<p>Australia dominated the proceedings on Day 2 of the Boxing Day Test match versus South Africa on Tuesday (Decemebr 27) at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG), Melbourne. Riding on David Warner's double ton -- who is playing his 100th Test -- the home side are in a commanding position at stumps; well-placed at 386 for 3 with an overall lead of 197 runs.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Coming into this Test match on the back of severe criticism due to his poor form in whites, Warner silenced his critics in style. He reached his double ton in 254 balls and his inning was laced with 16 fours and two maximums. Warner celebrated wildly and carried out his trademark jump after slamming his third double ton in the format. However, his celebrations were short-lived as the swashbuckling opener got injured and eventually had to retire hurt. He was struggling with cramps and aggrevated his pain while celebrating, leading to his exit. <strong>Here's the video of his celebrations:&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-spider-cam-accidentally-hits-sa-pacer-anrich-nortje-on-day-2-of-boxing-day-test-at-the-mcg-546969">WATCH! Spider cam accidentally hits SA pacer Anrich Nortje on Day 2 of Boxing Day Test at the MCG</a></strong></p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">A double century for David Warner!<br />
<br />
But his <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/OhWhatAFeeling?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#OhWhatAFeeling</a> jump comes at a cost! 😬<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AUSvSA?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AUSvSA</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/Toyota_Aus?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Toyota_Aus</a> <a href="https://t.co/RqJLcQpWHa">pic.twitter.com/RqJLcQpWHa</a></p>
— cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) <a href="https://twitter.com/cricketcomau/status/1607613287637864448?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 27, 2022</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>

<p>Talking about Warner's knock, he stitched an impressive 239-run third-wicket stand with Steve Smith (85) to take Australia way ahead of the Proteas in the contest. He became the first Australian to slam a double in his 100th Test before walking out with update being that he was&nbsp;dehydrated. He also became only the second player overall, after England's Joe Root, to score a double hundred in his 100th match in the purest format.&nbsp;</p>

<p>On Day 3, Australia will like to continue their dominance over the Dean Elgar-led SA line-up and propel the lead past the 300-run mark to dictate terms in the remaining part of the second and penultimate Test. Pat Cummins &amp; Co. already have a 1-0 lead in the series after winning the first Test by six wickets at The Gabba, Brisbane.</p>


Australia dominated the proceedings on Day 2 of the Boxing Day Test match versus South Africa on Tuesday (Decemebr 27) at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG), Melbourne.

Australia dominated the proceedings on Day 2 of the Boxing Day Test match versus South Africa on Tuesday (Decemebr 27) at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG), Melbourne. Riding on David Warner's double ton -- who is playing his 100th Test -- the home side are in a commanding position at stumps; well-placed at 386 for 3 with an overall lead of 197 runs. Coming into this Test match on the back of severe criticism due to his poor form in whites, Warner silenced his critics in style. He reached his double ton in 254 balls and his inning was laced with 16 fours and two maximums. Warner celebrated wildly and carried out his trademark jump after slamming his third double ton in the format. However, his celebrations were short-lived as the swashbuckling opener got injured and eventually had to retire hurt. He was struggling with cramps and aggrevated his pain while celebrating, leading to his exit. Here's the video of his celebrations: Also read: WATCH! Spider cam accidentally hits SA pacer Anrich Nortje on Day 2 of Boxing Day Test at the MCG A double century for David Warner! But his #OhWhatAFeeling jump comes at a cost! 😬#AUSvSA | @Toyota_Aus pic.twitter.com/RqJLcQpWHa — cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) December 27, 2022 × Talking about Warner's knock, he stitched an impressive 239-run third-wicket stand with Steve Smith (85) to take Australia way ahead of the Proteas in the contest. He became the first Australian to slam a double in his 100th Test before walking out with update being that he was dehydrated. He also became only the second player overall, after England's Joe Root, to score a double hundred in his 100th match in the purest format. On Day 3, Australia will like to continue their dominance over the Dean Elgar-led SA line-up and propel the lead past the 300-run mark to dictate terms in the remaining part of the second and penultimate Test. Pat Cummins & Co. already have a 1-0 lead in the series after winning the first Test by six wickets at The Gabba, Brisbane.

David Warner injured while celebrating wildly after slamming 200 vs SA in MCG Test, gets retired hurt - WATCH

<p><meta name="uuid" content="uuidvs6rhOqrrnN6" /><meta charset="utf-8" /></p>

<p><meta name="uuid" content="uuidvs6rhOqrrnN6" /><meta charset="utf-8" /></p>

<p>Australian allrounder Glenn Maxwell has revealed that he wasn't far off from his losing his leg after the freak accident ruled him out of the summer of cricket.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“I probably wasn’t that far off losing my foot which was pretty scary. To be able to be out the other side (now) and starting to walk again, it’s weird you sort of have to teach yourself how to walk.</p>

<p>Maxwell sustained the injury at his friend's birthday party in a rather innocuous accident. The dasher was pretending to chase a friend when slipped on synthetic grass and fell. However, it was Maxwell's friend falling across his leg that caused the accident.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The weight load on the leg was sufficient to snap it and the cricketer was left in squirming pain. However, to not aggravate the injury, Maxwell and his friends decided not to move him.&nbsp;After the snap and till reaching the doctor's, Maxwell had to endure a harrowing 50-minute period.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/aus-vs-sa-2nd-test-warner-slams-double-hundred-in-his-100th-test-joins-this-player-in-the-illustrious-club-546950" target="_blank"><strong>Read more: Aus vs SA, 2nd Test: Warner slams double hundred in his 100th Test, joins this player in the illustrious club</strong></a></p>

<p>Medical assessments afterward showed Maxwell shattered his fibula, chipped&nbsp;the tibia and ruptured all ligaments in his foot.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"I shattered my fibula. So that one I think was the first snap I heard. It was snapped in half, but it also shattered through the bone," Maxwell told cricket.com.au's Unplayable Podcast previously.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Despite the harrowing nature of the injury, Maxwell is ahead in his rehabilitation process. The all-rounder revealed that he had started to walk around a ''little''.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“I’m starting to walk around a little bit more comfortable. Hopefully get rid of the crutches in a couple of days. Things are starting to look up."</p>

<p>Maxwell was part of the Australian contingent at the T20 World Cup. However, the injury forced him to skip BBL, the ongoing Test series against South Africa and potentially, the Border-Gavaskar trophy, scheduled to be held in India next year.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE:&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p><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></p>


Australian allrounder Glenn Maxwell has revealed that he wasn't far off from his losing his leg after the freak accident ruled him out of the summer of cricket. “I probably wasn’t that far off losing my foot which was pretty scary.

Australian allrounder Glenn Maxwell has revealed that he wasn't far off from his losing his leg after the freak accident ruled him out of the summer of cricket. “I probably wasn’t that far off losing my foot which was pretty scary. To be able to be out the other side (now) and starting to walk again, it’s weird you sort of have to teach yourself how to walk. Maxwell sustained the injury at his friend's birthday party in a rather innocuous accident. The dasher was pretending to chase a friend when slipped on synthetic grass and fell. However, it was Maxwell's friend falling across his leg that caused the accident. The weight load on the leg was sufficient to snap it and the cricketer was left in squirming pain. However, to not aggravate the injury, Maxwell and his friends decided not to move him. After the snap and till reaching the doctor's, Maxwell had to endure a harrowing 50-minute period. Read more: Aus vs SA, 2nd Test: Warner slams double hundred in his 100th Test, joins this player in the illustrious club Medical assessments afterward showed Maxwell shattered his fibula, chipped the tibia and ruptured all ligaments in his foot. "I shattered my fibula. So that one I think was the first snap I heard. It was snapped in half, but it also shattered through the bone," Maxwell told cricket.com.au's Unplayable Podcast previously. Despite the harrowing nature of the injury, Maxwell is ahead in his rehabilitation process. The all-rounder revealed that he had started to walk around a ''little''. “I’m starting to walk around a little bit more comfortable. Hopefully get rid of the crutches in a couple of days. Things are starting to look up." Maxwell was part of the Australian contingent at the T20 World Cup. However, the injury forced him to skip BBL, the ongoing Test series against South Africa and potentially, the Border-Gavaskar trophy, scheduled to be held in India next year. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

'Wasn't far off losing my foot': Glenn Maxwell opens up about the harrowing accident

<p>David Warner, on Wednesday (December 07), withdrew his application for his captaincy ban&nbsp;review via a five-page explosive statement which he posted on his Instagram page. With the title, 'My family is more important to me than cricket', Warner shared an explosive statement by coming down heavily on the legal counsel saying that the comments made by them were offensive and unhelpful. Thus, the swashbuckling left-hander further asserted that&nbsp;the review panel acted opposite to Cricket Australia's (CA) findings and now want to conduct a public spectacle out of him at the expense of his family.</p>

<p>Taking to his official Instagram handle, Warner wrote, "In effect, Counsel Assisting, and, it appears, to some extent the Review Panel, want to conduct a public trial of me and what occurred during the Third Test at Newlands. They want to conduct a public spectacle to, in the Panel's words, have a 'cleansing'. I am not prepared for my family to be the washing machine for cricket's dirty laundry.&nbsp;Counsel Assisting the Review Panel appeared to be determined to revisit the events of March 2018 and the Review Panel appears determined to expose me and my family to further humiliation and harm by conducting a media circus."</p>

<p>"Regrettably, I have no practical alternative at this point in time but to withdraw my application. I am not prepared to subject my family or my teammates to further trauma and disruption by accepting a departure from the way in which my application should be dealt with pursuant to the Code of Conduct. Some things are more important than cricket," he further highlighted.</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-captioned="" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/p/Cl25OetrjD3/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="14" style=" background:#FFF; border:0; border-radius:3px; box-shadow:0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width:540px; min-width:326px; padding:0; width:99.375%; width:-webkit-calc(100% - 2px); width:calc(100% - 2px);">
<div style="padding:16px;">
<div style=" display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;">
<div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;">&nbsp;</div>

<div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;">
<div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;">&nbsp;</div>

<div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;">&nbsp;</div>
</div>
</div>

<div style="padding: 19% 0;">&nbsp;</div>

<div style="display:block; height:50px; margin:0 auto 12px; width:50px;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/Cl25OetrjD3/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" background:#FFFFFF; line-height:0; padding:0 0; text-align:center; text-decoration:none; width:100%;" target="_blank"><svg height="50px" version="1.1" viewbox="0 0 60 60" width="50px" xmlns="https://www.w3.org/2000/svg" xmlns:xlink="https://www.w3.org/1999/xlink"><g fill="none" fill-rule="evenodd" stroke="none" stroke-width="1"><g fill="#000000" transform="translate(-511.000000, -20.000000)"><g><path d="M556.869,30.41 C554.814,30.41 553.148,32.076 553.148,34.131 C553.148,36.186 554.814,37.852 556.869,37.852 C558.924,37.852 560.59,36.186 560.59,34.131 C560.59,32.076 558.924,30.41 556.869,30.41 M541,60.657 C535.114,60.657 530.342,55.887 530.342,50 C530.342,44.114 535.114,39.342 541,39.342 C546.887,39.342 551.658,44.114 551.658,50 C551.658,55.887 546.887,60.657 541,60.657 M541,33.886 C532.1,33.886 524.886,41.1 524.886,50 C524.886,58.899 532.1,66.113 541,66.113 C549.9,66.113 557.115,58.899 557.115,50 C557.115,41.1 549.9,33.886 541,33.886 M565.378,62.101 C565.244,65.022 564.756,66.606 564.346,67.663 C563.803,69.06 563.154,70.057 562.106,71.106 C561.058,72.155 560.06,72.803 558.662,73.347 C557.607,73.757 556.021,74.244 553.102,74.378 C549.944,74.521 548.997,74.552 541,74.552 C533.003,74.552 532.056,74.521 528.898,74.378 C525.979,74.244 524.393,73.757 523.338,73.347 C521.94,72.803 520.942,72.155 519.894,71.106 C518.846,70.057 518.197,69.06 517.654,67.663 C517.244,66.606 516.755,65.022 516.623,62.101 C516.479,58.943 516.448,57.996 516.448,50 C516.448,42.003 516.479,41.056 516.623,37.899 C516.755,34.978 517.244,33.391 517.654,32.338 C518.197,30.938 518.846,29.942 519.894,28.894 C520.942,27.846 521.94,27.196 523.338,26.654 C524.393,26.244 525.979,25.756 528.898,25.623 C532.057,25.479 533.004,25.448 541,25.448 C548.997,25.448 549.943,25.479 553.102,25.623 C556.021,25.756 557.607,26.244 558.662,26.654 C560.06,27.196 561.058,27.846 562.106,28.894 C563.154,29.942 563.803,30.938 564.346,32.338 C564.756,33.391 565.244,34.978 565.378,37.899 C565.522,41.056 565.552,42.003 565.552,50 C565.552,57.996 565.522,58.943 565.378,62.101 M570.82,37.631 C570.674,34.438 570.167,32.258 569.425,30.349 C568.659,28.377 567.633,26.702 565.965,25.035 C564.297,23.368 562.623,22.342 560.652,21.575 C558.743,20.834 556.562,20.326 553.369,20.18 C550.169,20.033 549.148,20 541,20 C532.853,20 531.831,20.033 528.631,20.18 C525.438,20.326 523.257,20.834 521.349,21.575 C519.376,22.342 517.703,23.368 516.035,25.035 C514.368,26.702 513.342,28.377 512.574,30.349 C511.834,32.258 511.326,34.438 511.181,37.631 C511.035,40.831 511,41.851 511,50 C511,58.147 511.035,59.17 511.181,62.369 C511.326,65.562 511.834,67.743 512.574,69.651 C513.342,71.625 514.368,73.296 516.035,74.965 C517.703,76.634 519.376,77.658 521.349,78.425 C523.257,79.167 525.438,79.673 528.631,79.82 C531.831,79.965 532.853,80.001 541,80.001 C549.148,80.001 550.169,79.965 553.369,79.82 C556.562,79.673 558.743,79.167 560.652,78.425 C562.623,77.658 564.297,76.634 565.965,74.965 C567.633,73.296 568.659,71.625 569.425,69.651 C570.167,67.743 570.674,65.562 570.82,62.369 C570.966,59.17 571,58.147 571,50 C571,41.851 570.966,40.831 570.82,37.631"></path></g></g></g></svg></a></div>

<div style="padding-top: 8px;">
<div style=" color:#3897f0; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:550; line-height:18px;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/Cl25OetrjD3/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" background:#FFFFFF; line-height:0; padding:0 0; text-align:center; text-decoration:none; width:100%;" target="_blank">View this post on Instagram</a></div>
</div>

<div style="padding: 12.5% 0;">&nbsp;</div>

<div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; margin-bottom: 14px; align-items: center;">
<div>
<div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(0px) translateY(7px);">&nbsp;</div>

<div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; height: 12.5px; transform: rotate(-45deg) translateX(3px) translateY(1px); width: 12.5px; flex-grow: 0; margin-right: 14px; margin-left: 2px;">&nbsp;</div>

<div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(9px) translateY(-18px);">&nbsp;</div>
</div>

<div style="margin-left: 8px;">
<div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 20px; width: 20px;">&nbsp;</div>

<div style=" width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 2px solid transparent; border-left: 6px solid #f4f4f4; border-bottom: 2px solid transparent; transform: translateX(16px) translateY(-4px) rotate(30deg)">&nbsp;</div>
</div>

<div style="margin-left: auto;">
<div style=" width: 0px; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-right: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(16px);">&nbsp;</div>

<div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; flex-grow: 0; height: 12px; width: 16px; transform: translateY(-4px);">&nbsp;</div>

<div style=" width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-left: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(-4px) translateX(8px);">&nbsp;</div>
</div>
</div>

<div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center; margin-bottom: 24px;">
<div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 224px;">&nbsp;</div>

<div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 144px;">&nbsp;</div>
</div>

<p style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px; margin-bottom:0; margin-top:8px; overflow:hidden; padding:8px 0 7px; text-align:center; text-overflow:ellipsis; white-space:nowrap;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/Cl25OetrjD3/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px; text-decoration:none;" target="_blank">A post shared by David Warner (@davidwarner31)</a></p>
</div>
</blockquote>
<script async src="//www.instagram.com/embed.js"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ban-vs-ind-2nd-odi-rohit-taken-to-the-hospital-for-scans-after-injuring-his-webbing-while-fielding-at-slips-540832">BAN vs IND, 2nd ODI: Rohit taken to the hospital for scans after injuring his webbing while fielding at slips</a></strong></p>

<p>"It appears that the Panel has given no more than passing consideration to issues of player welfare and the interests of Australian cricket and is instead determined to conduct a public lynching. Since that Test and even though my ban from leadership roles may never be lifted, I have taken it upon myself to reform, to rehabilitate and to transform my approach to the game. I have served and been subject to a crushing, unprecedented, penalty that has horribly impacted me and my family for the past nearly five years."</p>

<p>Meanwhile, a&nbsp;Cricket Australia (CA) spokesperson assured that the board has backed Warner's bid to have the hearing in private.</p>

<p>"We are disappointed with this outcome as our intention was to give David the opportunity to demonstrate why his lifetime leadership ban should be varied at an independent hearing and we amended our Code of Conduct accordingly," a statement said. "We supported David's wish for these discussions to be heard behind closed doors and respect his decision to withdraw his application. David is a very senior and highly regarded member of the Australian team who has been a great ambassador for the game as a whole since his return from a year-long ban," it further added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>It is to be noted that Warner was given a lifetime captaincy ban by CA in the aftermath of the Sandpaper Gate fiasco that rocked Australian cricket during their 2018 tour of South Africa for four Tests. While Smith was also handed a one-year-ban and&nbsp;received a leadership ban of couple of years, it got revoked and he is set to lead Australia in the second and final Test versus West Indies in Adelaide. Meanwhile, things haven't been the same for Warner as he hasn't been able to get rid of his lifetime captaincy ban.</p>


David Warner, on Wednesday (December 07), withdrew his application for his captaincy ban review via a five-page explosive statement which he posted on his Instagram page.

David Warner, on Wednesday (December 07), withdrew his application for his captaincy ban review via a five-page explosive statement which he posted on his Instagram page. With the title, 'My family is more important to me than cricket', Warner shared an explosive statement by coming down heavily on the legal counsel saying that the comments made by them were offensive and unhelpful. Thus, the swashbuckling left-hander further asserted that the review panel acted opposite to Cricket Australia's (CA) findings and now want to conduct a public spectacle out of him at the expense of his family. Taking to his official Instagram handle, Warner wrote, "In effect, Counsel Assisting, and, it appears, to some extent the Review Panel, want to conduct a public trial of me and what occurred during the Third Test at Newlands. They want to conduct a public spectacle to, in the Panel's words, have a 'cleansing'. I am not prepared for my family to be the washing machine for cricket's dirty laundry. Counsel Assisting the Review Panel appeared to be determined to revisit the events of March 2018 and the Review Panel appears determined to expose me and my family to further humiliation and harm by conducting a media circus." "Regrettably, I have no practical alternative at this point in time but to withdraw my application. I am not prepared to subject my family or my teammates to further trauma and disruption by accepting a departure from the way in which my application should be dealt with pursuant to the Code of Conduct. Some things are more important than cricket," he further highlighted. View this post on Instagram A post shared by David Warner (@davidwarner31) × Also read: BAN vs IND, 2nd ODI: Rohit taken to the hospital for scans after injuring his webbing while fielding at slips "It appears that the Panel has given no more than passing consideration to issues of player welfare and the interests of Australian cricket and is instead determined to conduct a public lynching. Since that Test and even though my ban from leadership roles may never be lifted, I have taken it upon myself to reform, to rehabilitate and to transform my approach to the game. I have served and been subject to a crushing, unprecedented, penalty that has horribly impacted me and my family for the past nearly five years." Meanwhile, a Cricket Australia (CA) spokesperson assured that the board has backed Warner's bid to have the hearing in private. "We are disappointed with this outcome as our intention was to give David the opportunity to demonstrate why his lifetime leadership ban should be varied at an independent hearing and we amended our Code of Conduct accordingly," a statement said. "We supported David's wish for these discussions to be heard behind closed doors and respect his decision to withdraw his application. David is a very senior and highly regarded member of the Australian team who has been a great ambassador for the game as a whole since his return from a year-long ban," it further added. It is to be noted that Warner was given a lifetime captaincy ban by CA in the aftermath of the Sandpaper Gate fiasco that rocked Australian cricket during their 2018 tour of South Africa for four Tests. While Smith was also handed a one-year-ban and received a leadership ban of couple of years, it got revoked and he is set to lead Australia in the second and final Test versus West Indies in Adelaide. Meanwhile, things haven't been the same for Warner as he hasn't been able to get rid of his lifetime captaincy ban.

