Aussie skipper Pat Cummins yet again got the better of England’s Joe Root in the third Ashes Test on Thursday (Dec 18) as he continued his impressive form. Playing at the Adelaide Oval, England batter Root had another torrid outing against Cummins, falling prey to the speedster for a record 12th time. This also means Cummins has now dismissed the former English captain more times in the red-ball format than any other bowler.<h2>Cummins strikes again</h2>Batting on 19 off 30 balls, Root had a positive start to his innings before the Aussie captain got the better of him on the fourth ball of the 17th over. Root was caught behind with Alex Carey completing the process behind the stumps. The wicket meant that Cummins leapfrogged fellow speedster Mitchell Starc for dismissing Root on most occasions.&nbsp;Heading into the Adelaide Test, the trio of Cummins, Starc and Jasprit Bumrah all had dismissed Root on 11 occasions each. However, events on Thursday meant Cummins now leads the chart with 12 dismissals, along with Bumrah and Starc not far behind. Josh Hazlewood and Ravindra Jadeja also make the top five when it comes to dismissing the former England batter.&nbsp;ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-leonard-hutton-to-don-bradman-5-batters-with-highest-individual-score-in-ashes-bob-simpson-bob-cowper-ashes-2025-26-1762276944046">From Leonard Hutton to Don Bradman, 5 batters with highest individual score in Ashes</a><h2>Bowlers dismissing Joe Root most often in Tests</h2>12 - Pat Cummins11 - Mitchell Starc11 - Jasprit Bumrah10 - Josh Hazlewood9 - Ravindra Jadeja&nbsp;ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-steve-smith-to-joe-root-5-active-batters-with-most-runs-in-ashes-ben-stokes-jonny-bairstow-usman-khawaja-1762275784636">From Steve Smith to Joe Root, 5 active batters with most runs in Ashes</a><h2>What has happened so far in Adelaide Test?</h2>At the time of writing, England were 155/5 with Ben Stokes (24) and Jamie Smith (22) in the middle for the visitors. England lost key wickets of Duckett (29), Zak Crawley (9), Ollie Pope (3), Joe Root (19) and Harry Brook (45). The visitors were narrowed down to 71/4 at one stage before a small recovery structured their way to a score above 100.

Playing at the Adelaide Oval, England batter Joe Root had another torrid outing against Pat Cummins, falling prey to the speedster for a record 12th time. 

Aussie skipper Pat Cummins yet again got the better of England’s Joe Root in the third Ashes Test on Thursday (Dec 18) as he continued his impressive form. Playing at the Adelaide Oval, England batter Root had another torrid outing against Cummins, falling prey to the speedster for a record 12th time. This also means Cummins has now dismissed the former English captain more times in the red-ball format than any other bowler. Cummins strikes again Batting on 19 off 30 balls, Root had a positive start to his innings before the Aussie captain got the better of him on the fourth ball of the 17th over. Root was caught behind with Alex Carey completing the process behind the stumps. The wicket meant that Cummins leapfrogged fellow speedster Mitchell Starc for dismissing Root on most occasions. Heading into the Adelaide Test, the trio of Cummins, Starc and Jasprit Bumrah all had dismissed Root on 11 occasions each. However, events on Thursday meant Cummins now leads the chart with 12 dismissals, along with Bumrah and Starc not far behind. Josh Hazlewood and Ravindra Jadeja also make the top five when it comes to dismissing the former England batter. ALSO READ | From Leonard Hutton to Don Bradman, 5 batters with highest individual score in Ashes Bowlers dismissing Joe Root most often in Tests 12 - Pat Cummins 11 - Mitchell Starc 11 - Jasprit Bumrah 10 - Josh Hazlewood 9 - Ravindra Jadeja ALSO READ | From Steve Smith to Joe Root, 5 active batters with most runs in Ashes What has happened so far in Adelaide Test? At the time of writing, England were 155/5 with Ben Stokes (24) and Jamie Smith (22) in the middle for the visitors. England lost key wickets of Duckett (29), Zak Crawley (9), Ollie Pope (3), Joe Root (19) and Harry Brook (45). The visitors were narrowed down to 71/4 at one stage before a small recovery structured their way to a score above 100.

Playing at the Adelaide Oval, England batter Joe Root had another torrid outing against Pat Cummins, falling prey to the speedster for a record 12th time.&nbsp;

Ashes: Pat Cummins sends Joe Root packing in Adelaide Test, dismisses English batter for record 12th time

Australia’s Nathan Lyon added another feather to his hat on Thursday (Dec 18) as he became the second-highest wicket-taker for the national side in the Test format. Playing against England in the third Ashes Test at the Adelaide Oval, Lyon surpassed Glenn McGrath with his wicket numbers 563 and 564 in the same over of his spell in the opening session of Day 2. Lyon’s achievement also means he only trails great Shane Warne for the most wickets by an Aussie bowler in the red-ball format.<h2>Lyon surpasses McGrath for most Test wickets</h2>Lyon, who came into the third Test sitting just one wicket behind the Aussie great, scalped Ollie Pope on the third ball of the 10th over before getting the better of Ben Duckett on the final ball of the same over. This meant he surpassed McGrath for most wickets in the red-ball format, taking 141 matches and 261 innings. On the other hand, the former pacer needed 124 matches and 243 innings to register the feat.&nbsp;Lyon also sits sixth on the list of bowlers with the most Test wickets and is currently the bowler with the most active Test wickets. In terms of spinners, Lyon ranks fourth for most Test wickets with Muttiah Muralitharan, Shane Warne and Anil Kumble sitting above him.&nbsp;ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-leonard-hutton-to-don-bradman-5-batters-with-highest-individual-score-in-ashes-bob-simpson-bob-cowper-ashes-2025-26-1762276944046">From Leonard Hutton to Don Bradman, 5 batters with highest individual score in Ashes</a><h2>Most wickets in Test cricket</h2>800 - Muthiah Muralidaran708 - Shane Warne704 - James Anderson619 - Anil Kumble604 - Stuart Broad564* - Nathan Lyon563 - Glenn McGrath&nbsp;ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-steve-smith-to-joe-root-5-active-batters-with-most-runs-in-ashes-ben-stokes-jonny-bairstow-usman-khawaja-1762275784636">From Steve Smith to Joe Root, 5 active batters with most runs in Ashes</a><h2>What has happened so far in Adelaide Test?</h2>At the time of writing, England were 155/5 with Ben Stokes (24) and Jamie Smith (22) in the middle for the visitors. England lost key wickets of Duckett (29), Zak Crawley (9), Ollie Pope (3), Joe Root (19) and Harry Brook (45). The visitors were narrowed down to 71/4 at one stage before a small recovery structured their way to a score above 100.&nbsp;

Playing against England in the third Ashes Test at the Adelaide Oval, Nathan Lyon surpassed Glenn McGrath with his wicket numbers 563 and 564 in the same over of his spell in the opening session of Day 2.

Australia’s Nathan Lyon added another feather to his hat on Thursday (Dec 18) as he became the second-highest wicket-taker for the national side in the Test format. Playing against England in the third Ashes Test at the Adelaide Oval, Lyon surpassed Glenn McGrath with his wicket numbers 563 and 564 in the same over of his spell in the opening session of Day 2. Lyon’s achievement also means he only trails great Shane Warne for the most wickets by an Aussie bowler in the red-ball format. Lyon surpasses McGrath for most Test wickets Lyon, who came into the third Test sitting just one wicket behind the Aussie great, scalped Ollie Pope on the third ball of the 10th over before getting the better of Ben Duckett on the final ball of the same over. This meant he surpassed McGrath for most wickets in the red-ball format, taking 141 matches and 261 innings. On the other hand, the former pacer needed 124 matches and 243 innings to register the feat. Lyon also sits sixth on the list of bowlers with the most Test wickets and is currently the bowler with the most active Test wickets. In terms of spinners, Lyon ranks fourth for most Test wickets with Muttiah Muralitharan, Shane Warne and Anil Kumble sitting above him. ALSO READ | From Leonard Hutton to Don Bradman, 5 batters with highest individual score in Ashes Most wickets in Test cricket 800 - Muthiah Muralidaran 708 - Shane Warne 704 - James Anderson 619 - Anil Kumble 604 - Stuart Broad 564* - Nathan Lyon 563 - Glenn McGrath ALSO READ | From Steve Smith to Joe Root, 5 active batters with most runs in Ashes What has happened so far in Adelaide Test? At the time of writing, England were 155/5 with Ben Stokes (24) and Jamie Smith (22) in the middle for the visitors. England lost key wickets of Duckett (29), Zak Crawley (9), Ollie Pope (3), Joe Root (19) and Harry Brook (45). The visitors were narrowed down to 71/4 at one stage before a small recovery structured their way to a score above 100.

Playing against England in the third Ashes Test at the Adelaide Oval, Nathan Lyon surpassed Glenn McGrath with his wicket numbers 563 and 564 in the same over of his spell in the opening session of Day 2.

Ashes: Nathan Lyon surpasses Glenn McGrath for most Test wickets, goes second behind Shane Warne on Aussie chart

Australia’s wicketkeeper-batter Alex Carey was the talk of the town on Wednesday (Dec 17) as the third Ashes Test kicked off at the Adelaide Oval. Carey, who came into bat at six, slammed his latest ton to help the hosts recover after a poor start to their innings. Usman Khawaja was the other batter to headline the day, having slammed 82 on his return to the Starting XI. At Stumps on Day 1 of the Adelaide Test, Australia were 326/8 in 83 overs.<h2>Carey shines on Day 1</h2>The hosts were dealt with bad news even before the match started, as Steve Smith was officially ruled out of the Adelaide contest with illness. This meant Khawaja was brought in despite the southpaw struggling with injury himself. Australia captain Pat Cummins would later win the toss and elect to bat first at the Adelaide Oval.&nbsp;ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-steve-smith-to-joe-root-5-active-batters-with-most-runs-in-ashes-ben-stokes-jonny-bairstow-usman-khawaja-1762275784636">From Steve Smith to Joe Root, 5 active batters with most runs in Ashes</a>&nbsp;Travis Head (10) and Jake Weatherald (18) were the opening batters, with Khawaja coming in at fourth. Australia lost two early wickets as both openers were dismissed before the 10th over. Although a small partnership took place between Marnus Labuschagne (19) and Usman Khawaja (82), Australia again lost their way before lunch with two quick wickets. The hosts were 94/4 at one stage before Carey and Co took control.&nbsp;ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-leonard-hutton-to-don-bradman-5-batters-with-highest-individual-score-in-ashes-bob-simpson-bob-cowper-ashes-2025-26-1762276944046">From Leonard Hutton to Don Bradman, 5 batters with highest individual score in Ashes</a>&nbsp;Carey would be given a good helping hand by Josh Inglis (32), Pat Cummins (13) and later by Mitchell Starc (unbeaten 33). The wicketkeeper-batter scored his third hundred in the process and took the Aussies to 326/8 at the close of play.&nbsp;For England, Jofra Archer was the pick of the bowlers with figures of 29/3, while Brydon Carse (70/2) and Josh Tongue (63/1) were also amongst the wickets. Will Jacks also scalped a couple of wickets for the visitors as they will now target to wrap the Aussie innings as quickly as possible on Day 2.

Alex Carey, who came into bat at six, slammed his latest ton to help the hosts recover after a poor start to their innings. 

Australia’s wicketkeeper-batter Alex Carey was the talk of the town on Wednesday (Dec 17) as the third Ashes Test kicked off at the Adelaide Oval. Carey, who came into bat at six, slammed his latest ton to help the hosts recover after a poor start to their innings. Usman Khawaja was the other batter to headline the day, having slammed 82 on his return to the Starting XI. At Stumps on Day 1 of the Adelaide Test, Australia were 326/8 in 83 overs. Carey shines on Day 1 The hosts were dealt with bad news even before the match started, as Steve Smith was officially ruled out of the Adelaide contest with illness. This meant Khawaja was brought in despite the southpaw struggling with injury himself. Australia captain Pat Cummins would later win the toss and elect to bat first at the Adelaide Oval. ALSO READ | From Steve Smith to Joe Root, 5 active batters with most runs in Ashes Travis Head (10) and Jake Weatherald (18) were the opening batters, with Khawaja coming in at fourth. Australia lost two early wickets as both openers were dismissed before the 10th over. Although a small partnership took place between Marnus Labuschagne (19) and Usman Khawaja (82), Australia again lost their way before lunch with two quick wickets. The hosts were 94/4 at one stage before Carey and Co took control. ALSO READ | From Leonard Hutton to Don Bradman, 5 batters with highest individual score in Ashes Carey would be given a good helping hand by Josh Inglis (32), Pat Cummins (13) and later by Mitchell Starc (unbeaten 33). The wicketkeeper-batter scored his third hundred in the process and took the Aussies to 326/8 at the close of play. For England, Jofra Archer was the pick of the bowlers with figures of 29/3, while Brydon Carse (70/2) and Josh Tongue (63/1) were also amongst the wickets. Will Jacks also scalped a couple of wickets for the visitors as they will now target to wrap the Aussie innings as quickly as possible on Day 2.

Alex Carey, who came into bat at six, slammed his latest ton to help the hosts recover after a poor start to their innings.&nbsp;

Ashes: Carey, Khawaja shine as Australia recover after poor start on Day 1 of Adelaide Test

Australia’s vice-captain Steve Smith was sensationally ruled out of the third Ashes Test on the morning as he left the Adelaide Oval even before the toss took place. Scheduled to start on Wednesday (Dec 17), the third Ashes Test saw the Aussie batter miss out due to the recurrence of inner ear issues. With him skipping the match, veteran batter Usman Khawaja has been recalled into the side and will likely bat at No.4.<h2>Smith ruled out of Adelaide Test</h2>"He came and gave it a crack this morning but didn't think he was going to get up for this one so he has headed off home," captain Pat Cummins said at the toss. "(We're) pretty lucky we got someone like Usman who can step right in."&nbsp;Smith suffered nausea and dizziness symptoms leading into the third Test, forcing him to miss Monday's main training session. He was, however, not ruled out of the Adelaide Test and was in line for a fitness Test on the morning. He did give the fitness Test but was passed unfit and missed out altogether. With Smith missing out, Khawaja was given a reprieve and returned to the side. Smith is now expected to be fit for the fourth Test, which begins on Dec 26 in Melbourne.&nbsp;ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-leonard-hutton-to-don-bradman-5-batters-with-highest-individual-score-in-ashes-bob-simpson-bob-cowper-ashes-2025-26-1762276944046">From Leonard Hutton to Don Bradman, 5 batters with highest individual score in Ashes</a><h2>What happened at toss?</h2>On the morning of the Adelaide Test, Australia captain Pat Cummins won the toss and opted to bat first. Travis Head (10) and Jake Weatherald (18) were the opening batters, with Khawaja coming in at fourth. Australia lost two early wickets as both openers were dismissed before the 10th over. Although a small partnership took place between Marnus Labuschagne (19) and Usman Khawaja (82), Australia again lost their way before lunch with two quick wickets.&nbsp;At the time of writing at Tea, Australia were 194/5 in 50 overs with Alex Carey (48) and Josh Inglis (5) in the middle.&nbsp;ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-steve-smith-to-joe-root-5-active-batters-with-most-runs-in-ashes-ben-stokes-jonny-bairstow-usman-khawaja-1762275784636">From Steve Smith to Joe Root, 5 active batters with most runs in Ashes</a><h2>Adelaide Test Playing XI</h2>Australia XI: Travis Head, Jake Weatherald, Marnus Labuschagne, Usman Khawaja, Cameron Green, Alex Carey (wk), Josh Inglis, Pat Cummins (c), Mitchell Starc, Nathan Lyon, Scott BolandEngland XI: Zak Crawley, Ben Duckett, Ollie Pope, Joe Root, Harry Brook, Ben Stokes (c), Jamie Smith (wk), Will Jacks, Brydon Carse, Jofra Archer, Josh Tongue

Scheduled to start on Wednesday (Dec 17), the third Ashes Test saw Steve Smith miss out due to the recurrence of inner ear issues. 

