasons as a professional, the Somerset player featured in 76 tests for <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/live-updates-cricket-world-cup-2019-match-32-england-vs-australia-230276&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwiqs6javovjAhWJso8KHRqtC-EQFjAAegQIAhAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw3m01AktRlhFAruVFxcUneV">England </a>and helped them win the Ashes in 2005.

His best test score of 219 was against South Africa at the Oval in 2003.

Trescothick's international career stalled in 2006 due to a stress-related illness, which he blamed on the 'constant grind' of being away from home.

He left a Tour of India and that year's <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/englands-jonny-bairstow-picks-world-cup-glory-over-ashes-win-217217&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwia-Y--vovjAhVHrY8KHcBEAh8QFjAEegQIAhAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw1Nwiam-TPI_zIWbpmOggqP">Ashes </a>Tour of Australia before retiring from international cricket in 2008.

"It’s been an incredible 27 years and I’ve loved every minute of it," the left-hander said in a statement on a Somerset website.

"However, everything has to come to an end eventually. I’ve been discussing my future with the club and my family for a while and we felt that now was the appropriate time to make this announcement,"&nbsp;Trescothick said.

Trescothick made his Somerset debut in 1993 and his 52 first-class centuries for them and 7,374 List A runs are a club record.

Former England opening batsman Marcus Trescothick announced on Thursday he would be retiring from cricket at the end of the season, aged 43. In 27 seasons as a professional, the Somerset player featured in 76 tests for England and helped them win the Ashes in 2005.

Former England opening batsman Marcus Trescothick announced on Thursday he would be retiring from cricket at the end of the season, aged 43. In 27 seasons as a professional, the Somerset player featured in 76 tests for England and helped them win the Ashes in 2005. His best test score of 219 was against South Africa at the Oval in 2003. Trescothick's international career stalled in 2006 due to a stress-related illness, which he blamed on the 'constant grind' of being away from home. He left a Tour of India and that year's Ashes Tour of Australia before retiring from international cricket in 2008. "It’s been an incredible 27 years and I’ve loved every minute of it," the left-hander said in a statement on a Somerset website. "However, everything has to come to an end eventually. I’ve been discussing my future with the club and my family for a while and we felt that now was the appropriate time to make this announcement," Trescothick said. Trescothick made his Somerset debut in 1993 and his 52 first-class centuries for them and 7,374 List A runs are a club record.

Marcus Trescothick, former England opener retires from cricket at 43

England batsman Jonny Bairstow said he would rather win the 50-overs World Cup than the Ashes series against Australia if he was given the chance to claim only one.

World Cup returns to England and Wales after 20 years and Bairstow said <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/transformed-england-favourites-to-win-world-cup-says-sunil-gavaskar-216311&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjm-qH__Y3iAhUf_XMBHbiYDhYQFjAEegQIAxAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw15elWhP2L3T3WgrM77h-sH">England deserved to win their maiden title</a> after all the hard work they had put in over the past two years to become the number one ranked one-day team.

"I am going (to pick the) World Cup because it's been so long since we've had an opportunity to win one," Bairstow told Sky Sports.

"I think that the amount of work that has gone into this group of players over the last couple of years, building and building, I firmly believe we've put an amount of effort in that gives us the best chance. Guys have worked day in, day out, taking their games to places that they weren't at 18 months, two years ago. That's from the vision Morgs (England captain Eoin Morgan) has had and the way we are playing our one-day cricket", said the England batsman.

<a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2019-david-warner-and-jonny-bairstow-shine-as-hyderabad-beat-bangalore-by-118-runs-207030&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwib1YLe_Y3iAhXzmeYKHcuPD30QFjABegQIAhAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw2-GPJXLOc2wPCcqvgH3Vkn">Bairstow also credited the Indian Premier League (IPL) for sharpening his skills</a> and improving his form ahead of the World Cup.

The 29-year-old scored 445 runs in 10 matches at an average of over 55 for the&nbsp;Hyderabad franchise, forming a formidable opening partnership with Australia's David Warner.

"You go to the IPL to develop your skills, to put them up against the best in the world," Bairstow, who smashed one century and two half-centuries during the tournament, said.

"We saw Jos (Buttler) coming back into the test side last summer after a brilliant IPL. The competition over there can only improve your skills. I genuinely think I'm still learning and improving", he added.

England begin their World Cup campaign on May 30 when they take on South Africa at The Oval in London.

The first of five Ashes tests begins on August&nbsp;1.

England batsman Jonny Bairstow said he would rather win the 50-overs World Cup than the Ashes series against Australia if he was given the chance to claim only one.

England batsman Jonny Bairstow said he would rather win the 50-overs World Cup than the Ashes series against Australia if he was given the chance to claim only one. World Cup returns to England and Wales after 20 years and Bairstow said England deserved to win their maiden title after all the hard work they had put in over the past two years to become the number one ranked one-day team. "I am going (to pick the) World Cup because it's been so long since we've had an opportunity to win one," Bairstow told Sky Sports. "I think that the amount of work that has gone into this group of players over the last couple of years, building and building, I firmly believe we've put an amount of effort in that gives us the best chance. Guys have worked day in, day out, taking their games to places that they weren't at 18 months, two years ago. That's from the vision Morgs (England captain Eoin Morgan) has had and the way we are playing our one-day cricket", said the England batsman. Bairstow also credited the Indian Premier League (IPL) for sharpening his skills and improving his form ahead of the World Cup. The 29-year-old scored 445 runs in 10 matches at an average of over 55 for the Hyderabad franchise, forming a formidable opening partnership with Australia's David Warner. "You go to the IPL to develop your skills, to put them up against the best in the world," Bairstow, who smashed one century and two half-centuries during the tournament, said. "We saw Jos (Buttler) coming back into the test side last summer after a brilliant IPL. The competition over there can only improve your skills. I genuinely think I'm still learning and improving", he added. England begin their World Cup campaign on May 30 when they take on South Africa at The Oval in London. The first of five Ashes tests begins on August 1.

England's Jonny Bairstow picks World Cup glory over Ashes win

Injury troubles have kept James Pattinson out of the Australian test side for three years but the fast bowler issued a timely reminder to selectors ahead of the Ashes as he guided Victoria to their fourth Sheffield Shield title in five years on Sunday.

Having grabbed three wickets in the first innings against Queensland, the Melbourne man tore through the top order in a devastating spell, his match haul of 7-71 leaving him with 26 wickets at an average of 18.92 for the competition.

With first-choice quicks Mitchell Starc and Josh Hazlewood battling injuries, 28-year-old Pattinson will look to continue his revival when he heads to England to play for Nottinghamshire in the county championship.

Once seen as a potential 100-test player, Pattinson returned to first class cricket for the first time in 15 months in November having undergone major back surgery.

The paceman played the last of his 17 tests away to New Zealand in February 2016 but has remained patient and determined through a number of injury setbacks.

"It's been a journey to get to this position over the last few years and at times I thought I would never be back," said Pattinson, who has suffered a litany of back problems and soft tissue injuries through his stop-start career.

"I never doubted my ability when I could get back and bowl.

"All the hard work, all the doubts that creep in to your mind, these are times that make it worth it."

Selector Trevor Hohns was at Melbourne's Junction Oval to watch the Shield final and would have likely been impressed by the performance of the once-menacing Pattinson, who has 70 test wickets at an average of 26.15.

"We'd love to see him (with Victoria) for every game but I think he deserves to be with the big boys as opposed to playing with us," said Victoria captain Travis Dean.

Test cricket would be a big step up from the loads bowled in Shield cricket, and Pattinson will have to get through the county season unscathed to be considered for the Ashes starting in August.

"They have never really had an issue with the way I bowl, it's just about staying on the park," Pattinson said of the national selectors.

"I need to get through a few more games ... The test will come once I start bowling more. I have spoken to the selectors in recent times about the Ashes and that's my goal."

Injury troubles have kept James Pattinson out of the Australian test side for three years but the fast bowler issued a timely reminder to selectors ahead of the Ashes as he guided Victoria to their fourth Sheffield Shield title in five years on Sunday.