'Not prepared for my family to...': David Warner withdraws application to review lifetime leadership ban

<p>A former World Cup-winning Australian captain, Steve Waugh says too much of cricket is possibly the reason behind empty stadiums during cricket matches nowadays. This is a no-hidden fact that the cricket schedule is getting cramped with each passing day. With the introduction of surplus T20 leagues across the world, the players and even fans seem to get drained by so much cricket. Because of which&nbsp;a lot of players have started to pick formats. For instance, Ben Stokes - who recently decided to retire from ODI cricket putting forward the same reason.</p>

<p>Even during the England vs Australia ODI at the MCG this month, the sight was terrifying as there were literally no fans present inside the stadium. This look of the 'G' made a lot of people worried about the future of cricket, and ODI cricket in particular.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Speaking on the matter on&nbsp;SEN's Saturday Morning Mowers Club show, former Australia captain Steve Waugh said with too much cricket every now and then&nbsp;it's hard to follow everything. Waugh added the scheduling of the ODI series right after the T20 World Cup looked a bit untimely and out of place.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/pak-vs-eng-2022-brendon-mccullum-ben-stokes-rate18-year-old-rehan-ahmed-as-a-rare-talent-538295">PAK vs ENG 2022: Brendon McCullum, Ben Stokes rate 18-year-old Rehan Ahmed as a 'rare talent'</a></p>

<p>“There’s a lot of cricket it’s hard to follow, as a spectator its very hard to keep up with it. (The) three one-dayers against England seemed a bit insignificant really, I mean what were they playing for? There wasn’t a big crowd, I think the public has almost overdosed on cricket."</p>

<p>Waugh is also of the opinion that some of the cricketing rivalries should be protected by better management and scheduling.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“You want the special series to be iconic like the Ashes or against England, it’s hard to follow the Australian side because every time they play they have a different team on the field."</p>

<p>Australia will now face West Indies in a two-match Test series, starting November 30th in Perth. The second Test will be played at the Adelaide Oval starting December 8th.</p>


A former World Cup-winning Australian captain, Steve Waugh says too much of cricket is possibly the reason behind empty stadiums during cricket matches nowadays.

A former World Cup-winning Australian captain, Steve Waugh says too much of cricket is possibly the reason behind empty stadiums during cricket matches nowadays. This is a no-hidden fact that the cricket schedule is getting cramped with each passing day. With the introduction of surplus T20 leagues across the world, the players and even fans seem to get drained by so much cricket. Because of which a lot of players have started to pick formats. For instance, Ben Stokes - who recently decided to retire from ODI cricket putting forward the same reason. Even during the England vs Australia ODI at the MCG this month, the sight was terrifying as there were literally no fans present inside the stadium. This look of the 'G' made a lot of people worried about the future of cricket, and ODI cricket in particular. Speaking on the matter on SEN's Saturday Morning Mowers Club show, former Australia captain Steve Waugh said with too much cricket every now and then it's hard to follow everything. Waugh added the scheduling of the ODI series right after the T20 World Cup looked a bit untimely and out of place. ALSO READ: PAK vs ENG 2022: Brendon McCullum, Ben Stokes rate 18-year-old Rehan Ahmed as a 'rare talent' “There’s a lot of cricket it’s hard to follow, as a spectator its very hard to keep up with it. (The) three one-dayers against England seemed a bit insignificant really, I mean what were they playing for? There wasn’t a big crowd, I think the public has almost overdosed on cricket." Waugh is also of the opinion that some of the cricketing rivalries should be protected by better management and scheduling. “You want the special series to be iconic like the Ashes or against England, it’s hard to follow the Australian side because every time they play they have a different team on the field." Australia will now face West Indies in a two-match Test series, starting November 30th in Perth. The second Test will be played at the Adelaide Oval starting December 8th.

'I think the public has almost overdosed on cricket' - Steve Waugh on empty stadiums nowadays

<p>Australia beat Ireland in their penultimate Super 12 clash in the Men's T20 World Cup 2022 edition, on Monday (October 31). Playing the Irish at The Gabba, Brisbane -- which hosted its first game in the ongoing edition -- Finch &amp; Co. eased past the Andrew Balbirnie-led side by 42 runs and remain alive in the race for the semi-finals. However, a bigger win would've ensured a more healthy Net Run Rate (NRR) for the hosts and defending champions;&nbsp;a need of the hour for teams like Australia and England in Group A (which has been dominated by New Zealand).</p>

<p>Being asked to bat first, Australia weren't off to a great start as they lost David Warner for cheap (3). Finch, who has been struggling for runs, also didn't get off to a flier. Mitchell Marsh, at No. 3, returned for a 23-ball 28. Finch managed to up the ante during his crucial 70-run fourth-wicket stand with Marcus Stoinis (who scored a vital 25-ball 35) and returned with a 44-ball 63, laced with 5 fours and 3 sixes. He managed to hit some big shots -- off&nbsp;Mark Adair and George Dockrell -- before his departure. Late hits from Tim David and Matthew Wade took Aussies to a competitive 179-5.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/four-incredible-patterns-that-suggest-india-might-lift-the-t20-world-cup-2022-trophy-529928"><strong>Four incredible patterns that suggest India might lift the T20 World Cup 2022 trophy</strong></a></p>

<p>In reply, Ireland were off to a promising start before they were reduced to 25 for 5 after being 18 for no loss. Two wickets apiece from Pat Cummins, Glenn Maxwell, Adam Zampa and Mitchell Starc dented Ireland's chase as they were bundled out for 139 in 18.1 overs. Lorcan Tucker's entertaining 48-ball 71 was the only shining aspect for Ireland during their run-chase. His inning prevented the hosts from attaining a more comprehensive victory, which could've bolstered their NRR further (had they won by 75 runs, or more, it would've taken them above England) as Group A continues to be congested with many contenders for the second spot (given NZ already have a one foot in the semi-finals).</p>

<p><strong>What they said</strong></p>

<p><strong>Aaron Finch:</strong>&nbsp;It was a good performance. Getting 180 was a decent score on that wicket. We knew we had to lay the foundation early and couldn't risk being 4-5 down. Just a little bit of hammy tightness, he (Tim David) sat out as a precaution. It is nice when it works like that (not opening with Starc), doesn't always work but there's a lot of time and planning that goes into it, sometimes you look great and sometimes you look stupid, you take the good with the bad in this format. It would have been nice, having them 5 for 25 to really push that forward, Tucker played a helluva knock there.</p>

<p><strong>Andrew Balbirnie:</strong>&nbsp;It was hardly fought. The first innings got away, we bowled well but a couple of overs didn't go our way and certainly didn't get the start with the bat, but to show the fight&nbsp;at the end was nice. Looking at the scoreboard we thought it wasn't against us, again the wickets column was a problem and who knows if someone had stayed with Tucker. He has had a really good World Cup and these wickets here suit him.</p>


Australia beat Ireland in their penultimate Super 12 clash in the Men's T20 World Cup 2022 edition, on Monday (October 31). Playing the Irish at The Gabba, Brisbane -- which hosted its first game in the ongoing edition -- Finch & Co.

Australia beat Ireland in their penultimate Super 12 clash in the Men's T20 World Cup 2022 edition, on Monday (October 31). Playing the Irish at The Gabba, Brisbane -- which hosted its first game in the ongoing edition -- Finch & Co. eased past the Andrew Balbirnie-led side by 42 runs and remain alive in the race for the semi-finals. However, a bigger win would've ensured a more healthy Net Run Rate (NRR) for the hosts and defending champions; a need of the hour for teams like Australia and England in Group A (which has been dominated by New Zealand). Being asked to bat first, Australia weren't off to a great start as they lost David Warner for cheap (3). Finch, who has been struggling for runs, also didn't get off to a flier. Mitchell Marsh, at No. 3, returned for a 23-ball 28. Finch managed to up the ante during his crucial 70-run fourth-wicket stand with Marcus Stoinis (who scored a vital 25-ball 35) and returned with a 44-ball 63, laced with 5 fours and 3 sixes. He managed to hit some big shots -- off Mark Adair and George Dockrell -- before his departure. Late hits from Tim David and Matthew Wade took Aussies to a competitive 179-5. ALSO READ | Four incredible patterns that suggest India might lift the T20 World Cup 2022 trophy In reply, Ireland were off to a promising start before they were reduced to 25 for 5 after being 18 for no loss. Two wickets apiece from Pat Cummins, Glenn Maxwell, Adam Zampa and Mitchell Starc dented Ireland's chase as they were bundled out for 139 in 18.1 overs. Lorcan Tucker's entertaining 48-ball 71 was the only shining aspect for Ireland during their run-chase. His inning prevented the hosts from attaining a more comprehensive victory, which could've bolstered their NRR further (had they won by 75 runs, or more, it would've taken them above England) as Group A continues to be congested with many contenders for the second spot (given NZ already have a one foot in the semi-finals). What they said Aaron Finch: It was a good performance. Getting 180 was a decent score on that wicket. We knew we had to lay the foundation early and couldn't risk being 4-5 down. Just a little bit of hammy tightness, he (Tim David) sat out as a precaution. It is nice when it works like that (not opening with Starc), doesn't always work but there's a lot of time and planning that goes into it, sometimes you look great and sometimes you look stupid, you take the good with the bad in this format. It would have been nice, having them 5 for 25 to really push that forward, Tucker played a helluva knock there. Andrew Balbirnie: It was hardly fought. The first innings got away, we bowled well but a couple of overs didn't go our way and certainly didn't get the start with the bat, but to show the fight at the end was nice. Looking at the scoreboard we thought it wasn't against us, again the wickets column was a problem and who knows if someone had stayed with Tucker. He has had a really good World Cup and these wickets here suit him.

T20 WC: Australia ease past Ireland, miss out on golden chance to improve NRR as race for semis intensifies

<p>Cricket Australia (CA)'s board requested an amendment to their integrity code be drawn up on Friday in another step towards David&nbsp;Warner's lifetime ban from leadership positions being lifted. The opening batsman was banned from the elite game for 12 months and from leadership positions for life by CA after they adjudged he played the leading role in the 2018 Newlands ball-tampering scandal.</p>

<p>There have been calls this year from players, including test skipper Pat Cummins, for the leadership ban to be dropped to allow&nbsp;Warner&nbsp;to be considered for the vacancy as Australia's one-day international captain. Any player who accepts a sanction under the current code, as&nbsp;Warner&nbsp;did, forgoes the right to a later review of the punishment but the CA board on Friday asked the body's head of integrity to propose an amendment to it.</p>

<p>"The amendment would allow a person to request a penalty that they had accepted be reviewed after an appropriate period of time," CA said in a statement. "The onus would be on the applicant to prove they had undergone genuine reform relevant to the offence they were sanctioned for. "Any review would not revisit the original sanction, other than suspension of a penalty in recognition of genuine reform."</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/david-warner-to-virat-kohli-top-five-contenders-to-finish-as-highest-run-getters-at-t20-world-cup-2022-524563"><strong>David Warner to Virat Kohli: Top contenders to finish as highest run-getter at T20 World Cup 2022</strong></a></p>

<p>Should the amendment be adopted, CA said, the review of the penalty would be heard by an independent commission. CA chairman Lachlan Henderson and chief executive Nick Hockley signalled the move after CA's annual general meeting on Thursday.</p>

<p>Henderson said the review would be undertaken as quickly as possible to allow&nbsp;Warner&nbsp;to be considered in discussions about future leadership positions. Warner, a former test vice-captain, has said he would regard the offer of a leadership role for his country as a "privilege".</p>


Cricket Australia (CA)'s board requested an amendment to their integrity code be drawn up on Friday in another step towards David Warner's lifetime ban from leadership positions being lifted.

Cricket Australia (CA)'s board requested an amendment to their integrity code be drawn up on Friday in another step towards David Warner's lifetime ban from leadership positions being lifted. The opening batsman was banned from the elite game for 12 months and from leadership positions for life by CA after they adjudged he played the leading role in the 2018 Newlands ball-tampering scandal. There have been calls this year from players, including test skipper Pat Cummins, for the leadership ban to be dropped to allow Warner to be considered for the vacancy as Australia's one-day international captain. Any player who accepts a sanction under the current code, as Warner did, forgoes the right to a later review of the punishment but the CA board on Friday asked the body's head of integrity to propose an amendment to it. "The amendment would allow a person to request a penalty that they had accepted be reviewed after an appropriate period of time," CA said in a statement. "The onus would be on the applicant to prove they had undergone genuine reform relevant to the offence they were sanctioned for. "Any review would not revisit the original sanction, other than suspension of a penalty in recognition of genuine reform." ALSO READ | David Warner to Virat Kohli: Top contenders to finish as highest run-getter at T20 World Cup 2022 Should the amendment be adopted, CA said, the review of the penalty would be heard by an independent commission. CA chairman Lachlan Henderson and chief executive Nick Hockley signalled the move after CA's annual general meeting on Thursday. Henderson said the review would be undertaken as quickly as possible to allow Warner to be considered in discussions about future leadership positions. Warner, a former test vice-captain, has said he would regard the offer of a leadership role for his country as a "privilege".

Cricket Australia paves way for opener David Warner's lifetime ban to be lifted

<p>Justin Langer did a reasonably good&nbsp;job as the Australian men's cricket team's head coach from early 2018 to 2022. Under Langer, Australia revamped post the infamous ball-tampering saga and went onto draw the Ashes 2019, reach the semi-finals of the 2019 ODI World Cup, dominated at home versus Sri Lanka, New Zealand, Pakistan&nbsp;and won the Ashes 2021/22 and last year's&nbsp;T20 World Cup, in the UAE.</p>

<p>However, he stepped down as the head coach in February 2022 after reports started flowing in that his leadership style was 'too intense' for the national players (especially the younger brigade). Recently, the former opener opined on the criticism and said that he will 'never ever apologise' for his methods as a coach.</p>

<p>"It's really ironic, well not ironic, but it's the way of the world, I guess. On finishing with the Australian team, there was a talk I was too serious, too intense for some of the younger players. But that's what I learned. There's a famous incident where in the last Test (against India in Brisbane, 2021) I told Marnus Labuschagne not to walk out with a toasted ham and cheese sandwich in his hand, and it became headlines," Langer told Kim Beazley, Governor of Western Australia, in an interview.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/i-was-happy-besides-the-bulls-politics-justin-langer-opines-on-his-exit-as-australia-mens-team-coach-482380"><strong>'I was happy besides the bulls*** politics' - Justin Langer opines on his exit as Australia men's team coach</strong></a></p>

<p>Langer further went onto add that&nbsp;he would not have reached the place he is in&nbsp;today had he not been coached in the similar manner by his predecessors.</p>

<p>"You imagine Allan Border or Steve Waugh letting us ... it would not happen because we were walking out to battle and representing our country. We were walking out to win and make Australians proud of what we were doing, and I will never, ever apologise for that. It was how we were brought up and I wouldn't be here now if I hadn't have been brought up like that. It was an awesome grounding with great leadership and mentors," added Langer, who represented the Baggy Greens in 106 Tests.</p>

<p>Langer has now been succeeded by Andrew McDonald as the Aussie head coach whereas Pat Cummins and Aaron Finch continue to lead Australia in Tests and limited-overs, respectively.</p>


Justin Langer did a reasonably good job as the Australian men's cricket team's head coach from early 2018 to 2022. Under Langer, Australia revamped post the infamous ball-tampering saga and went onto draw the Ashes 2019, reach the semi-finals of the 2019 ODI World Cup, dominated at home versus Sri Lanka, New Zealand, Pakistan and won the Ashes 2021/22 and last year's T20 World Cup, in the UAE.

Justin Langer did a reasonably good job as the Australian men's cricket team's head coach from early 2018 to 2022. Under Langer, Australia revamped post the infamous ball-tampering saga and went onto draw the Ashes 2019, reach the semi-finals of the 2019 ODI World Cup, dominated at home versus Sri Lanka, New Zealand, Pakistan and won the Ashes 2021/22 and last year's T20 World Cup, in the UAE. However, he stepped down as the head coach in February 2022 after reports started flowing in that his leadership style was 'too intense' for the national players (especially the younger brigade). Recently, the former opener opined on the criticism and said that he will 'never ever apologise' for his methods as a coach. "It's really ironic, well not ironic, but it's the way of the world, I guess. On finishing with the Australian team, there was a talk I was too serious, too intense for some of the younger players. But that's what I learned. There's a famous incident where in the last Test (against India in Brisbane, 2021) I told Marnus Labuschagne not to walk out with a toasted ham and cheese sandwich in his hand, and it became headlines," Langer told Kim Beazley, Governor of Western Australia, in an interview. ALSO READ | 'I was happy besides the bulls*** politics' - Justin Langer opines on his exit as Australia men's team coach Langer further went onto add that he would not have reached the place he is in today had he not been coached in the similar manner by his predecessors. "You imagine Allan Border or Steve Waugh letting us ... it would not happen because we were walking out to battle and representing our country. We were walking out to win and make Australians proud of what we were doing, and I will never, ever apologise for that. It was how we were brought up and I wouldn't be here now if I hadn't have been brought up like that. It was an awesome grounding with great leadership and mentors," added Langer, who represented the Baggy Greens in 106 Tests. Langer has now been succeeded by Andrew McDonald as the Aussie head coach whereas Pat Cummins and Aaron Finch continue to lead Australia in Tests and limited-overs, respectively.

I'll never, ever apologise, says ex-Aussie coach Justin Langer on his leadership style being 'too intense'

<p>Justin Langer replaced Darren Lehmann to become Australia's head coach post the ball-tampering scandal that rocked Australian cricket in early 2018. While it took some time for the Men in Yellow to regain their form and momentum, with Steve Smith-David Warner's year-long international ban, the Aussies slowly and steadily came to their own under Langer.</p>

<p>During Langer's tenure, which ended in February 2022, Australia retained the urn with a 2-2 scoreline in Ashes 2019, in England, won white-ball series in India, whitewashed Pakistan in five ODIs in the UAE, reached the 2019 ODI World Cup semi-finals, dominated in home Tests versus New Zealand, Sri Lanka and Pakistan, won the&nbsp; 2021 T20 World Cup and demolished England 4-0 in Ashes 2021-22. Despite all the success, his tenure ended controversially following a year&nbsp;of unrest and leaks against his&nbsp;methods. Many players had complained of Langer's&nbsp;intense and volatile micromanagement style.</p>

<p>After his resignation, a number of Langer's ex-teammates and Aussie greats such as Ricky Ponting, Matthew Hayden, Adam Gilchrist, late Shane Warne, etc. had come out and supported the former opener and even pointed out the mistreatment by Cricket Australia (CA).</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/hardik-pandyas-stocks-go-up-as-captain-star-player-could-lead-team-india-in-ireland-t20is-report-482360"><strong>Hardik Pandya's captaincy stocks on the rise, star player could lead Team India in Ireland T20Is: Report</strong></a></p>

<p>Thus, while recalling his conversation with the then interim chief Richard Freudenstein the day after he quit from the top post, Langer recently told cricket.com.au, "The first thing he said to me was, 'It must make you feel so good that all your mates are supporting you in the media.'"</p>

<p>"I said, 'Yeah it is, acting chairman, but with all due respect, those mates are also the all-time greats of Australian cricket. They are the fabric of Australian cricket. They are Australian cricket. They also work all around the world in cricket. So yeah, I'm glad my mates are looking after me. Imagine if you had had'.</p>

<p>He blamed the politics within to have led to his exit and added, "Not only did we win everything, but I had energy, and I had focus, and I was happy besides the bulls*** politics."</p>


Justin Langer replaced Darren Lehmann to become Australia's head coach post the ball-tampering scandal that rocked Australian cricket in early 2018. While it took some time for the Men in Yellow to regain their form and momentum, with Steve Smith-David Warner's year-long international ban, the Aussies slowly and steadily came to their own under Langer.