Australia’s vice-captain Steve Smith was sensationally ruled out of the third Ashes Test on the morning as he left the Adelaide Oval even before the toss took place. Scheduled to start on Wednesday (Dec 17), the third Ashes Test saw the Aussie batter miss out due to the recurrence of inner ear issues. With him skipping the match, veteran batter Usman Khawaja has been recalled into the side and will likely bat at No.4. Smith ruled out of Adelaide Test "He came and gave it a crack this morning but didn't think he was going to get up for this one so he has headed off home," captain Pat Cummins said at the toss. "(We're) pretty lucky we got someone like Usman who can step right in." Smith suffered nausea and dizziness symptoms leading into the third Test, forcing him to miss Monday's main training session. He was, however, not ruled out of the Adelaide Test and was in line for a fitness Test on the morning. He did give the fitness Test but was passed unfit and missed out altogether. With Smith missing out, Khawaja was given a reprieve and returned to the side. Smith is now expected to be fit for the fourth Test, which begins on Dec 26 in Melbourne. ALSO READ | From Leonard Hutton to Don Bradman, 5 batters with highest individual score in Ashes What happened at toss? On the morning of the Adelaide Test, Australia captain Pat Cummins won the toss and opted to bat first. Travis Head (10) and Jake Weatherald (18) were the opening batters, with Khawaja coming in at fourth. Australia lost two early wickets as both openers were dismissed before the 10th over. Although a small partnership took place between Marnus Labuschagne (19) and Usman Khawaja (82), Australia again lost their way before lunch with two quick wickets. At the time of writing at Tea, Australia were 194/5 in 50 overs with Alex Carey (48) and Josh Inglis (5) in the middle. ALSO READ | From Steve Smith to Joe Root, 5 active batters with most runs in Ashes Adelaide Test Playing XI Australia XI: Travis Head, Jake Weatherald, Marnus Labuschagne, Usman Khawaja, Cameron Green, Alex Carey (wk), Josh Inglis, Pat Cummins (c), Mitchell Starc, Nathan Lyon, Scott Boland England XI: Zak Crawley, Ben Duckett, Ollie Pope, Joe Root, Harry Brook, Ben Stokes (c), Jamie Smith (wk), Will Jacks, Brydon Carse, Jofra Archer, Josh Tongue

Scheduled to start on Wednesday (Dec 17), the third Ashes Test saw Steve Smith miss out due to the recurrence of inner ear issues.&nbsp;

Ashes 2025-26: Here's why Australia's Steve Smith is not playing in the Adelaide Test

Former Australia opener David Warner has warned England ahead of the third Ashes Test, with the hosts set to welcome back Usman Khawaja as an opener. Australia, currently leading 2-0 in the five-match Ashes series, will have a huge boost with the return of captain Pat Cummins, but also the return of Khawaja. The latter’s return also means Travis Head will drop down to the middle order, inflicting more bad news for England.<h2>Warner warns England</h2>"I think Uzzy comes back in, slides to the top, and Trav goes down," Warner told reporters ahead of captaining Sydney Thunder in the BBL. "That's probably a worse result for England, Travis Head going back down the order."&nbsp;"At the end of the day, Travis put his hand up to bat in the situation he was in," Warner said. "He came out and batted in the way Travis Head does. You see plenty of interviews from Trav saying that is Uzzy's spot, and if when the time comes they ask him to go up the order, he wouldn't mind to do that.&nbsp;ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-steve-smith-to-joe-root-5-active-batters-with-most-runs-in-ashes-ben-stokes-jonny-bairstow-usman-khawaja-1762275784636">From Steve Smith to Joe Root, 5 active batters with most runs in Ashes</a>&nbsp;"We didn't have that aggressor down in the middle order [in previous years]. Australia has that now as well, and moving forward with whatever Uzzy decides to do, if he hangs them up, they can look that way,” Warner added.&nbsp;ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-leonard-hutton-to-don-bradman-5-batters-with-highest-individual-score-in-ashes-bob-simpson-bob-cowper-ashes-2025-26-1762276944046">From Leonard Hutton to Don Bradman, 5 batters with highest individual score in Ashes</a>&nbsp;Australia have been convincing winners in the opening two Test matches of the Ashes as they look to seal the series in Adelaide. The hosts have a 100 percent record not just in the Ashes but also in the 2025-27 World Test Championship (WTC) cycle, winning all five matches so far.&nbsp;However, a win in Adelaide will see them pocket the Ashes before entering the traditional Boxing Day and New Year’s Day fixtures in Melbourne and Sydney, respectively.

Australia have been convincing winners in the opening two Test matches of the Ashes as they look to seal the series in Adelaide. The hosts have a 100 percent record not just in the Ashes but also in the 2025-27 World Test Championship (WTC) cycle, winning all five matches so far.

Former Australia opener David Warner has warned England ahead of the third Ashes Test, with the hosts set to welcome back Usman Khawaja as an opener. Australia, currently leading 2-0 in the five-match Ashes series, will have a huge boost with the return of captain Pat Cummins, but also the return of Khawaja. The latter’s return also means Travis Head will drop down to the middle order, inflicting more bad news for England. Warner warns England "I think Uzzy comes back in, slides to the top, and Trav goes down," Warner told reporters ahead of captaining Sydney Thunder in the BBL. "That's probably a worse result for England, Travis Head going back down the order." "At the end of the day, Travis put his hand up to bat in the situation he was in," Warner said. "He came out and batted in the way Travis Head does. You see plenty of interviews from Trav saying that is Uzzy's spot, and if when the time comes they ask him to go up the order, he wouldn't mind to do that. ALSO READ | From Steve Smith to Joe Root, 5 active batters with most runs in Ashes "We didn't have that aggressor down in the middle order [in previous years]. Australia has that now as well, and moving forward with whatever Uzzy decides to do, if he hangs them up, they can look that way,” Warner added. ALSO READ | From Leonard Hutton to Don Bradman, 5 batters with highest individual score in Ashes Australia have been convincing winners in the opening two Test matches of the Ashes as they look to seal the series in Adelaide. The hosts have a 100 percent record not just in the Ashes but also in the 2025-27 World Test Championship (WTC) cycle, winning all five matches so far. However, a win in Adelaide will see them pocket the Ashes before entering the traditional Boxing Day and New Year’s Day fixtures in Melbourne and Sydney, respectively.

Australia have been convincing winners in the opening two Test matches of the Ashes as they look to seal the series in Adelaide. The hosts have a 100 percent record not just in the Ashes but also in the 2025-27 World Test Championship (WTC) cycle, winning all five matches so far.

Ashes 2025-26: David Warner warns England ahead of third Test, asks visitors to be wary of Head, Khawaja

England are 0-2 down in the Ashes Down Under after another eight-wicket loss, this time at the Gabba in day-nigh Brisbane Test. England were not at par with Australia barring Joe Root's maiden Test century in Australia but head coach Brendon McCullum thinks the reason for loss is 'over preparedness.' &nbsp;"Leading into this Test match, I actually felt like we over-prepared, to be honest," McCullum told Australian broadcaster Channel 7 after the loss. "We had five intense training days. When you're in the heat of the battle, as we all know, sometimes the most important thing is to feel a little bit fresh and make sure your top two inches [of your head] is completely sound."Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-sa-virat-kohli-south-africa-odis-says-he-has-not-played-at-this-level-in-2-3-years-1765088130149">'Haven't played at this level in...' Kohli feels like Kohli after SA ODIs</a>The reason can be categorieed as bizarre as England's philosophy of playing attacking cricket all the time, even when the situation demands a bit of patience. Across both innings in the Brisbane Test, the most balls played by any England batter, apart from Root's 206 in the first innings for ton, is 152 by Ben Stokes in the second innings for his 50 but it was too late by then.Only five England batters were able to cross 50-ball mark in both innings combined including Root and Stokes, highlighting lack of patience by visitors which definitely played a big role them looking 0-2 in the five-Test Ashes series.There's been only once in the history of Test cricket that a team has come back from 0-2 to win the series and yes, that moment came in Ashes only but not for England.It was Don Bradman's Australia which were down 0-2 in 1936-37 Ashes when they came back in some style to win the series. As for Ben Stokes's England, the series looks done and dusted, barring a miracle.

The reason can be categorieed as bizarre as England's philosophy of playing attacking cricket all the time, even when the situation demands a bit of patience. Only five England batters were able to cross 50-ball mark in both innings combined including Root and Stokes.

England are 0-2 down in the Ashes Down Under after another eight-wicket loss, this time at the Gabba in day-nigh Brisbane Test. England were not at par with Australia barring Joe Root's maiden Test century in Australia but head coach Brendon McCullum thinks the reason for loss is 'over preparedness.' "Leading into this Test match, I actually felt like we over-prepared, to be honest," McCullum told Australian broadcaster Channel 7 after the loss. "We had five intense training days. When you're in the heat of the battle, as we all know, sometimes the most important thing is to feel a little bit fresh and make sure your top two inches [of your head] is completely sound." Also Read - 'Haven't played at this level in...' Kohli feels like Kohli after SA ODIs The reason can be categorieed as bizarre as England's philosophy of playing attacking cricket all the time, even when the situation demands a bit of patience. Across both innings in the Brisbane Test, the most balls played by any England batter, apart from Root's 206 in the first innings for ton, is 152 by Ben Stokes in the second innings for his 50 but it was too late by then. Only five England batters were able to cross 50-ball mark in both innings combined including Root and Stokes, highlighting lack of patience by visitors which definitely played a big role them looking 0-2 in the five-Test Ashes series. There's been only once in the history of Test cricket that a team has come back from 0-2 to win the series and yes, that moment came in Ashes only but not for England. It was Don Bradman's Australia which were down 0-2 in 1936-37 Ashes when they came back in some style to win the series. As for Ben Stokes's England, the series looks done and dusted, barring a miracle.

The reason can be categorieed as bizarre as England's philosophy of playing attacking cricket all the time, even when the situation demands a bit of patience. Only five England batters were able to cross 50-ball mark in both innings combined including Root and Stokes.

Ashes 2025-26: McCullum says England 'over prepared' after Brisbane Test loss

Joe Root has questioned whether the Ashes should include a pink-ball Test ahead of Thursday's day-night fixture in Brisbane. The first pink-ball Test was staged a decade ago and the format was initially devised to boost attendances. The second Test of the 2025-26 Ashes between Australia and England at the Gabba this week will be the 25th played with a pink ball and the fourth in an Ashes series, and tickets have sold out for the first three days.


Joe Root questions need for pink-ball Ashes test 

England pacer Mark Wood is likely to sit out of the second Test match of the ongoing Ashes 2025-26 as he continues to recover from a long-term issue. As revealed by media reports on Saturday (Nov 29), Wood will miss the pink-ball Test in Gabba, which starts on Thursday, while Josh Tongue could be a like-for-like replacement. England are currently trailing 0-1 in the ongoing Ashes against Australia, having lost by eight wickets in Perth.<h2>Mark Wood to miss out Brisbane Test?</h2>Wood recently returned to the Test set-up, having missed the majority of the year due to a knee issue, on which he also had surgery. The pacer, who was part of the all-pace attack in Perth, had surgery in March that addressed medial ligament damage. His last Test match before the return was against Sri Lanka in August 2024. While he is still not 100 per cent, the medical team is closely monitoring his situation and doesn’t want to take any risk.&nbsp;ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-leonard-hutton-to-don-bradman-5-batters-with-highest-individual-score-in-ashes-bob-simpson-bob-cowper-ashes-2025-26-1762276944046">From Leonard Hutton to Don Bradman, 5 batters with highest individual score in Ashes</a>&nbsp;The medical team’s first priority is to keep Wood free of injuries for the rest of the Ashes. He will turn 36 in January, meaning Wood has already passed his peak and will need close match-to-match monitoring in order to stay fit.&nbsp;ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-steve-smith-to-joe-root-5-active-batters-with-most-runs-in-ashes-ben-stokes-jonny-bairstow-usman-khawaja-1762275784636">From Steve Smith to Joe Root, 5 active batters with most runs in Ashes</a>&nbsp;Speaking to Fox Cricket during the opening Test in Perth, Wood conceded he would "definitely not play five".&nbsp;Wood was England's best bowler on show on the 2021-22 tour (17 wickets at 26.64) and he took nine wickets in final Test at Hobart - England's last pink-ball match in Australia. Nevertheless, he will be parked this week, with Josh Tongue likeliest to take his spot.&nbsp;The second Ashes Test will start on Thursday (Dec 4) with England trailing 0-1 and as they try to win their first match Down Under since 2010-11.

As revealed by media reports on Saturday (Nov 29), Mark Wood will miss the pink-ball Test in Gabba, which starts on Thursday, while Josh Tongue could be a like-for-like replacement. 

England pacer Mark Wood is likely to sit out of the second Test match of the ongoing Ashes 2025-26 as he continues to recover from a long-term issue. As revealed by media reports on Saturday (Nov 29), Wood will miss the pink-ball Test in Gabba, which starts on Thursday, while Josh Tongue could be a like-for-like replacement. England are currently trailing 0-1 in the ongoing Ashes against Australia, having lost by eight wickets in Perth. Mark Wood to miss out Brisbane Test? Wood recently returned to the Test set-up, having missed the majority of the year due to a knee issue, on which he also had surgery. The pacer, who was part of the all-pace attack in Perth, had surgery in March that addressed medial ligament damage. His last Test match before the return was against Sri Lanka in August 2024. While he is still not 100 per cent, the medical team is closely monitoring his situation and doesn’t want to take any risk. ALSO READ | From Leonard Hutton to Don Bradman, 5 batters with highest individual score in Ashes The medical team’s first priority is to keep Wood free of injuries for the rest of the Ashes. He will turn 36 in January, meaning Wood has already passed his peak and will need close match-to-match monitoring in order to stay fit. ALSO READ | From Steve Smith to Joe Root, 5 active batters with most runs in Ashes Speaking to Fox Cricket during the opening Test in Perth, Wood conceded he would "definitely not play five". Wood was England's best bowler on show on the 2021-22 tour (17 wickets at 26.64) and he took nine wickets in final Test at Hobart - England's last pink-ball match in Australia. Nevertheless, he will be parked this week, with Josh Tongue likeliest to take his spot. The second Ashes Test will start on Thursday (Dec 4) with England trailing 0-1 and as they try to win their first match Down Under since 2010-11.

As revealed by media reports on Saturday (Nov 29), Mark Wood will miss the pink-ball Test in Gabba, which starts on Thursday, while Josh Tongue could be a like-for-like replacement.&nbsp;

Ashes 2025-26: Mark Wood set to miss pink-ball Test in Gabba, Josh Tongue likely to feature - Report

Former England captain Michael Vaughan has slammed for their lack of preparation for the second Test as the visitors were humbled to a second-day defeat in the opening Ashes Test on Saturday (Nov 22). Playing at the Optus Stadium, England lost by eight wickets after brilliance from Mitchell Starc and Travis Head stole the show. However, the focus is now on the second Test, which will be played under the lights with a pink ball in Brisbane.<h2>Vaughan questions England’s preparations</h2>While a warm-up match has been arranged in the build-up to the second Test at Manuka Oval in Canberra, England won’t be fielding their best XI. In fact, the English will field the England Lions development side, meaning no player from the current roster will be playing in the warm-up match before the big Test in Brisbane. The criticism comes after England have a poor record in pink-ball Tests as they have lost all three matches against Australia.&nbsp;ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-leonard-hutton-to-don-bradman-5-batters-with-highest-individual-score-in-ashes-bob-simpson-bob-cowper-ashes-2025-26-1762276944046">From Leonard Hutton to Don Bradman, 5 batters with highest individual score in Ashes</a>&nbsp;"It's amateurish if England don't go out and practice between now and then," he said, questioning why the team would risk entering a crucial day-night Test underprepared."What harm is it playing two days of cricket with the pink ball under lights? I can't be so old school to suggest that by playing cricket they might get a little bit better," Vaughan said, arguing that match exposure remains irreplaceable.&nbsp;ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-steve-smith-to-joe-root-5-active-batters-with-most-runs-in-ashes-ben-stokes-jonny-bairstow-usman-khawaja-1762275784636">From Steve Smith to Joe Root, 5 active batters with most runs in Ashes</a><h2>What happened in Perth?</h2>Australia made light work of England in the opening Ashes Test as they wrapped up the affairs on Day 2 at the Optus Stadium. With bowlers dominating Day 1 of the Test with 19 wickets, it was the Mitchell Starc and Travis Head show that stole the spotlight as Australia beat England by eight wickets. The win meant it was the first time since 1921 that an Ashes Test finished in two days, as the hosts now lead 1-0 in the series.

Australia made light work of England in the opening Ashes Test as they wrapped up the affairs on Day 2 at the Optus Stadium. With bowlers dominating Day 1 of the Test with 19 wickets, it was the Mitchell Starc and Travis Head show that stole the spotlight.