Injury troubles have kept James Pattinson out of the Australian test side for three years but the fast bowler issued a timely reminder to selectors ahead of the Ashes as he guided Victoria to their fourth Sheffield Shield title in five years on Sunday. Having grabbed three wickets in the first innings against Queensland, the Melbourne man tore through the top order in a devastating spell, his match haul of 7-71 leaving him with 26 wickets at an average of 18.92 for the competition. With first-choice quicks Mitchell Starc and Josh Hazlewood battling injuries, 28-year-old Pattinson will look to continue his revival when he heads to England to play for Nottinghamshire in the county championship. Once seen as a potential 100-test player, Pattinson returned to first class cricket for the first time in 15 months in November having undergone major back surgery. The paceman played the last of his 17 tests away to New Zealand in February 2016 but has remained patient and determined through a number of injury setbacks. "It's been a journey to get to this position over the last few years and at times I thought I would never be back," said Pattinson, who has suffered a litany of back problems and soft tissue injuries through his stop-start career. "I never doubted my ability when I could get back and bowl. "All the hard work, all the doubts that creep in to your mind, these are times that make it worth it." Selector Trevor Hohns was at Melbourne's Junction Oval to watch the Shield final and would have likely been impressed by the performance of the once-menacing Pattinson, who has 70 test wickets at an average of 26.15. "We'd love to see him (with Victoria) for every game but I think he deserves to be with the big boys as opposed to playing with us," said Victoria captain Travis Dean. Test cricket would be a big step up from the loads bowled in Shield cricket, and Pattinson will have to get through the county season unscathed to be considered for the Ashes starting in August. "They have never really had an issue with the way I bowl, it's just about staying on the park," Pattinson said of the national selectors. "I need to get through a few more games ... The test will come once I start bowling more. I have spoken to the selectors in recent times about the Ashes and that's my goal."

Forgotten man James Pattinson stakes Ashes claim

Australia maintains its winning streak by claiming an innings victory over England in fifth Ashes Test and whitewashed England by completing a 4-0 series.

Nathon Lyon took three wickets for 54 off 35 overs.&nbsp;Pat Cummins struck twice just after the lunch break. He took&nbsp;Jonny Bairstow leg before wicket for 38 and having Stuart Broad caught behind off a short ball for four. For his outstanding performance, he got Man of the Match also he was the leading wicket-taker in the series by taking 23 wickets.

&quot;To get through the five Tests and end the series here at home. I couldn&#39;t&nbsp;ask&nbsp;for much more,&quot; said Cummins.

Australian captain Steve Smith seemed exponentially happy after&nbsp;winning the series and receiving the honour of Man of the Series on which he said,&nbsp;&quot;It has been a great couple of months. The cricket that we have played in the last couple of months has been outstanding&quot;

&quot;We have just been able to get on top and win those key moments and not let them back in the game which is crucial,&quot; he added.

England finished at 180 for nine off 88.1 overs as Australia won by an innings and 123 runs.&nbsp;

Joe Root did not come out to bat after lunch as he continued to experience discomfort after his overnight stomach bug.

England&#39;s remote chances of saving the Test disappeared when Root failed to appear at the crease after lunch.

Australian bowlers struck hard, Aussie took a grip on the final Test with a massive 303-run innings lead and then reduced the battle-weary tourists to 93 for four at the close on the fourth day.

Scoreboard:

England first innings 346 (J. Root 83, D. Malan 62; P. Cummins 4-80)

Australia first innings 649 for 7 declared (U. Khawaja 171, S. Marsh 156, M. Marsh 101; M. Ali 2-170)

England second innings (overnight 93 for 4)

A. Cook&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; b Lyon&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;10

M. Stoneman&nbsp; lbw b Starc&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;0

J. Vince&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;c Smith b Cummins&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;18

J. Root&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; retired ill&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;58

D. Malan&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;lbw b Lyon&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;5

J. Bairstow&nbsp; lbw b Cummins&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 38

M. Ali&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;lbw b Lyon&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;13

T. Curran&nbsp; &nbsp; not out&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 23

S. Broad&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;c Paine b Cummins&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;4

M. Crane&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;c Paine b Cummins&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 2&nbsp;

J. Anderson&nbsp; c Paine b Hazlewood&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 2&nbsp;&nbsp;

Total (all out; 88.1 overs)&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 180

Fall of wickets: 1-5 (Stoneman), 2-15 (Cook), 3-43 (Vince), 4-68 (Malan), 5-121 (Ali), 6-144 (Bairstow), 7-148 (Broad), 8-156 (Crane), 9-180 (Anderson)

Bowling: Starc 16-4-38-1, Hazlewood 17.1-6-36-1, Lyon 35-12-54-3, Cummins 17-4-39-4, Smith 2-0-6-0, M. Marsh 1-1-0-0

&nbsp;

&nbsp;

&nbsp;

Australians took a grip on the final Test with a massive 303-run innings lead and then reduced the battle-weary tourists to 93 for four at the close on the fourth day.

Australia maintains its winning streak by claiming an innings victory over England in fifth Ashes Test and whitewashed England by completing a 4-0 series. Nathon Lyon took three wickets for 54 off 35 overs. Pat Cummins struck twice just after the lunch break. He took Jonny Bairstow leg before wicket for 38 and having Stuart Broad caught behind off a short ball for four. For his outstanding performance, he got Man of the Match also he was the leading wicket-taker in the series by taking 23 wickets. "To get through the five Tests and end the series here at home. I couldn't ask for much more," said Cummins. Australian captain Steve Smith seemed exponentially happy after winning the series and receiving the honour of Man of the Series on which he said, "It has been a great couple of months. The cricket that we have played in the last couple of months has been outstanding" "We have just been able to get on top and win those key moments and not let them back in the game which is crucial," he added. England finished at 180 for nine off 88.1 overs as Australia won by an innings and 123 runs. Joe Root did not come out to bat after lunch as he continued to experience discomfort after his overnight stomach bug. England's remote chances of saving the Test disappeared when Root failed to appear at the crease after lunch. Australian bowlers struck hard, Aussie took a grip on the final Test with a massive 303-run innings lead and then reduced the battle-weary tourists to 93 for four at the close on the fourth day. Scoreboard: England first innings 346 (J. Root 83, D. Malan 62; P. Cummins 4-80) Australia first innings 649 for 7 declared (U. Khawaja 171, S. Marsh 156, M. Marsh 101; M. Ali 2-170) England second innings (overnight 93 for 4) A. Cook b Lyon 10 M. Stoneman lbw b Starc 0 J. Vince c Smith b Cummins 18 J. Root retired ill 58 D. Malan lbw b Lyon 5 J. Bairstow lbw b Cummins 38 M. Ali lbw b Lyon 13 T. Curran not out 23 S. Broad c Paine b Cummins 4 M. Crane c Paine b Cummins 2 J. Anderson c Paine b Hazlewood 2 Total (all out; 88.1 overs) 180 Fall of wickets: 1-5 (Stoneman), 2-15 (Cook), 3-43 (Vince), 4-68 (Malan), 5-121 (Ali), 6-144 (Bairstow), 7-148 (Broad), 8-156 (Crane), 9-180 (Anderson) Bowling: Starc 16-4-38-1, Hazlewood 17.1-6-36-1, Lyon 35-12-54-3, Cummins 17-4-39-4, Smith 2-0-6-0, M. Marsh 1-1-0-0

Ashes: Oz beat England in final Test, seal series by 4-0

Australian skipper Steve Smith gave one of the hilarious moments of the summer by screaming in panic at Shaun and Mitchell Marsh&nbsp;to get back in their creases.

Marsh hit a ball punched a drive through cover off to bring up his second Test match hundred on day four at the Sydney Cricket Ground.

During a second run, Mitch grabbed Shaun for a mid-pitch hug, forgetting that completing the run and reaching their respective crease was required

But, it was the response of captain Smith that stole the show for viewers.

Smith sitting with teammates in the stands, rose for a standing ovation for Mitch, before going blank in the face as the potential for a run out became clear.

The worried Smith had put his hands on his head and appeared to mouth something as teammates around laughed hysterically at their animated captain. 
&nbsp;

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Steve Smith&#39;s reaction ???????? <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Ashes?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Ashes</a> <a href="https://t.co/C3uIDPwver">pic.twitter.com/C3uIDPwver</a>
&mdash; cricket.com.au (@CricketAus) <a href="https://twitter.com/CricketAus/status/949805286977560576?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 7, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Social media went into overdrive after Smith&#39;s footage became viral, with many agreeing it was a classic moment of the summer. &nbsp;

Mitch grabbed Shaun for a mid-pitch hug, forgetting that completing the run and reaching their respective creases was required

Australian skipper Steve Smith gave one of the hilarious moments of the summer by screaming in panic at Shaun and Mitchell Marsh to get back in their creases. Marsh hit a ball punched a drive through cover off to bring up his second Test match hundred on day four at the Sydney Cricket Ground. During a second run, Mitch grabbed Shaun for a mid-pitch hug, forgetting that completing the run and reaching their respective crease was required But, it was the response of captain Smith that stole the show for viewers. Smith sitting with teammates in the stands, rose for a standing ovation for Mitch, before going blank in the face as the potential for a run out became clear. The worried Smith had put his hands on his head and appeared to mouth something as teammates around laughed hysterically at their animated captain. Steve Smith's reaction ???????? #Ashes pic.twitter.com/C3uIDPwver — cricket.com.au (@CricketAus) January 7, 2018 × Social media went into overdrive after Smith's footage became viral, with many agreeing it was a classic moment of the summer.

Steve Smith's reaction to Mitchell Marsh's century is the best thing in the Ashes so far

England were 233 for five at the close on the opening day of the fifth Ashes Test at the Sydney Cricket Ground on Thursday.

