From MS Dhoni, Yuvraj Singh to Chris Morris: Most expensive buys in every IPL auctions

Indian spin wizard Ravichandran Ashwin overtook Harbhajan Singh to become the 2nd highest-wicket wicket-taker in India in Test cricket.&nbsp;

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The Chennai-based off-spinner achieved this feat after removing Ben Stokes on the second day of the ongoing Test match at Chepauk Stadium.&nbsp;

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Ashwin now has 266 wickets to his name and second to Anil Kumble, who has 350 wickets in his tally.&nbsp;

Ravichandran Ashwin took advantage of the slow pitch and scalped four wickets before Tea on Day 2 of the match. England are down to 106 for 8 as they come to bat in the third session of Day 2, as they trail by 223 runs.&nbsp;

Ashwin removed in-form Dominic Sibley, Daniel Lawrence, Ben Stokes and Olly Stone.&nbsp;

Indian spin wizard Ravichandran Ashwin overtook Harbhajan Singh to become the 2nd highest-wicket wicket-taker in India in Test cricket. ALSO READ: Gambhir names 2 key England batsmen India should watchout for The Chennai-based off-spinner achieved this feat after removing Ben Stokes on the second day of the ongoing Test match at Chepauk Stadium.

Indian spin wizard Ravichandran Ashwin overtook Harbhajan Singh to become the 2nd highest-wicket wicket-taker in India in Test cricket. ALSO READ: Gambhir names 2 key England batsmen India should watchout for The Chennai-based off-spinner achieved this feat after removing Ben Stokes on the second day of the ongoing Test match at Chepauk Stadium. ALSO READ: Watch: Ball of the century? Virat Kohli left stunned by Moeen Ali ripper Ashwin now has 266 wickets to his name and second to Anil Kumble, who has 350 wickets in his tally. Ravichandran Ashwin took advantage of the slow pitch and scalped four wickets before Tea on Day 2 of the match. England are down to 106 for 8 as they come to bat in the third session of Day 2, as they trail by 223 runs. Ashwin removed in-form Dominic Sibley, Daniel Lawrence, Ben Stokes and Olly Stone.

Ravi Ashwin overtakes Harbhajan Singh in elite list after dismissing Ben Stokes

Indian Premier League provides a platform for stars from different countries to play together, however, the T20 tournament has no effect when they play against each other in international cricket, said Ajinkya Rahane ahead of the four-match series against England.

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As per the Indian Test vice-captain, Indian cricketers do not share their gameplan despite sharing the dressing room with the likes of Ben Stokes, Jos Buttler, and Jofra Archer, keeping international cricket mind.&nbsp;

"See, we definitely play in the IPL, but Test cricket and IPL are completely different. We do know how their bowlers bowl here, but length (that one bowls) is completely different in Test cricket from what they are in white-ball (formats)," Rahane said.

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Ajinkya Rahane, who once led Rajasthan Royals in the Indian Premier League, had Buttler, Stokes and Archer as fellow teammates.&nbsp;

"What we do in IPL, it's not like we tell them all the things and I think that is very important. Yes, we have played a lot of cricket together, but when you represent the country, it is all about how best you can give individually and as a team," Rahane said.

Rahane went on to talk about the balance in England's squad.&nbsp;

"Ben Stokes and (Jofra) Archer, they are really good players. They did really well for England, so it is not about any individual. I think it is all about a team, England team, they are a very balanced outfit which did really well recently against Sri Lanka.

"So for us, what is important is that we plan against all their guys and just play as a team here and back our strengths."

Team India will return to action as they host England in the first Test match that is set to begin on Friday at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai.

(Inputs from PTI)&nbsp;

Indian Premier League provides a platform for stars from different countries to play together, however, the T20 tournament has no effect when they play against each other in international cricket, said Ajinkya Rahane ahead of the four-match series against England.