Justin Langer replaced Darren Lehmann to become Australia's head coach post the ball-tampering scandal that rocked Australian cricket in early 2018. While it took some time for the Men in Yellow to regain their form and momentum, with Steve Smith-David Warner's year-long international ban, the Aussies slowly and steadily came to their own under Langer. During Langer's tenure, which ended in February 2022, Australia retained the urn with a 2-2 scoreline in Ashes 2019, in England, won white-ball series in India, whitewashed Pakistan in five ODIs in the UAE, reached the 2019 ODI World Cup semi-finals, dominated in home Tests versus New Zealand, Sri Lanka and Pakistan, won the 2021 T20 World Cup and demolished England 4-0 in Ashes 2021-22. Despite all the success, his tenure ended controversially following a year of unrest and leaks against his methods. Many players had complained of Langer's intense and volatile micromanagement style. After his resignation, a number of Langer's ex-teammates and Aussie greats such as Ricky Ponting, Matthew Hayden, Adam Gilchrist, late Shane Warne, etc. had come out and supported the former opener and even pointed out the mistreatment by Cricket Australia (CA). ALSO READ | Hardik Pandya's captaincy stocks on the rise, star player could lead Team India in Ireland T20Is: Report Thus, while recalling his conversation with the then interim chief Richard Freudenstein the day after he quit from the top post, Langer recently told cricket.com.au, "The first thing he said to me was, 'It must make you feel so good that all your mates are supporting you in the media.'" "I said, 'Yeah it is, acting chairman, but with all due respect, those mates are also the all-time greats of Australian cricket. They are the fabric of Australian cricket. They are Australian cricket. They also work all around the world in cricket. So yeah, I'm glad my mates are looking after me. Imagine if you had had'. He blamed the politics within to have led to his exit and added, "Not only did we win everything, but I had energy, and I had focus, and I was happy besides the bulls*** politics."

'I was happy besides the bulls*** politics' - Justin Langer opines on his exit as Australia men's team coach

<p>Cricket Australia continues to monitor the situation in Sri Lanka but has no plans to change the schedule of the upcoming tour of the island state despite continued violence, the governing body said on Thursday.<br />
Nine people have died and more than 300 have been injured this week in violent street protests against the government of the Indian Ocean nation, which is battling the worst economic crisis in its history.</p>

<p>Australia`s Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) updated its travel advice on Sri Lanka on Wednesday, instructing potential visitors to reconsider their need to travel because of the security situation.<br />
"We are keeping a close eye on developments in Sri Lanka and talking regularly with DFAT and Sri Lanka Cricket," Cricket Australia said on Thursday.</p>

<p>"Our players and support staff have been briefed and will continue to be kept up to date. There are three weeks until the scheduled departure of the squad and at this stage there are no changes to the schedule."<br />
DFAT has also been advising potential visitors to Pakistan to reconsider their need to travel since March, in that case because of "the volatile security situation and high threat of terrorist attack, kidnapping and violence".</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/we-will-keep-fighting-afghanistan-women-footballers-train-in-australia-after-fleeing-taliban-rule-478206"><strong>'We will keep fighting': Afghanistan women footballers train in Australia after fleeing Taliban rule</strong></a></p>

<p>The Australia test side completed its first cricket tour of Pakistan since 1998 under "presidential-level" security last month. Australia announced three strong squads last month for the tour of Sri Lanka, which includes a Twenty20 series, five one-day internationals as well as two tests in Galle. An Australia "A" team will also play four matches.</p>

<p>Two of the T20 matches that kick off the tour early next month, three of the one-day internationals and two of the "A" matches are in the capital Colombo, where the worst of the violence has taken place.<br />
Cricket Australia`s security chief visited Sri Lanka last month, when a state of emergency was first declared, and gave the all-clear for the tour.</p>


Cricket Australia continues to monitor the situation in Sri Lanka but has no plans to change the schedule of the upcoming tour of the island state despite continued violence, the governing body said on Thursday.

Cricket Australia continues to monitor the situation in Sri Lanka but has no plans to change the schedule of the upcoming tour of the island state despite continued violence, the governing body said on Thursday. Nine people have died and more than 300 have been injured this week in violent street protests against the government of the Indian Ocean nation, which is battling the worst economic crisis in its history. Australia`s Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) updated its travel advice on Sri Lanka on Wednesday, instructing potential visitors to reconsider their need to travel because of the security situation. "We are keeping a close eye on developments in Sri Lanka and talking regularly with DFAT and Sri Lanka Cricket," Cricket Australia said on Thursday. "Our players and support staff have been briefed and will continue to be kept up to date. There are three weeks until the scheduled departure of the squad and at this stage there are no changes to the schedule." DFAT has also been advising potential visitors to Pakistan to reconsider their need to travel since March, in that case because of "the volatile security situation and high threat of terrorist attack, kidnapping and violence". ALSO READ | 'We will keep fighting': Afghanistan women footballers train in Australia after fleeing Taliban rule The Australia test side completed its first cricket tour of Pakistan since 1998 under "presidential-level" security last month. Australia announced three strong squads last month for the tour of Sri Lanka, which includes a Twenty20 series, five one-day internationals as well as two tests in Galle. An Australia "A" team will also play four matches. Two of the T20 matches that kick off the tour early next month, three of the one-day internationals and two of the "A" matches are in the capital Colombo, where the worst of the violence has taken place. Cricket Australia`s security chief visited Sri Lanka last month, when a state of emergency was first declared, and gave the all-clear for the tour.

Sri Lanka crisis: Cricket Australia monitor situation in Island nation ahead of tour

<p>Yuvraj Singh had a stellar career for Team India. Making his debut in 2000, the swashbuckling all-rounder retired in 2019 after having played his last game in 2017. While he couldn't be a regular in the Test line-up, Yuvraj is regarded as one of the best white-ball players.</p>

<p>Yuvraj made his international debut during the Sourav Ganguly-led Team India's ICC Knockout Trophy campaign, in Nairobi. In the quarter-final game, the former all-rounder made his presence felt against a solid Australian line-up. The then 18-year-old Yuvraj returned with a match-winning 84 to be adjudged Player-of-the-Match and guided India to a 20-run win over the Men in Yellow.</p>

<p>Nonetheless, Yuvraj had a sleepless night before his debut game.&nbsp;Recalling the night before the encounter, Singh said he could not sleep the whole night. The then skipper&nbsp;Ganguly had asked the southpaw whether he would be interested in opening the innings. To this, Yuvi had also given his nod.</p>

<p>“Yeah, if you want me to open, I’ll open,” Singh told Sports 18's Home of Heroes. “Whole night I didn’t sleep.”</p>

<p>“I was batting at No. 5, very nervous. But when I went into bat, focus turned to watching the ball,” recalled Yuvraj who faced the likes of Brett Lee, Glenn McGrath, Jason Gillespie along with&nbsp;Australians'&nbsp;sledging. However, Yuvi went past all obstacles and was even given a reprieve at 37 as he made a memorable start to his international career. “If I today would’ve scored 37 on my debut against Australia, I would’ve been very happy because of the attack that I was facing,” Yuvraj asserted. “Luckily, I went on to score 84, I don’t know how, just watched the ball, hit the ball. It was a very big moment for me, to beat Australia and get the Man-of-the-Match award,” he added.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohli-needs-to-yuvraj-singh-shares-words-of-wisdom-for-struggling-rcb-and-indian-batter-474649"><strong>'Virat Kohli needs to....' - Yuvraj Singh shares words of wisdom for struggling RCB and Indian batter</strong></a></p>

<p>Yuvraj ended his international career with 1,900, 8,701 and 1,177 Test, ODI and T20I runs, respectively. In addition, he accounted for 148 international scalps. He was one of the top performers for India during the title-run in 2007 T20 World Cup and ended as the Player-of-the-Tournament in MS Dhoni &amp; Co.'s 2011 ODI World Cup triumph.</p>


Yuvraj Singh had a stellar career for Team India. Making his debut in 2000, the swashbuckling all-rounder retired in 2019 after having played his last game in 2017.

Yuvraj Singh had a stellar career for Team India. Making his debut in 2000, the swashbuckling all-rounder retired in 2019 after having played his last game in 2017. While he couldn't be a regular in the Test line-up, Yuvraj is regarded as one of the best white-ball players. Yuvraj made his international debut during the Sourav Ganguly-led Team India's ICC Knockout Trophy campaign, in Nairobi. In the quarter-final game, the former all-rounder made his presence felt against a solid Australian line-up. The then 18-year-old Yuvraj returned with a match-winning 84 to be adjudged Player-of-the-Match and guided India to a 20-run win over the Men in Yellow. Nonetheless, Yuvraj had a sleepless night before his debut game. Recalling the night before the encounter, Singh said he could not sleep the whole night. The then skipper Ganguly had asked the southpaw whether he would be interested in opening the innings. To this, Yuvi had also given his nod. “Yeah, if you want me to open, I’ll open,” Singh told Sports 18's Home of Heroes. “Whole night I didn’t sleep.” “I was batting at No. 5, very nervous. But when I went into bat, focus turned to watching the ball,” recalled Yuvraj who faced the likes of Brett Lee, Glenn McGrath, Jason Gillespie along with Australians' sledging. However, Yuvi went past all obstacles and was even given a reprieve at 37 as he made a memorable start to his international career. “If I today would’ve scored 37 on my debut against Australia, I would’ve been very happy because of the attack that I was facing,” Yuvraj asserted. “Luckily, I went on to score 84, I don’t know how, just watched the ball, hit the ball. It was a very big moment for me, to beat Australia and get the Man-of-the-Match award,” he added. ALSO READ | 'Virat Kohli needs to....' - Yuvraj Singh shares words of wisdom for struggling RCB and Indian batter Yuvraj ended his international career with 1,900, 8,701 and 1,177 Test, ODI and T20I runs, respectively. In addition, he accounted for 148 international scalps. He was one of the top performers for India during the title-run in 2007 T20 World Cup and ended as the Player-of-the-Tournament in MS Dhoni & Co.'s 2011 ODI World Cup triumph.

Yuvraj Singh reveals why he couldn't sleep before his international debut versus Australia

<p>To celebrate Australia's first Test series in Pakistan in 24 years, the Pakistan Cricket Board and Cricket Australia on Wednesday announced the introduction of the Benaud-Qadir Trophy.</p>

<p>This will be a perpetual Trophy and will be presented at the end of each men's Test series played between the Pakistan and Australia cricket teams.</p>

<p>Pakistan captain Babar Azam and Australia captain Pat Cummins on Wednesday unveiled the Benaud-Qadir Trophy at the Pindi Cricket Stadium ahead of the first Test, which commences on Friday.</p>

<p>The Benaud-Qadir Trophy will be presented to the winning side at the headquarters of Pakistan cricket in Lahore where the three-Test series will culminate.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-vs-sl-r-ashwin-on-verge-of-going-past-kapil-dev-in-elite-list-during-series-opener-in-mohali-458150">India vs SL: R Ashwin on verge of going past Kapil Dev in elite list during series opener in Mohali</a></p>

<p>Benaud and Qadir were two skilful, distinguished and immensely respected cricketers of different eras who served the game with honour, pride and distinction.</p>

<p>Benaud got wrist-spin bowling noticed and recognised as an attacking and wicket-taking option, an art that was subsequently taken to the next level by Qadir with some incredible performances against high-quality batters at a time when express fast bowlers were ruling the roost.</p>

<p>Benaud captained Australia on the team's first full tour to Pakistan in 1959 and won the series 2-0, while Qadir played in 11 Tests against Australia in which he took 45 wickets, including 33 wickets in two three-Test series in 1982 and 1988 against Kim Hughes and Allan Border's sides respectively.</p>

<p>Individually, in 63 Tests from 1952 to 1964, Benaud took 248 wickets whereas Qadir took to Test cricket in 1977 and finished in 1990 with 236 wickets in 67 Tests.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohli-on-cusp-of-joining-sachin-tendulkar-rahul-dravid-co-in-elite-list-in-historic-100th-test-458045">Virat Kohli on cusp of joining Sachin Tendulkar, Rahul Dravid &amp; Co. in elite list in historic 100th Test</a></p>

<p>For their respective heroics, achievements and accomplishments, Benaud was inducted into the ICC Hall of Fame in 2009, while Qadir was included in the PCB Hall of Fame in 2021.</p>

<p>Daphne Benaud, Richie's wife: "I am delighted to give my approval for Richie's name to be on this trophy alongside that of Abdul Qadir. Richie had very high regard for Abdul and the fact that both were leg-spinners has a nice ring to it."</p>

<p>Australia men's captain Pat Cummins: "To be able to compete for the Benaud-Qadir Trophy for the first time is a huge honour. As current players, we really are standing on the shoulders of these greats of the past who helped to grow and popularize the game in years gone by, and if my team can collect that trophy at the end of this series then it really would be the perfect end to the Test part of this historic tour."</p>

<p>Before the Benaud-Qadir Trophy, Pakistan and Australia have played 25 Test series with Australia winning 13 and Pakistan winning seven.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/pakistan-pacer-haris-rauf-tests-positive-for-covid-19-ahead-of-test-series-against-australia-457929">Pakistan pacer Haris Rauf tests positive for COVID-19 ahead of Test series against Australia</a></p>

<p>When Pakistan last hosted Australia in 1998, Mark Taylor's side won the series 1-0, while Sarfaraz Ahmed's men won 1-0 in Pakistan's last home series in the United Arab Emirates in 2018.</p>

<p>The last Test series between the two sides was played in Australia in 2019, which was won 2-0 by Australia.</p>

<p>Pakistan captain Babar Azam: "The game is today healthy, wealthy and strong because of such individuals and their legacy, as such, we must always recognise and acknowledge their contributions and services."</p>

<p>"We have our sights firmly on the Benaud-Qadir Trophy, both the sides will have to bring out their very best during this series as this promises to be a really competitive contest. This series will significantly enhance the quality of Test cricket, which cricket fans inside the venues and world-over can thoroughly enjoy," he added.</p>


To celebrate Australia's first Test series in Pakistan in 24 years, the Pakistan Cricket Board and Cricket Australia on Wednesday announced the introduction of the Benaud-Qadir Trophy.

To celebrate Australia's first Test series in Pakistan in 24 years, the Pakistan Cricket Board and Cricket Australia on Wednesday announced the introduction of the Benaud-Qadir Trophy. This will be a perpetual Trophy and will be presented at the end of each men's Test series played between the Pakistan and Australia cricket teams. Pakistan captain Babar Azam and Australia captain Pat Cummins on Wednesday unveiled the Benaud-Qadir Trophy at the Pindi Cricket Stadium ahead of the first Test, which commences on Friday. The Benaud-Qadir Trophy will be presented to the winning side at the headquarters of Pakistan cricket in Lahore where the three-Test series will culminate. ALSO READ: India vs SL: R Ashwin on verge of going past Kapil Dev in elite list during series opener in Mohali Benaud and Qadir were two skilful, distinguished and immensely respected cricketers of different eras who served the game with honour, pride and distinction. Benaud got wrist-spin bowling noticed and recognised as an attacking and wicket-taking option, an art that was subsequently taken to the next level by Qadir with some incredible performances against high-quality batters at a time when express fast bowlers were ruling the roost. Benaud captained Australia on the team's first full tour to Pakistan in 1959 and won the series 2-0, while Qadir played in 11 Tests against Australia in which he took 45 wickets, including 33 wickets in two three-Test series in 1982 and 1988 against Kim Hughes and Allan Border's sides respectively. Individually, in 63 Tests from 1952 to 1964, Benaud took 248 wickets whereas Qadir took to Test cricket in 1977 and finished in 1990 with 236 wickets in 67 Tests. ALSO READ: Virat Kohli on cusp of joining Sachin Tendulkar, Rahul Dravid & Co. in elite list in historic 100th Test For their respective heroics, achievements and accomplishments, Benaud was inducted into the ICC Hall of Fame in 2009, while Qadir was included in the PCB Hall of Fame in 2021. Daphne Benaud, Richie's wife: "I am delighted to give my approval for Richie's name to be on this trophy alongside that of Abdul Qadir. Richie had very high regard for Abdul and the fact that both were leg-spinners has a nice ring to it." Australia men's captain Pat Cummins: "To be able to compete for the Benaud-Qadir Trophy for the first time is a huge honour. As current players, we really are standing on the shoulders of these greats of the past who helped to grow and popularize the game in years gone by, and if my team can collect that trophy at the end of this series then it really would be the perfect end to the Test part of this historic tour." Before the Benaud-Qadir Trophy, Pakistan and Australia have played 25 Test series with Australia winning 13 and Pakistan winning seven. ALSO READ: Pakistan pacer Haris Rauf tests positive for COVID-19 ahead of Test series against Australia When Pakistan last hosted Australia in 1998, Mark Taylor's side won the series 1-0, while Sarfaraz Ahmed's men won 1-0 in Pakistan's last home series in the United Arab Emirates in 2018. The last Test series between the two sides was played in Australia in 2019, which was won 2-0 by Australia. Pakistan captain Babar Azam: "The game is today healthy, wealthy and strong because of such individuals and their legacy, as such, we must always recognise and acknowledge their contributions and services." "We have our sights firmly on the Benaud-Qadir Trophy, both the sides will have to bring out their very best during this series as this promises to be a really competitive contest. This series will significantly enhance the quality of Test cricket, which cricket fans inside the venues and world-over can thoroughly enjoy," he added.

PCB introduces Benaud-Qadir Trophy to celebrate Australia's first Test series in Pakistan in 24 years

<p>Jhye Richardson's two-wicket haul was backed up by Josh Inglis'&nbsp;40-run knock as Australia outclassed Sri Lanka by six wickets in the fourth T20I of the five-match series here at the Melbourne Cricket Ground on Friday.</p>

<p>With this win, Australia has gained a 4-0 lead in the five-match series and the final T20I will now be played on Sunday.</p>

<p>Chasing 140, Australia did not get off to an ideal start as the hosts lost opening batter Ben McDermott (9) in the fifth over to Maheesh Theekshana.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rohit-sharma-set-to-take-over-as-indias-test-captain-virat-kohli-to-miss-t20is-against-sri-lanka-report-454310">Rohit Sharma set to take over as India's Test captain, Virat Kohli to miss T20Is against Sri Lanka - Report</a></p>

<p>Soon after, Lahiru Kumara dismissed Australia skipper Aaron Finch (2) and Ashton Agar (26), and the hosts were reduced to 49/3 in the ninth over.</p>

<p>Josh Inglis and Glenn Maxwell then got together at the crease and the duo revived Australia's innings. After 12 overs, Australia's score read 86/3, with the hosts still needing 54 runs for the win.</p>

<p>Inglis departed after playing a 40-run knock but Maxwell (48*) and Marcus Stoinis (8*) ensured that the hosts get over the line with 11 balls to spare.</p>

<p>Earlier, Pathum Nissanka and Charith Asalanka played knocks of 46 and 22 respectively as Sri Lanka posted 139/8 in the allotted twenty overs. For Australia, Kane Richardson and Jhye Richardson returned with two wickets each.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/indvswi-when-and-where-to-watch-india-vs-west-indies-2nd-t20i-ist-time-and-streaming-details-454226">INDvsWI: When and where to watch India vs West Indies 2nd T20I - IST time and streaming details</a></p>

<p>Kusal Mendis and Danushka Gunathilaka also chipped in with handy cameos of 27 and 17 as Sri Lanka posted a score of more than the 130-run mark.</p>

<p>In the final five overs, Sri Lanka lost six wickets and added just 35 more runs to the total.</p>

<p>Brief Scores: Sri Lanka 139/8 (Pathum Nissanka 46, Kusal Mendis 27; Jhye Richardson 2-20); Australia 143/4 (Glenn Maxwell 48*, Josh Inglis 40; Lahiru Kumara 2-22).</p>


Jhye Richardson's two-wicket haul was backed up by Josh Inglis' 40-run knock as Australia outclassed Sri Lanka by six wickets in the fourth T20I of the five-match series here at the Melbourne Cricket Ground on Friday.