Dawid Malan was unbeaten on 55 with Jonny Bairstow out in the day&#39;s final over for five.

England skipper Joe Root again missed out on an elusive first century in the series as Australia fought back with two late wickets on the opening day of the fifth Test on Thursday.

Root was out to a superb diving catch by Mitchell Marsh at square leg for 83 in the day&#39;s penultimate over before Jonny Bairstow was caught behind in the final over.

Root slumped to his haunches after missing out on a hundred following his fourth half-century of the series.

&quot;It was great to get the late reward as a bowling group for our hard toil,&quot; Marsh said.

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Australia roar back late in the day with two wickets with the new ball to leave England 233/5 at Stumps on Day 1 of the 5th Test. 
 
SCORECARD: <a href="https://t.co/zIa7LHi9S8">https://t.co/zIa7LHi9S8</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AUSvENG?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AUSvENG</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Ashes?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Ashes</a> <a href="https://t.co/SI4eae33vQ">pic.twitter.com/SI4eae33vQ</a>
&mdash; ICC (@ICC) <a href="https://twitter.com/ICC/status/948827453354643457?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 4, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Root and Malan recovered England&#39;s first innings with a 133-run stand after the tourists had slumped to 95 for three following the loss of Melbourne double-centurion Alastair Cook.

At the close, England were 233 for five with Malan left unbeaten on 55 off 160 balls when Bairstow was caught behind off Josh Hazlewood for five.

&quot;It sort of sums up where we&#39;ve been in on this tour, we&#39;ve been on top for so long in games and then make a couple of mistakes and let the Aussies back in,&quot; Malan said.

Malan, on 28, cut towards backward point and there was confusion over the run but the throw from wicketkeeper Tim Paine was off target and bowler Nathan Lyon was unable to affect the run out with Malan well out of his ground. He also survived on 34 when&nbsp;Smith dropped a sharp ankle-high chance at slip off Lyon.

Only last week in Melbourne Smith put down two catches in Alastair Cook&#39;s unbeaten double century.

Cook, who carried his bat through the England first innings in the fourth Test for an unbeaten 244, looked on his way to another big score until Hazlewood struck in the 33rd over.

Hazlewood&#39;s leg before wicket appeal was turned down on-field, but on review, the ball was found to be just pitching in line and Cook was given out for 39 off 104 balls.

It was the third time in the series Cook has fallen lbw and it left him just five runs short of 12,000 career Test runs in his 152nd Test match.

Fellow opener Mark Stoneman earlier hit some nice drives before he nicked a rising Pat Cummins delivery to Tim Paine for a run-a-ball 24 in the 10th over.

James Vince looked set after 82 minutes at the crease before he shaped for a square cut at a Cummins delivery only to be caught behind for 25 in the 29th over.

Australia has already clinched the Ashes with an unassailable 3-0 lead in the five-Test series.

&nbsp;

Joe Root gave a terrific start but falls short of elusive century, late wickets hand Australia advantage on day 1 of the final Test

England were 233 for five at the close on the opening day of the fifth Ashes Test at the Sydney Cricket Ground on Thursday. Dawid Malan was unbeaten on 55 with Jonny Bairstow out in the day's final over for five. England skipper Joe Root again missed out on an elusive first century in the series as Australia fought back with two late wickets on the opening day of the fifth Test on Thursday. Root was out to a superb diving catch by Mitchell Marsh at square leg for 83 in the day's penultimate over before Jonny Bairstow was caught behind in the final over. Root slumped to his haunches after missing out on a hundred following his fourth half-century of the series. "It was great to get the late reward as a bowling group for our hard toil," Marsh said. Australia roar back late in the day with two wickets with the new ball to leave England 233/5 at Stumps on Day 1 of the 5th Test. SCORECARD: https://t.co/zIa7LHi9S8 #AUSvENG #Ashes pic.twitter.com/SI4eae33vQ — ICC (@ICC) January 4, 2018 × Root and Malan recovered England's first innings with a 133-run stand after the tourists had slumped to 95 for three following the loss of Melbourne double-centurion Alastair Cook. At the close, England were 233 for five with Malan left unbeaten on 55 off 160 balls when Bairstow was caught behind off Josh Hazlewood for five. "It sort of sums up where we've been in on this tour, we've been on top for so long in games and then make a couple of mistakes and let the Aussies back in," Malan said. Malan, on 28, cut towards backward point and there was confusion over the run but the throw from wicketkeeper Tim Paine was off target and bowler Nathan Lyon was unable to affect the run out with Malan well out of his ground. He also survived on 34 when Smith dropped a sharp ankle-high chance at slip off Lyon. Only last week in Melbourne Smith put down two catches in Alastair Cook's unbeaten double century. Cook, who carried his bat through the England first innings in the fourth Test for an unbeaten 244, looked on his way to another big score until Hazlewood struck in the 33rd over. Hazlewood's leg before wicket appeal was turned down on-field, but on review, the ball was found to be just pitching in line and Cook was given out for 39 off 104 balls. It was the third time in the series Cook has fallen lbw and it left him just five runs short of 12,000 career Test runs in his 152nd Test match. Fellow opener Mark Stoneman earlier hit some nice drives before he nicked a rising Pat Cummins delivery to Tim Paine for a run-a-ball 24 in the 10th over. James Vince looked set after 82 minutes at the crease before he shaped for a square cut at a Cummins delivery only to be caught behind for 25 in the 29th over. Australia has already clinched the Ashes with an unassailable 3-0 lead in the five-Test series.

Ashes: Root, Malan keep Australia at bay on Day 1

England won the toss and chose to bat against Australia in the fifth and final Ashes Test at the Sydney Cricket Ground on Thursday. After a rain delay and an early lunch, the play was started a bit late.

&quot;It looks a good wicket, there is a bit of weather about but if we bat well enough in the first few sessions I expect the pitch to deteriorate and spin will come in the game later on,&quot; England captain Joe Root said.

Seamer Chris Woakes has been ruled out with a side strain, opening the way for young leg-spinner Mason Crane to make his debut for England.

&quot;Mason is a very excited young man and we expect him to do really well in his first Test,&quot; Root said.

Australia captain Steve Smith said he was in two minds about what he would have done if he had won the toss. &quot;I&#39;m not too bothered and not too disappointed to lose the toss,&quot; Smith said.

&quot;There&#39;s a bit of moisture in the wicket coupled with overhead conditions and the wicket is a pretty good one.&quot;

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England have won the toss and elected to bat as the 5th and final <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Ashes?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Ashes</a> Test finally gets underway. 
 
Follow LIVE: <a href="https://t.co/zIa7LHi9S8">https://t.co/zIa7LHi9S8</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AUSvENG?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AUSvENG</a> <a href="https://t.co/QvMRupT1C3">pic.twitter.com/QvMRupT1C3</a>
&mdash; ICC (@ICC) <a href="https://twitter.com/ICC/status/948730730145894401?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 4, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Pace spearhead Mitchell Starc returns to Australia&#39;s bowling line-up. Left-arm Starc is the leading wicket-taker in the series with 19 despite only playing three Tests.

Australia has already clinched the Ashes with an unassailable 3-0 lead in the five-Test series ahead of the Sydney finale.

England is bidding to save face in Sydney, where they have won twice in the last four Ashes Tests.

England were 122&nbsp;for three&nbsp;at tea on the opening day of the fifth Ashes Test at the Sydney Cricket Ground on Thursday.

&nbsp;

England won the toss and chose to bat against Australia in the final Ashes Test, England were 122-3?at tea

England won the toss and chose to bat against Australia in the fifth and final Ashes Test at the Sydney Cricket Ground on Thursday. After a rain delay and an early lunch, the play was started a bit late. "It looks a good wicket, there is a bit of weather about but if we bat well enough in the first few sessions I expect the pitch to deteriorate and spin will come in the game later on," England captain Joe Root said. Seamer Chris Woakes has been ruled out with a side strain, opening the way for young leg-spinner Mason Crane to make his debut for England. "Mason is a very excited young man and we expect him to do really well in his first Test," Root said. Australia captain Steve Smith said he was in two minds about what he would have done if he had won the toss. "I'm not too bothered and not too disappointed to lose the toss," Smith said. "There's a bit of moisture in the wicket coupled with overhead conditions and the wicket is a pretty good one." England have won the toss and elected to bat as the 5th and final #Ashes Test finally gets underway. Follow LIVE: https://t.co/zIa7LHi9S8 #AUSvENG pic.twitter.com/QvMRupT1C3 — ICC (@ICC) January 4, 2018 × Pace spearhead Mitchell Starc returns to Australia's bowling line-up. Left-arm Starc is the leading wicket-taker in the series with 19 despite only playing three Tests. Australia has already clinched the Ashes with an unassailable 3-0 lead in the five-Test series ahead of the Sydney finale. England is bidding to save face in Sydney, where they have won twice in the last four Ashes Tests. England were 122 for three at tea on the opening day of the fifth Ashes Test at the Sydney Cricket Ground on Thursday.