Former England captain Michael Vaughan has slammed for their lack of preparation for the second Test as the visitors were humbled to a second-day defeat in the opening Ashes Test on Saturday (Nov 22). Playing at the Optus Stadium, England lost by eight wickets after brilliance from Mitchell Starc and Travis Head stole the show. However, the focus is now on the second Test, which will be played under the lights with a pink ball in Brisbane. Vaughan questions England’s preparations While a warm-up match has been arranged in the build-up to the second Test at Manuka Oval in Canberra, England won’t be fielding their best XI. In fact, the English will field the England Lions development side, meaning no player from the current roster will be playing in the warm-up match before the big Test in Brisbane. The criticism comes after England have a poor record in pink-ball Tests as they have lost all three matches against Australia. ALSO READ | From Leonard Hutton to Don Bradman, 5 batters with highest individual score in Ashes "It's amateurish if England don't go out and practice between now and then," he said, questioning why the team would risk entering a crucial day-night Test underprepared. "What harm is it playing two days of cricket with the pink ball under lights? I can't be so old school to suggest that by playing cricket they might get a little bit better," Vaughan said, arguing that match exposure remains irreplaceable. ALSO READ | From Steve Smith to Joe Root, 5 active batters with most runs in Ashes What happened in Perth? Australia made light work of England in the opening Ashes Test as they wrapped up the affairs on Day 2 at the Optus Stadium. With bowlers dominating Day 1 of the Test with 19 wickets, it was the Mitchell Starc and Travis Head show that stole the spotlight as Australia beat England by eight wickets. The win meant it was the first time since 1921 that an Ashes Test finished in two days, as the hosts now lead 1-0 in the series.

Australia made light work of England in the opening Ashes Test as they wrapped up the affairs on Day 2 at the Optus Stadium. With bowlers dominating Day 1 of the Test with 19 wickets, it was the Mitchell Starc and Travis Head show that stole the spotlight.

Ashes: Michael Vaughan questions England's pink-ball Test preparations, says 'what harm is it playing...'

Australia's Cricket team was at its fluent best on Saturday (Nov 22) as they wrapped up the opening Ashes Test in two days to take a 1-0 lead in the five-match series. Led by the energetic Travis Head and the bowling heroics of Mitchell Starc, Australia beat England by eight wickets in a low-scoring affair that could have tilted the match in either side's favour. However, despite this, it is Cricket Australia who is now in worry after the match got over in two days.<h2>Cricket Australia to lose THIS whopping amount</h2>An early finish to the contest meant, Cricket Australia will have to refund tickets purchased for Days 3-5 of the Ashes Test. This means the CA has to refund thousands of fans as no cricket will take place on Sunday (the highest revenue expected) and thereafter. According to Espncricinfo, a record 101,514 attended the Test - 51,531 on Friday, then 49,983 - to surpass the record set of 96,463 in Perth last year when India won in four days. Day three was also almost sold out.&nbsp;ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-leonard-hutton-to-don-bradman-5-batters-with-highest-individual-score-in-ashes-bob-simpson-bob-cowper-ashes-2025-26-1762276944046">From Leonard Hutton to Don Bradman, 5 batters with highest individual score in Ashes</a>&nbsp;Had Day 3 been sold out, it would have set a new record for an Ashes Test at a non-Melbourne venue. CA are headed for an estimated loss of more than AU$3 million ($1.94 million) from ticket revenue for days three and four.&nbsp;"It's difficult for a number of different groups," Greenberg told SEN when discussing the financial impact of a match finishing early. "Our broadcasters, first of all. &nbsp;Certainly, us, on ticket sales and our partners and sponsors. There's a big economic impact on this series."&nbsp;ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-steve-smith-to-joe-root-5-active-batters-with-most-runs-in-ashes-ben-stokes-jonny-bairstow-usman-khawaja-1762275784636">From Steve Smith to Joe Root, 5 active batters with most runs in Ashes</a><h2>What happened in the match?</h2>Australia made light work of England in the opening Ashes 2025-26 Test as they wrapped the affairs on Day 2 at the Optus Stadium. With bowlers dominating Day 1 of the Test with 19 wickets, it was the Mitchell Starc and Travis Head show that stole the spotlight as Australia beat England by eight wickets. The win meant it was the first time since 1921 that an Ashes Test finished in two days, as the hosts now lead 1-0 in the series.

Had Day 3 been sold out, it would have set a new record for an Ashes Test at a non-Melbourne venue. CA are headed for an estimated loss of more than AU$3 million ($1.94 million) from ticket revenue for days three and four.

Australia's Cricket team was at its fluent best on Saturday (Nov 22) as they wrapped up the opening Ashes Test in two days to take a 1-0 lead in the five-match series. Led by the energetic Travis Head and the bowling heroics of Mitchell Starc, Australia beat England by eight wickets in a low-scoring affair that could have tilted the match in either side's favour. However, despite this, it is Cricket Australia who is now in worry after the match got over in two days. Cricket Australia to lose THIS whopping amount An early finish to the contest meant, Cricket Australia will have to refund tickets purchased for Days 3-5 of the Ashes Test. This means the CA has to refund thousands of fans as no cricket will take place on Sunday (the highest revenue expected) and thereafter. According to Espncricinfo, a record 101,514 attended the Test - 51,531 on Friday, then 49,983 - to surpass the record set of 96,463 in Perth last year when India won in four days. Day three was also almost sold out. ALSO READ | From Leonard Hutton to Don Bradman, 5 batters with highest individual score in Ashes Had Day 3 been sold out, it would have set a new record for an Ashes Test at a non-Melbourne venue. CA are headed for an estimated loss of more than AU$3 million ($1.94 million) from ticket revenue for days three and four. "It's difficult for a number of different groups," Greenberg told SEN when discussing the financial impact of a match finishing early. "Our broadcasters, first of all. Certainly, us, on ticket sales and our partners and sponsors. There's a big economic impact on this series." ALSO READ | From Steve Smith to Joe Root, 5 active batters with most runs in Ashes What happened in the match? Australia made light work of England in the opening Ashes 2025-26 Test as they wrapped the affairs on Day 2 at the Optus Stadium. With bowlers dominating Day 1 of the Test with 19 wickets, it was the Mitchell Starc and Travis Head show that stole the spotlight as Australia beat England by eight wickets. The win meant it was the first time since 1921 that an Ashes Test finished in two days, as the hosts now lead 1-0 in the series.

Had Day 3 been sold out, it would have set a new record for an Ashes Test at a non-Melbourne venue. CA are headed for an estimated loss of more than AU$3 million ($1.94 million) from ticket revenue for days three and four.

Ashes 2025-26: Brilliance on the field, but Cricket Australia to lose THIS whopping amount after two-day Test

Australia made light work of England in the opening Ashes 2025-26 Test as they wrapped the affairs on Day 2 at the Optus Stadium in Perth on Saturday (Nov 22). With bowlers dominating Day 1 of the Test with 19 wickets, it was the Mitchell Starc and Travis Head show that stole the spotlight as Australia beat England by eight wickets. The win meant it was for the first time since 1921 that an Ashes Test finished in two days as the hosts now lead 1-0 in the series.<h2>Australia wrap Ashes opener</h2>In what was a Test match dominated by bowlers, Travis Head stole the show on Day 2 as he scored 69-ball hundred, one of the fastest in red-ball cricket. He would eventually score 123 off 83 before getting out as Australia wrapped the Test in record time. Jake Weatherald (23) and Marnus Labuschagne (unbeaten 51) also played key roles as the Aussies chased down 205 in 28.2 overs. Brydon Carse scalped both wickets for the hosts as they maintained their 100 percent win record in the World Test Championship (WTC) 2025-27 cycle.&nbsp;&nbsp;Having bowled out Australia for 132 in their first innings, England were cruising at 65-1 and building an ominous second-innings lead, but Scott Boland and Starc left them reeling with four wickets in as many overs. A ruthless Boland accounted for Ben Duckett (28), Ollie Pope (33) and Harry Brook (0) in the space of 11 balls, then two deliveries later, Starc sent Joe Root packing for eight.&nbsp;ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-leonard-hutton-to-don-bradman-5-batters-with-highest-individual-score-in-ashes-bob-simpson-bob-cowper-ashes-2025-26-1762276944046">From Leonard Hutton to Don Bradman, 5 batters with highest individual score in Ashes</a>&nbsp;When Starc removed skipper Ben Stokes (2), England were flailing at 88-6 and the veteran paceman had bagged a 10-wicket haul for only the third time after his first innings 7-58, a career-best.&nbsp;England were partially rescued by a crucial 50-run stand between Gus Atkinson (37) and Brydon Carse (20) before being rolled for 164 at tea.&nbsp;ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-steve-smith-to-joe-root-5-active-batters-with-most-runs-in-ashes-ben-stokes-jonny-bairstow-usman-khawaja-1762275784636">From Steve Smith to Joe Root, 5 active batters with most runs in Ashes</a>&nbsp;Earlier, Australia were bowled out for 132 with 19 wickets falling on Day 1 of the Perth Test match. England were first bowled out for 172 when Mitchell Starc ended with seven wickets. His career best exploits had seen Australia top of their game before Ben Stokes and Co showed their will in the match, having taken a 40-run lead.&nbsp;However, that lead made no favours as Australia won the match by eight wickets and will now take the field in the second Ashes Test on Dec 4 in Brisbane. In between, England will also have a two-day warm-up match against the Prime Minister's XI at the Manuka Oval in Canberra starting on Nov 29.

With bowlers dominating Day 1 of the Test with 19 wickets, it was the Mitchell Starc and Travis Head show that stole the spotlight as Australia beat England by eight wickets.

Australia made light work of England in the opening Ashes 2025-26 Test as they wrapped the affairs on Day 2 at the Optus Stadium in Perth on Saturday (Nov 22). With bowlers dominating Day 1 of the Test with 19 wickets, it was the Mitchell Starc and Travis Head show that stole the spotlight as Australia beat England by eight wickets. The win meant it was for the first time since 1921 that an Ashes Test finished in two days as the hosts now lead 1-0 in the series. Australia wrap Ashes opener In what was a Test match dominated by bowlers, Travis Head stole the show on Day 2 as he scored 69-ball hundred, one of the fastest in red-ball cricket. He would eventually score 123 off 83 before getting out as Australia wrapped the Test in record time. Jake Weatherald (23) and Marnus Labuschagne (unbeaten 51) also played key roles as the Aussies chased down 205 in 28.2 overs. Brydon Carse scalped both wickets for the hosts as they maintained their 100 percent win record in the World Test Championship (WTC) 2025-27 cycle. Having bowled out Australia for 132 in their first innings, England were cruising at 65-1 and building an ominous second-innings lead, but Scott Boland and Starc left them reeling with four wickets in as many overs. A ruthless Boland accounted for Ben Duckett (28), Ollie Pope (33) and Harry Brook (0) in the space of 11 balls, then two deliveries later, Starc sent Joe Root packing for eight. ALSO READ | From Leonard Hutton to Don Bradman, 5 batters with highest individual score in Ashes When Starc removed skipper Ben Stokes (2), England were flailing at 88-6 and the veteran paceman had bagged a 10-wicket haul for only the third time after his first innings 7-58, a career-best. England were partially rescued by a crucial 50-run stand between Gus Atkinson (37) and Brydon Carse (20) before being rolled for 164 at tea. ALSO READ | From Steve Smith to Joe Root, 5 active batters with most runs in Ashes Earlier, Australia were bowled out for 132 with 19 wickets falling on Day 1 of the Perth Test match. England were first bowled out for 172 when Mitchell Starc ended with seven wickets. His career best exploits had seen Australia top of their game before Ben Stokes and Co showed their will in the match, having taken a 40-run lead. However, that lead made no favours as Australia won the match by eight wickets and will now take the field in the second Ashes Test on Dec 4 in Brisbane. In between, England will also have a two-day warm-up match against the Prime Minister's XI at the Manuka Oval in Canberra starting on Nov 29.

With bowlers dominating Day 1 of the Test with 19 wickets, it was the Mitchell Starc and Travis Head show that stole the spotlight as Australia beat England by eight wickets.

Ashes 2025-26: Starc, Head wreak havoc as Australia wrap Perth opener on Day 2, take 1-0 lead

It was a new Ashes but the same old story for former England captain and batter Joe Root on the opening day of the latest series on Friday (Nov 21). Playing at the Optus Stadium in Perth, Root was dismissed for a seven-ball duck, meaning his poor form continues on the Aussie soil. He was dismissed by the very impressive Mitchell Starc as he wreaked havoc with seven wickets to bowl the English side out for 172 before the Aussie batter had their own struggle with the bat.<h2>Root continues poor form Down Under</h2>Having come out to bat in the seventh over when the score was 33/2, it was the perfect platform for Root to capitalise. However, fortunes had something else written for him as he faced Starc on his territory. However, on the fifth ball of the ninth over, Root’s defense was done for good as he was caught by Marnus Labuschagne for a duck.&nbsp;ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-steve-smith-to-joe-root-5-active-batters-with-most-runs-in-ashes-ben-stokes-jonny-bairstow-usman-khawaja-1762275784636">From Steve Smith to Joe Root, 5 active batters with most runs in Ashes</a>&nbsp;This meant Root could not add to his tally on what is his 15th Test in Australia. In 14 previous Tests, he has amassed just 892 runs at a modest average of 35.68. Despite being one of the best batters of all time and ranking second for most Test runs in the world after Sachin Tendulkar, Root is yet to break his duck for a ton in the red-ball format Down Under. His highest score, standing at 89 at the Gabba in 2021 – a knock that hinted at triumph, but ultimately fell short, remains the closest to a ton.&nbsp;ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-leonard-hutton-to-don-bradman-5-batters-with-highest-individual-score-in-ashes-bob-simpson-bob-cowper-ashes-2025-26-1762276944046">From Leonard Hutton to Don Bradman, 5 batters with highest individual score in Ashes</a>&nbsp;The right-hander has passed 50 on nine occasions — and registered three scores in the 80s — yet has never gone on to make a century.&nbsp;He will have a maximum of nine more innings in what probably could be his last tour to Australia to find the missing piece in the puzzle. &nbsp;

Despite being one of the best batters of all time and ranking second for most Test runs in the world after Sachin Tendulkar, Joe Root is yet to break his duck for a ton in the red-ball format Down Under. 

It was a new Ashes but the same old story for former England captain and batter Joe Root on the opening day of the latest series on Friday (Nov 21). Playing at the Optus Stadium in Perth, Root was dismissed for a seven-ball duck, meaning his poor form continues on the Aussie soil. He was dismissed by the very impressive Mitchell Starc as he wreaked havoc with seven wickets to bowl the English side out for 172 before the Aussie batter had their own struggle with the bat. Root continues poor form Down Under Having come out to bat in the seventh over when the score was 33/2, it was the perfect platform for Root to capitalise. However, fortunes had something else written for him as he faced Starc on his territory. However, on the fifth ball of the ninth over, Root’s defense was done for good as he was caught by Marnus Labuschagne for a duck. ALSO READ | From Steve Smith to Joe Root, 5 active batters with most runs in Ashes This meant Root could not add to his tally on what is his 15th Test in Australia. In 14 previous Tests, he has amassed just 892 runs at a modest average of 35.68. Despite being one of the best batters of all time and ranking second for most Test runs in the world after Sachin Tendulkar, Root is yet to break his duck for a ton in the red-ball format Down Under. His highest score, standing at 89 at the Gabba in 2021 – a knock that hinted at triumph, but ultimately fell short, remains the closest to a ton. ALSO READ | From Leonard Hutton to Don Bradman, 5 batters with highest individual score in Ashes The right-hander has passed 50 on nine occasions — and registered three scores in the 80s — yet has never gone on to make a century. He will have a maximum of nine more innings in what probably could be his last tour to Australia to find the missing piece in the puzzle.

Despite being one of the best batters of all time and ranking second for most Test runs in the world after Sachin Tendulkar, Joe Root is yet to break his duck for a ton in the red-ball format Down Under.&nbsp;

New Ashes, same old Joe Root! England batter falls for duck as lacklustre Down Under form continues to haunt

History was scripted at the Ashes 2025-26 opener on Friday (Nov 21) as both Australia and England went down into the record books for the wrong reasons. While Mitchell Starc was on fire with a seven-wicket haul, it was the opening batters from both sides that went into the record books. The unwanted record was the first time since the birth of the Ashes in 1882 and was the talk of the town at the Optus Stadium in Perth.<h2>Openers register unwanted feat</h2>For the first time in the history of Ashes Tests since 1882, an opening partnership has recorded zero in the first innings for both teams. Having opted to bat first after winning the toss, England batter Zak Crawley was dismissed on the final ball of the opening over of the Ashes when the duck was yet to be broken on the scorecard. Crawley was dismissed after Usman Khawaja caught the catch in slips as Starc was on fire.&nbsp;ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-leonard-hutton-to-don-bradman-5-batters-with-highest-individual-score-in-ashes-bob-simpson-bob-cowper-ashes-2025-26-1762276944046">From Leonard Hutton to Don Bradman, 5 batters with highest individual score in Ashes</a>&nbsp;Fast forward to Australia’s first innings in the second session after England were bowled out for 172, it was the hosts who were on the receiving end. Jake Weatherald, on debut, was dismissed for a second-ball duck by Jofra Archer. His lbw wicket meant, for the first time in the history of the Ashes, both innings of an Ashes match started with a zero-run partnership.&nbsp;ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-steve-smith-to-joe-root-5-active-batters-with-most-runs-in-ashes-ben-stokes-jonny-bairstow-usman-khawaja-1762275784636">From Steve Smith to Joe Root, 5 active batters with most runs in Ashes</a><h2>Starc wrecks havoc</h2>Having got the better of Crawley in the opening over, the legendary Aussie bowler continued his exploits with the ball as he helped bowl out England for 172. Starc’s prey on the day were Ben Duckett (21), Joe Root (0), Ben Stokes (6), Jamie Smith (33), Gus Atkinson (1) and Mark Wood (0). His exploits meant it was his best bowling figures in the red-ball format.&nbsp;At the time of writing, Australia started their second innings and were 15/1 in 10 overs.