Jhye Richardson's two-wicket haul was backed up by Josh Inglis' 40-run knock as Australia outclassed Sri Lanka by six wickets in the fourth T20I of the five-match series here at the Melbourne Cricket Ground on Friday. With this win, Australia has gained a 4-0 lead in the five-match series and the final T20I will now be played on Sunday. Chasing 140, Australia did not get off to an ideal start as the hosts lost opening batter Ben McDermott (9) in the fifth over to Maheesh Theekshana. ALSO READ: Rohit Sharma set to take over as India's Test captain, Virat Kohli to miss T20Is against Sri Lanka - Report Soon after, Lahiru Kumara dismissed Australia skipper Aaron Finch (2) and Ashton Agar (26), and the hosts were reduced to 49/3 in the ninth over. Josh Inglis and Glenn Maxwell then got together at the crease and the duo revived Australia's innings. After 12 overs, Australia's score read 86/3, with the hosts still needing 54 runs for the win. Inglis departed after playing a 40-run knock but Maxwell (48*) and Marcus Stoinis (8*) ensured that the hosts get over the line with 11 balls to spare. Earlier, Pathum Nissanka and Charith Asalanka played knocks of 46 and 22 respectively as Sri Lanka posted 139/8 in the allotted twenty overs. For Australia, Kane Richardson and Jhye Richardson returned with two wickets each. ALSO READ: INDvsWI: When and where to watch India vs West Indies 2nd T20I - IST time and streaming details Kusal Mendis and Danushka Gunathilaka also chipped in with handy cameos of 27 and 17 as Sri Lanka posted a score of more than the 130-run mark. In the final five overs, Sri Lanka lost six wickets and added just 35 more runs to the total. Brief Scores: Sri Lanka 139/8 (Pathum Nissanka 46, Kusal Mendis 27; Jhye Richardson 2-20); Australia 143/4 (Glenn Maxwell 48*, Josh Inglis 40; Lahiru Kumara 2-22).

Jhye Richardson, Josh Inglis star as Australia beat Sri Lanka by six wickets in 4th T20I, take 4-0 lead

<p>Australia should move away from their traditional approach of appointing one coach for all three formats of the game, former all-rounder Shane Watson said on Thursday.</p>

<p>Cricket Australia is searching for a new head coach following the resignation of Justin Langer, with Andrew McDonald appointed on an interim basis.</p>

<p>Watson, who represented Australia in all three formats in more than 300 appearances, said the team would benefit if the top coaching job was shared.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ranji-trophy-u19-wc-winning-captain-yash-dhull-stars-on-first-class-debut-smashes-century-against-tamil-nadu-453989">Ranji Trophy: U19 WC-winning captain Yash Dhull stars on first-class debut, smashes century against Tamil Nadu</a></p>

<p>"I think it is going to have to be a necessity to break up the formats with their (Australia's) coaches," Watson told the International Cricket Council's show 'The ICC Review'.</p>

<p>"There is a good chance they will split the roles as I don't think it is sustainable that everyone does every single format for a long period of time.</p>

<p>"There is always going to be burnout and fatigue in a team environment, especially now with COVID and bubbles and similar situations that are around."</p>

<p>Watson said former Sri Lanka and England coach Trevor Bayliss would be a good fit for Australia.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/1st-t20i-we-are-not-even-talking-about-him-aakash-chopra-reacts-to-virat-kohlis-string-of-low-scores-453996">&nbsp;</a></strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/1st-t20i-we-are-not-even-talking-about-him-aakash-chopra-reacts-to-virat-kohlis-string-of-low-scores-453996">'We're not even talking about him'- Chopra reacts to string of low scores from Kohli after 1st T20I vs WI</a></p>

<p>"I love the experience Trevor Bayliss has," Watson said. "He has probably seen every single thing possible in cricket just about and I would love to see him get a great opportunity.</p>

<p>"Andrew McDonald is a great coach and is in the early part of his career, but I would err towards experience just for this interim period for the next stage of Australian cricket."</p>


Australia should move away from their traditional approach of appointing one coach for all three formats of the game, former all-rounder Shane Watson said on Thursday.

Australia should move away from their traditional approach of appointing one coach for all three formats of the game, former all-rounder Shane Watson said on Thursday. Cricket Australia is searching for a new head coach following the resignation of Justin Langer, with Andrew McDonald appointed on an interim basis. Watson, who represented Australia in all three formats in more than 300 appearances, said the team would benefit if the top coaching job was shared. ALSO READ: Ranji Trophy: U19 WC-winning captain Yash Dhull stars on first-class debut, smashes century against Tamil Nadu "I think it is going to have to be a necessity to break up the formats with their (Australia's) coaches," Watson told the International Cricket Council's show 'The ICC Review'. "There is a good chance they will split the roles as I don't think it is sustainable that everyone does every single format for a long period of time. "There is always going to be burnout and fatigue in a team environment, especially now with COVID and bubbles and similar situations that are around." Watson said former Sri Lanka and England coach Trevor Bayliss would be a good fit for Australia. ALSO READ: 'We're not even talking about him'- Chopra reacts to string of low scores from Kohli after 1st T20I vs WI "I love the experience Trevor Bayliss has," Watson said. "He has probably seen every single thing possible in cricket just about and I would love to see him get a great opportunity. "Andrew McDonald is a great coach and is in the early part of his career, but I would err towards experience just for this interim period for the next stage of Australian cricket."

'Split Roles': Australia should have different coach for each format, says former all-rounder Shane Watson

<p>Australia pacer Kane Richardson has said that probably leaving the Indian Premier League (IPL) season midway last year was the reason behind him and Adam Zampa going unsold in the mega auction this year.</p>

<p>Zampa and Richardson who were playing for Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) last season decided to leave IPL midway during the India phase after COVID-19 cases started rising in India and there were doubts regarding whether Australia will allow any travellers or not.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/will-miss-playing-cricket-with-you-brother-david-warner-posts-emotional-message-for-kane-williamson-453751">'Will miss playing cricket with you': David Warner shares emotional post for Kane Williamson after joining DC</a></p>

<p>"I was definitely more shocked for him. To be brutally honest, when we left last year, in the circumstances early, I remember having a conversation with him. I said to him, look, this may come back and bite us, and at that time it wasn't a priority for us to be there. We wanted to get back to Australia," ESPNcricinfo quoted Richardson as saying.</p>

<p>"So I think there'd be some kind of buyers that'd be pretty wary of picking us up thinking that we wouldn't come again.</p>

<p>I definitely think that's a factor. I'm just speaking on what I think would be a factor in it. I don't know. I've never had a dialogue with a franchise or a person that says that's what would be the case. But I think I didn't go the year before as well with the birth of my boy," he added.</p>

<p>Further talking about the IPL, Richardson said: "So my reputation probably is that in the last couple of years I haven't gone so it's obviously not something that I am. I try and play as much cricket as I can. But I think the circumstances in the last couple of IPLs have made me not go. But it's not a reputation I want."</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/kolkata-knight-riders-confirm-shreyas-iyers-appointment-as-their-new-captain-ahead-of-ipl-2022-453737">Kolkata Knight Riders confirm Shreyas Iyer's appointment as their new captain ahead of IPL 2022</a></p>

<p>"So that's just us brainstorming. I think that'd be a point of them being wary of us turning up, but I'm not 100 per cent sure," he added.</p>

<p>Richardson starred with the ball for Australia in the third T20I against Sri Lanka as the hosts gained an unassailable 3-0 lead in the five-match series.</p>

<p>The pacer took a three-wicket haul and he was adjudged as Player of the Match.</p>


Australia pacer Kane Richardson has said that probably leaving the Indian Premier League (IPL) season midway last year was the reason behind him and Adam Zampa going unsold in the mega auction this year.

Australia pacer Kane Richardson has said that probably leaving the Indian Premier League (IPL) season midway last year was the reason behind him and Adam Zampa going unsold in the mega auction this year. Zampa and Richardson who were playing for Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) last season decided to leave IPL midway during the India phase after COVID-19 cases started rising in India and there were doubts regarding whether Australia will allow any travellers or not. ALSO READ: 'Will miss playing cricket with you': David Warner shares emotional post for Kane Williamson after joining DC "I was definitely more shocked for him. To be brutally honest, when we left last year, in the circumstances early, I remember having a conversation with him. I said to him, look, this may come back and bite us, and at that time it wasn't a priority for us to be there. We wanted to get back to Australia," ESPNcricinfo quoted Richardson as saying. "So I think there'd be some kind of buyers that'd be pretty wary of picking us up thinking that we wouldn't come again. I definitely think that's a factor. I'm just speaking on what I think would be a factor in it. I don't know. I've never had a dialogue with a franchise or a person that says that's what would be the case. But I think I didn't go the year before as well with the birth of my boy," he added. Further talking about the IPL, Richardson said: "So my reputation probably is that in the last couple of years I haven't gone so it's obviously not something that I am. I try and play as much cricket as I can. But I think the circumstances in the last couple of IPLs have made me not go. But it's not a reputation I want." ALSO READ: Kolkata Knight Riders confirm Shreyas Iyer's appointment as their new captain ahead of IPL 2022 "So that's just us brainstorming. I think that'd be a point of them being wary of us turning up, but I'm not 100 per cent sure," he added. Richardson starred with the ball for Australia in the third T20I against Sri Lanka as the hosts gained an unassailable 3-0 lead in the five-match series. The pacer took a three-wicket haul and he was adjudged as Player of the Match.

Leaving IPL early last year might be a reason: Richardson on him and Zampa going unsold at IPL auction

<p>Australian quick Josh Hazlewood returned his best-ever T20I figures in the series opener against Sri Lanka, taking 4-12 in a spell, before capping another haul of 3-22 last week, with a match-sealing Super Over that went for just five runs.</p>

<p>He is now number two among the T20I bowlers, just one point behind South Africa's Tabraiz Shamsi in the ICC Men's T20I Player Rankings.</p>

<p>This week's ratings come after the first three Australia v Sri Lanka matches and the second and third India v West Indies games.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/glenn-maxwell-to-miss-australias-tour-of-pakistan-and-likely-start-of-ipl-2022-heres-why-453718">Glenn Maxwell to miss Australia's tour of Pakistan and likely start of IPL 2022, here's why</a></p>

<p>In the series against Australia, Wanindu Hasaranga took five wickets in the first two matches, but having missed the final match, it wasn't enough for him to continue onto the top spot, as he dropped to the third place in the T20I bowling rankings.</p>

<p>His teammate Maheesh Theekshana was up 16 places to 29th. In the batters list, Sri Lanka's Pathum Nissanka topped the run-scorers in the T20I series with Australia with 125 runs across the three games to move up 42 places and become joint 21st.</p>

<p>Dipendra Singh Airee from Nepal was the leading run-scorer in the Quadrangular T20I tournament held in Oman with 142 runs which helped him up 63 places to 53rd with the bat.</p>

<p>Chirag Suri of the UAE also moved up the table thanks to his unbeaten 84 against Nepal, which was the highest individual score in the competition.</p>

<p>In bowlers again, Oman's Bilal Khan proved to be very economical, conceding just 62 runs in his 12 overs, to move to his career-best position of 18th in T20I in the series.</p>

<p>In the fifty-over format, the Indian pair of Shreyas Iyer and Suryakumar Yadav has made strides up the table.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-vs-west-indies-virat-kohli-stands-73-runs-away-from-breaking-martin-guptills-world-record-in-t20is-453589">India vs West Indies: Virat Kohli stands 73 runs away from breaking Martin Guptill's world record in T20Is</a></p>

<p>Yadav scored 64 in the second ODI against the West Indies whilst Iyer made an 80 in the third to help the home side complete a 3-0 series win.</p>

<p>Their teammate Rishabh Pant added a half-century in the third match to move to a career-best of 469 points at 71st place.</p>

<p>Indian pacer Prasidh Krishna was the leading wicket-taker across both sides with nine wickets at just 7.55 to gain 50 places from 94th to 44th in the ODI bowlers list, whilst Alzarri Joseph took two wickets in each of the three matches to earn himself a place in the top 20 bowler's list.</p>


Australian quick Josh Hazlewood returned his best-ever T20I figures in the series opener against Sri Lanka, taking 4-12 in a spell, before capping another haul of 3-22 last week, with a match-sealing Super Over that went for just five runs.

Australian quick Josh Hazlewood returned his best-ever T20I figures in the series opener against Sri Lanka, taking 4-12 in a spell, before capping another haul of 3-22 last week, with a match-sealing Super Over that went for just five runs. He is now number two among the T20I bowlers, just one point behind South Africa's Tabraiz Shamsi in the ICC Men's T20I Player Rankings. This week's ratings come after the first three Australia v Sri Lanka matches and the second and third India v West Indies games. ALSO READ: Glenn Maxwell to miss Australia's tour of Pakistan and likely start of IPL 2022, here's why In the series against Australia, Wanindu Hasaranga took five wickets in the first two matches, but having missed the final match, it wasn't enough for him to continue onto the top spot, as he dropped to the third place in the T20I bowling rankings. His teammate Maheesh Theekshana was up 16 places to 29th. In the batters list, Sri Lanka's Pathum Nissanka topped the run-scorers in the T20I series with Australia with 125 runs across the three games to move up 42 places and become joint 21st. Dipendra Singh Airee from Nepal was the leading run-scorer in the Quadrangular T20I tournament held in Oman with 142 runs which helped him up 63 places to 53rd with the bat. Chirag Suri of the UAE also moved up the table thanks to his unbeaten 84 against Nepal, which was the highest individual score in the competition. In bowlers again, Oman's Bilal Khan proved to be very economical, conceding just 62 runs in his 12 overs, to move to his career-best position of 18th in T20I in the series. In the fifty-over format, the Indian pair of Shreyas Iyer and Suryakumar Yadav has made strides up the table. ALSO READ: India vs West Indies: Virat Kohli stands 73 runs away from breaking Martin Guptill's world record in T20Is Yadav scored 64 in the second ODI against the West Indies whilst Iyer made an 80 in the third to help the home side complete a 3-0 series win. Their teammate Rishabh Pant added a half-century in the third match to move to a career-best of 469 points at 71st place. Indian pacer Prasidh Krishna was the leading wicket-taker across both sides with nine wickets at just 7.55 to gain 50 places from 94th to 44th in the ODI bowlers list, whilst Alzarri Joseph took two wickets in each of the three matches to earn himself a place in the top 20 bowler's list.

ICC T20I Rankings: Wanindu Hasaranga loses top spot, Josh Hazelwood moves to second

<p>Justin Langer, on February 5, stepped down as the Australian team's head coach. Langer succeeded his former teammate Darren Lehmann at the top post in early 2018, following the spot-fixing scandal which rocked the Australian cricket. Since then, he did a remarkable job in once again lifting the national side and leading them to a 4-0 Ashes win, recently at home, and a maiden T20 World Cup title.</p>

<p>However, a lot has been said and written regarding Langer's method of coaching, which didn't go down nicely amongst the national players.&nbsp;"Justin was offered a short-term extension to his current contract, which sadly he has opted not to accept," stated an official Cricket Australia release.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ&nbsp;|&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ian-chappell-terms-former-cricketers-pr-machine-backs-pat-cummins-and-ca-amid-justin-langer-saga-451557"><strong>Ian Chappell terms former cricketers 'PR Machine', backs Pat Cummins and CA amid Justin Langer saga</strong></a></p>

<p>Following Langer's exit, former Aussie pacer Mitchell Johnson lashed out at Test captain Pat Cummins and called him 'gutless'. Johnson&nbsp;feels that Cummins had&nbsp;an agenda of his own to bring down his national coach. Thus, Cummins recently opened up on Langer's exit and the&nbsp;criticism received while talking to reporters on Wednesday (February 8). He said, "I think he (Langer) tweaked and changed quite a bit. He deserves a lot of credit for that. I think the question then became do we think that it's sustainable. We thought it is the right time to make a change. I think some of these skill sets are perhaps a little bit different to perhaps his traditional coaching style."</p>

<p>"I think he tweaked his coaching style in the last six months and did a really good job, but we think now is the right time for a different direction. It's a matter of opinion but we think it's the right one. I don't think he should be surprised though, it's been two years of evaluation. I don't think there's any big surprise," he added.</p>

<p>On Johnson's comments, Cummins asserted, "Mitchell Johnson is just standing up for his mates. I absolutely disagree with what he said. No, he hasn't reached out, but that's fine. He's entitled to his opinion, he's standing up for his mate. I can hold my head high so I'm fine. I actually haven't really had much of it (personal criticism) before, so it's actually been good to get it out of the way early in the captaincy."</p>

<p>"I knew when I took on the job it's gonna come with added scrutiny. The last week's been good ... I'll cop it, but I'm absolutely fine with it. I know a lot of it's come from the right place. We all want to do what's best for Australian cricket. There's been a lot of emotion flying around. Added to the feedback, you've got to take everything in that kind of context. They're all people I really respect so I listen to them for sure. I'd welcome chatting to any of them directly about feedback and thoughts they have."</p>

<p>"We're custodians of the Australian cricket team. It's not forever. We just want to do what's best. Me as captain, I want to do what's best for Australian cricket and what's best for the team. It's a responsibility I've been given and I take that really seriously,"&nbsp;the 28-year-old Cummins added.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ&nbsp;|&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohli-ms-dhoni-sachin-tendulkar-make-the-cut-in-venkatesh-prasads-all-time-indian-odi-xi-451324"><strong>Virat Kohli, MS Dhoni, Sachin Tendulkar make the cut in Venkatesh Prasad's all-time Indian ODI XI</strong></a></p>

<p>Langer was offered a contract extension, which was the result of a thorough review process that evaluated many factors --&nbsp;future requirements of the national side as well as the upcoming extensive schedule of fixtures. For the unversed, the contract extension was approved by Cricket Australia (CA) and presented before Justin, which he didn't accept.</p>

<p>It will be interesting to see who takes the top job and succeeds Langer as the Aussie head coach in the coming days.</p>


Justin Langer, on February 5, stepped down as the Australian team's head coach. Langer succeeded his former teammate Darren Lehmann at the top post in early 2018, following the spot-fixing scandal which rocked the Australian cricket.

Justin Langer, on February 5, stepped down as the Australian team's head coach. Langer succeeded his former teammate Darren Lehmann at the top post in early 2018, following the spot-fixing scandal which rocked the Australian cricket. Since then, he did a remarkable job in once again lifting the national side and leading them to a 4-0 Ashes win, recently at home, and a maiden T20 World Cup title. However, a lot has been said and written regarding Langer's method of coaching, which didn't go down nicely amongst the national players. "Justin was offered a short-term extension to his current contract, which sadly he has opted not to accept," stated an official Cricket Australia release. ALSO READ | Ian Chappell terms former cricketers 'PR Machine', backs Pat Cummins and CA amid Justin Langer saga Following Langer's exit, former Aussie pacer Mitchell Johnson lashed out at Test captain Pat Cummins and called him 'gutless'. Johnson feels that Cummins had an agenda of his own to bring down his national coach. Thus, Cummins recently opened up on Langer's exit and the criticism received while talking to reporters on Wednesday (February 8). He said, "I think he (Langer) tweaked and changed quite a bit. He deserves a lot of credit for that. I think the question then became do we think that it's sustainable. We thought it is the right time to make a change. I think some of these skill sets are perhaps a little bit different to perhaps his traditional coaching style." "I think he tweaked his coaching style in the last six months and did a really good job, but we think now is the right time for a different direction. It's a matter of opinion but we think it's the right one. I don't think he should be surprised though, it's been two years of evaluation. I don't think there's any big surprise," he added. On Johnson's comments, Cummins asserted, "Mitchell Johnson is just standing up for his mates. I absolutely disagree with what he said. No, he hasn't reached out, but that's fine. He's entitled to his opinion, he's standing up for his mate. I can hold my head high so I'm fine. I actually haven't really had much of it (personal criticism) before, so it's actually been good to get it out of the way early in the captaincy." "I knew when I took on the job it's gonna come with added scrutiny. The last week's been good ... I'll cop it, but I'm absolutely fine with it. I know a lot of it's come from the right place. We all want to do what's best for Australian cricket. There's been a lot of emotion flying around. Added to the feedback, you've got to take everything in that kind of context. They're all people I really respect so I listen to them for sure. I'd welcome chatting to any of them directly about feedback and thoughts they have." "We're custodians of the Australian cricket team. It's not forever. We just want to do what's best. Me as captain, I want to do what's best for Australian cricket and what's best for the team. It's a responsibility I've been given and I take that really seriously," the 28-year-old Cummins added. ALSO READ | Virat Kohli, MS Dhoni, Sachin Tendulkar make the cut in Venkatesh Prasad's all-time Indian ODI XI Langer was offered a contract extension, which was the result of a thorough review process that evaluated many factors -- future requirements of the national side as well as the upcoming extensive schedule of fixtures. For the unversed, the contract extension was approved by Cricket Australia (CA) and presented before Justin, which he didn't accept. It will be interesting to see who takes the top job and succeeds Langer as the Aussie head coach in the coming days.