Cricket: England is bidding to break through in the final Ashes Test

With 2017 coming to end, Indian skipper Virat Kohli remained at the second position as per the latest ICC Test rankings released today following the conclusion of the Melbourne and Port Elizabeth Tests.

Australian skipper Steve Smith continues to be at the top of the table.

However, former captain of the England Test and One Day International teams Alastair Cook jumped nine places up to grab the eight spot. &nbsp;&nbsp;

A splendid double-century by Cook against Australia in the ongoing Ashes helped him finish the year inside the top 10 batsmen in Test rankings.

The 33-year-old scored unbeaten 244 to break the 45-year old record. Cook&#39;s score is the highest by any opener to have carried his bat through an innings surpassing New Zealand opener Glenn Turner&#39;s 223 not out against the West Indies in 1972.&nbsp;

Cook had begun the year in 15th position, while he had entered the Ashes in 10th position.

Meanwhile, Steve Smith&#39;s contributions of 76 and 102 not out has further strengthened his position.

England captain Joe Root improved his ranking, as he moved up one place to join his opposite number from New Zealand, Kane Williamson, in fourth place.&nbsp;

Root and Williamson had started 2017 in third and fourth positions, respectively.

In the bowlers&#39; rankings, there is no change in the top nine with&nbsp; 
the spin trio of Ravichandran Ashwin, Ravindra Jadeja and Rangana Herath had started 2017 in the top three positions, and have finished at third, fourth and sixth places, respectively.

Australia&#39;s Josh Hazlewood started and finished at the fifth spot.

Australian skipper Steve Smith continues to be at the top of the table.

With 2017 coming to end, Indian skipper Virat Kohli remained at the second position as per the latest ICC Test rankings released today following the conclusion of the Melbourne and Port Elizabeth Tests. Australian skipper Steve Smith continues to be at the top of the table. However, former captain of the England Test and One Day International teams Alastair Cook jumped nine places up to grab the eight spot. A splendid double-century by Cook against Australia in the ongoing Ashes helped him finish the year inside the top 10 batsmen in Test rankings. The 33-year-old scored unbeaten 244 to break the 45-year old record. Cook's score is the highest by any opener to have carried his bat through an innings surpassing New Zealand opener Glenn Turner's 223 not out against the West Indies in 1972. Cook had begun the year in 15th position, while he had entered the Ashes in 10th position. Meanwhile, Steve Smith's contributions of 76 and 102 not out has further strengthened his position. England captain Joe Root improved his ranking, as he moved up one place to join his opposite number from New Zealand, Kane Williamson, in fourth place. Root and Williamson had started 2017 in third and fourth positions, respectively. In the bowlers' rankings, there is no change in the top nine with the spin trio of Ravichandran Ashwin, Ravindra Jadeja and Rangana Herath had started 2017 in the top three positions, and have finished at third, fourth and sixth places, respectively. Australia's Josh Hazlewood started and finished at the fifth spot.

Virat Kohli remains 2nd in ICC Test rankings, Alastair Cook grabs 8th spot after double-ton

A morning that brought two wickets for England and a sniff of a drought-breaking Ashes win gave way to a bleak afternoon for the tourists on Friday as rain washed out most of day four on Friday and left Australia well-placed to save the fourth test.

The home side were 102 for two in their second innings at the Melbourne Cricket Ground when rain interrupted play before tea and the showers lingered long enough for umpires to abandon the day without another ball bowled.

David Warner was 40 not out, with captain Steve Smith on 25 and Australia still needing another 61 runs to make England bat again.

But even with the promise of reverse swing, Joe Root`s bowlers face a big task on an unresponsive pitch to prevent Australia&#39;s batsmen from batting them out of the game.

&quot;(The pitch) is getting slower,&quot; Australia coach Darren Lehmann told host broadcaster Channel Nine. &quot;It`s tough work for a new batter. So once you`re in, you`ve got to stay in.

&quot;Our boys are fighting really hard. A couple of good (England) balls to get the wickets and Smith and the vice- captain (Warner) went about their work.&quot;

Australia regained the Ashes after the third test in Perth and hold an unassailable 3-0 lead in the series but England had hope of cracking a first win after Alastair Cook&#39;s unbeaten 244 propelled them to a first innings lead of 164.

They had resumed their first innings on 491-9 in the morning but were unable to extend their total, with tail-ender James Anderson dismissed first ball by paceman Pat Cummins, fending a catch straight to Cameron Bancroft at short leg.

That left former captain Cook unbeaten on his overnight score, a record total among openers who have carried their bat through an innings.

Cook became the 46th player to achieve the feat in tests and also the first England batsman to do so in 20 years, since Mike Atherton&#39;s 94 not out against New Zealand in Christchurch in 1997.

Australia&#39;s second innings began brightly on a cloudy but dry morning, with England losing a review for a caught behind decision when opener Bancroft played at a Tom Curran ball in the seventh over of the innings.

However, the tourists seamers struck twice to leave Australia wobbling at 65-2 before Warner and Smith showed patience and poise in their unbroken stand of 38.

All-rounder Chris Woakes made the early breakthrough, bowling Bancroft for 27, with England quick Anderson having number three Usman Khawaja caught behind for 11.

Australia resumed on 70-2 after lunch but added only 16 runs before the first rain interruption.

Play was soon back on but only another 33 minutes were possible before the session was brought to a premature close.

The home side were 102 for two in their second innings at the Melbourne Cricket Ground when rain interrupted play before tea and the showers lingered long enough for umpires to abandon the day without another ball bowled.

A morning that brought two wickets for England and a sniff of a drought-breaking Ashes win gave way to a bleak afternoon for the tourists on Friday as rain washed out most of day four on Friday and left Australia well-placed to save the fourth test. The home side were 102 for two in their second innings at the Melbourne Cricket Ground when rain interrupted play before tea and the showers lingered long enough for umpires to abandon the day without another ball bowled. David Warner was 40 not out, with captain Steve Smith on 25 and Australia still needing another 61 runs to make England bat again. But even with the promise of reverse swing, Joe Root`s bowlers face a big task on an unresponsive pitch to prevent Australia's batsmen from batting them out of the game. "(The pitch) is getting slower," Australia coach Darren Lehmann told host broadcaster Channel Nine. "It`s tough work for a new batter. So once you`re in, you`ve got to stay in. "Our boys are fighting really hard. A couple of good (England) balls to get the wickets and Smith and the vice- captain (Warner) went about their work." Australia regained the Ashes after the third test in Perth and hold an unassailable 3-0 lead in the series but England had hope of cracking a first win after Alastair Cook's unbeaten 244 propelled them to a first innings lead of 164. They had resumed their first innings on 491-9 in the morning but were unable to extend their total, with tail-ender James Anderson dismissed first ball by paceman Pat Cummins, fending a catch straight to Cameron Bancroft at short leg. That left former captain Cook unbeaten on his overnight score, a record total among openers who have carried their bat through an innings. Cook became the 46th player to achieve the feat in tests and also the first England batsman to do so in 20 years, since Mike Atherton's 94 not out against New Zealand in Christchurch in 1997. Australia's second innings began brightly on a cloudy but dry morning, with England losing a review for a caught behind decision when opener Bancroft played at a Tom Curran ball in the seventh over of the innings. However, the tourists seamers struck twice to leave Australia wobbling at 65-2 before Warner and Smith showed patience and poise in their unbroken stand of 38. All-rounder Chris Woakes made the early breakthrough, bowling Bancroft for 27, with England quick Anderson having number three Usman Khawaja caught behind for 11. Australia resumed on 70-2 after lunch but added only 16 runs before the first rain interruption. Play was soon back on but only another 33 minutes were possible before the session was brought to a premature close.

Ashes: Rain hits England's hopes of win

Australian captain Steve Smith has paid tribute to some bold selections after his team regained the Ashes in Perth today.

The home team took an unbeatable 3-0 lead in the series with an innings victory over the English at the WACA Ground, despite rain delays and a damaged pitch.

Smith said the comprehensive result, which has Australia on track for its third Ashes whitewash in four home series, was vindication for the national selectors for making some imaginative selections.

Wicketkeeper Tim Paine was not even keeping for his state side Tasmania when he was named for the first Test at the Gabba, while the recall of 34-year-old Shaun Marsh raised plenty of eyebrows.

Then batsman Peter Handscomb was dropped for the third Test, with underachieving all-rounder Mitchell Marsh getting a surprise recall.

Paine has responded with polished performances behind the stumps and 130 runs at 43.33, while Shaun Marsh produced a crucial century in the second Test in Adelaide and has 224 runs at 74.66.

Mitchell Marsh took his chance in the third Test, notching his maiden Test century in making 181.

&quot;I thought they were really good selections,&quot; Smith said.

&quot;Painey has been mentioned as the best keeper in the country for a long period of time and the way he has kept has been exceptional.

&quot;The way he has batted has been exceptional as well, we have had some very valuable runs from him at seven.