Indian Premier League provides a platform for stars from different countries to play together, however, the T20 tournament has no effect when they play against each other in international cricket, said Ajinkya Rahane ahead of the four-match series against England. ALSO READ: Joe Root eyes illustrious records in Chennai Test against India As per the Indian Test vice-captain, Indian cricketers do not share their gameplan despite sharing the dressing room with the likes of Ben Stokes, Jos Buttler, and Jofra Archer, keeping international cricket mind. "See, we definitely play in the IPL, but Test cricket and IPL are completely different. We do know how their bowlers bowl here, but length (that one bowls) is completely different in Test cricket from what they are in white-ball (formats)," Rahane said. ALSO READ: Virat Kohli tops celebrity brand valuation study for fourth consecutive year Ajinkya Rahane, who once led Rajasthan Royals in the Indian Premier League, had Buttler, Stokes and Archer as fellow teammates. "What we do in IPL, it's not like we tell them all the things and I think that is very important. Yes, we have played a lot of cricket together, but when you represent the country, it is all about how best you can give individually and as a team," Rahane said. Rahane went on to talk about the balance in England's squad. "Ben Stokes and (Jofra) Archer, they are really good players. They did really well for England, so it is not about any individual. I think it is all about a team, England team, they are a very balanced outfit which did really well recently against Sri Lanka. "So for us, what is important is that we plan against all their guys and just play as a team here and back our strengths." Team India will return to action as they host England in the first Test match that is set to begin on Friday at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai. (Inputs from PTI)

We don't share every trick: Ajinkya Rahane on sharing field with overseas players in IPL

After a historic win against Australia, Team India are all set to lock horns with England for a four-match Test series that are set to begin on February 5.&nbsp;

India, who are currently atop of World Test Championship (WTC) table, will need some crucial points against England to ensure a berth in the finals. England, on the other hand, are fourth in the table with 65.2 percentage points.&nbsp;

Ben Stokes, who is considered as England's main man to look out for, posted a photo of himself travelling on a plane, heading to India for the Test series. The all-rounder is considered to be one of the best in the format for his prolific stats with both bat and ball.&nbsp;

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Earlier, former England spinner Graeme Swann congratulated India and called them "virtually unbeatable" after their historic Test triumph in Australia. He went on to say that if England manages to beat hosts India, it could be bigged that Ashes.&nbsp;

"England always saying 'well the Ashes are coming up'. Australia are not the best team in the world anymore. They used to be, by miles, ... they're not now, but we're obsessed with this," Swann told tabloid 'The Sun'.

"We have to move away from looking forward to the Ashes series. I think beating India in India is a far higher thing to strive for right now. They're virtually unbeatable in India since we beat them in 2012. Why isn't that the whole thing?" he asked.

According to Swann, if England wants to be at the top in the cricketing world, they should move away from the fixation of just trying to beat Australia in away series.

He urged the young English team to learn from past mistakes and learn to take on the spin like Kevin Pietersen, who's prolific scores helped England beat India at home.&nbsp;

"Why aren't people saying 'right, this is a chance to get this team with good players of spin, use their feet, change the whole way we face spin bowling, and then we can beat India'.

"We're not going to beat India unless spinners are taking wickets and then we've got someone batting as we had with Kevin Pietersen."

After a historic win against Australia, Team India are all set to lock horns with England for a four-match Test series that are set to begin on February 5. India, who are currently atop of World Test Championship (WTC) table, will need some crucial points against England to ensure a berth in the finals.

After a historic win against Australia, Team India are all set to lock horns with England for a four-match Test series that are set to begin on February 5. India, who are currently atop of World Test Championship (WTC) table, will need some crucial points against England to ensure a berth in the finals. England, on the other hand, are fourth in the table with 65.2 percentage points. Ben Stokes, who is considered as England's main man to look out for, posted a photo of himself travelling on a plane, heading to India for the Test series. The all-rounder is considered to be one of the best in the format for his prolific stats with both bat and ball. See you soon India ✈️🇮🇳 pic.twitter.com/TrGHG3iuy3 — Ben Stokes (@benstokes38) January 23, 2021 × Earlier, former England spinner Graeme Swann congratulated India and called them "virtually unbeatable" after their historic Test triumph in Australia. He went on to say that if England manages to beat hosts India, it could be bigged that Ashes. "England always saying 'well the Ashes are coming up'. Australia are not the best team in the world anymore. They used to be, by miles, ... they're not now, but we're obsessed with this," Swann told tabloid 'The Sun'. "We have to move away from looking forward to the Ashes series. I think beating India in India is a far higher thing to strive for right now. They're virtually unbeatable in India since we beat them in 2012. Why isn't that the whole thing?" he asked. According to Swann, if England wants to be at the top in the cricketing world, they should move away from the fixation of just trying to beat Australia in away series. He urged the young English team to learn from past mistakes and learn to take on the spin like Kevin Pietersen, who's prolific scores helped England beat India at home. "Why aren't people saying 'right, this is a chance to get this team with good players of spin, use their feet, change the whole way we face spin bowling, and then we can beat India'. "We're not going to beat India unless spinners are taking wickets and then we've got someone batting as we had with Kevin Pietersen."

'See you': Ben Stokes heads to India for crucial Test series against Virat and Co.