Intensity wasn't the issue: Pat Cummins opens up on Justin Langer's resignation as Aussie head coach

<p>After reclaiming the Ashes, Australia's opening batter David Warner stated on Wednesday that it would be wonderful if his team could beat India in India, as they are yet to do so.</p>

<p>Warner also hinted at another attempt at winning the Ashes in England. In 2019, the left-handed batsman struggled in England, as he was repeatedly dismissed by Stuart Broad.</p>

<p>"We still haven't beaten India in India. That would be nice to do. And obviously, England away, we had a drawn series in 2019, but hopefully, if I managed to get that chance and opportunity, I might think about going back," ESPNcricinfo quoted Warner as saying.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/will-root-please-stop-saying-australia-are-not-much-better-boycott-calls-for-england-captains-sacking-440875">'Will Root please stop saying Australia are not much better': Boycott calls for England captain's sacking</a></strong></p>

<p>Warner also stated that age is not a barrier, and he praised England bowler James Anderson for establishing a very high standard in Test cricket.</p>

<p>"I think James Anderson sets the benchmark for older guys these days. We look up to him as we're getting on in our days. But for me, it's about performing to the best of my ability and putting runs on the board. In the first two Tests, I actually look like a proper batsman, it's almost like I've played my career the other way and had to knuckle down and respect the bowling and the line and lengths that they were bowling and obviously, the hundred eluded me," added Warner.</p>

<p>"I feel in good touch. As I said, I was out of runs not out of form, so hopefully, I can put some more numbers on the board leading into this new year," he further said.</p>

<p>Warner has been in fantastic form in the present Ashes 2021-22 series, hitting 240 runs at an average of 60 in three matches. He'd like to finish the series as the top run-scorer in the five-match battle, which is currently being led by Joe Root.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/all-planning-thoughts-and-structures-have-been-wrong-ponting-slams-england-for-horror-show-in-ashes-2021-440709">All planning, thoughts and structures have been wrong: Ponting slams England for horror show in Ashes</a></strong></p>

<p>Warner also helped Australia win T20 World Cup in which he was adjudged as the 'Man of the Tournament' earlier this year.</p>

<p>Pacer Scott Boland claimed six wickets in the second innings as Australia thrashed England by an innings and 14 runs in the third Ashes Test at&nbsp;the Melbourne Cricket Ground&nbsp;on Tuesday. With this victory, Australia reclaimed the Ashes, taking an unassailable 3-0 lead in the five-match series.</p>


After reclaiming the Ashes, Australia's opening batter David Warner stated on Wednesday that it would be wonderful if his team could beat India in India, as they are yet to do so.

After reclaiming the Ashes, Australia's opening batter David Warner stated on Wednesday that it would be wonderful if his team could beat India in India, as they are yet to do so. Warner also hinted at another attempt at winning the Ashes in England. In 2019, the left-handed batsman struggled in England, as he was repeatedly dismissed by Stuart Broad. "We still haven't beaten India in India. That would be nice to do. And obviously, England away, we had a drawn series in 2019, but hopefully, if I managed to get that chance and opportunity, I might think about going back," ESPNcricinfo quoted Warner as saying. ALSO READ: 'Will Root please stop saying Australia are not much better': Boycott calls for England captain's sacking Warner also stated that age is not a barrier, and he praised England bowler James Anderson for establishing a very high standard in Test cricket. "I think James Anderson sets the benchmark for older guys these days. We look up to him as we're getting on in our days. But for me, it's about performing to the best of my ability and putting runs on the board. In the first two Tests, I actually look like a proper batsman, it's almost like I've played my career the other way and had to knuckle down and respect the bowling and the line and lengths that they were bowling and obviously, the hundred eluded me," added Warner. "I feel in good touch. As I said, I was out of runs not out of form, so hopefully, I can put some more numbers on the board leading into this new year," he further said. Warner has been in fantastic form in the present Ashes 2021-22 series, hitting 240 runs at an average of 60 in three matches. He'd like to finish the series as the top run-scorer in the five-match battle, which is currently being led by Joe Root. ALSO READ: All planning, thoughts and structures have been wrong: Ponting slams England for horror show in Ashes Warner also helped Australia win T20 World Cup in which he was adjudged as the 'Man of the Tournament' earlier this year. Pacer Scott Boland claimed six wickets in the second innings as Australia thrashed England by an innings and 14 runs in the third Ashes Test at the Melbourne Cricket Ground on Tuesday. With this victory, Australia reclaimed the Ashes, taking an unassailable 3-0 lead in the five-match series.

'We still haven't beaten India in India': David Warner sets ambitious goal before retirement

<p>Former Australian cricketer-turned-commentator Michael Slater has been arrested after he allegedly sent several text messages and made phone calls to the person he was charged with stalking and harassing in October this year.<br />
<br />
The 51-year-old, who played 74 Tests and scored 5,000-plus runs, was arrested by the New South Wales (NSW) Police for allegedly breaching an apprehended violence order (AVO) on Wednesday morning after he "allegedly sent at least 66 text messages and made 18 phone calls to the complainant".<br />
<br />
A report in abc.net.au said on Wednesday that, "Slater appeared at Manly Local Court via video link and crossed his arms on the screen as details of the alleged breach were revealed. The court was told that, during a two-and-a-half-hour window on Tuesday evening, Mr. Slater allegedly sent at least 66 text messages and made 18 phone calls to the complainant."</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ravindra-jadeja-shuns-test-retirement-rumours-in-style-courtesy-a-fitting-post-on-twitter-437162"><strong>Ravindra Jadeja shuns Test retirement rumours in style courtesy a fitting post on Twitter</strong></a><br />
<br />
As per the report, the prosecutor termed the nature of the messages as "harassing and highly offensive".<br />
<br />
In October this year, Slater had appeared in court after he was "charged with stalking/intimidating" his partner of three years in an alleged incident. It was then reported that he was arrested "at his home in Manly, north of Sydney and taken to Manly police station".<br />
<br />
Officers attached to the Eastern Suburbs Police Area Command, NSW had then been quoted as saying by stuff.co.nz that Slater was "arrested and taken to Manly police station, where he was charged with use (of a) carriage service to menace/harass/offend and stalk/intimidate intend fear physical harm."<br />
<br />
On Wednesday, Slater's lawyer, James McLoughlin, was quoted as saying that his client suffered from an alcohol disorder and had been receiving treatment in hospital since he was originally granted bail.<br />
<br />
"But he had relapsed and slipped up once," McLoughlin was quoted as saying.<br />
<br />
McLoughlin said that at the time Slater sent the messaged and made phone calls, "the disorder was heavily at play".<br />
<br />
The lawyer pleaded that Slater be released on bail "with conditions including that he travel directly to his sister`s house until a Northern Beaches Hospital bed was available".<br />
<br />
Slater was recently dropped from the Channel 7 commentary panel ahead of the 2021/22 season. The reason behind the non-renewal of Slater's contract was "budgetary constraints".</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/not-pujara-or-bumrah-indias-experienced-campaigner-frontrunner-to-be-vice-captain-for-sa-tests-report-437134"><strong>Not Pujara or Bumrah! India's experienced campaigner frontrunner to be vice-captain for SA Tests: Report</strong></a><br />
<br />
There were reports that Slater's infamous tweets against Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison in May this year made a partial contribution to his exit from Channel 7.<br />
<br />
In a series of fierce tweets, Slater controversially accused Morrison of having 'blood on his hands'&nbsp;for preventing 40 Australian citizens participating in first half of IPL 2021 to return from India, where the second wave of COVID-19 infections put a halt to the tournament.<br />
<br />
"If our Government cared for the safety of Aussies they would allow us to get home. It's a disgrace! Blood on your hands PM. How dare you treat us like this. How about you sort out the quarantine system. I had government permission to work on the IPL but I now have government neglect," Slater had tweeted.<br />
<br />
His second tweet read, "Amazing to smoke out the PM on a matter that is a human crisis. The panic, the fear of every Australian in India is real!! How about you take your private jet and come and witness dead bodies on the street!"</p>


Former Australian cricketer-turned-commentator Michael Slater has been arrested after he allegedly sent several text messages and made phone calls to the person he was charged with stalking and harassing in October this year.

Former Australian cricketer-turned-commentator Michael Slater has been arrested after he allegedly sent several text messages and made phone calls to the person he was charged with stalking and harassing in October this year. The 51-year-old, who played 74 Tests and scored 5,000-plus runs, was arrested by the New South Wales (NSW) Police for allegedly breaching an apprehended violence order (AVO) on Wednesday morning after he "allegedly sent at least 66 text messages and made 18 phone calls to the complainant". A report in abc.net.au said on Wednesday that, "Slater appeared at Manly Local Court via video link and crossed his arms on the screen as details of the alleged breach were revealed. The court was told that, during a two-and-a-half-hour window on Tuesday evening, Mr. Slater allegedly sent at least 66 text messages and made 18 phone calls to the complainant." ALSO READ: Ravindra Jadeja shuns Test retirement rumours in style courtesy a fitting post on Twitter As per the report, the prosecutor termed the nature of the messages as "harassing and highly offensive". In October this year, Slater had appeared in court after he was "charged with stalking/intimidating" his partner of three years in an alleged incident. It was then reported that he was arrested "at his home in Manly, north of Sydney and taken to Manly police station". Officers attached to the Eastern Suburbs Police Area Command, NSW had then been quoted as saying by stuff.co.nz that Slater was "arrested and taken to Manly police station, where he was charged with use (of a) carriage service to menace/harass/offend and stalk/intimidate intend fear physical harm." On Wednesday, Slater's lawyer, James McLoughlin, was quoted as saying that his client suffered from an alcohol disorder and had been receiving treatment in hospital since he was originally granted bail. "But he had relapsed and slipped up once," McLoughlin was quoted as saying. McLoughlin said that at the time Slater sent the messaged and made phone calls, "the disorder was heavily at play". The lawyer pleaded that Slater be released on bail "with conditions including that he travel directly to his sister`s house until a Northern Beaches Hospital bed was available". Slater was recently dropped from the Channel 7 commentary panel ahead of the 2021/22 season. The reason behind the non-renewal of Slater's contract was "budgetary constraints". ALSO READ | Not Pujara or Bumrah! India's experienced campaigner frontrunner to be vice-captain for SA Tests: Report There were reports that Slater's infamous tweets against Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison in May this year made a partial contribution to his exit from Channel 7. In a series of fierce tweets, Slater controversially accused Morrison of having 'blood on his hands' for preventing 40 Australian citizens participating in first half of IPL 2021 to return from India, where the second wave of COVID-19 infections put a halt to the tournament. "If our Government cared for the safety of Aussies they would allow us to get home. It's a disgrace! Blood on your hands PM. How dare you treat us like this. How about you sort out the quarantine system. I had government permission to work on the IPL but I now have government neglect," Slater had tweeted. His second tweet read, "Amazing to smoke out the PM on a matter that is a human crisis. The panic, the fear of every Australian in India is real!! How about you take your private jet and come and witness dead bodies on the street!"

Former Australian cricketer Michael Slater arrested and charged in case of stalking and harassment

<p>Australian fast bowler James Pattinson, once one of the most feared bowlers in the cricket world, has retired from international cricket.</p>

<p>The 31-year-old Victorian, who made his Test debut for Australia as a tearaway right armer, has made the decision to step away from international cricket to focus on family, playing for his state and helping develop the next generation of fast bowlers.</p>

<p>The right-armer played 21 Test Matches, 15 One-Day Internationals and four T20 Internationals for Australia. He has played 76 first-class games for Victoria. He took 81 wickets at 26.33 in his Test career and has 302 wickets at 22.52 in first-class cricket.</p>

<p>"Leading into pre-season I really wanted to give the Ashes a crack but in the end, I haven`t had the preparation I would have liked heading into the coming season," Pattinson, who will miss the opening round of fixtures for Victoria through injury, said.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/former-aussie-cricketer-michael-slater-arrested-over-alleged-domestic-violence-incident-422230">Former Aussie cricketer Michael Slater arrested over alleged domestic violence incident</a></strong></p>

<p>"If I was to be part of the Ashes, I would need to do myself and my teammates justice. I didn`t want to be in a position of battling with my body when you need to be 100 per cent fit and ready to go at any time. That would not be fair to myself or the team."</p>

<p>"It was then I felt that instead of trying to play at the very highest level, knowing I have only got three or four years of cricket left, I would focus more on Victoria, helping the young guys develop, perhaps some cricket in England and spending more time with my family."</p>

<p>Chair of the National Selection (NSP) George Bailey said Pattinson`s passion, drive and energy in his time within the Australian team was one of his greatest strengths, along with his ability with the ball.</p>

<p>"Everyone who has played with Patto has thrived on his competitive nature and the sheer pride he takes in playing for his country," Bailey said.</p>

<p>"James epitomises what it means to play for Australia, the sacrifices you make and the hurdles you have to overcome on the journey. But his record speaks for itself, he has been a wonderful player. We would have loved to have seen a lot more of him over the years."</p>

<p>Pattinson said he felt at ease with his decision to step away from the international game.</p>

<p>"Now I have made the decision I am hoping to really enjoy the last three or four years of cricket," he said.</p>

<p>"I have had a great time over the years and thank Cricket Australia for the opportunities, the faith they have put in me and of course all of my teammates through the journey. They have instilled a lot of trust in me especially at times when I have been injured and helped me through those times. For that, I am very grateful.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/t20-world-cup-im-pretty-optimistic-about-australias-chances-says-mike-hussey-421585">T20 World Cup: 'I'm pretty optimistic about Australia's chances,' says Mike Hussey</a></strong></p>

<p>"Pattinson played his first Test against New Zealand in 2011 and announced himself on the world stage with 5/27 in the second innings of Australia`s nine-wicket win. He was named Man of the Series with fourteen wickets in the two-Test series.</p>

<p>He repeated the effort in his next Test against India at the MCG with 6-108. After a short injury lay-off, he returned against India with another five-wicket haul in Chepauk, the only time an Australian fast bowler has done so at the ground.</p>

<p>The dose was repeated at his next outing in 2015 against the West Indies with another five-wicket performance, taking 5-27 which equalled his best career figures.</p>

<p>He played a further six Test matches after but was restricted due to a number of injuries including back surgery and the strength Australia's pace bowling stocks during this period.</p>

<p>Somewhat fittingly, his last Test was against New Zealand in Sydney, the side he made his debut against a decade earlier.&nbsp;</p>


Australian fast bowler James Pattinson, once one of the most feared bowlers in the cricket world, has retired from international cricket. The 31-year-old Victorian, who made his Test debut for Australia as a tearaway right armer, has made the decision to step away from international cricket to focus on family, playing for his state and helping develop the next generation of fast bowlers.

Australian fast bowler James Pattinson, once one of the most feared bowlers in the cricket world, has retired from international cricket. The 31-year-old Victorian, who made his Test debut for Australia as a tearaway right armer, has made the decision to step away from international cricket to focus on family, playing for his state and helping develop the next generation of fast bowlers. The right-armer played 21 Test Matches, 15 One-Day Internationals and four T20 Internationals for Australia. He has played 76 first-class games for Victoria. He took 81 wickets at 26.33 in his Test career and has 302 wickets at 22.52 in first-class cricket. "Leading into pre-season I really wanted to give the Ashes a crack but in the end, I haven`t had the preparation I would have liked heading into the coming season," Pattinson, who will miss the opening round of fixtures for Victoria through injury, said. ALSO READ: Former Aussie cricketer Michael Slater arrested over alleged domestic violence incident "If I was to be part of the Ashes, I would need to do myself and my teammates justice. I didn`t want to be in a position of battling with my body when you need to be 100 per cent fit and ready to go at any time. That would not be fair to myself or the team." "It was then I felt that instead of trying to play at the very highest level, knowing I have only got three or four years of cricket left, I would focus more on Victoria, helping the young guys develop, perhaps some cricket in England and spending more time with my family." Chair of the National Selection (NSP) George Bailey said Pattinson`s passion, drive and energy in his time within the Australian team was one of his greatest strengths, along with his ability with the ball. "Everyone who has played with Patto has thrived on his competitive nature and the sheer pride he takes in playing for his country," Bailey said. "James epitomises what it means to play for Australia, the sacrifices you make and the hurdles you have to overcome on the journey. But his record speaks for itself, he has been a wonderful player. We would have loved to have seen a lot more of him over the years." Pattinson said he felt at ease with his decision to step away from the international game. "Now I have made the decision I am hoping to really enjoy the last three or four years of cricket," he said. "I have had a great time over the years and thank Cricket Australia for the opportunities, the faith they have put in me and of course all of my teammates through the journey. They have instilled a lot of trust in me especially at times when I have been injured and helped me through those times. For that, I am very grateful. ALSO READ: T20 World Cup: 'I'm pretty optimistic about Australia's chances,' says Mike Hussey "Pattinson played his first Test against New Zealand in 2011 and announced himself on the world stage with 5/27 in the second innings of Australia`s nine-wicket win. He was named Man of the Series with fourteen wickets in the two-Test series. He repeated the effort in his next Test against India at the MCG with 6-108. After a short injury lay-off, he returned against India with another five-wicket haul in Chepauk, the only time an Australian fast bowler has done so at the ground. The dose was repeated at his next outing in 2015 against the West Indies with another five-wicket performance, taking 5-27 which equalled his best career figures. He played a further six Test matches after but was restricted due to a number of injuries including back surgery and the strength Australia's pace bowling stocks during this period. Somewhat fittingly, his last Test was against New Zealand in Sydney, the side he made his debut against a decade earlier.

Aussie pacer James Pattinson announces international retirement ahead of Ashes 2021

<p>New Zealand cricket team reached Pakistan for an international tour after a long gap of 18 years. The Black Caps had last toured Pakistan in December 2003 and, hence, all eyes were on their series versus hosts Pakistan. However, the NZC pulled out of the limited-overs tour just minutes before the ODI series opener, in Rawalpindi, on security grounds on September 17.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Following the NZC, the England Cricket Board (ECB) also pulled out of their tour of Pakistan, adding to the woes of the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB). Now, former Pakistan speedster and bowling coach Waqar Younis has urged Australian cricket to tour Pakistan, claiming his home country as 'the safest place in the world'.</p>

<p>Speaking to <em>The Age</em>, "I live in Sydney, my family is in Sydney – it’s the safest place in the world and I can guarantee you this place is nothing less than that. Come visit us, we will make sure we will look after you. Our security is one of the best in the world. We’ll make sure nothing of that sort will occur. When a team comes it is a different ball game. They make sure the hospitality; the security is right up there,” Younis, who recently stepped down as Pakistan's bowling coach, said.</p>

<p>“It was very tough with quarantine and we followed the protocols. We made sure cricket shouldn’t suffer. We went to NZ when the vaccines didn’t exist. That was one of the toughest tours I’ve attended – 14 days of quarantine was really painful,” Younis added.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/pakistan-security-personnel-deployed-for-new-zealand-consumed-biryani-worth-rs-28-million-reports-415017"><strong>Pakistan security personnel deployed for New Zealand consumed biryani worth Rs 2.8 million: Reports</strong></a></p>

<p>For the unversed, Australia are scheduled to tour Pakistan in 2022 but there are chances that Cricket Australia (CA) might follow NZC and ECB and withdraw from the tour, citing security concerns.</p>


New Zealand cricket team reached Pakistan for an international tour after a long gap of 18 years. The Black Caps had last toured Pakistan in December 2003 and, hence, all eyes were on their series versus hosts Pakistan.