&quot;Shaun Marsh as well, he&#39;s come in and done a terrific job.&quot; 
 
Smith credited his bowling attack&#39;s firepower for providing the difference between the sides, with Mitchell Starc, Josh Hazlewood and Pat Cummins all capable of bowling considerably quicker than their English counterparts.

He said the success of the trio was reward for extended planning to ensure they were at their prime for the Ashes.

&quot;Here in Australia it certainly makes a difference on the flatter tracks where there isn&#39;t much sideways movement, that extra air speed can make a big difference,&quot; he said.

&quot;We&#39;ve worked really hard to ensure we had these three big quicks were on the park and ready for this series.

&quot;A couple of them skipped the one-day series in India as we knew what was coming up, we were preparing for this series and we wanted the big three on the park to do what they&#39;ve done the last three Test matches.&quot;

Pace bowler Starc battled a bruised heel in Perth, but the captain said he was keen to play in Melbourne.

&quot;I just saw him and he just said &#39;I&#39;m playing&#39;,&quot; Smith said.

&quot;Whether he has a choice in the matter I am not sure but he wants to play.&quot;

Australian have named an unchanged side for the Boxing Day Test, starting on December 26 at the MCG

Wicketkeeper Tim Paine was not even keeping for his state side when he was named for the first Ashes Test.

Australian captain Steve Smith has paid tribute to some bold selections after his team regained the Ashes in Perth today. The home team took an unbeatable 3-0 lead in the series with an innings victory over the English at the WACA Ground, despite rain delays and a damaged pitch. Smith said the comprehensive result, which has Australia on track for its third Ashes whitewash in four home series, was vindication for the national selectors for making some imaginative selections. Wicketkeeper Tim Paine was not even keeping for his state side Tasmania when he was named for the first Test at the Gabba, while the recall of 34-year-old Shaun Marsh raised plenty of eyebrows. Then batsman Peter Handscomb was dropped for the third Test, with underachieving all-rounder Mitchell Marsh getting a surprise recall. Paine has responded with polished performances behind the stumps and 130 runs at 43.33, while Shaun Marsh produced a crucial century in the second Test in Adelaide and has 224 runs at 74.66. Mitchell Marsh took his chance in the third Test, notching his maiden Test century in making 181. "I thought they were really good selections," Smith said. "Painey has been mentioned as the best keeper in the country for a long period of time and the way he has kept has been exceptional. "The way he has batted has been exceptional as well, we have had some very valuable runs from him at seven. "Shaun Marsh as well, he's come in and done a terrific job." Smith credited his bowling attack's firepower for providing the difference between the sides, with Mitchell Starc, Josh Hazlewood and Pat Cummins all capable of bowling considerably quicker than their English counterparts. He said the success of the trio was reward for extended planning to ensure they were at their prime for the Ashes. "Here in Australia it certainly makes a difference on the flatter tracks where there isn't much sideways movement, that extra air speed can make a big difference," he said. "We've worked really hard to ensure we had these three big quicks were on the park and ready for this series. "A couple of them skipped the one-day series in India as we knew what was coming up, we were preparing for this series and we wanted the big three on the park to do what they've done the last three Test matches." Pace bowler Starc battled a bruised heel in Perth, but the captain said he was keen to play in Melbourne. "I just saw him and he just said 'I'm playing'," Smith said. "Whether he has a choice in the matter I am not sure but he wants to play." Australian have named an unchanged side for the Boxing Day Test, starting on December 26 at the MCG

Australian skipper Smith praises bold selectors after Ashes win

Australia regained its Ashes urn after defeating England in the third Test match in Perth on Monday.&nbsp;

Skipper Steve Smith&#39;s team won the match by an innings and 41 runs on day five of the third test match to take an unassailable 3-0 lead. Two Tests are still to be played.

The poms reluctantly resumed at 132/4, clinging to hope that wet weather could keep the five test series alive.&nbsp;

England had scored 403, with centuries from Dawid Malan and Jonny Bairstow. Australia replied strongly with a double century from Smith and a century from Mithcell Marsh and scored a mammoth 662 for 9. The team was later declared.

England had to score 259 to make Australia bat again. But Australian bowlers led by Josh Hazlewood, (5 for 48) scuttled England&#39;s chances by bundling them out for 218.&nbsp;

England lost the first Test by 10 wickets and second by 120 runs.&nbsp;

Australian bowlers led by Josh Hazlewood scuttled England's chances by bundling them out for 218.?

Australia regained its Ashes urn after defeating England in the third Test match in Perth on Monday. Skipper Steve Smith's team won the match by an innings and 41 runs on day five of the third test match to take an unassailable 3-0 lead. Two Tests are still to be played. The poms reluctantly resumed at 132/4, clinging to hope that wet weather could keep the five test series alive. England had scored 403, with centuries from Dawid Malan and Jonny Bairstow. Australia replied strongly with a double century from Smith and a century from Mithcell Marsh and scored a mammoth 662 for 9. The team was later declared. England had to score 259 to make Australia bat again. But Australian bowlers led by Josh Hazlewood, (5 for 48) scuttled England's chances by bundling them out for 218. England lost the first Test by 10 wickets and second by 120 runs.

3rd Test Day 5: Australia beat England by an innings and 41 runs, regain Ashes

Suspended all-rounder Ben Stokes and right-handed opening batsman Alex Hales have been included in England&#39;s squad for their upcoming one-day series against Australia, following the Ashes. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Both the players are currently banned from playing international cricket for their alleged involvement in a late-night brawl outside a Bristol nightclub in September this year. The British authorities are probing the matter as their involvement in the infamous altercation still remains doubtful.&nbsp;

As per reports, the selectors were advised to name their strongest squad for the series and it was only after this that both these players were named in the 16-men squad.&nbsp;

However, only after there is any relevant legal or disciplinary development in relation to the incident&nbsp;it can&nbsp;be confirmed whether both these players will be allowed to play or not.&nbsp;

The five-game series is scheduled to start next year on January 14 in Melbourne. &nbsp;

Both players were barred from international cricket after their alleged involvement in a late-night brawl outside a nightclub

Suspended all-rounder Ben Stokes and right-handed opening batsman Alex Hales have been included in England's squad for their upcoming one-day series against Australia, following the Ashes. Both the players are currently banned from playing international cricket for their alleged involvement in a late-night brawl outside a Bristol nightclub in September this year. The British authorities are probing the matter as their involvement in the infamous altercation still remains doubtful. As per reports, the selectors were advised to name their strongest squad for the series and it was only after this that both these players were named in the 16-men squad. However, only after there is any relevant legal or disciplinary development in relation to the incident it can be confirmed whether both these players will be allowed to play or not. The five-game series is scheduled to start next year on January 14 in Melbourne.

'Suspended' players Ben Stokes, Alex Hales included in England's one-day series against Australia

Australia have beaten England by 120 runs in the second Ashes test at the Adelaide Oval.&nbsp;

Australia now have a 2-0 lead in the five-match series.

England, who hold the urn, were dismissed for 233 in their second innings in the opening session of the fifth day.

Australia now have a 2-0 lead in the five-match series

Australia have beaten England by 120 runs in the second Ashes test at the Adelaide Oval. Australia now have a 2-0 lead in the five-match series. England, who hold the urn, were dismissed for 233 in their second innings in the opening session of the fifth day.

Ashes: Australia beat England by 120 runs in second Test

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/bali-raises-volcano-alert-to-highest-level-officials-25207">Eruption may be imminent, Bali volcano alert raised to highest level</a>

An eruption could be imminent at a volcano belching huge plumes of smoke on Indonesia&#39;s resort island of Bali, officials warned Monday, as they raised the alert to the highest level and increased the exclusion zone. Huge plumes of smoke have been pouring out of Mount Agung since Tuesday and senior state volcanologist Gede Suantika said it was belching thick grey smoke more than two miles (three kilometers) into the sky early Monday.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/federal-law-minister-zahid-hamid-submits-resignation-25211">Pakistan Law Minister Zahid Hamid resigns, says hopes protests will end</a>

Pakistan Law Minister Zahid Hamid submitted his resignation to Prime Minister Shahid Khaqan Abbasi late on Sunday, media reports said.&nbsp;Hamid said he hoped his resignation would bring the crisis to an end.&nbsp;There had been massive protests against Hamid in the capital Islamabad.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/pope-heads-to-myanmar-as-rohingya-refugee-crisis-unfolds-25210">Rohingya crisis: Pope Francis heads to Myanmar &amp; Bangladesh</a>

&#39;&#39;My presence is a sign of affinity and hope,&quot; said Pope Francis as he embarked on a six-day visit to Myanmar and Bangladesh against the backdrop of the unfolding Rohingya refugee crisis.&nbsp;&quot;I ask you to be with me in prayer so that, for these peoples, my presence is a sign of affinity and hope,&quot; Francis told 30,000 believers in St Peter&#39;s Square, shortly before packing his bags for the diplomatically fraught trip. Some 620,000 Rohingya, more than half their total number, have fled from Myanmar&#39;s Rakhine state to Bangladesh since August as a result of violence that the UN and the United States have described as ethnic cleansing.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-australia-crush-england-by-10-wickets-in-1st-test-25214">Ashes: Australia crush England by 10 wickets in 1st Test</a>

Australia cruised to a crushing 10-wicket win over England to go one-up in the Ashes series in the opening Test at the Gabba on Monday, with captain Steve Smith praising his team&#39;s character. Openers David Warner and Cameron Bancroft added to England&#39;s agony by peeling off the required runs without the loss of a wicket before lunch on the final day.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/kerala-love-jihad-hadiya-to-present-her-side-of-story-before-supreme-court-bench-today-25218">Kerala &#39;love jihad&#39; case: Hadiya to appear in Supreme Court today</a>

Kerala woman, Hadiya, who is in the midst of Love Jihad controversy, will depose before the Supreme Court on Monday to tell her side of the story. 
Hadiya, originally a Hindu, converted to Islam and married a Muslim man Shafin Jahan.