Having opted to bat first after winning the toss, England batter Zak Crawley was dismissed on the final ball of the opening over of the Ashes when the duck was yet to be broken on the scorecard.

History was scripted at the Ashes 2025-26 opener on Friday (Nov 21) as both Australia and England went down into the record books for the wrong reasons. While Mitchell Starc was on fire with a seven-wicket haul, it was the opening batters from both sides that went into the record books. The unwanted record was the first time since the birth of the Ashes in 1882 and was the talk of the town at the Optus Stadium in Perth. Openers register unwanted feat For the first time in the history of Ashes Tests since 1882, an opening partnership has recorded zero in the first innings for both teams. Having opted to bat first after winning the toss, England batter Zak Crawley was dismissed on the final ball of the opening over of the Ashes when the duck was yet to be broken on the scorecard. Crawley was dismissed after Usman Khawaja caught the catch in slips as Starc was on fire. ALSO READ | From Leonard Hutton to Don Bradman, 5 batters with highest individual score in Ashes Fast forward to Australia’s first innings in the second session after England were bowled out for 172, it was the hosts who were on the receiving end. Jake Weatherald, on debut, was dismissed for a second-ball duck by Jofra Archer. His lbw wicket meant, for the first time in the history of the Ashes, both innings of an Ashes match started with a zero-run partnership. ALSO READ | From Steve Smith to Joe Root, 5 active batters with most runs in Ashes Starc wrecks havoc Having got the better of Crawley in the opening over, the legendary Aussie bowler continued his exploits with the ball as he helped bowl out England for 172. Starc’s prey on the day were Ben Duckett (21), Joe Root (0), Ben Stokes (6), Jamie Smith (33), Gus Atkinson (1) and Mark Wood (0). His exploits meant it was his best bowling figures in the red-ball format. At the time of writing, Australia started their second innings and were 15/1 in 10 overs.

Having opted to bat first after winning the toss, England batter Zak Crawley was dismissed on the final ball of the opening over of the Ashes when the duck was yet to be broken on the scorecard.

Unbelievable! History scripted at Ashes as Australia-England openers register THIS unwanted feat

Ben Stokes took six wickets on Thursday in his first game since July but, in a scare, pace spearhead Mark Wood complained of hamstring stiffness during England's only warm-up game before the first Ashes Test against Australia.England captain Stokes had not played since hurting his shoulder against India, but put any fitness concerns to bed against the second-tier England Lions in Perth.&nbsp;He ended day one of a low-key three-day clash at Lilac Hill with 6-52, while Will Jacks (84) and Ben McKinney (67) impressed with the bat as the Lions made 382.&nbsp;England dropped a heavy hint of their plans for the opening Test in Perth next week by selecting an all-pace attack, omitting spinner Shoaib Bashir.&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-sa-1st-test-god-has-been-says-indias-vice-captain-post-comeback-after-nearly-four-months-1763027499667">IND vs SA, 1st Test: 'God has been...', says India's vice-captain post comeback after nearly four months</a>&nbsp;Wood returned after almost nine months on the sidelines following knee surgery and got through eight overs before leaving the field with stiffness in his left hamstring.&nbsp;"The plan for Mark Wood was for him to bowl eight overs today," said the England Cricket Board.&nbsp;"He has some stiffness in his left hamstring which kept him off the field for some time during the second session of the first day and will undergo a precautionary scan tomorrow.&nbsp;"He is expected to bowl again in two days' time."&nbsp;The injury-prone Jofra Archer sent down 12.3 overs in an attack that also boasted speedsters Josh Tongue and Gus Atkinson.&nbsp;Also Check - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/5-active-bowlers-with-most-wickets-in-the-ashes-nathan-lyon-mitchell-starc-pat-cummins-josh-hazlewood-mark-wood-1762340234128">From Mitchell Starc to Mark Wood, 5 active bowlers with most wickets in The Ashes</a>&nbsp;Fellow quick Brydon Carse was unwell and remained at the team hotel.Ollie Pope got the nod to bat at number three for England and saw off the challenge of Jacob Bethell, who did little to further his case by making just two before becoming one of Stokes' victims.&nbsp;The clash is England's only red-ball warm-up ahead of the five-Test series in a strategy criticised by former greats, including Ian Botham and Geoffrey Boycott.&nbsp;Stokes defended their preparations on Wednesday, saying the modern cricket schedule was "jam-packed" and the team's options were limited.&nbsp;Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

England dropped a heavy hint of their plans for the opening Test in Perth next week by selecting an all-pace attack, omitting spinner Shoaib Bashir.

Ben Stokes took six wickets on Thursday in his first game since July but, in a scare, pace spearhead Mark Wood complained of hamstring stiffness during England's only warm-up game before the first Ashes Test against Australia. England captain Stokes had not played since hurting his shoulder against India, but put any fitness concerns to bed against the second-tier England Lions in Perth. He ended day one of a low-key three-day clash at Lilac Hill with 6-52, while Will Jacks (84) and Ben McKinney (67) impressed with the bat as the Lions made 382. England dropped a heavy hint of their plans for the opening Test in Perth next week by selecting an all-pace attack, omitting spinner Shoaib Bashir. Also Read - IND vs SA, 1st Test: 'God has been...', says India's vice-captain post comeback after nearly four months Wood returned after almost nine months on the sidelines following knee surgery and got through eight overs before leaving the field with stiffness in his left hamstring. "The plan for Mark Wood was for him to bowl eight overs today," said the England Cricket Board. "He has some stiffness in his left hamstring which kept him off the field for some time during the second session of the first day and will undergo a precautionary scan tomorrow. "He is expected to bowl again in two days' time." The injury-prone Jofra Archer sent down 12.3 overs in an attack that also boasted speedsters Josh Tongue and Gus Atkinson. Also Check - From Mitchell Starc to Mark Wood, 5 active bowlers with most wickets in The Ashes Fellow quick Brydon Carse was unwell and remained at the team hotel. Ollie Pope got the nod to bat at number three for England and saw off the challenge of Jacob Bethell, who did little to further his case by making just two before becoming one of Stokes' victims. The clash is England's only red-ball warm-up ahead of the five-Test series in a strategy criticised by former greats, including Ian Botham and Geoffrey Boycott. Stokes defended their preparations on Wednesday, saying the modern cricket schedule was "jam-packed" and the team's options were limited. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

England dropped a heavy hint of their plans for the opening Test in Perth next week by selecting an all-pace attack, omitting spinner Shoaib Bashir.

Ashes 2025: Major blow to England as Mark Wood sent for scan after hamstring stiffness

Steve Smith, Australia's stand-in skipper for the first Ashes Test, thinks that England are going 'wrong way' by planning to go with full-on pace attack in Perth. The statemen comes nearly a week before the the Ashes opener at Optus Stadium which starts November 21. All of England's pacers in the squad are able to clock in excess of 145 km/h mark and are spearheaded by Mark Wood and Jofra Archer. Both, Wood and Archer would be eager to make a mark early in the series as England aim to win first Ashes Down Under since 2011.<h2>Smith on England's all pace plan</h2>"Those sort of nibblers can be quite tricky," Smith said, as reported by cricket.com.au on if England's pacers will have an impact in Perth. "So they might have got things the wrong way around, if that makes sense, in terms of the pace from previous years. But obviously they've got those guys at their disposal now. They probably weren't fit, ready or old enough a few years back."Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/pcb-chief-naqvi-confirms-new-dates-for-sl-odis-after-sri-lanka-board-threatens-players-with-formal-review-on-leaving-pakistan-1763004960843">PCB chief Naqvi confirms new dates for SL ODIs after Sri Lanka board threatens players with 'formal review' on leaving Pakistan</a>This would be first time in more than a decade that England will be playing without James Anderson and Stuart Broad, both of whom relied on swing rather than pace.<h2>Australia survive Hazlewood injury scare</h2>Playing in Australia premier domestic red-ball tournament Sheffield Shield for New South Wales, premium international pacer Josh Hazlewood and Ashes squad back-up quick Sean Abbott left the field on day three of the match against Victoria. The pacers had already bowled nine overs each in the second innings. The duo did not take the field after lunch on day 3 of the match and were taken for scans for hamstring issues.After the scans, Hazlewood was cleared to play in the first Tests as he only had some tightness in hamstring while Abbott has been withdrawn from the squad as after scans revealed moderate grade strain.

All of England's pacers in the squad are able to clock in excess of 145 km/h mark and are spearheaded by Mark Wood and Jofra Archer. Both, Wood and Archer would be eager to make a mark early in the series as England aim to win first Ashes Down Under since 2011.

Steve Smith, Australia's stand-in skipper for the first Ashes Test, thinks that England are going 'wrong way' by planning to go with full-on pace attack in Perth. The statemen comes nearly a week before the the Ashes opener at Optus Stadium which starts November 21. All of England's pacers in the squad are able to clock in excess of 145 km/h mark and are spearheaded by Mark Wood and Jofra Archer. Both, Wood and Archer would be eager to make a mark early in the series as England aim to win first Ashes Down Under since 2011. Smith on England's all pace plan "Those sort of nibblers can be quite tricky," Smith said, as reported by cricket.com.au on if England's pacers will have an impact in Perth. "So they might have got things the wrong way around, if that makes sense, in terms of the pace from previous years. But obviously they've got those guys at their disposal now. They probably weren't fit, ready or old enough a few years back." Also Read - PCB chief Naqvi confirms new dates for SL ODIs after Sri Lanka board threatens players with 'formal review' on leaving Pakistan This would be first time in more than a decade that England will be playing without James Anderson and Stuart Broad, both of whom relied on swing rather than pace. Australia survive Hazlewood injury scare Playing in Australia premier domestic red-ball tournament Sheffield Shield for New South Wales, premium international pacer Josh Hazlewood and Ashes squad back-up quick Sean Abbott left the field on day three of the match against Victoria. The pacers had already bowled nine overs each in the second innings. The duo did not take the field after lunch on day 3 of the match and were taken for scans for hamstring issues. After the scans, Hazlewood was cleared to play in the first Tests as he only had some tightness in hamstring while Abbott has been withdrawn from the squad as after scans revealed moderate grade strain.

All of England's pacers in the squad are able to clock in excess of 145 km/h mark and are spearheaded by Mark Wood and Jofra Archer. Both, Wood and Archer would be eager to make a mark early in the series as England aim to win first Ashes Down Under since 2011.

Ashes: Smith says England going 'wrong way' by choosing pace for Perth Test

Here is a look at five biggest win margins in Ashes history by runs only as England and Australia square off in the latest series starting from November 21. The biggest win in the history of the Ashes came in 1928 as England beat Australia. 

Here is a look at five biggest win margins in Ashes history by runs only as England and Australia square off in the latest series starting from November 21. The biggest win in the history of the Ashes came in 1928 as England beat Australia.&nbsp;

5 Biggest win margins in Ashes history (by runs only)

With less than 10 days to for the first Ashes Test which is set to being on November 21 in Perth, hosts Australia suffered a double injury scare. Playing in Australia premier domestic red-ball tournament Sheffield Shield for New South Wales, premium international pacer Josh Hazlewood and Ashes squad back-up quick Sean Abbott left the field on day three of the match against Victoria. Australia are already without regular skipper and pacer Pat Cummins for the opening Test of the five-match series and an injury to Hazlewood would have only increased their problems.<h2>Hazlewood, Abbott give injury scare of Australia before Ashes opener</h2>The pacers had already bowled nine overs each in the second innings. The duo did not take the field after lunch on day 3 of the match and were taken for scans for hamstring issues. The news was confirmed by Cummins who himself is out of the Perth Test.Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/icc-mulls-reviving-odi-super-league-to-keep-waning-50-over-format-relevant-1762922024306">What is ODI Super League? ICC mulls reviving 13-team tournament to keep waning 50-over format relevant</a>"There was a bit happening there for an hour or so. They both got scans," Cummins said. "Haven't 100% got across all the details. I think Josh, he was pretty chipper when he got out [of the scans], so hopefully he should be fine. Sean, I'm not so sure about. I think they are still assessing.After the scans, Hazlewood was cleared to play in the first Tests as he only had some tightness in hamstring while Abbott has been withdrawn from the squad as after scans revealed moderate grade strain.<h2>Who else is in Australia pace department for Perth</h2>Australia had named two pacers as reserve quicks in the squad for the first Test - Brendon Doggett and Sean Abbott. With Abbott has now been withdrawn from the squad, it is Doggett who could see himself playing in Perth if a pacer among Starc, Boland and Hazlewood suffers an injury.England, on the other hand, are firing on all cylinders with express pacers Mark Wood and Jofra Archer raring to go in visitors' quest for the first Ashes urn victory since 2011.

After the scans, Hazlewood was cleared to play in the first Tests as he only had some tightness in hamstring while Abbott has been withdrawn from the squad as after scans revealed moderate grade strain.

With less than 10 days to for the first Ashes Test which is set to being on November 21 in Perth, hosts Australia suffered a double injury scare. Playing in Australia premier domestic red-ball tournament Sheffield Shield for New South Wales, premium international pacer Josh Hazlewood and Ashes squad back-up quick Sean Abbott left the field on day three of the match against Victoria. Australia are already without regular skipper and pacer Pat Cummins for the opening Test of the five-match series and an injury to Hazlewood would have only increased their problems. Hazlewood, Abbott give injury scare of Australia before Ashes opener The pacers had already bowled nine overs each in the second innings. The duo did not take the field after lunch on day 3 of the match and were taken for scans for hamstring issues. The news was confirmed by Cummins who himself is out of the Perth Test. Also Read - What is ODI Super League? ICC mulls reviving 13-team tournament to keep waning 50-over format relevant "There was a bit happening there for an hour or so. They both got scans," Cummins said. "Haven't 100% got across all the details. I think Josh, he was pretty chipper when he got out [of the scans], so hopefully he should be fine. Sean, I'm not so sure about. I think they are still assessing. After the scans, Hazlewood was cleared to play in the first Tests as he only had some tightness in hamstring while Abbott has been withdrawn from the squad as after scans revealed moderate grade strain. Who else is in Australia pace department for Perth Australia had named two pacers as reserve quicks in the squad for the first Test - Brendon Doggett and Sean Abbott. With Abbott has now been withdrawn from the squad, it is Doggett who could see himself playing in Perth if a pacer among Starc, Boland and Hazlewood suffers an injury. England, on the other hand, are firing on all cylinders with express pacers Mark Wood and Jofra Archer raring to go in visitors' quest for the first Ashes urn victory since 2011.

After the scans, Hazlewood was cleared to play in the first Tests as he only had some tightness in hamstring while Abbott has been withdrawn from the squad as after scans revealed moderate grade strain.

Hazlewood clear to play in Ashes opener after injury scare; reserve pacer Abbott out

The Ashes is just 10 days away and the England are pumped by the support they have from fans as a side capable to winning the urn Down Under - a first since 2011. England opener Ben Duckett has also said that the team will be 'evolving' from being 'entertaining and reckless at times' - a key factor in their Bazball approach under coach Brendon McCullum. Duckett's statement hints at England moving towards more of a traditional approach to Test cricket when required and not going gung-ho all the time even when not required.<h2>Duckett hints at England's departure from Bazball in Tests</h2>"It's not just being this entertaining, reckless at times, side. And it's something that I've got frustrated with myself in the past, where I might have got 80 off 60 and it looks great and stuff, but they're going to put my side in a good position. So it's realising moments and doing that and then kicking on and getting a big score. And I think that's where we're really wanting to go as a side now," he said in a conversation with Willow Talk podcast.Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/unknown-attackers-shoot-at-pakistan-pacer-naseem-shah-s-house-1762839390858">Unknown attackers shoot at Pakistan pacer Naseem Shah's house</a><h2>England face ageing Australia</h2>The average age of Australia's squad for the opening Perth Test is 33 years compared to 28 of England. There's been a lot of criticism of Australia selectors by the country's former players including Steve Waugh and Greg Chappell for not being bold in their choices. Australia have included 31-year-old Jake Weatherald as opener for the first Test and dropped youngster Sam Konstas who made his debut against India in home Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) in December last year. Konstas had impressed with a 60 on his debut but a string of low scores leading up to the Perth Test squad selection saw him sidelined for the first Ashes Test.