England's star all-rounder Ben Stokes was named in the ICC's Team of the Decade, however, he had a hilarious reaction on receiving the Test team of the decade cap.&nbsp;

The Englishman took to Instagram to share his feelings on receiving the cap. He said that the cap, given by the ICC, “just doesn’t seem right” because it looks too similar to the Australian Test cap. He thanked the ICC and say that he is proud to get the caps for both the teams.

“Very proud of both these cap’s,one of them just doesn’t seem right,it’s a bit BAGGY and GREEN thanks @icc,” he wrote on Instagram, along with pictures of him sporting both the caps.

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ICC replied and tweeted: “Sorry @BenStokes38!”&nbsp;

Stokes featured in the Test Team of the Decade for his prolific form in the longest format. In 67 Tests, Stokes has scored 4428 runs at an average of 37.84, while picking 158 wickets as well. In ODIs, he has 2682 runs and 70 wickets in 95 matches.

England's star all-rounder Ben Stokes was named in the ICC's Team of the Decade, however, he had a hilarious reaction on receiving the Test team of the decade cap.

England's star all-rounder Ben Stokes was named in the ICC's Team of the Decade, however, he had a hilarious reaction on receiving the Test team of the decade cap. The Englishman took to Instagram to share his feelings on receiving the cap. He said that the cap, given by the ICC, “just doesn’t seem right” because it looks too similar to the Australian Test cap. He thanked the ICC and say that he is proud to get the caps for both the teams. “Very proud of both these cap’s,one of them just doesn’t seem right,it’s a bit BAGGY and GREEN thanks @icc,” he wrote on Instagram, along with pictures of him sporting both the caps. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Ben Stokes (@stokesy) × ICC replied and tweeted: “Sorry @BenStokes38!” Stokes featured in the Test Team of the Decade for his prolific form in the longest format. In 67 Tests, Stokes has scored 4428 runs at an average of 37.84, while picking 158 wickets as well. In ODIs, he has 2682 runs and 70 wickets in 95 matches.

'It's a bit BAGGY and GREEN': Ben Stokes' hilarious reaction on receiving Team of the Decade cap; ICC responds

Ravindra Jadeja has shown his worth in the Australia Tour by stepping up for Team India in all the three formats. he played a crucial role India's MCG win against the hosts.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/couldnt-be-happier-for-jinks-virat-kohli-lauds-ajinkya-rahane-co-for-historic-win-in-boxing-day-test-353106" hreflang="en">'Couldn't be happier for Jinks' - Virat Kohli lauds Ajinkya Rahane &amp; Co. for historic win in Boxing Day Test</a>

Former Indian wicket-keeper Deep Dasgupta heaped loads of praise on Jadeja.&nbsp;

"Jadeja replacing Virat Kohli in the 2nd Test was one of the things in my mind because of the way he has batted in the last couple of years. Generally, people think about Jadeja that he is a bowler who can bat, someone who hasn't capitalised much in Test cricket," Deep Dasgupta was quoted as saying by India Today.

"But I always thought he has actually done better than a lot of batsmen in the last couple of years. He's getting runs across all formats, and also as recently as last year he was the world's top-ranked Test bowler," he added.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ajinkya-rahane-joins-ms-dhoni-in-a-rare-list-as-india-win-boxing-day-test-vs-australia-353117" hreflang="en">Ajinkya Rahane joins MS Dhoni in a rare list as India win Boxing Day Test vs Australia</a>

Ben Stokes is considered as one of the best all-rounders in the cricket world with a batting average of 42.34 and a bowling average of 27.59 in the longest format. Jadeja, since 2016, has the highest batting average (46.29) and the best bowling average (24.97) among all-rounders in Test cricket.

"As of now the way he's batting he definitely is (in the same bracket as Ben Stokes). Even during the IPL I actually said why not him at No. 4 for CSK. He's got a couple of triple hundreds in domestic cricket, getting runs there is not easy," said the former India wicket-keeper.

"For Saurashtra, he bats at No. 4 but for India, he comes in at 7 or 8. Somehow I felt that he never took his batting seriously enough. In 2017 he was dropped from the side but and I think what kind of prompted him was the fact that he wanted to make himself more useful to the team, not just with the ball but with the bat as well. Because Jadeja, I know for a fact, always wanted to be a batsman," he added.

Ravindra Jadeja has shown his worth in the Australia Tour by stepping up for Team India in all the three formats. he played a crucial role India's MCG win against the hosts.