Eruption may be imminent, Bali volcano alert raised to highest level An eruption could be imminent at a volcano belching huge plumes of smoke on Indonesia's resort island of Bali, officials warned Monday, as they raised the alert to the highest level and increased the exclusion zone. Huge plumes of smoke have been pouring out of Mount Agung since Tuesday and senior state volcanologist Gede Suantika said it was belching thick grey smoke more than two miles (three kilometers) into the sky early Monday. Pakistan Law Minister Zahid Hamid resigns, says hopes protests will end Pakistan Law Minister Zahid Hamid submitted his resignation to Prime Minister Shahid Khaqan Abbasi late on Sunday, media reports said. Hamid said he hoped his resignation would bring the crisis to an end. There had been massive protests against Hamid in the capital Islamabad. Rohingya crisis: Pope Francis heads to Myanmar & Bangladesh ''My presence is a sign of affinity and hope," said Pope Francis as he embarked on a six-day visit to Myanmar and Bangladesh against the backdrop of the unfolding Rohingya refugee crisis. "I ask you to be with me in prayer so that, for these peoples, my presence is a sign of affinity and hope," Francis told 30,000 believers in St Peter's Square, shortly before packing his bags for the diplomatically fraught trip. Some 620,000 Rohingya, more than half their total number, have fled from Myanmar's Rakhine state to Bangladesh since August as a result of violence that the UN and the United States have described as ethnic cleansing. Ashes: Australia crush England by 10 wickets in 1st Test Australia cruised to a crushing 10-wicket win over England to go one-up in the Ashes series in the opening Test at the Gabba on Monday, with captain Steve Smith praising his team's character. Openers David Warner and Cameron Bancroft added to England's agony by peeling off the required runs without the loss of a wicket before lunch on the final day. Kerala 'love jihad' case: Hadiya to appear in Supreme Court today Kerala woman, Hadiya, who is in the midst of Love Jihad controversy, will depose before the Supreme Court on Monday to tell her side of the story. Hadiya, originally a Hindu, converted to Islam and married a Muslim man Shafin Jahan.

WION morning news brief, November 27, 2017

Australia cruised to a crushing 10-wicket win over England to go one-up in the Ashes series in the opening Test at the Gabba on Monday, with captain Steve Smith praising his team&#39;s character.

Openers David Warner and Cameron Bancroft added to England&#39;s agony by peeling off the required runs without the loss of a wicket before lunch on the final day.

Warner finished unbeaten on 87 off 119 balls with newcomer Bancroft hitting the winning runs to remain 82 not out off 182 balls in Australia&#39;s 173 without loss.

In the process, they broke an 87-year-old Test record for the all-time highest unbeaten opening partnership in a successful Test chase.

&quot;We had to show some really good character throughout. Obviously losing the toss, and the wicket was a lot slower than we anticipated it would be. We had to work really hard,&quot; said Australian captain Steve Smith.

&quot;I&#39;m pleased with the way we have played. Bowling first at The Gabba, it&#39;s hard. The bowlers had to be on. The way we pulled it back to win the position we were in it&#39;s extremely pleasing. I&#39;m proud of the way the boys fought.&quot;

The Australians only needed 56 runs on the final morning go one up after England imploded on Sunday&#39;s fourth day.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/cricket/cricket-australia-on-brink-of-victory-after-england-crumble-25171" target="_blank">Also read: Australia on brink of victory after England crumble</a>

England captain Joe Root said the result did not tell the full story.

&quot;For three days we were excellent. Bar Steve&#39;s knock we were right in it,&quot; he said, referring to Smith&#39;s battling first innings century.

&quot;It&#39;s frustrating. We have to move on quickly and make sure we don&#39;t make the same mistakes in Adelaide.&quot;

It was Warner&#39;s 25th Test fifty and ninth in the Ashes, while debutant Bancroft posted his first half-century in only his second Test innings.

&quot;It was good fun, to share a good partnership was nice. To get the win, in the end, was good,&quot; said Bancroft, who was allegedly headbutted by England wicketkeeper Jonny Bairstow in a late-night altercation in Perth earlier in the tour.

An England and Wales Cricket Board statement confirmed team management have asked Bairstow about the alleged incident. Warner said it was great to get the win without losing a wicket.

&quot;That&#39;s what we cherish, coming out being disciplined to try and get the job done as best as possible,&quot; he said.

England&#39;s doleful defeat was played to the background sounds of the traveling Barmy Army supporters singing &#39;We&#39;ll Take the (Ashes) Urn Home&#39; in the sparsely-populated Gabba ground.

It was an attritional battle between the traditional rivals over the first three days of the Test, raising England&#39;s hopes of a first win at the ground in just over three decades.

But skipper Smith&#39;s match-defining unbeaten 141 over eight-and-a-half hours to give Australia a 26-run innings lead and Josh Hazlewood&#39;s two late wickets on Saturday swung the momentum firmly Australia&#39;s way.

England were knocked over for 195 off 71.4 overs, losing their last six wickets for 82, to set Australia an unthreatening target to chase down in the remaining four sessions of play.

Australia stretched their unbeaten record at their Gabba fortress to 29 years since their last defeat to Viv Richards&#39; West Indies team in 1988.

England have not won in Brisbane in 31 years, a stretch of eight Ashes Tests.

The five-Test series heads to Adelaide Oval for the first-ever Ashes day-night Test, starting on Saturday.

'I'm pleased with the way we have played. Bowling first at The Gabba, it's hard,' Australian captain Steve Smith said

Australia cruised to a crushing 10-wicket win over England to go one-up in the Ashes series in the opening Test at the Gabba on Monday, with captain Steve Smith praising his team's character. Openers David Warner and Cameron Bancroft added to England's agony by peeling off the required runs without the loss of a wicket before lunch on the final day. Warner finished unbeaten on 87 off 119 balls with newcomer Bancroft hitting the winning runs to remain 82 not out off 182 balls in Australia's 173 without loss. In the process, they broke an 87-year-old Test record for the all-time highest unbeaten opening partnership in a successful Test chase. "We had to show some really good character throughout. Obviously losing the toss, and the wicket was a lot slower than we anticipated it would be. We had to work really hard," said Australian captain Steve Smith. "I'm pleased with the way we have played. Bowling first at The Gabba, it's hard. The bowlers had to be on. The way we pulled it back to win the position we were in it's extremely pleasing. I'm proud of the way the boys fought." The Australians only needed 56 runs on the final morning go one up after England imploded on Sunday's fourth day. Also read: Australia on brink of victory after England crumble England captain Joe Root said the result did not tell the full story. "For three days we were excellent. Bar Steve's knock we were right in it," he said, referring to Smith's battling first innings century. "It's frustrating. We have to move on quickly and make sure we don't make the same mistakes in Adelaide." It was Warner's 25th Test fifty and ninth in the Ashes, while debutant Bancroft posted his first half-century in only his second Test innings. "It was good fun, to share a good partnership was nice. To get the win, in the end, was good," said Bancroft, who was allegedly headbutted by England wicketkeeper Jonny Bairstow in a late-night altercation in Perth earlier in the tour. An England and Wales Cricket Board statement confirmed team management have asked Bairstow about the alleged incident. Warner said it was great to get the win without losing a wicket. "That's what we cherish, coming out being disciplined to try and get the job done as best as possible," he said. England's doleful defeat was played to the background sounds of the traveling Barmy Army supporters singing 'We'll Take the (Ashes) Urn Home' in the sparsely-populated Gabba ground. It was an attritional battle between the traditional rivals over the first three days of the Test, raising England's hopes of a first win at the ground in just over three decades. But skipper Smith's match-defining unbeaten 141 over eight-and-a-half hours to give Australia a 26-run innings lead and Josh Hazlewood's two late wickets on Saturday swung the momentum firmly Australia's way. England were knocked over for 195 off 71.4 overs, losing their last six wickets for 82, to set Australia an unthreatening target to chase down in the remaining four sessions of play. Australia stretched their unbeaten record at their Gabba fortress to 29 years since their last defeat to Viv Richards' West Indies team in 1988. England have not won in Brisbane in 31 years, a stretch of eight Ashes Tests. The five-Test series heads to Adelaide Oval for the first-ever Ashes day-night Test, starting on Saturday.