Duckett's statement hints at England moving towards more of a traditional approach to Test cricket when required and not going gung-ho all the time even when not required.

The Ashes is just 10 days away and the England are pumped by the support they have from fans as a side capable to winning the urn Down Under - a first since 2011. England opener Ben Duckett has also said that the team will be 'evolving' from being 'entertaining and reckless at times' - a key factor in their Bazball approach under coach Brendon McCullum. Duckett's statement hints at England moving towards more of a traditional approach to Test cricket when required and not going gung-ho all the time even when not required. Duckett hints at England's departure from Bazball in Tests "It's not just being this entertaining, reckless at times, side. And it's something that I've got frustrated with myself in the past, where I might have got 80 off 60 and it looks great and stuff, but they're going to put my side in a good position. So it's realising moments and doing that and then kicking on and getting a big score. And I think that's where we're really wanting to go as a side now," he said in a conversation with Willow Talk podcast. Also Read - Unknown attackers shoot at Pakistan pacer Naseem Shah's house England face ageing Australia The average age of Australia's squad for the opening Perth Test is 33 years compared to 28 of England. There's been a lot of criticism of Australia selectors by the country's former players including Steve Waugh and Greg Chappell for not being bold in their choices. Australia have included 31-year-old Jake Weatherald as opener for the first Test and dropped youngster Sam Konstas who made his debut against India in home Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) in December last year. Konstas had impressed with a 60 on his debut but a string of low scores leading up to the Perth Test squad selection saw him sidelined for the first Ashes Test.

Duckett's statement hints at England moving towards more of a traditional approach to Test cricket when required and not going gung-ho all the time even when not required.

Duckett hints at England moving on from 'entertaining, reckless at times' Bazball in Ashes

Explosive young opening batsman Sam Konstas was on Tuesday awarded his first central contract by Cricket Australia for the 2025-26 season, which includes the World Test Championship final and the Ashes against England.
The 19-year-old Konstas made headlines against India in the Melbourne Boxing Day Test when he took on fast bowler Jasprit Bumrah to make a memorable debut 60 off 65 balls, with six fours and two sixes.
Konstas is one of 23 men's players on the Cricket Australia contracted list issued Tuesday.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/history-making-west-indies-opener-quits-test-captaincy-head-coach-sammy-picks-new-t20i-skipper-kraigg-brathwaite-shai-hope-8911385">Kraigg Brathwaite quits as West Indies Test captain; head coach Sammy picks new T20I skipper</a>
"In Sam we see promising upside in a young player who will continue to develop at first-class level and in the international environment," said Australia's chair of selectors George Bailey.
Also new to the list is left-arm spinner Matthew Kuhnemann, who was player of the series in the 2-0 Test win in Sri Lanka earlier this year with 16 wickets.
The 28-year-old was then reported by match officials for a suspect bowling action but subsequently cleared after testing at the National Cricket Centre in Brisbane.
"Matt was outstanding once again in Sri Lanka and we believe he can play a key role across the next 18 months," said Bailey.
All-rounder Beau Webster, who scored 57 on his Test debut in the fifth India Test at Sydney and then hit the winning runs in the second innings, was retained after being upgraded to the contracted list during last season.
The 31-year-old can also bowl medium-fast or off-spin.
"In Beau's case he proved more than comfortable at Test level with bat and ball, adds an additional dimension in the field and to the balance of the side," Bailey said.
Australia will play South Africa in the World Test Championship final at Lord's in June followed by three Tests in the West Indies.&nbsp;
The first of five Ashes Tests is at Perth in November.&nbsp;
Cricket Australia contracted men's players 2025-26: Xavier Bartlett, Scott Boland, Alex Carey, Pat Cummins, Nathan Ellis, Cameron Green, Josh Hazlewood, Travis Head, Josh Inglis, Usman Khawaja, Sam Konstas, Matthew Kuhnemann, Marnus Labuschagne, Nathan Lyon, Mitchell Marsh, Glenn Maxwell, Lance Morris, Jhye Richardson, Matt Short, Steve Smith, Mitchell Starc, Beau Webster, Adam Zampa&nbsp;

Also new to the list is left-arm spinner Matthew Kuhnemann, who was player of the series in the 2-0 Test win in Sri Lanka earlier this year with 16 wickets. Cricket Sports

Explosive young opening batsman Sam Konstas was on Tuesday awarded his first central contract by Cricket Australia for the 2025-26 season, which includes the World Test Championship final and the Ashes against England. The 19-year-old Konstas made headlines against India in the Melbourne Boxing Day Test when he took on fast bowler Jasprit Bumrah to make a memorable debut 60 off 65 balls, with six fours and two sixes. Konstas is one of 23 men's players on the Cricket Australia contracted list issued Tuesday. Also Read: Kraigg Brathwaite quits as West Indies Test captain; head coach Sammy picks new T20I skipper "In Sam we see promising upside in a young player who will continue to develop at first-class level and in the international environment," said Australia's chair of selectors George Bailey. Also new to the list is left-arm spinner Matthew Kuhnemann, who was player of the series in the 2-0 Test win in Sri Lanka earlier this year with 16 wickets. The 28-year-old was then reported by match officials for a suspect bowling action but subsequently cleared after testing at the National Cricket Centre in Brisbane. "Matt was outstanding once again in Sri Lanka and we believe he can play a key role across the next 18 months," said Bailey. All-rounder Beau Webster, who scored 57 on his Test debut in the fifth India Test at Sydney and then hit the winning runs in the second innings, was retained after being upgraded to the contracted list during last season. The 31-year-old can also bowl medium-fast or off-spin. "In Beau's case he proved more than comfortable at Test level with bat and ball, adds an additional dimension in the field and to the balance of the side," Bailey said. Australia will play South Africa in the World Test Championship final at Lord's in June followed by three Tests in the West Indies. The first of five Ashes Tests is at Perth in November. Cricket Australia contracted men's players 2025-26: Xavier Bartlett, Scott Boland, Alex Carey, Pat Cummins, Nathan Ellis, Cameron Green, Josh Hazlewood, Travis Head, Josh Inglis, Usman Khawaja, Sam Konstas, Matthew Kuhnemann, Marnus Labuschagne, Nathan Lyon, Mitchell Marsh, Glenn Maxwell, Lance Morris, Jhye Richardson, Matt Short, Steve Smith, Mitchell Starc, Beau Webster, Adam Zampa

Sam Konstas awarded Australia's central contract with eyes on Ashes

The England Cricket Board (ECB) on Saturday announced Heather Knight will leave her role as captain of the women's team a day after head coach Jon Lewis was dismissed following a 16-0 Ashes humiliation in Australia earlier this year. The 34-year-old Knight had captained England 199 times since 2016, guiding the team to World Cup glory in 2017 and two other finals.<o:p></o:p>
"Heather Knight is to leave her role as captain of the England Women's cricket team after nearly nine years," the ECB said in a statement. "She will continue to be available for England selection."<o:p></o:p>
The ECB added that it "has decided to appoint a new Captain to lead the team into a new era".<o:p></o:p>
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/cwi-enhances-player-protection-policy-after-sexual-assault-allegations-in-west-indies-womens-team-t20-world-cup-2020-8879893" rel="dofollow">CWI enhances player protection policy after sexual assault allegations in West Indies women&rsquo;s team</a>
Her exit comes after former England bowler Lewis, who also oversaw a disappointing campaign at last year's T20 World Cup, was also dismissed after a wide-ranging ECB review.<o:p></o:p>
Knight earned 134 victories as captain, including leading the team to a record-breaking run of eight consecutive ODI series wins, but had disappointing displays at both the 2024 T20 World Cup in the United Arab Emirates and the whitewash in Australia earlier this year.<o:p></o:p>
"Captaining my country for the last nine years has been the biggest honour of my life and I will look back on my tenure with an enormous sense of pride," said Knight. "I have loved the challenge of leading the team, but all good things come to an end and it's time for me to go back into the ranks and focus on being the best batter and team-mate that I can be for the team."<o:p></o:p>
England's women, who have not won a trophy since the 50-over World Cup in 2017, play white-ball series against West Indies and India before a 50-over World Cup in India later this year.
Disclaimer:&nbsp;This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Cricket, Sports: The 34-year-old Knight had captained England 199 times since 2016, guiding the team to World Cup glory in 2017 and two other finals.

The England Cricket Board (ECB) on Saturday announced Heather Knight will leave her role as captain of the women's team a day after head coach Jon Lewis was dismissed following a 16-0 Ashes humiliation in Australia earlier this year. The 34-year-old Knight had captained England 199 times since 2016, guiding the team to World Cup glory in 2017 and two other finals. "Heather Knight is to leave her role as captain of the England Women's cricket team after nearly nine years," the ECB said in a statement. "She will continue to be available for England selection." The ECB added that it "has decided to appoint a new Captain to lead the team into a new era". Also read | CWI enhances player protection policy after sexual assault allegations in West Indies women’s team Her exit comes after former England bowler Lewis, who also oversaw a disappointing campaign at last year's T20 World Cup, was also dismissed after a wide-ranging ECB review. Knight earned 134 victories as captain, including leading the team to a record-breaking run of eight consecutive ODI series wins, but had disappointing displays at both the 2024 T20 World Cup in the United Arab Emirates and the whitewash in Australia earlier this year. "Captaining my country for the last nine years has been the biggest honour of my life and I will look back on my tenure with an enormous sense of pride," said Knight. "I have loved the challenge of leading the team, but all good things come to an end and it's time for me to go back into the ranks and focus on being the best batter and team-mate that I can be for the team." England's women, who have not won a trophy since the 50-over World Cup in 2017, play white-ball series against West Indies and India before a 50-over World Cup in India later this year. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Heather Knight steps down as England women's captain after nine-year reign

Steve Smith will turn 36 this year, closing in on hanging his boots from the remaining two formats after announcing his <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/the-final-shuffle-steve-smiths-odi-career-comes-to-a-close-8796381" rel="dofollow">shock ODI retirement</a> following Australia&rsquo;s exit from the ongoing <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/champions-trophy" rel="dofollow">Champions Trophy 2025</a>. Smith called time on his ODI career after losing to India in the semis tie in Dubai, where he top-scored for his team, hitting 77 in the first innings. However, the latest reports suggest that he has set his sights on his last away Ashes in 2027.
Smith is a batting giant, with his international numbers reflecting his class. The right-handed batter has scored over 17,000 runs across formats, with the bulk of them (10,271 runs in 116 matches) coming in Tests. Though he cleared his ambition of featuring in more franchise-based T20 Leagues worldwide since stepping aside from the ODIs, Smith kept Test cricket on the pedestal, wanting to give more to the format he thrives in the most.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/ind-vs-nz-rachin-ravindra-receives-highest-praise-from-england-great-ahead-of-champions-trophy-final-against-india-8829780" rel="dofollow">Rachin Ravindra receives highest praise from England great ahead of Champions Trophy showdown</a>
Per the latest report, Smith&rsquo;s ODI retirement has opened doors for him to stretch his Test career till the next two years, pushing for a final away Ashes appearance. By then, Smith will turn 38, trying to render his reflexes to play the moving ball in the chilly English conditions.
In a report published by Australian outlet The Age, Smith&rsquo;s manager Warren Craig has dismissed any thought of Smith giving up on his Test career anytime soon, indicating his want to feature against England (in their conditions) in the cricket&rsquo;s oldest rivalry.&nbsp;
&ldquo;He hasn&rsquo;t ruled anything out,&rdquo; Smith&rsquo;s manager said in a chat with The Age. &ldquo;He is still enjoying Test cricket, and whilst he still has that enjoyment, he will continue to play.&rdquo;
<h2>What&rsquo;s next for Smudge?</h2>
Known as Smudge among the fans and teammates, Smith has plenty of time to rest (this year) since he went unsold at the IPL Auction 2025 before resuming cricket.&nbsp;
Australia&rsquo;s next Test assignment is an away tour of the Caribbean, which begins shortly after (1st Test starting on June 25) the third WTC Final at the Lord&rsquo;s (June 11-15), where Australia will defend its title against the maiden finalist South Africa, where Smith would want to remain in shape and form for the home Ashes later this year.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/ind-vs-nz-champions-trophy-final-its-all-part-of-challenges-new-zealand-captain-santner-on-travel-row-8829569" rel="dofollow">IND vs NZ Champions Trophy Final: New Zealand captain Santner spares India in 'travel row' remark</a>
Besides Tests, Smith remains available for selection in the T20Is, and with Australia playing five against West Indies, he will stay in contention for a lengthy away tour.
Meanwhile, the home Ashes begins with the first Test at the Optus Stadium in Perth starting November 21.&nbsp;
(With inputs from agencies)

Sports, Cricket: After stepping aside from ODIs, Steve Smith kept Test cricket on the pedestal, wanting to give more to the format he thrives in the most.

Steve Smith will turn 36 this year, closing in on hanging his boots from the remaining two formats after announcing his shock ODI retirement following Australia’s exit from the ongoing Champions Trophy 2025. Smith called time on his ODI career after losing to India in the semis tie in Dubai, where he top-scored for his team, hitting 77 in the first innings. However, the latest reports suggest that he has set his sights on his last away Ashes in 2027. Smith is a batting giant, with his international numbers reflecting his class. The right-handed batter has scored over 17,000 runs across formats, with the bulk of them (10,271 runs in 116 matches) coming in Tests. Though he cleared his ambition of featuring in more franchise-based T20 Leagues worldwide since stepping aside from the ODIs, Smith kept Test cricket on the pedestal, wanting to give more to the format he thrives in the most. Also read | Rachin Ravindra receives highest praise from England great ahead of Champions Trophy showdown Per the latest report, Smith’s ODI retirement has opened doors for him to stretch his Test career till the next two years, pushing for a final away Ashes appearance. By then, Smith will turn 38, trying to render his reflexes to play the moving ball in the chilly English conditions. In a report published by Australian outlet The Age, Smith’s manager Warren Craig has dismissed any thought of Smith giving up on his Test career anytime soon, indicating his want to feature against England (in their conditions) in the cricket’s oldest rivalry. “He hasn’t ruled anything out,” Smith’s manager said in a chat with The Age. “He is still enjoying Test cricket, and whilst he still has that enjoyment, he will continue to play.” What’s next for Smudge? Known as Smudge among the fans and teammates, Smith has plenty of time to rest (this year) since he went unsold at the IPL Auction 2025 before resuming cricket. Australia’s next Test assignment is an away tour of the Caribbean, which begins shortly after (1st Test starting on June 25) the third WTC Final at the Lord’s (June 11-15), where Australia will defend its title against the maiden finalist South Africa, where Smith would want to remain in shape and form for the home Ashes later this year. Also read | IND vs NZ Champions Trophy Final: New Zealand captain Santner spares India in 'travel row' remark Besides Tests, Smith remains available for selection in the T20Is, and with Australia playing five against West Indies, he will stay in contention for a lengthy away tour. Meanwhile, the home Ashes begins with the first Test at the Optus Stadium in Perth starting November 21. (With inputs from agencies)

Steve Smith's ODI retirement opens door for his last away Ashes in 2027 – Report

Former <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/england">England</a> cricketer and left-arm spinner Alex Hartley has said that she had pretty few tough days and has been &lsquo;hit pretty hard&rsquo; by some of her former England teammates during the Women&rsquo;s Ashes after Alex questioned their fitness levels.&nbsp;
The 31-year-old said some England players were "letting the team down when it comes to fitness" last autumn following their early exit from the T20 World Cup.&nbsp;
Alex, who played 26 ODIs and four T20Is for England, is working as an expert for radio and TV networks in Australia and revealed she was refused an interview by left-arm spinner Sophie Ecclestone during the first T20I which England lost.&nbsp;
"It's been a pretty tough few days for me," Hartley told TNT Sports. "I wasn't expecting it to be in the newspapers and all over the UK press so it has actually hit me, personally, pretty hard."&nbsp;
"Ultimately, I was frustrated and upset with the events that unfolded before that first T20."&nbsp;
<h2>Team has lot of love for Alex: Amy Jones</h2>
England wicketkeeper Amy Jones said she "doesn't think it is the case" that Hartley has been shunned and that the team have a "lot of love" for the former spinner.&nbsp;
Former England women&rsquo;s batter Ebony Rainford-Brent said the incident around Alex showed the difficulty cricketers face when they move into life as a commentator while backing the spinner to do her job well as a broadcaster in Australia.&nbsp;
"I know about moving out of the dressing room, I moved into commentary two weeks later and you don't want to be rubbishing your mates because you're then going to call them for a prosecco and they don't want it. What I like about Hartley is that she is saying the truth, that she feels the players haven't been fit and she's put it out there."&nbsp;
"She is doing what she should be doing as a broadcaster. From Ecclestone's perspective, I'm disappointed she didn't follow through with the interview because as a player, there are jobs on the field and jobs off the field,&rdquo; she said.
&ldquo;Women's sport is now in the public eye, my taxi driver today said he had never watched cricket but he knew about this story. Women's sport is on the rise and we've all got to adapt quicker."
(With inputs from agencies)