New Zealand cricket team reached Pakistan for an international tour after a long gap of 18 years. The Black Caps had last toured Pakistan in December 2003 and, hence, all eyes were on their series versus hosts Pakistan. However, the NZC pulled out of the limited-overs tour just minutes before the ODI series opener, in Rawalpindi, on security grounds on September 17. Following the NZC, the England Cricket Board (ECB) also pulled out of their tour of Pakistan, adding to the woes of the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB). Now, former Pakistan speedster and bowling coach Waqar Younis has urged Australian cricket to tour Pakistan, claiming his home country as 'the safest place in the world'. Speaking to The Age, "I live in Sydney, my family is in Sydney – it’s the safest place in the world and I can guarantee you this place is nothing less than that. Come visit us, we will make sure we will look after you. Our security is one of the best in the world. We’ll make sure nothing of that sort will occur. When a team comes it is a different ball game. They make sure the hospitality; the security is right up there,” Younis, who recently stepped down as Pakistan's bowling coach, said. “It was very tough with quarantine and we followed the protocols. We made sure cricket shouldn’t suffer. We went to NZ when the vaccines didn’t exist. That was one of the toughest tours I’ve attended – 14 days of quarantine was really painful,” Younis added. ALSO READ | Pakistan security personnel deployed for New Zealand consumed biryani worth Rs 2.8 million: Reports For the unversed, Australia are scheduled to tour Pakistan in 2022 but there are chances that Cricket Australia (CA) might follow NZC and ECB and withdraw from the tour, citing security concerns.

Pakistan one of the safest places, claims Waqar Younis as former pacer urges Australia to tour his home country

<p>Afghanistan is in total&nbsp;mayhem ever since the Taliban group took over from the government. Since then, a series of bomb blasts near the Kabul airport led to the killing of several, many have managed to leave the troubled country whereas some are facing oppression.&nbsp;</p>

<p>While the Taliban invasion meant uncertainty for all in terms of their future in the country, as they remain perplexed on how to adapt and live in their homeland, the terror outfit gave green signal for the cricketing activities to continue for the men's national team. At the same time, they snatched away the freedom of the women's team, not allowing them to continue with the sport.</p>

<p>Amid all this, news came that Afghanistan's scheduled one-off Test versus Australia, in Hobart, in November will go ahead as planned. However, the Cricket Australia (CA) have now released a statement, revealing their stance on the one-off Test. It says that they will have to cancel the historic Test if Taliban bans women's cricket in Afghanistan.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Driving the growth of women’s cricket globally is incredibly important to Cricket Australia," the statement from CA read.</p>

<p>"Our vision for cricket is that it is a sport for all and we support the game unequivocally for women at every level. If recent media reports that women’s cricket will not be supported in Afghanistan are substantiated, Cricket Australia would have no alternative but to not host Afghanistan for the proposed Test Match due to be played in Hobart. We thank the Australian and Tasmanian Governments for their support on this important issue."</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">An update on the proposed Test match against Afghanistan ⬇️ <a href="https://t.co/p2q5LOJMlw">pic.twitter.com/p2q5LOJMlw</a></p>
— Cricket Australia (@CricketAus) <a href="https://twitter.com/CricketAus/status/1435784792679747587?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 9, 2021</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>

<p>As per the International Cricket Council's (ICC) regulations, the nations that are granted Test status&nbsp;are required to field both men's and women's teams. Thus, it is expected that even the ICC will have to step up sooner than later to take a call on Afghanistan's status as a full member if the women's team future remains in jeopardy.</p>


Afghanistan is in total mayhem ever since the Taliban group took over from the government. Since then, a series of bomb blasts near the Kabul airport led to the killing of several, many have managed to leave the troubled country whereas some are facing oppression.

Afghanistan is in total mayhem ever since the Taliban group took over from the government. Since then, a series of bomb blasts near the Kabul airport led to the killing of several, many have managed to leave the troubled country whereas some are facing oppression. While the Taliban invasion meant uncertainty for all in terms of their future in the country, as they remain perplexed on how to adapt and live in their homeland, the terror outfit gave green signal for the cricketing activities to continue for the men's national team. At the same time, they snatched away the freedom of the women's team, not allowing them to continue with the sport. Amid all this, news came that Afghanistan's scheduled one-off Test versus Australia, in Hobart, in November will go ahead as planned. However, the Cricket Australia (CA) have now released a statement, revealing their stance on the one-off Test. It says that they will have to cancel the historic Test if Taliban bans women's cricket in Afghanistan. "Driving the growth of women’s cricket globally is incredibly important to Cricket Australia," the statement from CA read. "Our vision for cricket is that it is a sport for all and we support the game unequivocally for women at every level. If recent media reports that women’s cricket will not be supported in Afghanistan are substantiated, Cricket Australia would have no alternative but to not host Afghanistan for the proposed Test Match due to be played in Hobart. We thank the Australian and Tasmanian Governments for their support on this important issue." An update on the proposed Test match against Afghanistan ⬇️ pic.twitter.com/p2q5LOJMlw — Cricket Australia (@CricketAus) September 9, 2021 × As per the International Cricket Council's (ICC) regulations, the nations that are granted Test status are required to field both men's and women's teams. Thus, it is expected that even the ICC will have to step up sooner than later to take a call on Afghanistan's status as a full member if the women's team future remains in jeopardy.

Afghanistan-Australia Test to be cancelled? CA threatens to call off historic tie if Taliban bans women's cricket

<p>Australia's Usman Khawaja believes Justin Langer "deserves the opportunity" to coach the Australia cricket team in the T20 World Cup and also in the Ashes.&nbsp;</p>

<p>After several media reports suggested that players have wearied of his intense coaching style, putting the coach's position under&nbsp;greater scrutiny.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"He deserves the opportunity to coach Australia in the T20 World Cup, he deserves the opportunity to coach Australia in the Ashes," Queensland captain Khawaja said on his YouTube channel.</p>

<p>"If after all that, things are still not going well ... that is when you look at things and think 'OK, maybe do we need to change something?'"</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/pakistan-is-facing-an-issue-with-their-top-order-in-overseas-tours-ramiz-raja-407654">'Pakistan is facing an issue with their top-order in overseas tours': Ramiz Raja</a></strong></p>

<p>Khawaja also highlighted&nbsp;the impact of ongoing controversy on Langer as he might feel that the players are "stabbing him in the back".&nbsp;</p>

<p>"How do you think JL feels? He probably feels like the guys in the team are stabbing him in the back and that's what it looks like and that's why it's so disappointing," Khawaja added.</p>

<p>"It's actually a really bad look. This is something the group needs to sort out ASAP.</p>

<p>"It's not always the coaches. The guys aren't performing, the players need to take ownership at some stage. It's not one person so there needs to be some sort of perspective put around this.</p>

<p>"He [Langer] is a very passionate person. Loves Australian cricket, wants the best for everyone, wants to only succeed. He's driven by winning, driven by winning the right way and all the things he brought after sandpapergate were focused on those things.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/t20-world-cup-dinesh-karthik-names-india-and-west-indies-as-his-finalists-407633">T20 World Cup: Dinesh Karthik names India and West Indies as his finalists</a></strong></p>

<p>Khawaja had a heated exchange with Langer during the 2018 tour of United Arab Emirates as captured in "The Test".</p>

<p>Media pundits have cast Khawaja as a victim of standing up to Langer, linking the UAE episode with the batsman's omission from the Australia team for the past two years.</p>

<p>Khawaja, who has a batting average above 40 from his 44 tests, said his relationship with Langer had nothing to with his non-selection.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"My relationship with Justin Langer is really good. To be honest, I still talk to him, still text him here and there, and that's because we have a lot of respect for each other," he said.&nbsp;</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false"><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/s8ySwhsMSfQ" title="YouTube video player" width="560"></iframe></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p><em>(with inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Australia's Usman Khawaja believes Justin Langer "deserves the opportunity" to coach the Australia cricket team in the T20 World Cup and also in the Ashes. After several media reports suggested that players have wearied of his intense coaching style, putting the coach's position under greater scrutiny.

Australia's Usman Khawaja believes Justin Langer "deserves the opportunity" to coach the Australia cricket team in the T20 World Cup and also in the Ashes. After several media reports suggested that players have wearied of his intense coaching style, putting the coach's position under greater scrutiny. "He deserves the opportunity to coach Australia in the T20 World Cup, he deserves the opportunity to coach Australia in the Ashes," Queensland captain Khawaja said on his YouTube channel. "If after all that, things are still not going well ... that is when you look at things and think 'OK, maybe do we need to change something?'" ALSO READ | 'Pakistan is facing an issue with their top-order in overseas tours': Ramiz Raja Khawaja also highlighted the impact of ongoing controversy on Langer as he might feel that the players are "stabbing him in the back". "How do you think JL feels? He probably feels like the guys in the team are stabbing him in the back and that's what it looks like and that's why it's so disappointing," Khawaja added. "It's actually a really bad look. This is something the group needs to sort out ASAP. "It's not always the coaches. The guys aren't performing, the players need to take ownership at some stage. It's not one person so there needs to be some sort of perspective put around this. "He [Langer] is a very passionate person. Loves Australian cricket, wants the best for everyone, wants to only succeed. He's driven by winning, driven by winning the right way and all the things he brought after sandpapergate were focused on those things. ALSO READ | T20 World Cup: Dinesh Karthik names India and West Indies as his finalists Khawaja had a heated exchange with Langer during the 2018 tour of United Arab Emirates as captured in "The Test". Media pundits have cast Khawaja as a victim of standing up to Langer, linking the UAE episode with the batsman's omission from the Australia team for the past two years. Khawaja, who has a batting average above 40 from his 44 tests, said his relationship with Langer had nothing to with his non-selection. "My relationship with Justin Langer is really good. To be honest, I still talk to him, still text him here and there, and that's because we have a lot of respect for each other," he said. × (with inputs from agencies)

Justin Langer will feel players 'stabbing him in the back,' says Usman Khawaja as he backs the Australian coach

<p>Matthew Wade has been named captain for Australia's five-match Twenty20 series against Bangladesh, which starts in Dhaka on Tuesday.</p>

<p>Wade replaces regular captain Aaron Finch after he returned to Australia to undergo surgery on a knee injury sustained in the Caribbean last month.</p>

<p>The 33-year-old Wade takes the captain's arm-band for the second time in his career having previously led the team during the second Twenty20 meeting with India in Australia in December.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-shane-warne-tests-positive-for-covid-19-and-undergoes-self-isolation-402340" hreflang="en">Cricket: Shane Warne tests positive for COVID-19 and undergoes self-isolation</a></p>

<p>"I'm going to be wicketkeeping, so the distance between bowler and myself is a lot greater," said Wade of the challenge he faces leading the team.</p>

<p>"That means that there's a lot more responsibility on the individual, the bowler and the senior players around that to help me out around the ground.</p>

<p>"When you're coming in and taking over from someone it's just giving the ability for those guys to take ownership of their game and at the top of the mark, they need to execute."</p>

<p>Regular vice-captain Pat Cummins is one of several senior players not on the tour as the Australians ramp up their preparations for October's Twenty20 World Cup in the United Arab Emirates and Oman.</p>

<p>Alex Carey took over from Finch as captain of the one-day side during the 2-1 series win over the West Indies and Wade believes his experience can lift Australia's youthful batting line-up after losing the Twenty20 series in the Caribbean.</p>

<p>"Where my leadership might come in a little more is with our batting group," he said.</p>

<p>"We've probably got a younger batting group than we've had on these tours, not a lot of international experience between all our batters.</p>

<p>"The bowling takes care of itself with guys like (Adam) Zampa, (Mitchell) Starc and (Josh) Hazelwood – they've all played a lot of&nbsp;cricket&nbsp;together and they can take care of themselves."</p>


Matthew Wade has been named captain for Australia's five-match Twenty20 series against Bangladesh, which starts in Dhaka on Tuesday. Wade replaces regular captain Aaron Finch after he returned to Australia to undergo surgery on a knee injury sustained in the Caribbean last month.

Matthew Wade has been named captain for Australia's five-match Twenty20 series against Bangladesh, which starts in Dhaka on Tuesday. Wade replaces regular captain Aaron Finch after he returned to Australia to undergo surgery on a knee injury sustained in the Caribbean last month. The 33-year-old Wade takes the captain's arm-band for the second time in his career having previously led the team during the second Twenty20 meeting with India in Australia in December. ALSO READ: Cricket: Shane Warne tests positive for COVID-19 and undergoes self-isolation "I'm going to be wicketkeeping, so the distance between bowler and myself is a lot greater," said Wade of the challenge he faces leading the team. "That means that there's a lot more responsibility on the individual, the bowler and the senior players around that to help me out around the ground. "When you're coming in and taking over from someone it's just giving the ability for those guys to take ownership of their game and at the top of the mark, they need to execute." Regular vice-captain Pat Cummins is one of several senior players not on the tour as the Australians ramp up their preparations for October's Twenty20 World Cup in the United Arab Emirates and Oman. Alex Carey took over from Finch as captain of the one-day side during the 2-1 series win over the West Indies and Wade believes his experience can lift Australia's youthful batting line-up after losing the Twenty20 series in the Caribbean. "Where my leadership might come in a little more is with our batting group," he said. "We've probably got a younger batting group than we've had on these tours, not a lot of international experience between all our batters. "The bowling takes care of itself with guys like (Adam) Zampa, (Mitchell) Starc and (Josh) Hazelwood – they've all played a lot of cricket together and they can take care of themselves."

Cricket: Australians name Matthew Wade skipper for Bangladesh T20 series

<p>West Indies batsman Evin Lewis blasted 79 runs off 34 balls as the Twenty20 world champions defeated Australia by 16 runs in the fifth game in St Lucia on Friday to win the series 4-1 and send out a warning to rivals ahead of this year`s World Cup.<br />
<br />
Chasing 200 to win, Australia made a solid start despite losing Josh Philippe in the first over as skipper Aaron Finch (34) and Mitchell Marsh (30) took charge, but the visitors lost their way after the duo departed to finish at 183-9 in 20 overs.<br />
<br />
West Indies fast bowlers Sheldon Cottrell (3-28) and Andre Russell (3-43) ensured that Australia`s batsmen could not build on their starts as the hosts produced yet another dominating display at the Daren Sammy National Cricket Stadium.<br />
<br />
Earlier, the West Indies chose to bat first after winning the toss and rode on opener Lewis` effort which included nine sixes and four boundaries to post a challenging total although the hosts were poised for an even bigger score at one point.<br />
<br />
"It`s always good to contribute to a win. I`ve been working extremely hard from 2017 to now," Lewis said, before looking ahead to the visit of Pakistan this month.<br />
<br />
"This series means a lot to me, when you score runs against these teams you feel very good. It`s good for us, we have a lot of confidence going into Pakistan, but we want to keep playing smart cricket."<br />
<br />
Having reached 169-4 in 15 overs after handy contributions by Chris Gayle (21) and Lendl Simmons (21), the West Indies were restricted by some tight bowling by Australia`s Andrew Tye and Adam Zampa in the final five overs.<br />
<br />
Andre Russell and Fabian Allen departed without troubling the scorers too much, before stand-in skipper Nicholas Pooran (31) was dismissed in the deep while trying to pull Tye and Darren Bravo became the pace bowler`s third victim.<br />
<br />
The teams will now face each other in three one-day internationals starting July 20.</p>


West Indies batsman Evin Lewis blasted 79 runs off 34 balls as the Twenty20 world champions defeated Australia by 16 runs in the fifth game in St Lucia on Friday to win the series 4-1 and send out a warning to rivals ahead of this year`s World Cup.

West Indies batsman Evin Lewis blasted 79 runs off 34 balls as the Twenty20 world champions defeated Australia by 16 runs in the fifth game in St Lucia on Friday to win the series 4-1 and send out a warning to rivals ahead of this year`s World Cup. Chasing 200 to win, Australia made a solid start despite losing Josh Philippe in the first over as skipper Aaron Finch (34) and Mitchell Marsh (30) took charge, but the visitors lost their way after the duo departed to finish at 183-9 in 20 overs. West Indies fast bowlers Sheldon Cottrell (3-28) and Andre Russell (3-43) ensured that Australia`s batsmen could not build on their starts as the hosts produced yet another dominating display at the Daren Sammy National Cricket Stadium. Earlier, the West Indies chose to bat first after winning the toss and rode on opener Lewis` effort which included nine sixes and four boundaries to post a challenging total although the hosts were poised for an even bigger score at one point. "It`s always good to contribute to a win. I`ve been working extremely hard from 2017 to now," Lewis said, before looking ahead to the visit of Pakistan this month. "This series means a lot to me, when you score runs against these teams you feel very good. It`s good for us, we have a lot of confidence going into Pakistan, but we want to keep playing smart cricket." Having reached 169-4 in 15 overs after handy contributions by Chris Gayle (21) and Lendl Simmons (21), the West Indies were restricted by some tight bowling by Australia`s Andrew Tye and Adam Zampa in the final five overs. Andre Russell and Fabian Allen departed without troubling the scorers too much, before stand-in skipper Nicholas Pooran (31) was dismissed in the deep while trying to pull Tye and Darren Bravo became the pace bowler`s third victim. The teams will now face each other in three one-day internationals starting July 20.

Cricket: West Indies beat Australia in final T20 for 4-1 series win

<p>Former Australian cricketer Shane Warne has said that cricket boards shouldn't consider players deserving of international matches on the off chance that they pick the lavish Indian Premier League (IPL) over national duty.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He feels that players focusing on the Indian Premier League over international cricket should not be considered for selection by the cricketing boards. This is a long-standing discussion, which has again come to prominence once again.</p>

<p>Shane Warne, who is also&nbsp;the current coach of the Rajasthan Royals, proposed that he isn't against players procuring colossal entireties at the IPL. Shane Warne contended that giving them a free hand will before long see most players choosing money over representing the country.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-glenn-maxwell-pulls-out-of-the-hundred-2021-replacement-announced-393902" hreflang="en">Cricket: Glenn Maxwell pulls out of The Hundred 2021, replacement announced</a></p>

<p>In a podcast on Road to Ashes, Shane Warne said: "I don't begrudge the players getting the money they have, it's fantastic. If they want to take the money, let them take it. But if you want to play cricket for your country and you choose the IPL, then maybe it's not worth picking those guys then because this is going to happen&nbsp;people are going to rest and miss Test matches and miss representing your country to go and play for money,"</p>

<p>Shane Warne further said that solitary Test cricket furnishes players with the genuine chance to test themselves. He disclosed that the decision to play in the IPL should come at the cost of this chance.&nbsp;He further expounded on the significance of Test match cricket and how players get the chance to test themselves.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"It's pretty hard, you know if, someone says here's 3 million bucks or go over to somewhere and be away from your family for six weeks, it's a very easy decision to take that money. But if you value yourself as a cricketer and want to test yourself against the best, there's only one spot to do it and that's international cricket, especially Test cricket. If you want to choose the money, that's fine, no problem, but you might have to wait for a few Test matches and you might go down a few runs no matter how good you are because there's always someone that can replace you" - Shane Warne added&nbsp;</p>

<p>Shane Warne's perception has come against an inquisitive foundation. Australian players are pulling out of limited-tours visits to stay afresh for the second half of the IPL 2021.&nbsp;</p>


Former Australian cricketer Shane Warne has said that cricket boards shouldn't consider players deserving of international matches on the off chance that they pick the lavish Indian Premier League (IPL) over national duty.