Ashes: Australia crush England by 10 wickets in 1st Test

Australia spinner Nathan Lyon turned the screws with two early wickets before Josh Hazlewood claimed the prized scalp of Joe Root to leave England in trouble at 119 for five at lunch on day four of the first Ashes test on Sunday.

Moeen Ali, on 26 not out, and new batsman Jonny Bairstow, who had scored one, will resume after the break facing a huge task to increase England&#39;s 93-run lead to a competitive total as the wicket wears.

England captain Root had to pass a concussion test to be deemed fit to play in the morning after being struck on the helmet by a fierce Mitchell Starc bouncer late on day three.

He battled to reach his 33rd test half-century on a steamy day at the Gabba but was out the next ball, trapped lbw for 51 to leaving the tourists reeling with 10 minutes left until lunch.

England had resumed on 33 for two, with Root on five and Mark Stoneman on 19, and the batsmen survived a tough pace examination before Australia captain Steve Smith turned to offspinner Lyon to break the stand.

Lyon duly obliged, having Stoneman play forward and edge to the Australia skipper, who took a fine lunging catch at slip to remove the batsman for 27.

Not long after, Lyon had England number five Dawid Malan also nick straight to Smith for four.

Moeen survived an early scare with a nick behind off Starc that fell just short of a leaping Smith, who managed to get a finger on the ball before it hit the grass.

Australia spinner Nathan Lyon turned the screws with two early wickets before Josh Hazlewood claimed the prized scalp of Joe Root to leave England in trouble at 119 for five at lunch on day four of the first Ashes test on Sunday

Australia spinner Nathan Lyon turned the screws with two early wickets before Josh Hazlewood claimed the prized scalp of Joe Root to leave England in trouble at 119 for five at lunch on day four of the first Ashes test on Sunday. Moeen Ali, on 26 not out, and new batsman Jonny Bairstow, who had scored one, will resume after the break facing a huge task to increase England's 93-run lead to a competitive total as the wicket wears. England captain Root had to pass a concussion test to be deemed fit to play in the morning after being struck on the helmet by a fierce Mitchell Starc bouncer late on day three. He battled to reach his 33rd test half-century on a steamy day at the Gabba but was out the next ball, trapped lbw for 51 to leaving the tourists reeling with 10 minutes left until lunch. England had resumed on 33 for two, with Root on five and Mark Stoneman on 19, and the batsmen survived a tough pace examination before Australia captain Steve Smith turned to offspinner Lyon to break the stand. Lyon duly obliged, having Stoneman play forward and edge to the Australia skipper, who took a fine lunging catch at slip to remove the batsman for 27. Not long after, Lyon had England number five Dawid Malan also nick straight to Smith for four. Moeen survived an early scare with a nick behind off Starc that fell just short of a leaping Smith, who managed to get a finger on the ball before it hit the grass.

Root gone as England stagger to 119-5 at lunch

Australia fought back with two late wickets to restrict England to 196 for four and leave the Ashes series-opener in Brisbane delicately poised on Thursday after the tourists&#39; unheralded batsmen threatened to dominate an intriguing first day.

Ashes debutants Mark Stoneman and James Vince had frustrated Australia&#39;s vaunted pace attack with a 125-run partnership on a slow Gabba wicket but seamer Pat Cummins hauled the home side back in the game.

The young paceman bowled Stoneman for 53 in the last over before tea then returned to capture England captain Joe Root lbw for 15, leaving Moeen Ali and Dawid Malan to negotiate a nervy finish to stumps.

Spinner Nathan Lyon denied Vince a potentially career-defining century with a brilliant piece of fielding, running him out for 83 after nearly four hours of the pain-staking graft.

Malan was 28 not out and Moeen on 13, with both sides having fought hard after Root won the toss and sent his team into bat.

England would have been buoyed by the performance of rookies Vince and Stoneman but tempered by the disappointment that neither could go on to make bigger scores.

Stoneman was bowled four balls short of the relief of tea, while Vince was out making a needless dash for a single.

Vince&#39;s wicket seemed like a turning point and though Root dug in for 50 balls, he was out lbw by a scorching delivery from Cummins, the wicket awarded after home captain Steve Smith demanded a review of Marais Erasmus&#39;s not out decision.

Cummins greeted Moeen with a short ball that hammered into his upper body. Unperturbed, the all-rounder drove Cummins for four and casually despatched Lyon for six with a slog sweep over deep midwicket a few overs later.

Australia lost a review trying to remove Malan lbw in the last over before play was halted due to poor light.

Dropped catch

Vince, England&#39;s surprise selection at number three, brought up his maiden 50 in his eighth test, having never before surpassed 42 in his previous seven matches.

Stoneman raised his 50 with a streaky edge off Cummins, the ball falling short of second slip before racing off for two, leaving fielder Peter Handscomb punching the turf in frustration.

Worse was to come for the hosts in the following over as recalled wicketkeeper Tim Paine grassed a chance to have Vince out for 68 when he nicked Lyon behind.

Paine had taken Matthew Wade&#39;s place in the test squad in a surprising selection, beating out Peter Nevill, and the miss saw Smith fling his head back in exasperation.

While the Gabba wicket showed a green tinge, Smith said he too would have batted first and his fast men rarely threatened early, struggling to extract much pace or movement off the seam in the morning.

The exception was a peach of a delivery from paceman Mitchell Starc which moved away slightly from Alastair Cook and kissed the outside edge on the way to Handscomb in the slips.

Smith earlier confirmed opener David Warner and Shaun Marsh would play after they suffered neck and back strains in recent days.

Ashes debutants Mark Stoneman and James Vince had frustrated Australia's vaunted pace attack with a 125-run partnership on a slow Gabba wicket

Australia fought back with two late wickets to restrict England to 196 for four and leave the Ashes series-opener in Brisbane delicately poised on Thursday after the tourists' unheralded batsmen threatened to dominate an intriguing first day. Ashes debutants Mark Stoneman and James Vince had frustrated Australia's vaunted pace attack with a 125-run partnership on a slow Gabba wicket but seamer Pat Cummins hauled the home side back in the game. The young paceman bowled Stoneman for 53 in the last over before tea then returned to capture England captain Joe Root lbw for 15, leaving Moeen Ali and Dawid Malan to negotiate a nervy finish to stumps. Spinner Nathan Lyon denied Vince a potentially career-defining century with a brilliant piece of fielding, running him out for 83 after nearly four hours of the pain-staking graft. Malan was 28 not out and Moeen on 13, with both sides having fought hard after Root won the toss and sent his team into bat. England would have been buoyed by the performance of rookies Vince and Stoneman but tempered by the disappointment that neither could go on to make bigger scores. Stoneman was bowled four balls short of the relief of tea, while Vince was out making a needless dash for a single. Vince's wicket seemed like a turning point and though Root dug in for 50 balls, he was out lbw by a scorching delivery from Cummins, the wicket awarded after home captain Steve Smith demanded a review of Marais Erasmus's not out decision. Cummins greeted Moeen with a short ball that hammered into his upper body. Unperturbed, the all-rounder drove Cummins for four and casually despatched Lyon for six with a slog sweep over deep midwicket a few overs later. Australia lost a review trying to remove Malan lbw in the last over before play was halted due to poor light. Dropped catch Vince, England's surprise selection at number three, brought up his maiden 50 in his eighth test, having never before surpassed 42 in his previous seven matches. Stoneman raised his 50 with a streaky edge off Cummins, the ball falling short of second slip before racing off for two, leaving fielder Peter Handscomb punching the turf in frustration. Worse was to come for the hosts in the following over as recalled wicketkeeper Tim Paine grassed a chance to have Vince out for 68 when he nicked Lyon behind. Paine had taken Matthew Wade's place in the test squad in a surprising selection, beating out Peter Nevill, and the miss saw Smith fling his head back in exasperation. While the Gabba wicket showed a green tinge, Smith said he too would have batted first and his fast men rarely threatened early, struggling to extract much pace or movement off the seam in the morning. The exception was a peach of a delivery from paceman Mitchell Starc which moved away slightly from Alastair Cook and kissed the outside edge on the way to Handscomb in the slips. Smith earlier confirmed opener David Warner and Shaun Marsh would play after they suffered neck and back strains in recent days.

Ashes, 1st Test: Australia rally late to restrict England

Prior to the Ashes series, England captain Joe Root has dismissed allegations of a &quot;drinking culture&quot; in his team.