Cricket Sports: Alex, who played 26 ODIs and four T20Is for England, is working as an expert for radio and TV networks in Australia and revealed she was refused an interview by left-arm spinner Sophie Ecclestone during the first T20I, which England lost

Former England cricketer and left-arm spinner Alex Hartley has said that she had pretty few tough days and has been ‘hit pretty hard’ by some of her former England teammates during the Women’s Ashes after Alex questioned their fitness levels. The 31-year-old said some England players were "letting the team down when it comes to fitness" last autumn following their early exit from the T20 World Cup. Alex, who played 26 ODIs and four T20Is for England, is working as an expert for radio and TV networks in Australia and revealed she was refused an interview by left-arm spinner Sophie Ecclestone during the first T20I which England lost. "It's been a pretty tough few days for me," Hartley told TNT Sports. "I wasn't expecting it to be in the newspapers and all over the UK press so it has actually hit me, personally, pretty hard." "Ultimately, I was frustrated and upset with the events that unfolded before that first T20." Team has lot of love for Alex: Amy Jones England wicketkeeper Amy Jones said she "doesn't think it is the case" that Hartley has been shunned and that the team have a "lot of love" for the former spinner. Former England women’s batter Ebony Rainford-Brent said the incident around Alex showed the difficulty cricketers face when they move into life as a commentator while backing the spinner to do her job well as a broadcaster in Australia. "I know about moving out of the dressing room, I moved into commentary two weeks later and you don't want to be rubbishing your mates because you're then going to call them for a prosecco and they don't want it. What I like about Hartley is that she is saying the truth, that she feels the players haven't been fit and she's put it out there." "She is doing what she should be doing as a broadcaster. From Ecclestone's perspective, I'm disappointed she didn't follow through with the interview because as a player, there are jobs on the field and jobs off the field,” she said. “Women's sport is now in the public eye, my taxi driver today said he had never watched cricket but he knew about this story. Women's sport is on the rise and we've all got to adapt quicker." (With inputs from agencies)

‘I’ve been hit...’, says former England cricketer Alex Hartley on 'tough few days’

Former Australia captain Ricky Ponting opened up on the popularity of the two highly-followed series, i.e. the Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) and Ashes. The just-concluded India-Australia series saw record attendance for all five Tests. The numbers were so good that it shattered records to become the most attended non-Ashes series in the history of Australian cricket. As many as 8,37,879 people attended the 2024-25 BGT edition, which saw Pat Cummins-led Aussies beat India 3-1 and regain the trophy for the first time since the win in the 2014-15 edition. Punter opined on the popularity of BGT and compared it with Ashes.
<h2>'If the Ashes numbers aren't the same, then there'll be no doubt that.....'</h2>
Ponting told the ICC Review, "I had a look at the numbers yesterday, it was something like 837,000 people came to watch the Test matches, which is unheard of here in Australia.&nbsp;So now that this series has happened, Australia have England coming out next summer so we'll get a better idea then. If the numbers aren't the same, then there'll be no doubt that the (Border-Gavaskar) rivalry (is bigger), certainly from the fans&rsquo; point of view."
<div id="checktheseout5" class="checktheseout5"></div>
Punter further opined, "There's two separate parts to this: There's what the fans want to see and the rivalry that they want to make of it, but it's also how the players view the rivalry between the three teams now."
Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/shubman-gill-is-highly-overrated-india-should-pick-ruturaj-gaikwad-or-sai-sudharsan-claims-1983-world-cup-winner-8597894" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Gill is highly overrated, India should pick Gaikwad or Sudharsan, claims 1983 World Cup winner</a>
Highlighting that most of the games in the India-Australia series didn't even last all five days, Ponting added, "Perth only went four days, Adelaide only went three days, Sydney only went three days. Those numbers would have been astronomical if those Test matches all went five days. So exactly this time next year, we'll have a great idea of the biggest rivalry in world cricket."
England are scheduled to tour Australia during the Australian summer, later this year, for Ashes 2025. The five-match series will surely give a clear picture of whether the BGT has surpassed the popularity of the Ashes.

Cricket, Sports | 'If the numbers....': Former Australia captain Ricky Ponting on whether Border-Gavaskar Trophy has surpassed Ashes popularity

Former Australia captain Ricky Ponting opened up on the popularity of the two highly-followed series, i.e. the Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) and Ashes. The just-concluded India-Australia series saw record attendance for all five Tests. The numbers were so good that it shattered records to become the most attended non-Ashes series in the history of Australian cricket. As many as 8,37,879 people attended the 2024-25 BGT edition, which saw Pat Cummins-led Aussies beat India 3-1 and regain the trophy for the first time since the win in the 2014-15 edition. Punter opined on the popularity of BGT and compared it with Ashes. 'If the Ashes numbers aren't the same, then there'll be no doubt that.....' Ponting told the ICC Review, "I had a look at the numbers yesterday, it was something like 837,000 people came to watch the Test matches, which is unheard of here in Australia. So now that this series has happened, Australia have England coming out next summer so we'll get a better idea then. If the numbers aren't the same, then there'll be no doubt that the (Border-Gavaskar) rivalry (is bigger), certainly from the fans’ point of view." Punter further opined, "There's two separate parts to this: There's what the fans want to see and the rivalry that they want to make of it, but it's also how the players view the rivalry between the three teams now." Also read: Gill is highly overrated, India should pick Gaikwad or Sudharsan, claims 1983 World Cup winner Highlighting that most of the games in the India-Australia series didn't even last all five days, Ponting added, "Perth only went four days, Adelaide only went three days, Sydney only went three days. Those numbers would have been astronomical if those Test matches all went five days. So exactly this time next year, we'll have a great idea of the biggest rivalry in world cricket." England are scheduled to tour Australia during the Australian summer, later this year, for Ashes 2025. The five-match series will surely give a clear picture of whether the BGT has surpassed the popularity of the Ashes.

'If the numbers....': Ponting on whether Border-Gavaskar Trophy has surpassed Ashes popularity

Cricket Australia (CA) has announced the dates for the 2025-26 Ashes edition, which will be held Down Under. The series will kick off at Perth's Optus Stadium on Nov 21. The five-match Test series will then move to the Gabba, Brisbane, which will host the day-night Test before the Christmas Test will be held at the Adelaide Oval, Adelaide. The Boxing Day Test will be hosted by the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG), Melbourne before Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG) hosts the New Year's Test.

<h2>Ashes 2025-26 schedule</h2>

Perth Test (West Test): Perth Stadium | Nov 21-25 
Brisbane Test (Day/Night Test): Gabba | Dec 4-8 
Adelaide Test (Christmas Test): Adelaide Oval | Dec 17-21 
Melbourne Test (Boxing Day Test): MCG | Dec 26-30 
Sydney Test (New Year’s Test): SCG | Jan 4-8

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/ind-vs-nz-1st-test-rohit-sharma-drops-huge-update-on-md-shami-admits-pacer-uncertain-for-australia-tour-767589">Rohit Sharma drops HUGE update on Mohammed Shami, admits pacer uncertain for Australia tour</a>

Notably, there are some big changes in the Ashes schedule. Brisbane, which has traditionally hosted the Ashes opener since 1982-83, will instead host the second Test under lights. Thus, The Gabba won't open the Ashes series Down Under for the first time in over four decades. Adelaide, on the other hand, hosted the day-night Test in the last two&nbsp;Ashes series in Australia but will now hold the pre-Christmas Test as a day game. It has been done as a result of a new agreement between CA and the South Australian government, positioning the Test as a marquee holiday event due to its strong tourism appeal.

England have not won the Ashes in Australia since the 2010/11 edition. Moreover, Australia have the urn since the 2017/18 series.

Cricket Australia (CA) has announced the dates for the 2025-26 Ashes edition, which will be held Down Under. The series will kick off at Perth's Optus Stadium on Nov 21.

Cricket Australia (CA) has announced the dates for the 2025-26 Ashes edition, which will be held Down Under. The series will kick off at Perth's Optus Stadium on Nov 21. The five-match Test series will then move to the Gabba, Brisbane, which will host the day-night Test before the Christmas Test will be held at the Adelaide Oval, Adelaide. The Boxing Day Test will be hosted by the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG), Melbourne before Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG) hosts the New Year's Test. Ashes 2025-26 schedule Perth Test (West Test): Perth Stadium | Nov 21-25 Brisbane Test (Day/Night Test): Gabba | Dec 4-8 Adelaide Test (Christmas Test): Adelaide Oval | Dec 17-21 Melbourne Test (Boxing Day Test): MCG | Dec 26-30 Sydney Test (New Year’s Test): SCG | Jan 4-8 Also read: Rohit Sharma drops HUGE update on Mohammed Shami, admits pacer uncertain for Australia tour Notably, there are some big changes in the Ashes schedule. Brisbane, which has traditionally hosted the Ashes opener since 1982-83, will instead host the second Test under lights. Thus, The Gabba won't open the Ashes series Down Under for the first time in over four decades. Adelaide, on the other hand, hosted the day-night Test in the last two Ashes series in Australia but will now hold the pre-Christmas Test as a day game. It has been done as a result of a new agreement between CA and the South Australian government, positioning the Test as a marquee holiday event due to its strong tourism appeal. England have not won the Ashes in Australia since the 2010/11 edition. Moreover, Australia have the urn since the 2017/18 series.

Cricket Australia announces Ashes 2025-26 fixtures, Gabba to host day-night Test match

In a gripping memoir, a Canadian widow exposed the dark details of her life and confessed about eating the ashes of her late husband after finding out about his infidelity.&nbsp;

The husband of writer Jessica Waite, Sean, died in 2015 when he was on a work trip to Texas. After his death, the widow found that he had various affairs and also was involved with many high-priced escorts.&nbsp;

In the book, “A Widow’s Guide to Dead Bastards”, Waite recalled that she checked her porn-addicted husband’s iPad to find the number for the Houston hospital where his body was kept and found his unbelievable browsing history.

Waite stated that she began typing Houston in the browser and suggestions like “Houston escorts" started appearing.&nbsp;

Then she also discovered searches for specific escorts along with their locations and prices.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/after-admitting-to-cheating-harris-husband-doug-emhoff-accused-of-assaulting-ex-girlfriend-764007">After admitting to cheating, Harris’ husband Doug Emhoff accused of assaulting ex-girlfriend</a>

But this was just the start. It took months for the woman to find out everything about her deceased husband's secret life.&nbsp;

She found that he met escorts regularly and cheated on her several times with various women.

She also found that her husband lied about having work late at night and was actually busy downloading various pornographic videos on his personal computer which he had organised and categorised in various desktop folders.

The woman further found that her husband was also renting an apartment in Colorado to have sex with escorts and other women.

<h2>What did the woman do after finding out about her husband's secret life?</h2>

In the recently released book, Waite said that she failed to come to terms with the secret double life of her husband and slowly started losing it.

She said that she opened the bag of her husband's ashes and brought it to her garden where she mixed it with her dog’s faeces.

“I’ve desecrated the remains of my partner in life. But then, in despair and guilt, took more of his ashes — and actually ate them. The remains feel dry against my fingertips, coarser than baking powder, grainier than salt. They mix with the teary water, a mineral mud on the back of my tongue. I swallow," wrote Waite.

Waite said that she was “detached from reality in the wake of Sean’s death” in that moment.

“I feel better and stronger than before, but I still cry almost every day, and I still feel like a part of me has died. Because the part of me that existed within Sean did," she stated.

(With inputs from agencies)

In a gripping memoir, a Canadian widow exposed the dark details of her life and confessed about eating the ashes of her late husband after finding out about his infidelity.

In a gripping memoir, a Canadian widow exposed the dark details of her life and confessed about eating the ashes of her late husband after finding out about his infidelity. The husband of writer Jessica Waite, Sean, died in 2015 when he was on a work trip to Texas. After his death, the widow found that he had various affairs and also was involved with many high-priced escorts. In the book, “A Widow’s Guide to Dead Bastards”, Waite recalled that she checked her porn-addicted husband’s iPad to find the number for the Houston hospital where his body was kept and found his unbelievable browsing history. Waite stated that she began typing Houston in the browser and suggestions like “Houston escorts" started appearing. Then she also discovered searches for specific escorts along with their locations and prices. Also Read: After admitting to cheating, Harris’ husband Doug Emhoff accused of assaulting ex-girlfriend But this was just the start. It took months for the woman to find out everything about her deceased husband's secret life. She found that he met escorts regularly and cheated on her several times with various women. She also found that her husband lied about having work late at night and was actually busy downloading various pornographic videos on his personal computer which he had organised and categorised in various desktop folders. The woman further found that her husband was also renting an apartment in Colorado to have sex with escorts and other women. What did the woman do after finding out about her husband's secret life? In the recently released book, Waite said that she failed to come to terms with the secret double life of her husband and slowly started losing it. She said that she opened the bag of her husband's ashes and brought it to her garden where she mixed it with her dog’s faeces. “I’ve desecrated the remains of my partner in life. But then, in despair and guilt, took more of his ashes — and actually ate them. The remains feel dry against my fingertips, coarser than baking powder, grainier than salt. They mix with the teary water, a mineral mud on the back of my tongue. I swallow," wrote Waite. Waite said that she was “detached from reality in the wake of Sean’s death” in that moment. “I feel better and stronger than before, but I still cry almost every day, and I still feel like a part of me has died. Because the part of me that existed within Sean did," she stated. (With inputs from agencies)

Canadian widow finds out about husband's infidelity after his death, eats his ashes

Former Australia captain Tim Paine feels England is thinking too highly about their cricket in their head, but in reality, they are far from being a fantastic Test side. Since Ben Stokes and Brendon McCullum took over the leadership roles a couple of years ago, England’s Test cricket flourished for some time before falling flat during the home Ashes and away India tour.&nbsp;

With local media hyping their ultra-attacking style of play, claiming it to have changed how Test cricket is played, Paine said England is an average team, and they must put their heads around it.

Meanwhile, the ECB released a documentary on the 2023 Ashes, a bittersweet series for both teams (ended in a 2-2 draw). In one of the episodes, Captain Ben Stokes gave a speech after the drawn fourth Test (at Old Trafford), wherein he referred to England’s newest approach as something that will ‘live forever in the memory of people who were lucky enough to witness us play cricket.’

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/zim-v-ind-harare-hero-abhishek-sharma-on-using-gills-bat-i-score-every-time-when-i-play-with-it-738857">ZIM v IND: Harare hero Abhishek Sharma on using Gill’s bat - ‘I score every time when I play with it'</a>

“Everything we’ve done up until now isn’t going to stop because we haven’t managed to win the urn back. The reward for our work isn’t what we get but what we become, and what we have managed to do is we’ve managed to become a sports team that will live forever in the memory of people who were lucky enough to witness us play cricket.

“I know it’s going to be a bit flat, I know it’s going to hurt that we go into the next game not being able to get the urn back, but what we have done is something a lot bigger than any Ashes trophy could ever signify for this team: be the team that everybody will always remember,” Stokes said to his teammates after rain spoiled England’s chances of winning the fourth Test.

Although fans, several pundits and opposition, mainly Australia, thrashed this comment on social media, saying Stokes went a bit too far with this, Paine thinks Stokes’ comment was blown out of proportion.&nbsp;

“I think it was taken slightly out of context because he was talking in a changing room, and it was a bigger speech, so I will say that,” Paine said.

<h2>Average Cricket Team</h2>

Though this new-age England Test Team tasted success both home and away, Paine feels if they think they have done anything differently and helped make this format exciting in any way, they haven’t.&nbsp;

“However, it’s just this continued belief that they’re completely changing the game and they’re doing this amazing stuff, and everyone’s going to remember it … they’re not.

“You’re coming dead last in the World Test Championship. You’re not going to be a team that everyone remembers watching, and you’re not doing anything outrageously good that we haven’t seen before.