Former Australian cricketer Shane Warne has said that cricket boards shouldn't consider players deserving of international matches on the off chance that they pick the lavish Indian Premier League (IPL) over national duty. He feels that players focusing on the Indian Premier League over international cricket should not be considered for selection by the cricketing boards. This is a long-standing discussion, which has again come to prominence once again. Shane Warne, who is also the current coach of the Rajasthan Royals, proposed that he isn't against players procuring colossal entireties at the IPL. Shane Warne contended that giving them a free hand will before long see most players choosing money over representing the country. ALSO READ: Cricket: Glenn Maxwell pulls out of The Hundred 2021, replacement announced In a podcast on Road to Ashes, Shane Warne said: "I don't begrudge the players getting the money they have, it's fantastic. If they want to take the money, let them take it. But if you want to play cricket for your country and you choose the IPL, then maybe it's not worth picking those guys then because this is going to happen people are going to rest and miss Test matches and miss representing your country to go and play for money," Shane Warne further said that solitary Test cricket furnishes players with the genuine chance to test themselves. He disclosed that the decision to play in the IPL should come at the cost of this chance. He further expounded on the significance of Test match cricket and how players get the chance to test themselves. "It's pretty hard, you know if, someone says here's 3 million bucks or go over to somewhere and be away from your family for six weeks, it's a very easy decision to take that money. But if you value yourself as a cricketer and want to test yourself against the best, there's only one spot to do it and that's international cricket, especially Test cricket. If you want to choose the money, that's fine, no problem, but you might have to wait for a few Test matches and you might go down a few runs no matter how good you are because there's always someone that can replace you" - Shane Warne added Shane Warne's perception has come against an inquisitive foundation. Australian players are pulling out of limited-tours visits to stay afresh for the second half of the IPL 2021.

Cricket: Not worth picking players who choose IPL's money over national duties, says Shane Warne

<p>Australia's cricketers must forge a leaner, tighter Test team to cope with the coronavirus-related job losses forced on the sport, captain Tim Paine said Tuesday.</p>

<p>Paine played down reports of tensions between the players and Cricket Australia but said the game's elite had to come to terms with cutbacks related to the pandemic.</p>

<p>That included losing long-time batting assistant Graeme Hick and other backroom staff when CA axed 40 jobs last week in a bid to save Aus$40 million (US$27.6 million).</p>

<p>With a blockbuster Test series against India set to go ahead during the home summer, Paine said the Australians needed to react fast if they are to reinforce their world number one status.</p>

<p>"Things are going to change, players and teams are going to have to adapt," he told reporters during a video press conference.</p>

<p>"We're seeing an opportunity for the team that can adapt first to these changes is going to get off to a good start in the next Test series and that's really important to us.</p>

<p>"We've certainly lost some good people throughout this period but the flip side of that is that it's a great opportunity to adapt quicker than anyone else, to help each other improve."</p>

<p>He said that involved players "doing that little bit extra" and pulling together.</p>

<p>"Players are going to have to be aligned with each other and find ways to get things done without the huge numbers of support staff that we've been lucky to have over the last number of years," he said.</p>

<p>Paine also had warm words for former Cricket Australia chief executive Kevin Roberts, who was shown the door last week amid widespread dissatisfaction over his handling of the coronavirus crisis.</p>

<p>"The support he gave me behind the scenes was brilliant," Paine said, adding that he had full confidence in the Cricket Australia board.</p>

<p>While eagerly anticipating the India series, Paine was also hopeful a one-off Test with minnows Afghanistan would still go ahead.</p>

<p>"Everyone's thoroughly looking forward to the challenge that India's going to bring," he said.</p>

<p>"Certainly Afghanistan will bring a different sort of challenge as well with their mystery spin, so fingers crossed for that."</p>


Australia's cricketers must forge a leaner, tighter Test team to cope with the coronavirus-related job losses forced on the sport, captain Tim Paine said Tuesday.

Australia's cricketers must forge a leaner, tighter Test team to cope with the coronavirus-related job losses forced on the sport, captain Tim Paine said Tuesday. Paine played down reports of tensions between the players and Cricket Australia but said the game's elite had to come to terms with cutbacks related to the pandemic. That included losing long-time batting assistant Graeme Hick and other backroom staff when CA axed 40 jobs last week in a bid to save Aus$40 million (US$27.6 million). With a blockbuster Test series against India set to go ahead during the home summer, Paine said the Australians needed to react fast if they are to reinforce their world number one status. "Things are going to change, players and teams are going to have to adapt," he told reporters during a video press conference. "We're seeing an opportunity for the team that can adapt first to these changes is going to get off to a good start in the next Test series and that's really important to us. "We've certainly lost some good people throughout this period but the flip side of that is that it's a great opportunity to adapt quicker than anyone else, to help each other improve." He said that involved players "doing that little bit extra" and pulling together. "Players are going to have to be aligned with each other and find ways to get things done without the huge numbers of support staff that we've been lucky to have over the last number of years," he said. Paine also had warm words for former Cricket Australia chief executive Kevin Roberts, who was shown the door last week amid widespread dissatisfaction over his handling of the coronavirus crisis. "The support he gave me behind the scenes was brilliant," Paine said, adding that he had full confidence in the Cricket Australia board. While eagerly anticipating the India series, Paine was also hopeful a one-off Test with minnows Afghanistan would still go ahead. "Everyone's thoroughly looking forward to the challenge that India's going to bring," he said. "Certainly Afghanistan will bring a different sort of challenge as well with their mystery spin, so fingers crossed for that."

Paine says Australia cricketers must adapt quickly after cutbacks

<p>Ahead of the crucial one-day international(ODI) clash against Australia at the&nbsp;Wankhede&nbsp;Stadium in Mumbai on Tuesday,&nbsp;Indian skipper Virat Kohli said he does not "support people"&nbsp; comparing players within the team.</p>

<p>"All guys in form is a good thing. We will figure out what combination we want to go in with and there is a possibility that all three might play. It will be interesting to see what balance we want to take in on the field. I do not at all support people comparing players within the team," the Indian captain said.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/australia-have-the-goods-to-give-virat-kohlis-men-a-run-for-their-money-finch-ahead-of-odi-series-against-india-273363">Australia have the goods to give Virat Kohli's men a run for their money: Finch ahead of ODI series against India</a></p>

<p>In a press conference, Kohli pointed towards the form of the team and how comparisons within the team make no sense and it does not convey the right message to the team's culture.</p>

<p>India may face a major dilemma in choosing their opening pair for the series. Rohit Sharma was rested in the previous series (against Sri Lanka), Shikhar Dhawan and KL Rahul performed well in the final T20I against Sri Lanka. Kohli expressed his displeasure on such comparisons.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/we-dominated-the-series-shikhar-dhawan-india-beat-sri-lanka-to-sweep-the-series-273519">'We dominated the series,' says Shikhar Dhawan after India beat Sri Lanka to seal the series</a></p>

<p>"I want to say this publicly because I see so many features and programs being made about this versus this. We are a team and playing together. I don't find the sense in heat is going up and they are fighting for one spot. It does not send the right message as far as the team culture is concerned," he added.</p>

<p>The 31-year-old talked about the experiments in the batting order during the final T20I versus Sri Lanka and why he came out to bat very low in the order. &nbsp;</p>

<p>"I am not possessive about where I play and I am not insecure about where I bat. Being the captain of the team, it's my job to make sure that the next lot is also ready as well. Your job as a captain is not only to look after the team right now but also to prepare a team that you can leave behind when you eventually pass it on to someone else," he said.</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TeamIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TeamIndia</a> Captain <a href="https://twitter.com/imVkohli?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@imVkohli</a> hit some boundaries off Bumrah's bowling in the nets today.<br />
<br />
Hear what the Skipper has to say about the same 😅 <a href="https://t.co/g81FTR5jRT">pic.twitter.com/g81FTR5jRT</a></p>
— BCCI (@BCCI) <a href="https://twitter.com/BCCI/status/1216643266461847553?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 13, 2020</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>

<p>Virat said that Australia is a stronger side than last time, the series will be exciting and competitive "They are a stronger side than the side that came last time to India but still won the series. You can have the most experienced or most skilled players but if you do not play well as a team in that series, you will not win which happened with us last time and when we went to Australia similar thing happened with them,".</p>

<p>Kohli said that series is short and a five-match series would have been way more exciting.</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Gearing up for the challenge against Australia - <a href="https://twitter.com/klrahul11?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@klrahul11</a> &amp; <a href="https://twitter.com/im_manishpandey?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@im_manishpandey</a> train hard before the 1st ODI <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TeamIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TeamIndia</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvAUS?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDvAUS</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/Paytm?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Paytm</a> <a href="https://t.co/opMVuq4qsB">pic.twitter.com/opMVuq4qsB</a></p>
— BCCI (@BCCI) <a href="https://twitter.com/BCCI/status/1216673393015250944?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 13, 2020</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>

<p>Virat is close to breaking another world record if the Indian skipper manages to get a hundred at Wankhede, he will become the player with most centuries in international cricket (42) as captain, across all formats. He at the moment is tied with Australian great Ricky Ponting (41).&nbsp;</p>

<p>India and Australia have played 136 ODI matches, with&nbsp;Australia winning&nbsp;77 (29 in India) and India beating the Aussies in&nbsp;49 ODIs(22 in Australia). Ten&nbsp;matches were abandoned with none tied.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Australia has been one of the two teams who have defeated the mighty Indian team at home on more occasions than they have lost.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Since 2010, India has played 21 bilateral series, but have lost against only three teams (South Africa, Pakistan and Australia).&nbsp;</p>

<p>Australia's dominance over India in terms of win ratio has changed since 2013.&nbsp;Both heavyweights clashed have 28 times, in which Australia won 13&nbsp; ODIs and India outlasting the Australian juggernaut in&nbsp;13 ODIs with two games being washed out.&nbsp;</p>

<p>India won away series against Australia in 2018 (2-1), Australia avenged the series defeat in 2019 when they beat India in an away series (3-2) in 2019.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The dangerous Marnus Labuschagne is the player to watch out for the Indians.&nbsp;The 25-year-old is yet to make his ODI debut&nbsp;but has a&nbsp;staggering average of 63.4 in Tests</p>

<p>From the beginning of Ashes, Labuschagne ensured he cemented his name in the playing XI. On his home turf, Labuschagne proved his desire for big hundreds in his first two series (Pakistan, New Zealand). His consistency in scoring centuries was there for all to see with scores of 185, 162, 143, 50, 63, 19, 215, 59.</p>

<p>At home the Australian young gun&nbsp;scored 896 runs, averaging 112 with four&nbsp;centuries, three&nbsp;fifties.&nbsp;Labuschagne was Test cricket's highest run-scorer in 2019 with 1,104 runs in 11 matches averaging 64.94. His teammate Steven Smith was second in the list.&nbsp;</p>


Ahead of the crucial one-day international(ODI) clash against Australia at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai on Tuesday, Indian skipper Virat Kohli said he does not "support people" comparing players within the team.

Ahead of the crucial one-day international(ODI) clash against Australia at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai on Tuesday, Indian skipper Virat Kohli said he does not "support people" comparing players within the team. "All guys in form is a good thing. We will figure out what combination we want to go in with and there is a possibility that all three might play. It will be interesting to see what balance we want to take in on the field. I do not at all support people comparing players within the team," the Indian captain said. Also read: Australia have the goods to give Virat Kohli's men a run for their money: Finch ahead of ODI series against India In a press conference, Kohli pointed towards the form of the team and how comparisons within the team make no sense and it does not convey the right message to the team's culture. India may face a major dilemma in choosing their opening pair for the series. Rohit Sharma was rested in the previous series (against Sri Lanka), Shikhar Dhawan and KL Rahul performed well in the final T20I against Sri Lanka. Kohli expressed his displeasure on such comparisons. Also read: 'We dominated the series,' says Shikhar Dhawan after India beat Sri Lanka to seal the series "I want to say this publicly because I see so many features and programs being made about this versus this. We are a team and playing together. I don't find the sense in heat is going up and they are fighting for one spot. It does not send the right message as far as the team culture is concerned," he added. The 31-year-old talked about the experiments in the batting order during the final T20I versus Sri Lanka and why he came out to bat very low in the order. "I am not possessive about where I play and I am not insecure about where I bat. Being the captain of the team, it's my job to make sure that the next lot is also ready as well. Your job as a captain is not only to look after the team right now but also to prepare a team that you can leave behind when you eventually pass it on to someone else," he said. #TeamIndia Captain @imVkohli hit some boundaries off Bumrah's bowling in the nets today. Hear what the Skipper has to say about the same 😅 pic.twitter.com/g81FTR5jRT — BCCI (@BCCI) January 13, 2020 × Virat said that Australia is a stronger side than last time, the series will be exciting and competitive "They are a stronger side than the side that came last time to India but still won the series. You can have the most experienced or most skilled players but if you do not play well as a team in that series, you will not win which happened with us last time and when we went to Australia similar thing happened with them,". Kohli said that series is short and a five-match series would have been way more exciting. Gearing up for the challenge against Australia - @klrahul11 & @im_manishpandey train hard before the 1st ODI #TeamIndia #INDvAUS @Paytm pic.twitter.com/opMVuq4qsB — BCCI (@BCCI) January 13, 2020 × Virat is close to breaking another world record if the Indian skipper manages to get a hundred at Wankhede, he will become the player with most centuries in international cricket (42) as captain, across all formats. He at the moment is tied with Australian great Ricky Ponting (41). India and Australia have played 136 ODI matches, with Australia winning 77 (29 in India) and India beating the Aussies in 49 ODIs(22 in Australia). Ten matches were abandoned with none tied. Australia has been one of the two teams who have defeated the mighty Indian team at home on more occasions than they have lost. Since 2010, India has played 21 bilateral series, but have lost against only three teams (South Africa, Pakistan and Australia). Australia's dominance over India in terms of win ratio has changed since 2013. Both heavyweights clashed have 28 times, in which Australia won 13 ODIs and India outlasting the Australian juggernaut in 13 ODIs with two games being washed out. India won away series against Australia in 2018 (2-1), Australia avenged the series defeat in 2019 when they beat India in an away series (3-2) in 2019. The dangerous Marnus Labuschagne is the player to watch out for the Indians. The 25-year-old is yet to make his ODI debut but has a staggering average of 63.4 in Tests From the beginning of Ashes, Labuschagne ensured he cemented his name in the playing XI. On his home turf, Labuschagne proved his desire for big hundreds in his first two series (Pakistan, New Zealand). His consistency in scoring centuries was there for all to see with scores of 185, 162, 143, 50, 63, 19, 215, 59. At home the Australian young gun scored 896 runs, averaging 112 with four centuries, three fifties. Labuschagne was Test cricket's highest run-scorer in 2019 with 1,104 runs in 11 matches averaging 64.94. His teammate Steven Smith was second in the list.

India-Australia ODI clash: I do not support people comparing players, says Kohli

<p>Australia's&nbsp;Mitchell Marsh, who recently made a return from injury, smashed&nbsp;eight sixes as&nbsp;Perth Scorchers posted a mammoth score to beat&nbsp;Brisbane Heat in Big Bash League.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Marsh, who injured his knuckles after punching through a wall, a month ago, hit 8 sixes as he scored unbeaten 93 runs off 41 balls. The innings included three fours too.&nbsp;&nbsp;Marsh's incredible knock ensured that&nbsp;Perth Scorchers pose a massive total of 213 runs.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/big-bash-league-sydney-thunder-beat-hobart-hurricanes-by-four-wickets-273644">Big Bash League: Sydney Thunder beat Hobart Hurricanes by four wickets</a></p>

<p>BBL also congratulated Marsh in a tweet.</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">This guy 🤩<br />
<br />
93 from 41 balls (including eight 6️⃣s) <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BBL09?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BBL09</a> <a href="https://t.co/5Asw7seeWF">pic.twitter.com/5Asw7seeWF</a></p>
— KFC Big Bash League (@BBL) <a href="https://twitter.com/BBL/status/1215966525640736774?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 11, 2020</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>

<p>Cameron Bancroft's 41 runs off 29 balls also helped Scorchers to post a massive total. A 100-run partnership between Bancroft and Marsh did not give Brisbane any chance to make a comeback in the match.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In the second innings, Brisbane Heat started off well after Tom Banton gave his team a decent start.&nbsp;</p>

<p>But despite maintaining&nbsp;a good run-rate, Brisbane Heat kept losing wickets.</p>

<p>Joe Burns and Ben Cutting tried to stabilize the innings but Heat's hopes died when Cutting was dismissed after getting caught by Tim David.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The remaining batsmen fell like ninepins and the innings ended with 179 runs for the loss of eight wickets with Tom Banton top-scoring with 55 runs. Joe Burns scored 37 runs.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Perth Scorchers's bowlers Jhye Richardson, Joel Paris, and Chris Jordan managed to take 2 wickets apiece and help their team defend the total.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Mitchell Marsh was declared 'Player of the Match' for his brilliant knock</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Never in doubt 💪<a href="https://twitter.com/KFCAustralia?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@KFCAustralia</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BBL09?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BBL09</a> <a href="https://t.co/7Ej8bKTAJh">pic.twitter.com/7Ej8bKTAJh</a></p>
— KFC Big Bash League (@BBL) <a href="https://twitter.com/BBL/status/1215994260228493312?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 11, 2020</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>

<p><strong>Final Scores:</strong></p>

<p>Perth Scorchers: 213/3</p>

<p>Brisbane Heats: 179/8</p>

<p>Perth Scorchers are fifth in the points table with eight points, Brisbane Heat are just above Perth Scorchers with equal points, but they are ahead due to the net run rate.</p>


Australia's Mitchell Marsh, who recently made a return from injury, smashed eight sixes as Perth Scorchers posted a mammoth score to beat Brisbane Heat in Big Bash League.

Australia's Mitchell Marsh, who recently made a return from injury, smashed eight sixes as Perth Scorchers posted a mammoth score to beat Brisbane Heat in Big Bash League. Marsh, who injured his knuckles after punching through a wall, a month ago, hit 8 sixes as he scored unbeaten 93 runs off 41 balls. The innings included three fours too. Marsh's incredible knock ensured that Perth Scorchers pose a massive total of 213 runs. Also read: Big Bash League: Sydney Thunder beat Hobart Hurricanes by four wickets BBL also congratulated Marsh in a tweet. This guy 🤩 93 from 41 balls (including eight 6️⃣s) #BBL09 pic.twitter.com/5Asw7seeWF — KFC Big Bash League (@BBL) January 11, 2020 × Cameron Bancroft's 41 runs off 29 balls also helped Scorchers to post a massive total. A 100-run partnership between Bancroft and Marsh did not give Brisbane any chance to make a comeback in the match. In the second innings, Brisbane Heat started off well after Tom Banton gave his team a decent start. But despite maintaining a good run-rate, Brisbane Heat kept losing wickets. Joe Burns and Ben Cutting tried to stabilize the innings but Heat's hopes died when Cutting was dismissed after getting caught by Tim David. The remaining batsmen fell like ninepins and the innings ended with 179 runs for the loss of eight wickets with Tom Banton top-scoring with 55 runs. Joe Burns scored 37 runs. Perth Scorchers's bowlers Jhye Richardson, Joel Paris, and Chris Jordan managed to take 2 wickets apiece and help their team defend the total. Mitchell Marsh was declared 'Player of the Match' for his brilliant knock Never in doubt 💪@KFCAustralia | #BBL09 pic.twitter.com/7Ej8bKTAJh — KFC Big Bash League (@BBL) January 11, 2020 × Final Scores: Perth Scorchers: 213/3 Brisbane Heats: 179/8 Perth Scorchers are fifth in the points table with eight points, Brisbane Heat are just above Perth Scorchers with equal points, but they are ahead due to the net run rate.