England is set to play Australia in the upcoming Ashes series sans team vice-captain Ben Stokes, who was arrested in Bristol last month after a street brawl.&nbsp;

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/watch-ben-stokes-englands-test-vice-captain-caught-in-a-brawl-in-manchester-20787" target="_blank">WATCH: England Test </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/watch-ben-stokes-englands-test-vice-captain-caught-in-a-brawl-in-manchester-20787" target="_blank">vice-captain</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/watch-ben-stokes-englands-test-vice-captain-caught-in-a-brawl-in-manchester-20787" target="_blank"> Ben Stokes caught in brawl outside Manchester bar&nbsp;</a>

&quot;I don`t think there`s a drinking culture in cricket and in our side. We will address the issue as a side and make sure situations like this don`t happen again,&quot; Root was quoted by the Independent as saying.

&quot;We are grown men, we know how to behave and we`ll make sure we conduct ourselves well on this tour,&quot; the 26 year old added.

Root added his players would be free to go out and socialise in Australia, despite the allegations against the team.

Stokes, England&#39;s star all-rounder, has not yet been officially dropped from the Ashes squad, but Root had earlier insinuated that his team is ready to play the Ashes without him.

&quot;We`ve got to plan as if he`s not going to be there for the whole series,&quot; he had said.

Stokes still remains under investigation and is waiting to find out whether he will be charged or not.

Remarking on that, Root said, &quot;It`s an ongoing investigation. We`re very much in the dark as to what`s happening, as is everyone.&quot;

The 2017-18 Ashes will be played at five venues across Australia between November 23 and January 8.&nbsp;&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

'We are grown men, we know how to behave and we`ll make sure we conduct ourselves well on this tour,' Root added

Prior to the Ashes series, England captain Joe Root has dismissed allegations of a "drinking culture" in his team. England is set to play Australia in the upcoming Ashes series sans team vice-captain Ben Stokes, who was arrested in Bristol last month after a street brawl. WATCH: England Test vice-captain Ben Stokes caught in brawl outside Manchester bar "I don`t think there`s a drinking culture in cricket and in our side. We will address the issue as a side and make sure situations like this don`t happen again," Root was quoted by the Independent as saying. "We are grown men, we know how to behave and we`ll make sure we conduct ourselves well on this tour," the 26 year old added. Root added his players would be free to go out and socialise in Australia, despite the allegations against the team. Stokes, England's star all-rounder, has not yet been officially dropped from the Ashes squad, but Root had earlier insinuated that his team is ready to play the Ashes without him. "We`ve got to plan as if he`s not going to be there for the whole series," he had said. Stokes still remains under investigation and is waiting to find out whether he will be charged or not. Remarking on that, Root said, "It`s an ongoing investigation. We`re very much in the dark as to what`s happening, as is everyone." The 2017-18 Ashes will be played at five venues across Australia between November 23 and January 8.

No 'drinking culture' in our team: England captain Joe Root

England cricketer Ben Stokes has lost his sponsorship contract with sportswear giant New Balance following his arrest outside a nightclub which also left his Ashes series in doubt.

Stokes, who was arrested on suspicion of causing actual bodily harm, also issued an apology after a video emerged of him mimicking the disabled son of British celebrity Katie Price.

American firm New Balance said it &quot;does not condone&quot; behavior by Stokes, who is also believed to be the subject of a damning video showing a man throwing multiple punches outside the Bristol nightspot.

&quot;New Balance does not condone behavior by our global athletes that do not match our brand culture and values, and therefore we have ended our relationship with Ben Stokes, effective October 11, 2017,&quot; the company said, in a statement which was widely reported by British media.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/watch-ben-stokes-englands-test-vice-captain-caught-in-a-brawl-in-manchester-20787" target="_blank">WATCH: England Test vice-captain Ben Stokes caught in brawl outside Manchester bar</a>

The talismanic all-rounder&#39;s career has been plunged into turmoil following his arrest last month, which prompted his suspension until further notice by the England and Wales Cricket Board.

No final decision has been taken on whether the Test vice-captain will play the Ashes series in Australia but he will not travel with the other players on October 28, the ECB has said.

Separately, the embattled Stokes posted an apology on Twitter after his mocking impersonation of a TV appearance by 15-year-old Harvey Price, who suffers from a genetic disorder, drew strong condemnation.

&quot;I should never have done this and I am so sorry,&quot; Stokes wrote. &quot;It was absolutely not my intention to offend Harvey, Katie or anybody else...I do hope I can put this right.&quot;

The Test vice-captain's place on the Ashes squad is also in doubt after he was arrested for brawling outside a nightclub in Manchester

England cricketer Ben Stokes has lost his sponsorship contract with sportswear giant New Balance following his arrest outside a nightclub which also left his Ashes series in doubt. Stokes, who was arrested on suspicion of causing actual bodily harm, also issued an apology after a video emerged of him mimicking the disabled son of British celebrity Katie Price. American firm New Balance said it "does not condone" behavior by Stokes, who is also believed to be the subject of a damning video showing a man throwing multiple punches outside the Bristol nightspot. "New Balance does not condone behavior by our global athletes that do not match our brand culture and values, and therefore we have ended our relationship with Ben Stokes, effective October 11, 2017," the company said, in a statement which was widely reported by British media. WATCH: England Test vice-captain Ben Stokes caught in brawl outside Manchester bar The talismanic all-rounder's career has been plunged into turmoil following his arrest last month, which prompted his suspension until further notice by the England and Wales Cricket Board. No final decision has been taken on whether the Test vice-captain will play the Ashes series in Australia but he will not travel with the other players on October 28, the ECB has said. Separately, the embattled Stokes posted an apology on Twitter after his mocking impersonation of a TV appearance by 15-year-old Harvey Price, who suffers from a genetic disorder, drew strong condemnation. "I should never have done this and I am so sorry," Stokes wrote. "It was absolutely not my intention to offend Harvey, Katie or anybody else...I do hope I can put this right."

After brawl, England cricketer Ben Stokes loses New Balance contract

Cricket Australia (CA) will push for up to two day-night Tests at next year&#39;s Ashes series despite the misgivings of captain Steven Smith and his England counterpart Alastair Cook. 
 
Both skippers said they felt the game&#39;s most enduring series could survive without being played under lights but CA CEO James Sutherland said he felt it was a &quot;natural progression&quot;. &quot;I respect the views of Steven and Alastair,&quot; he told reporters in Melbourne today. 
 
&quot;The Ashes is a great contest and will no doubt attract a huge audience both at the grounds and on television, but the facts of the matter are by playing day-night Tests, we&#39;re going to get even bigger audiences at the game and on television.&nbsp;The Ashes series is still a long way off and we want to get through this summer first but we will play somewhere between zero and two day-night Tests during the Ashes in 18 months&#39; time.&quot; 
 
Australia played the maiden day-night Test against New Zealand at Adelaide Oval last November and have just agreed another flood-lit match with South Africa at the same venue during the home summer. 
 
The hosts will also play their series-opener against Pakistan with the pink ball in Brisbane for the first time in December. 
 
Smith has backed day-night cricket repeatedly but said he did not feel it necessary for the Ashes, which reliably draws big crowds.&nbsp;&quot;I think it works pretty well with the red ball,&quot; he told media while on tour in the Caribbean.&nbsp;&quot;It&#39;s been around for years and I think playing against England we always get the viewers and the crowds out,&quot; added Smith. 
 
Cook echoed Smith&#39;s position. &quot;It&#39;s probably not a series where you need to do it exactly at this time,&quot; he said. 
 
England and Wales Cricket board chairman Colin Graves has also backed day-night cricket, saying it was only a matter of time that a match would be played in England.

Cricket Australia CEO James Sutherland believes that day-night tests will draw bigger audiences to the game and on television

Cricket Australia (CA) will push for up to two day-night Tests at next year's Ashes series despite the misgivings of captain Steven Smith and his England counterpart Alastair Cook. Both skippers said they felt the game's most enduring series could survive without being played under lights but CA CEO James Sutherland said he felt it was a "natural progression". "I respect the views of Steven and Alastair," he told reporters in Melbourne today. "The Ashes is a great contest and will no doubt attract a huge audience both at the grounds and on television, but the facts of the matter are by playing day-night Tests, we're going to get even bigger audiences at the game and on television. The Ashes series is still a long way off and we want to get through this summer first but we will play somewhere between zero and two day-night Tests during the Ashes in 18 months' time." Australia played the maiden day-night Test against New Zealand at Adelaide Oval last November and have just agreed another flood-lit match with South Africa at the same venue during the home summer. The hosts will also play their series-opener against Pakistan with the pink ball in Brisbane for the first time in December. Smith has backed day-night cricket repeatedly but said he did not feel it necessary for the Ashes, which reliably draws big crowds. "I think it works pretty well with the red ball," he told media while on tour in the Caribbean. "It's been around for years and I think playing against England we always get the viewers and the crowds out," added Smith. Cook echoed Smith's position. "It's probably not a series where you need to do it exactly at this time," he said. England and Wales Cricket board chairman Colin Graves has also backed day-night cricket, saying it was only a matter of time that a match would be played in England.

Cricket Australia pushing for two day-night Ashes Tests

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