“You’re an average cricket team. You are, at the moment, a below-average cricket team, and I think they need to get their head around that a little bit,” Paine noted while talking on one of SEN Tassie Breakfast episodes. &nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Former Australia captain Tim Paine feels England is thinking too highly about their cricket in their head, but in reality, they are far from being a fantastic Test side.

Former Australia captain Tim Paine feels England is thinking too highly about their cricket in their head, but in reality, they are far from being a fantastic Test side. Since Ben Stokes and Brendon McCullum took over the leadership roles a couple of years ago, England’s Test cricket flourished for some time before falling flat during the home Ashes and away India tour. With local media hyping their ultra-attacking style of play, claiming it to have changed how Test cricket is played, Paine said England is an average team, and they must put their heads around it. Meanwhile, the ECB released a documentary on the 2023 Ashes, a bittersweet series for both teams (ended in a 2-2 draw). In one of the episodes, Captain Ben Stokes gave a speech after the drawn fourth Test (at Old Trafford), wherein he referred to England’s newest approach as something that will ‘live forever in the memory of people who were lucky enough to witness us play cricket.’ ALSO READ: ZIM v IND: Harare hero Abhishek Sharma on using Gill’s bat - ‘I score every time when I play with it' “Everything we’ve done up until now isn’t going to stop because we haven’t managed to win the urn back. The reward for our work isn’t what we get but what we become, and what we have managed to do is we’ve managed to become a sports team that will live forever in the memory of people who were lucky enough to witness us play cricket. “I know it’s going to be a bit flat, I know it’s going to hurt that we go into the next game not being able to get the urn back, but what we have done is something a lot bigger than any Ashes trophy could ever signify for this team: be the team that everybody will always remember,” Stokes said to his teammates after rain spoiled England’s chances of winning the fourth Test. Although fans, several pundits and opposition, mainly Australia, thrashed this comment on social media, saying Stokes went a bit too far with this, Paine thinks Stokes’ comment was blown out of proportion. “I think it was taken slightly out of context because he was talking in a changing room, and it was a bigger speech, so I will say that,” Paine said. Average Cricket Team Though this new-age England Test Team tasted success both home and away, Paine feels if they think they have done anything differently and helped make this format exciting in any way, they haven’t. “However, it’s just this continued belief that they’re completely changing the game and they’re doing this amazing stuff, and everyone’s going to remember it … they’re not. “You’re coming dead last in the World Test Championship. You’re not going to be a team that everyone remembers watching, and you’re not doing anything outrageously good that we haven’t seen before. “You’re an average cricket team. You are, at the moment, a below-average cricket team, and I think they need to get their head around that a little bit,” Paine noted while talking on one of SEN Tassie Breakfast episodes. (With inputs from agencies)

‘You’re an average cricket team’ – Tim Paine tears into Bazball-bound England Test side

Australia's veteran spinner Nathan Lyon has praised England's spin trio of Tom Hartley, Shoaib Bashir and Rehan Ahmed for their performance on the recently-concluded Test tour of India. England although lost the five-match series 1-4, the spinners did manage to take wickets despite their inexperience. Hartley, in fact, was the second-highest wicket-taker in the series with 22 scalps in five matches and behind only India spinner Ravi Ashwin's 26 wickets.

Talking about which English spinner stood out for him, Lyon said: "All three of them to be honest with you," while speaking on the Willow Talk podcast.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/imad-wasim-amir-named-in-29-men-squad-for-training-camp-with-pakistan-army-uae-bound-usman-called-up-704125">Imad Wasim, Amir named in 29-man squad for training camp with Pakistan Army; UAE-bound Usman called up</a>

"And I'm not just saying that to be kind. They had a pretty hard introduction into Test cricket. That's one hell of a way to start your Test career, come over and bowl to Rohit [Sharma] and [Shubman] Gill and everyone else," he added.

Lyon also thinks that off-spinner Bashir, who took 17 wickets in three games, could be a threat in Australia as well.

"Bashir looked like he had something special as well. I like that he went over the back of it [the ball], so he could be a threat down here for sure," said Lyon about the lanky English spinner.

Apart from Hartley and Bashir, Rehan also chipped in with 11 wickets in three Tests on the tour. Lyon, meanwhile, is heading to English country Lancashire and is excited to play with Hartley.

"I'm looking forward to getting over to Lancashire and meeting Tom [Hartley] and bowling with him and just having discussions about left-arm [orthodox], right-arm offies is a pretty similar craft. It's going to be interesting to see the mindset, his reflections. I'm looking forward to hopefully playing a bit with him over there as well which will be good," said the Aussie spinner.

England will tour Australia for the Ashes in the 2025-26 season and will be looking to win their first series Down Under since the 2010-11 series.

Australia's veteran spinner Nathan Lyon has praised England's spin trio of Tom Hartley, Shoaib Bashir and Rehan Ahmed for their performance on the recently-concluded Test tour of India.

Australia's veteran spinner Nathan Lyon has praised England's spin trio of Tom Hartley, Shoaib Bashir and Rehan Ahmed for their performance on the recently-concluded Test tour of India. England although lost the five-match series 1-4, the spinners did manage to take wickets despite their inexperience. Hartley, in fact, was the second-highest wicket-taker in the series with 22 scalps in five matches and behind only India spinner Ravi Ashwin's 26 wickets. Talking about which English spinner stood out for him, Lyon said: "All three of them to be honest with you," while speaking on the Willow Talk podcast. Also Read: Imad Wasim, Amir named in 29-man squad for training camp with Pakistan Army; UAE-bound Usman called up "And I'm not just saying that to be kind. They had a pretty hard introduction into Test cricket. That's one hell of a way to start your Test career, come over and bowl to Rohit [Sharma] and [Shubman] Gill and everyone else," he added. Lyon also thinks that off-spinner Bashir, who took 17 wickets in three games, could be a threat in Australia as well. "Bashir looked like he had something special as well. I like that he went over the back of it [the ball], so he could be a threat down here for sure," said Lyon about the lanky English spinner. Apart from Hartley and Bashir, Rehan also chipped in with 11 wickets in three Tests on the tour. Lyon, meanwhile, is heading to English country Lancashire and is excited to play with Hartley. "I'm looking forward to getting over to Lancashire and meeting Tom [Hartley] and bowling with him and just having discussions about left-arm [orthodox], right-arm offies is a pretty similar craft. It's going to be interesting to see the mindset, his reflections. I'm looking forward to hopefully playing a bit with him over there as well which will be good," said the Aussie spinner. England will tour Australia for the Ashes in the 2025-26 season and will be looking to win their first series Down Under since the 2010-11 series.

Nathan Lyon says England spinner Shoaib Bashir 'could be a threat' in Australia

Ongoing India vs England five-match Test series may be on the verge of being mentioned in the same breath as that of the iconic 2005 Ashes – already regarded as the greatest series since the start of the millennium. Although drawing a comparison here wouldn’t do justice to either, considering what India and England have to offer with two Tests remaining might excite any cricket fan.

From Glenn McGrath picking his 500th Test wicket in the first game at&nbsp;Lord’s to Kevin Pietersen emerging as the most brutal force in world cricket with his exploits throughout, the fans were treated with one heck of a cricket series in 2005. Fast forward 19 years, something similar has occurred on the Indian shores, with Ravi Ashwin doing a McGrath while a young Yashasvi Jaiswal happily pulling off a Kevin Pietersen.

Ashwin’s 500th Test scalp made headlines all over as he joined an elite list of cricketers accomplishing this unbelievable milestone, becoming the second Indian after veteran Anil Kumble (619) and third off-spinner after Muttiah Muralitharan (800) and Nathan Lyon (517*) to get there.

On the other hand, Yashasvi Jaiswal is doing what Indian fans have been deprived of watching since the retirement of Virender Sehwag – smashing hundreds for fun at the top. Though Virat Kohli’s presence would have made the contest exciting, Jaiswal’s fireworks are already creating a buzz in his absence.

<h2>‘Bazball has been done before’</h2>

Sports come with funny yet relatable narratives, and England’s ultra-attacking approach, which their media introduced the world to as Bazball, is an example of that.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-v-eng-jonny-bairstow-to-play-fourth-test-despite-rajkot-game-hammering-hints-coach-mccullum-691735">IND v ENG: Jonny Bairstow to play fourth Test despite 434-run hammering in Rajkot, says coach McCullum</a>

Although no one has anything to take away from the excitement it brought to Test cricket, pulling the fans back to watch the most iconic format in all of sports, Bazball being referred to as something that is been executed for the first time is funny in a lot of ways.

From the legendary Viv Richards to Sanath Jayasuriya to even Sehwag, several players were known to put their foot on the paddles from the word go, with ones to come afterwards following the same approach in most cases. For example, Adam Gilchrist from Australia and Andrew Flintoff from England both took on the opposition from ball one, even during the 2005&nbsp;Ashes.

<h3>‘Know the mistake, rectify the mistake’</h3>

While England’s win in the first match in Hyderabad had a lot to do with their carefree approach, which rightly deserves credit for the result, it backfired in the next two games, with England going down embarrassingly in both. A 106-run loss in Vizag might have pinched them a bit, but a&nbsp;434-run thrashing seemed to be the straw that broke the camel’s back.

For the record, it looks ugly, but England probably know&nbsp;where they lost the game.&nbsp;

THAT Joe Root dismissal is talked about as the sole reason behind England losing momentum and losing the match from the position from where they could have made merry. However, England coach Brendon McCullum backs Root to play the way he wants, arguing an improved Root can still turn the tables around for the visitors.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Lightning reflexes from Jaiswal! ⚡️👏 
 
A bright start for Bumrah &amp; <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TeamIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TeamIndia</a> 😍💪 on Day 3! 🔥<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvENG?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDvENG</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/JioCinemaSports?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#JioCinemaSports</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BazBowled?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BazBowled</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IDFCFirstBankTestSeries?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IDFCFirstBankTestSeries</a> <a href="https://t.co/y4FwWbIX5K">pic.twitter.com/y4FwWbIX5K</a>
— JioCinema (@JioCinema) <a href="https://twitter.com/JioCinema/status/1758712972115890416?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 17, 2024</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

"I think he's averaged about 50 with that shot [previously 60, now 30], plus what's happened after he's played that shot previously. He's got out twice doing it. You can get nicked off defending one or trying to drive one through the leg side. I don't know if it is as high-risk shot in the modern game as what it appears in the previous game,” McCullum said while defending Root’s reverse-sweep shot to Bumrah that led to his fall.&nbsp;

<h4>‘It’s not over yet’</h4>

While the 2005&nbsp;Ashes result read England beating Australia at home for the first time in over 18 years, this contest in India is far from being over.&nbsp;

India surely leads the five-match series 2-1 as things stand, but discounting the high-flying England Team, who entered this series with the tag of a ‘daunting touring side’, would be the biggest mistake the hosts could make, like somewhere what Australia did in 2005 by underestimating England.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-eng-dont-alter-bazball-approach-but-nasser-hussain-schools-ben-stokes-led-england-691686">Ind vs Eng: ‘Don’t alter Bazball approach, but...’ - Nasser Hussain schools Ben Stokes-led England</a>

Meanwhile, Ben Stokes sounded optimistic about his side turning the tables around despite trailing 1-2, saying they have a great chance of snatching the win from India in their home conditions.&nbsp;

"We know that things don't always work out exactly how you want it to, but at 2-1 down in the series; still got two games left, so we've got a great chance to come home with the trophy at 3-2,” Stokes told media after Rajkot thrashing.&nbsp;

Come the fourth and the fifth Test in Ranchi and Dharamsala, respectively, the real action is about to begin.&nbsp;

So fans, gear up because this contest is far from over, like how it was during the ’05 Ashes.&nbsp;

Ongoing India vs England five-match Test series may be on the verge of being mentioned in the same breath as that of the iconic 2005 Ashes – already regarded as the greatest series since the start of the millennium.

Ongoing India vs England five-match Test series may be on the verge of being mentioned in the same breath as that of the iconic 2005 Ashes – already regarded as the greatest series since the start of the millennium. Although drawing a comparison here wouldn’t do justice to either, considering what India and England have to offer with two Tests remaining might excite any cricket fan. From Glenn McGrath picking his 500th Test wicket in the first game at Lord’s to Kevin Pietersen emerging as the most brutal force in world cricket with his exploits throughout, the fans were treated with one heck of a cricket series in 2005. Fast forward 19 years, something similar has occurred on the Indian shores, with Ravi Ashwin doing a McGrath while a young Yashasvi Jaiswal happily pulling off a Kevin Pietersen. Ashwin’s 500th Test scalp made headlines all over as he joined an elite list of cricketers accomplishing this unbelievable milestone, becoming the second Indian after veteran Anil Kumble (619) and third off-spinner after Muttiah Muralitharan (800) and Nathan Lyon (517*) to get there. On the other hand, Yashasvi Jaiswal is doing what Indian fans have been deprived of watching since the retirement of Virender Sehwag – smashing hundreds for fun at the top. Though Virat Kohli’s presence would have made the contest exciting, Jaiswal’s fireworks are already creating a buzz in his absence. ‘Bazball has been done before’ Sports come with funny yet relatable narratives, and England’s ultra-attacking approach, which their media introduced the world to as Bazball, is an example of that. ALSO READ: IND v ENG: Jonny Bairstow to play fourth Test despite 434-run hammering in Rajkot, says coach McCullum Although no one has anything to take away from the excitement it brought to Test cricket, pulling the fans back to watch the most iconic format in all of sports, Bazball being referred to as something that is been executed for the first time is funny in a lot of ways. From the legendary Viv Richards to Sanath Jayasuriya to even Sehwag, several players were known to put their foot on the paddles from the word go, with ones to come afterwards following the same approach in most cases. For example, Adam Gilchrist from Australia and Andrew Flintoff from England both took on the opposition from ball one, even during the 2005 Ashes. ‘Know the mistake, rectify the mistake’ While England’s win in the first match in Hyderabad had a lot to do with their carefree approach, which rightly deserves credit for the result, it backfired in the next two games, with England going down embarrassingly in both. A 106-run loss in Vizag might have pinched them a bit, but a 434-run thrashing seemed to be the straw that broke the camel’s back. For the record, it looks ugly, but England probably know where they lost the game. THAT Joe Root dismissal is talked about as the sole reason behind England losing momentum and losing the match from the position from where they could have made merry. However, England coach Brendon McCullum backs Root to play the way he wants, arguing an improved Root can still turn the tables around for the visitors. Lightning reflexes from Jaiswal! ⚡️👏 A bright start for Bumrah & #TeamIndia 😍💪 on Day 3! 🔥#INDvENG #JioCinemaSports #BazBowled #IDFCFirstBankTestSeries pic.twitter.com/y4FwWbIX5K — JioCinema (@JioCinema) February 17, 2024 × "I think he's averaged about 50 with that shot [previously 60, now 30], plus what's happened after he's played that shot previously. He's got out twice doing it. You can get nicked off defending one or trying to drive one through the leg side. I don't know if it is as high-risk shot in the modern game as what it appears in the previous game,” McCullum said while defending Root’s reverse-sweep shot to Bumrah that led to his fall. ‘It’s not over yet’ While the 2005 Ashes result read England beating Australia at home for the first time in over 18 years, this contest in India is far from being over. India surely leads the five-match series 2-1 as things stand, but discounting the high-flying England Team, who entered this series with the tag of a ‘daunting touring side’, would be the biggest mistake the hosts could make, like somewhere what Australia did in 2005 by underestimating England. ALSO READ: Ind vs Eng: ‘Don’t alter Bazball approach, but...’ - Nasser Hussain schools Ben Stokes-led England Meanwhile, Ben Stokes sounded optimistic about his side turning the tables around despite trailing 1-2, saying they have a great chance of snatching the win from India in their home conditions. "We know that things don't always work out exactly how you want it to, but at 2-1 down in the series; still got two games left, so we've got a great chance to come home with the trophy at 3-2,” Stokes told media after Rajkot thrashing. Come the fourth and the fifth Test in Ranchi and Dharamsala, respectively, the real action is about to begin. So fans, gear up because this contest is far from over, like how it was during the ’05 Ashes.

Explained | Why does the India-England Test series give 2005 Ashes vibes?

Ace Australia spinner Nathan Lyon has whacked the Bazball concept and shared his take on the controversial Jonny Bairstow run-out in the second Ashes Test at the Lord’s earlier this year. Preparing for the upcoming season, starting with the Pakistan Test series, Lyon played down the hype around the attacking brand of cricket the English call ‘Bazball’, saying he had been watching this formula unfold from his teammates for a long time.