Big Bash League: Mitchell Marsh's 93 off 41 help Perth Scorchers beat Brisbane Heat

<p>Adelaide Strikers defeated <a href="https://www.wionews.com/.../big-bash-league-maxwells-mammoth-knock- helps-melbourne-star-cruise-over-renegades-273427">Melbourne Renegades</a> by 63 runs in the ongoing Big Bash League (BBL) here on Sunday.</p>

<p>Chasing a target of 173 runs, Melbourne Renegades had a very poor start as opener Marcus Harris was bowled off Travis Head's fifth delivery of the first over.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/big-bash-league-mitchs-blitz-help-perth-scorchers-beat-brisbane-heat-by-34-runs-273687">Big Bash League: Mitchell Marsh's 93 off 41 help Perth Scorchers beat Brisbane Heat</a></p>

<p>The next batsman Sam Harper too failed to leave a mark as he was bowled by Peter Siddle in the next over. Opener Shaun Marsh was then joined by Beau Webster on the field.</p>

<p>Both played a fast-paced innings and helped their struggling side. Head broke their 50-run partnership as he bowled Marsh (21). Mohammad Nabi and Tom Cooper scored six and one run respectively before getting out which put Melbourne Renegade under immense pressure.</p>

<p>The fall of wicket did not stop as Webster, who missed his half-century by one run, was given LBW off Rashid Khan's delivery.</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">The Renegades nightmare campaign continues.<br />
<br />
But how about the return of Travis Head for the <a href="https://twitter.com/StrikersBBL?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@StrikersBBL</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BBL09?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BBL09</a> <a href="https://t.co/7WNSsY1mPo">pic.twitter.com/7WNSsY1mPo</a></p>
— KFC Big Bash League (@BBL) <a href="https://twitter.com/BBL/status/1216263287983132672?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 12, 2020</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>

<p>Samit Patel and Daniel Christian were the next batsmen but both of them were removed by Peter Siddle in the 17th over. In the next over, Wildermuth was given LBW and Joe Mennie was run out. Hence, Melbourne Renegades were all out on 110 runs.</p>

<p>After opting to bat first, Adelaide Strikers got off to a flying start as they amassed 36 runs in the first three overs with Phil Salt and Jake Weatherald smashing regular boundaries.</p>

<p>Jack Wildermuth, who bowled the fourth over, handed Melbourne Renegades with their first breakthrough as he got hold of Salt (18). In the next over, Mohammad Nabi sent Weatherald (27) back to the pavilion.</p>

<p>Travis Head and Jonathan Wells then took the field but only managed to form a 24-run partnership before Head (22) was dismissed by Cameron Boyce.</p>

<p>It was Matthew Short and Jonathan Wells' partnership which provided Adelaide Strikers with some momentum. The duo formed an 80-run partnership before Short (41) was run out in the final over of the innings. Wells (58) went on to score a half-century but on the next ball, he was dismissed as well. After the completion of 20 over, Adelaide Strikers managed to put up a total of 173 runs.</p>

<p>Adelaide Strikers will now take on Brisbane Heat on January 14.</p>


Adelaide Strikers defeated Melbourne Renegades by 63 runs in the ongoing Big Bash League (BBL) here on Sunday. Chasing a target of 173 runs, Melbourne Renegades had a very poor start as opener Marcus Harris was bowled off Travis Head's fifth delivery of the first over.

Adelaide Strikers defeated Melbourne Renegades by 63 runs in the ongoing Big Bash League (BBL) here on Sunday. Chasing a target of 173 runs, Melbourne Renegades had a very poor start as opener Marcus Harris was bowled off Travis Head's fifth delivery of the first over. Also read: Big Bash League: Mitchell Marsh's 93 off 41 help Perth Scorchers beat Brisbane Heat The next batsman Sam Harper too failed to leave a mark as he was bowled by Peter Siddle in the next over. Opener Shaun Marsh was then joined by Beau Webster on the field. Both played a fast-paced innings and helped their struggling side. Head broke their 50-run partnership as he bowled Marsh (21). Mohammad Nabi and Tom Cooper scored six and one run respectively before getting out which put Melbourne Renegade under immense pressure. The fall of wicket did not stop as Webster, who missed his half-century by one run, was given LBW off Rashid Khan's delivery. The Renegades nightmare campaign continues. But how about the return of Travis Head for the @StrikersBBL #BBL09 pic.twitter.com/7WNSsY1mPo — KFC Big Bash League (@BBL) January 12, 2020 × Samit Patel and Daniel Christian were the next batsmen but both of them were removed by Peter Siddle in the 17th over. In the next over, Wildermuth was given LBW and Joe Mennie was run out. Hence, Melbourne Renegades were all out on 110 runs. After opting to bat first, Adelaide Strikers got off to a flying start as they amassed 36 runs in the first three overs with Phil Salt and Jake Weatherald smashing regular boundaries. Jack Wildermuth, who bowled the fourth over, handed Melbourne Renegades with their first breakthrough as he got hold of Salt (18). In the next over, Mohammad Nabi sent Weatherald (27) back to the pavilion. Travis Head and Jonathan Wells then took the field but only managed to form a 24-run partnership before Head (22) was dismissed by Cameron Boyce. It was Matthew Short and Jonathan Wells' partnership which provided Adelaide Strikers with some momentum. The duo formed an 80-run partnership before Short (41) was run out in the final over of the innings. Wells (58) went on to score a half-century but on the next ball, he was dismissed as well. After the completion of 20 over, Adelaide Strikers managed to put up a total of 173 runs. Adelaide Strikers will now take on Brisbane Heat on January 14.

Big Bash League:Adelaide Strikers beat Melbourne Renegades by 63 runs

<p>Sydney Thunder beat Hobart Hurricanes with two balls to spare, this came after Alex Hales quick-fired 55 runs in just 36 balls.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Alex Hales was judged as the man of the match.</p>

<p>Official Big Bash Leagues took to twitter to congratulate Alex Hales,</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">55 from 36 balls at the top of the order from Alex Hales laid the foundation for the <a href="https://twitter.com/ThunderBBL?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ThunderBBL</a> tonight. <a href="https://twitter.com/KFCAustralia?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@KFCAustralia</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BBL09?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BBL09</a> <a href="https://t.co/Mi0Pv4rYgG">pic.twitter.com/Mi0Pv4rYgG</a></p>
— KFC Big Bash League (@BBL) <a href="https://twitter.com/BBL/status/1215942873176084483?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 11, 2020</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>

<p>Thunders are back to the winning ways after losing the last three games in a row. They won the toss and decided to bowl first.&nbsp;</p>

<p><b>Also read:&nbsp;</b><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/big-bash-league-maxwells-mammoth-knock-helps-melbourne-star-cruise-over-renegades-273427">Big Bash League: Maxwell's mammoth knock helps Melbourne Star cruise over Renegades</a></p>

<p>Hobart Hurricanes posted a decent score of 162/6 with George Bailey scoring most runs (43) for the team. &nbsp;He was followed by Ben Mcdermott who scored 33 runs. Both of them where joint-highest six hitters in the game. They hit 3 sixes each.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Sydney Thunder bowlers Daniel Sams and Chris Morris scalped two wickets each and Liam Bowe and Brendan Doggett took one wicket apiece.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Thunders started off with a bang, opening partnership for 96 runs of Usman Khawaja and Alex Hales shattered the spirits of Hobart Hurricanes.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Alex Hales hit 55 runs in 36 balls and contributed the most in the run-chase. He smashed two sixes and six fours.&nbsp;</p>

<p>But Sydney lost four wickets in quick succession, giving Hobart hopes for a comeback. Alex Ross and Chris Morris stabilized the innings which helped Thunders to a striving victory.</p>

<p>The Thunders move up to third in the Points Table, whereas Hobart Hurricanes are on seventh on the Points table</p>


Sydney Thunder beat Hobart Hurricanes with two balls to spare, this came after Alex Hales quick-fired 55 runs in just 36 balls. Alex Hales was judged as the man of the match.

Sydney Thunder beat Hobart Hurricanes with two balls to spare, this came after Alex Hales quick-fired 55 runs in just 36 balls. Alex Hales was judged as the man of the match. Official Big Bash Leagues took to twitter to congratulate Alex Hales, 55 from 36 balls at the top of the order from Alex Hales laid the foundation for the @ThunderBBL tonight. @KFCAustralia | #BBL09 pic.twitter.com/Mi0Pv4rYgG — KFC Big Bash League (@BBL) January 11, 2020 × Thunders are back to the winning ways after losing the last three games in a row. They won the toss and decided to bowl first. Also read: Big Bash League: Maxwell's mammoth knock helps Melbourne Star cruise over Renegades Hobart Hurricanes posted a decent score of 162/6 with George Bailey scoring most runs (43) for the team. He was followed by Ben Mcdermott who scored 33 runs. Both of them where joint-highest six hitters in the game. They hit 3 sixes each. Sydney Thunder bowlers Daniel Sams and Chris Morris scalped two wickets each and Liam Bowe and Brendan Doggett took one wicket apiece. Thunders started off with a bang, opening partnership for 96 runs of Usman Khawaja and Alex Hales shattered the spirits of Hobart Hurricanes. Alex Hales hit 55 runs in 36 balls and contributed the most in the run-chase. He smashed two sixes and six fours. But Sydney lost four wickets in quick succession, giving Hobart hopes for a comeback. Alex Ross and Chris Morris stabilized the innings which helped Thunders to a striving victory. The Thunders move up to third in the Points Table, whereas Hobart Hurricanes are on seventh on the Points table

Big Bash League: Sydney Thunder beat Hobart Hurricanes by four wickets

<p>Australians&nbsp;are&nbsp;eyeing an exciting ODI series against&nbsp;India at home starting next week&nbsp;with&nbsp;Aaron Finch declaring his team is ready to "give Virat Kohli's men a run for their money."</p>

<p>Finch's teamates -&nbsp;David Warner, Pat Cummins&nbsp;and Marnus Labuschagne have also made their intentions clear ahead of the crucial ODI encounter against Virat's India.</p>

<p>Australian Skipper Aaron Finch said&nbsp;that 'this' Australian side is much more confident to trouble the men in blue.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Australia have the goods to give Virat Kohli's men a run for their money," said Aaron Finch before leaving for the three-match series against India.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The former world champions&nbsp;will look to repeat their feat last year when&nbsp;they beat India 3-2 in in an ODI series last year. Australia came back to win the series after trailing in the series.</p>

<p>Finch said&nbsp;that <a href="https://www.wionews.com/.../cricket-labuschagne-leads-as-australia-take- charge-in-sydney-271812">Marnus Labuschagne</a>'s presence in the squad will be vital as the newcomer's form has been fantastic.</p>

<p>Marnus Labuschagne has yet not debuted in the ODI format but has had an amazing run in Tests.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Marnus Labuschagne, the&nbsp;new Aussie batting sensation aspires to be a world-class cricketer in all formats. The latest Australian run machine has 1,495 in 14 Tests with an average of 63 with one double century.</p>

<p>Labuschagne who counts Virat as one of his heroes is expected to make his debut&nbsp;against India at the Wankhede in Mumbai on January 14.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/.../cricket-stunned-new-zealand-fight-to-save- second-australia-test-270820">David Warner</a> surely seems excited about his trip to India and his Indian fans. He posted a photo Instagram and shared his thoughts on the forthcoming series.</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-captioned="" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/p/B7FIRDLJy84/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="12" style=" background:#FFF; border:0; border-radius:3px; box-shadow:0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width:540px; min-width:326px; padding:0; width:99.375%; width:-webkit-calc(100% - 2px); width:calc(100% - 2px);">
<div style="padding:16px;">
<div style=" display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;">
<div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;">&nbsp;</div>

<div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;">
<div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;">&nbsp;</div>

<div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;">&nbsp;</div>
</div>
</div>

<div style="padding: 19% 0;">&nbsp;</div>

<div style="display:block; height:50px; margin:0 auto 12px; width:50px;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/B7FIRDLJy84/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" background:#FFFFFF; line-height:0; padding:0 0; text-align:center; text-decoration:none; width:100%;" target="_blank"><svg height="50px" version="1.1" viewbox="0 0 60 60" width="50px" xmlns="https://www.w3.org/2000/svg" xmlns:xlink="https://www.w3.org/1999/xlink"><g fill="none" fill-rule="evenodd" stroke="none" stroke-width="1"><g fill="#000000" transform="translate(-511.000000, -20.000000)"><g><path d="M556.869,30.41 C554.814,30.41 553.148,32.076 553.148,34.131 C553.148,36.186 554.814,37.852 556.869,37.852 C558.924,37.852 560.59,36.186 560.59,34.131 C560.59,32.076 558.924,30.41 556.869,30.41 M541,60.657 C535.114,60.657 530.342,55.887 530.342,50 C530.342,44.114 535.114,39.342 541,39.342 C546.887,39.342 551.658,44.114 551.658,50 C551.658,55.887 546.887,60.657 541,60.657 M541,33.886 C532.1,33.886 524.886,41.1 524.886,50 C524.886,58.899 532.1,66.113 541,66.113 C549.9,66.113 557.115,58.899 557.115,50 C557.115,41.1 549.9,33.886 541,33.886 M565.378,62.101 C565.244,65.022 564.756,66.606 564.346,67.663 C563.803,69.06 563.154,70.057 562.106,71.106 C561.058,72.155 560.06,72.803 558.662,73.347 C557.607,73.757 556.021,74.244 553.102,74.378 C549.944,74.521 548.997,74.552 541,74.552 C533.003,74.552 532.056,74.521 528.898,74.378 C525.979,74.244 524.393,73.757 523.338,73.347 C521.94,72.803 520.942,72.155 519.894,71.106 C518.846,70.057 518.197,69.06 517.654,67.663 C517.244,66.606 516.755,65.022 516.623,62.101 C516.479,58.943 516.448,57.996 516.448,50 C516.448,42.003 516.479,41.056 516.623,37.899 C516.755,34.978 517.244,33.391 517.654,32.338 C518.197,30.938 518.846,29.942 519.894,28.894 C520.942,27.846 521.94,27.196 523.338,26.654 C524.393,26.244 525.979,25.756 528.898,25.623 C532.057,25.479 533.004,25.448 541,25.448 C548.997,25.448 549.943,25.479 553.102,25.623 C556.021,25.756 557.607,26.244 558.662,26.654 C560.06,27.196 561.058,27.846 562.106,28.894 C563.154,29.942 563.803,30.938 564.346,32.338 C564.756,33.391 565.244,34.978 565.378,37.899 C565.522,41.056 565.552,42.003 565.552,50 C565.552,57.996 565.522,58.943 565.378,62.101 M570.82,37.631 C570.674,34.438 570.167,32.258 569.425,30.349 C568.659,28.377 567.633,26.702 565.965,25.035 C564.297,23.368 562.623,22.342 560.652,21.575 C558.743,20.834 556.562,20.326 553.369,20.18 C550.169,20.033 549.148,20 541,20 C532.853,20 531.831,20.033 528.631,20.18 C525.438,20.326 523.257,20.834 521.349,21.575 C519.376,22.342 517.703,23.368 516.035,25.035 C514.368,26.702 513.342,28.377 512.574,30.349 C511.834,32.258 511.326,34.438 511.181,37.631 C511.035,40.831 511,41.851 511,50 C511,58.147 511.035,59.17 511.181,62.369 C511.326,65.562 511.834,67.743 512.574,69.651 C513.342,71.625 514.368,73.296 516.035,74.965 C517.703,76.634 519.376,77.658 521.349,78.425 C523.257,79.167 525.438,79.673 528.631,79.82 C531.831,79.965 532.853,80.001 541,80.001 C549.148,80.001 550.169,79.965 553.369,79.82 C556.562,79.673 558.743,79.167 560.652,78.425 C562.623,77.658 564.297,76.634 565.965,74.965 C567.633,73.296 568.659,71.625 569.425,69.651 C570.167,67.743 570.674,65.562 570.82,62.369 C570.966,59.17 571,58.147 571,50 C571,41.851 570.966,40.831 570.82,37.631"></path></g></g></g></svg></a></div>

<div style="padding-top: 8px;">
<div style=" color:#3897f0; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:550; line-height:18px;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/B7FIRDLJy84/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" background:#FFFFFF; line-height:0; padding:0 0; text-align:center; text-decoration:none; width:100%;" target="_blank">View this post on Instagram</a></div>
</div>

<div style="padding: 12.5% 0;">&nbsp;</div>

<div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; margin-bottom: 14px; align-items: center;">
<div>
<div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(0px) translateY(7px);">&nbsp;</div>

<div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; height: 12.5px; transform: rotate(-45deg) translateX(3px) translateY(1px); width: 12.5px; flex-grow: 0; margin-right: 14px; margin-left: 2px;">&nbsp;</div>

<div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(9px) translateY(-18px);">&nbsp;</div>
</div>

<div style="margin-left: 8px;">
<div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 20px; width: 20px;">&nbsp;</div>

<div style=" width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 2px solid transparent; border-left: 6px solid #f4f4f4; border-bottom: 2px solid transparent; transform: translateX(16px) translateY(-4px) rotate(30deg)">&nbsp;</div>
</div>

<div style="margin-left: auto;">
<div style=" width: 0px; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-right: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(16px);">&nbsp;</div>

<div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; flex-grow: 0; height: 12px; width: 16px; transform: translateY(-4px);">&nbsp;</div>

<div style=" width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-left: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(-4px) translateX(8px);">&nbsp;</div>
</div>
</div>

<p style=" margin:8px 0 0 0; padding:0 4px;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/B7FIRDLJy84/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" color:#000; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px; text-decoration:none; word-wrap:break-word;" target="_blank">India here we come!! It’s going to be a great 3 game series. Looking forward to seeing all our Indian fans 👍👍</a></p>

<p style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px; margin-bottom:0; margin-top:8px; overflow:hidden; padding:8px 0 7px; text-align:center; text-overflow:ellipsis; white-space:nowrap;">A post shared by <a href="https://www.instagram.com/davidwarner31/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px;" target="_blank"> David Warner</a> (@davidwarner31) on <time datetime="2020-01-09T01:16:56+00:00" style=" font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px;">Jan 8, 2020 at 5:16pm PST</time></p>
</div>
</blockquote>
<script async src="//www.instagram.com/embed.js"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>Australian pace spearhead Pat Cummins said&nbsp;that spinners will play a crucial role in the series against India.</p>

<p>In ODIs, Australia dominates India with having won 77 matches and losing 49&nbsp;with&nbsp;no results in 10 matches.</p>


Australians are eyeing an exciting ODI series against India at home starting next week with Aaron Finch declaring his team is ready to "give Virat Kohli's men a run for their money.

Australians are eyeing an exciting ODI series against India at home starting next week with Aaron Finch declaring his team is ready to "give Virat Kohli's men a run for their money." Finch's teamates - David Warner, Pat Cummins and Marnus Labuschagne have also made their intentions clear ahead of the crucial ODI encounter against Virat's India. Australian Skipper Aaron Finch said that 'this' Australian side is much more confident to trouble the men in blue. "Australia have the goods to give Virat Kohli's men a run for their money," said Aaron Finch before leaving for the three-match series against India. The former world champions will look to repeat their feat last year when they beat India 3-2 in in an ODI series last year. Australia came back to win the series after trailing in the series. Finch said that Marnus Labuschagne's presence in the squad will be vital as the newcomer's form has been fantastic. Marnus Labuschagne has yet not debuted in the ODI format but has had an amazing run in Tests. Marnus Labuschagne, the new Aussie batting sensation aspires to be a world-class cricketer in all formats. The latest Australian run machine has 1,495 in 14 Tests with an average of 63 with one double century. Labuschagne who counts Virat as one of his heroes is expected to make his debut against India at the Wankhede in Mumbai on January 14. David Warner surely seems excited about his trip to India and his Indian fans. He posted a photo Instagram and shared his thoughts on the forthcoming series. View this post on Instagram India here we come!! It’s going to be a great 3 game series. Looking forward to seeing all our Indian fans 👍👍 A post shared by David Warner (@davidwarner31) on Jan 8, 2020 at 5:16pm PST × Australian pace spearhead Pat Cummins said that spinners will play a crucial role in the series against India. In ODIs, Australia dominates India with having won 77 matches and losing 49 with no results in 10 matches.

Australia have the goods to give Virat Kohli's men a run for their money: Finch ahead of ODI series against India