Speaking his heart out on the controversial Bairstow run-out on day five of the second Ashes Test, Lyon, who was on crutches by then, admitted to celebrating more than anyone on the field. Without mincing his words, Lyon schooled Bairstow on staying inside the crease, let alone having some sympathy towards him.&nbsp;

"It's quite simple. Stay in your crease, and you won't get out. But I was in the change rooms on my crutches watching and I think I celebrated more than anyone. It was pretty amazing. But I've never seen a crowd react like that after anything," Lyon said on Channel 7's Front Bar program.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rohit-was-the-first-or-second-person-to-talk-to-me-over-world-cup-snub-sanju-samson-662798">Rohit was the first or second person to talk to me over World Cup snub: Sanju Samson</a>

Meanwhile, Lyon hammered Bazball left, right and centre, saying till the time he was there on the field (before missing action the remainder of the series with a calf injury), England couldn’t apply the attacking brand of cricket they hyped about all summer.&nbsp;

Trailing 0-2 after the second Test at the Lord’s, England made a comeback, winning two out of the three, drawing the series 2-2.&nbsp;

<h2>It’s a load of s*** - Lyon on Bazball</h2>

"I'm 2-0 against Bazball, so I am happy," Lyon joked about the hype around Bazball. "It's a load of s*** if you ask me. It's a brand of cricket that the English want to keep going with. Now it's in the dictionary, which is pretty extraordinary."

Citing examples of how, over the years, players in his team have applied the attacking brand of cricket to their advantage, including David Warner, Lyon said,&nbsp;

"I look at the Australian cricket team and the batters we've had, David Warner for example… I've seen him score hundreds in a session and that's off playing an attacking brand of cricket. I think there's a lot of smoke and mirrors with Bazball, if I'm being honest with you, and I feel like if you're going to play an aggressive brand of cricket anyway, it's about being able to go up and down in gears and understanding the moments in the game," the veteran spinner added.

Ace Australia spinner Nathan Lyon has whacked the Bazball concept and shared his take on the controversial Jonny Bairstow run-out in the second Ashes Test at the Lord’s earlier this year.

Ace Australia spinner Nathan Lyon has whacked the Bazball concept and shared his take on the controversial Jonny Bairstow run-out in the second Ashes Test at the Lord’s earlier this year. Preparing for the upcoming season, starting with the Pakistan Test series, Lyon played down the hype around the attacking brand of cricket the English call ‘Bazball’, saying he had been watching this formula unfold from his teammates for a long time. Speaking his heart out on the controversial Bairstow run-out on day five of the second Ashes Test, Lyon, who was on crutches by then, admitted to celebrating more than anyone on the field. Without mincing his words, Lyon schooled Bairstow on staying inside the crease, let alone having some sympathy towards him. "It's quite simple. Stay in your crease, and you won't get out. But I was in the change rooms on my crutches watching and I think I celebrated more than anyone. It was pretty amazing. But I've never seen a crowd react like that after anything," Lyon said on Channel 7's Front Bar program. ALSO READ: Rohit was the first or second person to talk to me over World Cup snub: Sanju Samson Meanwhile, Lyon hammered Bazball left, right and centre, saying till the time he was there on the field (before missing action the remainder of the series with a calf injury), England couldn’t apply the attacking brand of cricket they hyped about all summer. Trailing 0-2 after the second Test at the Lord’s, England made a comeback, winning two out of the three, drawing the series 2-2. It’s a load of s*** - Lyon on Bazball "I'm 2-0 against Bazball, so I am happy," Lyon joked about the hype around Bazball. "It's a load of s*** if you ask me. It's a brand of cricket that the English want to keep going with. Now it's in the dictionary, which is pretty extraordinary." Citing examples of how, over the years, players in his team have applied the attacking brand of cricket to their advantage, including David Warner, Lyon said, "I look at the Australian cricket team and the batters we've had, David Warner for example… I've seen him score hundreds in a session and that's off playing an attacking brand of cricket. I think there's a lot of smoke and mirrors with Bazball, if I'm being honest with you, and I feel like if you're going to play an aggressive brand of cricket anyway, it's about being able to go up and down in gears and understanding the moments in the game," the veteran spinner added.

Ashes - I celebrated Bairstow's dismissal more than anyone: Lyon reflects on controversial run-out and Bazball

Retired England Test veteran Stuart Broad recalled an incident from the second Ashes Test in Lord’s this summer, wherein he got involved in an ‘ugly verbal spat’ with Australia captain Pat Cummins over the controversial Jonny Bairstow run out on day five. Detailing everyone on how he reacted to Australia’s tactics of getting rid of well-settled Bairstow, Broad admitted saying to Cummins on his face, ‘You’re an absolute disgrace, which he later regretted.

As both teams were approaching the end of the first session on day five, Aussie keeper Alex Carey affected a run out from behind the stumps after Bairstow ducked a bouncer and left his crease to join his partner in the middle as it was the last ball of the over. Carey, cheekily, threw the ball towards the stumps, catching Bairstow out of his crease and was declared run out after multiple replays.

Speaking about the instance on the Up Front podcast lately, Broad revealed the whole scenario and what words were exchanged.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cwc-23-sunil-gavaskar-predicts-virat-kohli-to-score-50th-odi-ton-during-indias-clash-vs-south-africa-651587">CWC '23: Sunil Gavaskar predicts Virat Kohli to score 50th ODI ton during India's clash vs South Africa</a>

“As I’m walking out to bat at Lord’s and there’s boos going at the Aussies, the captain Pat Cummins is coming on to bowl, so he’s walking towards me at the end of his mark,” Broad said on the Up Front podcast.

“And I just looked at him and said, ‘You’re an absolute disgrace’.

“He said, ‘Oh yeah, you’re hardly an upkeep of the spirit of cricket’.

Cummins’ remarks referred to the instance from the 2013 Ashes, where Broad edged the ball to the first slip off Ashton Agar but decided against walking away. The umpire, Aleem Dar, also adjudged that not out, while replays showed Broad edged one.

That instance further put Broad in a bad light as he faced backlash from the Aussie crowd during the Ashes Down Under the same year, with Australia winning 5-0.

“So that upset me a bit,” Broad replied to that.

“Then the next 10 minutes became me being very facetious and shouting in every time, which I had huge regrets about that night,” he said.

“I was hugely embarrassed about it, but I had no real control over what I was doing,” Broad added.

WATCH THE VIDEO -

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
"You're an absolute disgrace..." 🤯 
 
On this week's <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/UpFront?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#UpFront</a>, Stuart Broad reveals what he said to Australia captain Pat Cummings in the aftermath of THAT Jonny Bairstow dismissal 🏏 
 
Listen and watch now 💥 
 
w/ <a href="https://twitter.com/Sjopinion10?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@sjopinion10</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/StuartBroad8?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@StuartBroad8</a> <a href="https://t.co/ppMXqbIzdH">pic.twitter.com/ppMXqbIzdH</a>
— Up Front with Simon Jordan (@UpFrontPod) <a href="https://twitter.com/UpFrontPod/status/1717473645495201809?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 26, 2023</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<h2>Long Room drama followed</h2>

Following that instance ahead of lunch on day five, Australian players were booed on their way to the dressing room, and even upon entering the Long Room, several MCC members launched a verbal attack on the players, mainly Usman Khawaja and David Warner.&nbsp;

It led to tensions all around, with players complaining about being threatened and abused during the course.&nbsp;

Upon receiving a written complaint from Cricket Australia, MCC launched an independent investigation into the matter, suspending and banning three members who were found guilty.

Although Australia won the second Test, they failed to win the Ashes, as England came back winning two out of three remaining Tests.

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

Retired England Test veteran Stuart Broad recalled an incident from the second Ashes Test in Lord’s this summer, wherein he got involved in an ‘ugly verbal spat’ with Australia captain Pat Cummins over the controversial Jonny Bairstow run out on day five.

Retired England Test veteran Stuart Broad recalled an incident from the second Ashes Test in Lord’s this summer, wherein he got involved in an ‘ugly verbal spat’ with Australia captain Pat Cummins over the controversial Jonny Bairstow run out on day five. Detailing everyone on how he reacted to Australia’s tactics of getting rid of well-settled Bairstow, Broad admitted saying to Cummins on his face, ‘You’re an absolute disgrace, which he later regretted. As both teams were approaching the end of the first session on day five, Aussie keeper Alex Carey affected a run out from behind the stumps after Bairstow ducked a bouncer and left his crease to join his partner in the middle as it was the last ball of the over. Carey, cheekily, threw the ball towards the stumps, catching Bairstow out of his crease and was declared run out after multiple replays. Speaking about the instance on the Up Front podcast lately, Broad revealed the whole scenario and what words were exchanged. ALSO READ: CWC '23: Sunil Gavaskar predicts Virat Kohli to score 50th ODI ton during India's clash vs South Africa “As I’m walking out to bat at Lord’s and there’s boos going at the Aussies, the captain Pat Cummins is coming on to bowl, so he’s walking towards me at the end of his mark,” Broad said on the Up Front podcast. “And I just looked at him and said, ‘You’re an absolute disgrace’. “He said, ‘Oh yeah, you’re hardly an upkeep of the spirit of cricket’. Cummins’ remarks referred to the instance from the 2013 Ashes, where Broad edged the ball to the first slip off Ashton Agar but decided against walking away. The umpire, Aleem Dar, also adjudged that not out, while replays showed Broad edged one. That instance further put Broad in a bad light as he faced backlash from the Aussie crowd during the Ashes Down Under the same year, with Australia winning 5-0. “So that upset me a bit,” Broad replied to that. “Then the next 10 minutes became me being very facetious and shouting in every time, which I had huge regrets about that night,” he said. “I was hugely embarrassed about it, but I had no real control over what I was doing,” Broad added. WATCH THE VIDEO - "You're an absolute disgrace..." 🤯 On this week's #UpFront, Stuart Broad reveals what he said to Australia captain Pat Cummings in the aftermath of THAT Jonny Bairstow dismissal 🏏 Listen and watch now 💥 w/ @sjopinion10 | @StuartBroad8 pic.twitter.com/ppMXqbIzdH — Up Front with Simon Jordan (@UpFrontPod) October 26, 2023 × Long Room drama followed Following that instance ahead of lunch on day five, Australian players were booed on their way to the dressing room, and even upon entering the Long Room, several MCC members launched a verbal attack on the players, mainly Usman Khawaja and David Warner. It led to tensions all around, with players complaining about being threatened and abused during the course. Upon receiving a written complaint from Cricket Australia, MCC launched an independent investigation into the matter, suspending and banning three members who were found guilty. Although Australia won the second Test, they failed to win the Ashes, as England came back winning two out of three remaining Tests. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Ashes: Stuart Broad recalls ‘ugly spat’ with Pat Cummins following controversial Bairstow run out, regrets

England player Jonny Bairstow has opened up for the first time about the controversial stumping by Australian wicketkeeper Alex Carey during the second Ashes Test earlier this year. In extracts from&nbsp;Lawrence Booth and Nick Hoult’s soon-to-be-published book 'Bazball: The Inside Story of a Test Cricket Revolution’, Bairstow said Australia claimed illegal catches during the series.&nbsp;

The English wicketkeeper-batter had strayed from his crease following the last ball of an over on the final day's play at Lord's when Carey lobbed the ball underarm at the stumps.

“The decision was that I was out, and I moved on,” Bairstow said. “I’ve not brought it up since. I’ve kept quiet. It’s on them. If that’s how they want to go about it and win a cricket game or what have you, then so be it.”

Bairstow said he wasn't attempting to gain an advantage when he ventured out of the crease and that he wouldn't want such a dismissal to reach the grassroots levels of cricket.&nbsp;

“If you try to gain an advantage, then it’s fair game. But if you’re starting in your crease, you’ve ducked, tap, tap, scratched. I’ve even dragged my bat, looked up, and then gone.

"I've never seen it happen from someone starting in their crease. I don't think you want that filtering down into kids' cricket."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/jonny-bairstow-was-being-dozy-andrew-strauss-slams-compatriot-for-bizarre-dismissal-in-lords-test-611514">Also read |&nbsp;Jonny Bairstow was being dozy: Andrew Strauss slams compatriot for bizarre dismissal in Lord's Test</a>

<h2>Bairstow accuses Australians</h2>

The right-hand batter cast aspersions over the catch taken by Steve Smith to dismiss Joe Root on day two at Lord's, stating&nbsp;that the ball had hit the ground.

"The one that 'Rooty' fell to at Lord's, when [Smith]&nbsp;said his fingers were underneath the ball. However, they were splayed widely. But that was given out, that's fine — it's part and parcel of the game and the decisions the umpires give."

He also went on to question whether&nbsp;Marnus Labuschagne had caught Harry Brook cleanly in the second innings of the first Test at Edgbaston.

"There's conjecture around everything.&nbsp;Fingers underneath the ball when the ball's still touching the ground. Celebrating when the ball has touched the ground. Marnus celebrated at Edgbaston at short-leg," he said.

Although the series was drawn 2-2, England were left lamenting the chances they had to take the lead over their perennial Down Under rivals. The English side declared on the first day of the first Test with two wickets in the bag which turned out to be the turning point as Australia went on to win the match.&nbsp;

During the fourth Test, England were on the cusp of a famous victory but rain intervened and the match was called off.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

WATCH WION LIVE HERE:&nbsp;

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

England player Jonny Bairstow has opened up for the first time about the controversial stumping by Australian wicketkeeper Alex Carey during the second Ashes Test earlier this year.

England player Jonny Bairstow has opened up for the first time about the controversial stumping by Australian wicketkeeper Alex Carey during the second Ashes Test earlier this year. In extracts from Lawrence Booth and Nick Hoult’s soon-to-be-published book 'Bazball: The Inside Story of a Test Cricket Revolution’, Bairstow said Australia claimed illegal catches during the series. The English wicketkeeper-batter had strayed from his crease following the last ball of an over on the final day's play at Lord's when Carey lobbed the ball underarm at the stumps. “The decision was that I was out, and I moved on,” Bairstow said. “I’ve not brought it up since. I’ve kept quiet. It’s on them. If that’s how they want to go about it and win a cricket game or what have you, then so be it.” Bairstow said he wasn't attempting to gain an advantage when he ventured out of the crease and that he wouldn't want such a dismissal to reach the grassroots levels of cricket. “If you try to gain an advantage, then it’s fair game. But if you’re starting in your crease, you’ve ducked, tap, tap, scratched. I’ve even dragged my bat, looked up, and then gone. "I've never seen it happen from someone starting in their crease. I don't think you want that filtering down into kids' cricket." Also read | Jonny Bairstow was being dozy: Andrew Strauss slams compatriot for bizarre dismissal in Lord's Test Bairstow accuses Australians The right-hand batter cast aspersions over the catch taken by Steve Smith to dismiss Joe Root on day two at Lord's, stating that the ball had hit the ground. "The one that 'Rooty' fell to at Lord's, when [Smith] said his fingers were underneath the ball. However, they were splayed widely. But that was given out, that's fine — it's part and parcel of the game and the decisions the umpires give." He also went on to question whether Marnus Labuschagne had caught Harry Brook cleanly in the second innings of the first Test at Edgbaston. "There's conjecture around everything. Fingers underneath the ball when the ball's still touching the ground. Celebrating when the ball has touched the ground. Marnus celebrated at Edgbaston at short-leg," he said. Although the series was drawn 2-2, England were left lamenting the chances they had to take the lead over their perennial Down Under rivals. The English side declared on the first day of the first Test with two wickets in the bag which turned out to be the turning point as Australia went on to win the match. During the fourth Test, England were on the cusp of a famous victory but rain intervened and the match was called off. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

'I’ve kept quiet...': Jonny Bairstow opens up for the first time regarding controversial Ashes stumping

ashes

Ashes, News on Ashes, stories on Ashes, articles on Ashes, Ashes stories at Wion, Ashes news, Ashes latest news

ashes

Ashes: Pat Cummins sends Joe Root packing in Adelaide Test, dismisses English batter for record 12th time

Ashes: Lyon surpasses McGrath for most Test wickets, goes second behind Warne

Ashes: Carey, Khawaja shine as hosts recover after poor start on Day 1

Ashes: Here's why Australia's Steve Smith is not playing in the Adelaide Test

Ashes 2025-26: David Warner warns England ahead of third Test

Ashes: McCullum says England 'over prepared' after Brisbane Test loss

Joe Root questions need for pink-ball Ashes test

Ashes: Mark Wood set to miss Gabba Test, Josh Tongue likely to feature - Report

Ashes: Michael Vaughan questions England's pink-ball Test preparations

Ashes 2025-26: Cricket Australia to lose THIS whopping amount after two-day Test

Ashes 2025-26: Starc, Head wreak havoc as Australia wrap Perth opener on Day 2

New Ashes, same old Joe Root! England batter falls for duck in Perth opener

History scripted at Ashes as Aus-Eng openers register THIS unwanted feat