Ravindra Jadeja has shown his worth in the Australia Tour by stepping up for Team India in all the three formats. he played a crucial role India's MCG win against the hosts. ALSO READ: 'Couldn't be happier for Jinks' - Virat Kohli lauds Ajinkya Rahane & Co. for historic win in Boxing Day Test Former Indian wicket-keeper Deep Dasgupta heaped loads of praise on Jadeja. "Jadeja replacing Virat Kohli in the 2nd Test was one of the things in my mind because of the way he has batted in the last couple of years. Generally, people think about Jadeja that he is a bowler who can bat, someone who hasn't capitalised much in Test cricket," Deep Dasgupta was quoted as saying by India Today. "But I always thought he has actually done better than a lot of batsmen in the last couple of years. He's getting runs across all formats, and also as recently as last year he was the world's top-ranked Test bowler," he added. ALSO READ: Ajinkya Rahane joins MS Dhoni in a rare list as India win Boxing Day Test vs Australia Ben Stokes is considered as one of the best all-rounders in the cricket world with a batting average of 42.34 and a bowling average of 27.59 in the longest format. Jadeja, since 2016, has the highest batting average (46.29) and the best bowling average (24.97) among all-rounders in Test cricket. "As of now the way he's batting he definitely is (in the same bracket as Ben Stokes). Even during the IPL I actually said why not him at No. 4 for CSK. He's got a couple of triple hundreds in domestic cricket, getting runs there is not easy," said the former India wicket-keeper. "For Saurashtra, he bats at No. 4 but for India, he comes in at 7 or 8. Somehow I felt that he never took his batting seriously enough. In 2017 he was dropped from the side but and I think what kind of prompted him was the fact that he wanted to make himself more useful to the team, not just with the ball but with the bat as well. Because Jadeja, I know for a fact, always wanted to be a batsman," he added.

'Ravindra Jadeja definitely is in the same bracket as Ben Stokes': Deep Dasgupta

England's limited over captain Eoin Morgan on Thursday said that he is still unaware of best XI going into the three-match T20I series against hosts South Africa that commences at Newlands on Friday.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/australia-vs-india-odi-series-preview-schedule-head-to-head-stats-and-more-345560" hreflang="en">Australia vs India, ODI series: Preview, schedule, head-to-head stats and more</a>

For the first time in 2020, England gets to choose from a full-strength squad. However, Morgan admits there is plenty to ponder in both the batting and bowling line-ups, as well as the balance of the side in the shortest format.

"We don’t know our best XI yet," he told reporters on Thursday. "There are probably seven or eight guys who are strong candidates to be in the first XI. But with a full-strength squad here there is so much to discuss around team selection.

"To start with, you need to try and figure out who your best six or seven batsmen are, then try and get them in the roles that best suit them and the team, and that gives you the best chance of winning the games."

England will include in-form star all-rounder Ben Stokes. However, England is still unclear about the number seven batting position.&nbsp;

"Looking ahead to the World Cup we will probably need the option of two spinners. Then again, if we have the luxury of two all-rounders in the side (in these conditions) in Ben and Sam, that is also huge.

"Winning at the moment would be great, but it is more important that we get the players’ roles right and they get comfortable in them. Then the results will look after themselves."

England's limited over captain Eoin Morgan on Thursday said that he is still unaware of best XI going into the three-match T20I series against hosts South Africa that commences at Newlands on Friday.

England's limited over captain Eoin Morgan on Thursday said that he is still unaware of best XI going into the three-match T20I series against hosts South Africa that commences at Newlands on Friday. Also read: Australia vs India, ODI series: Preview, schedule, head-to-head stats and more For the first time in 2020, England gets to choose from a full-strength squad. However, Morgan admits there is plenty to ponder in both the batting and bowling line-ups, as well as the balance of the side in the shortest format. "We don’t know our best XI yet," he told reporters on Thursday. "There are probably seven or eight guys who are strong candidates to be in the first XI. But with a full-strength squad here there is so much to discuss around team selection. "To start with, you need to try and figure out who your best six or seven batsmen are, then try and get them in the roles that best suit them and the team, and that gives you the best chance of winning the games." England will include in-form star all-rounder Ben Stokes. However, England is still unclear about the number seven batting position. "Looking ahead to the World Cup we will probably need the option of two spinners. Then again, if we have the luxury of two all-rounders in the side (in these conditions) in Ben and Sam, that is also huge. "Winning at the moment would be great, but it is more important that we get the players’ roles right and they get comfortable in them. Then the results will look after themselves."

Eoin Morgan puzzled about England's best T20 side against Proteas

Kolkata Knight Riders and Rajasthan Royals are set to square off for a playoff spot in this year's Indian Premier League. It will be the second match on a doubleheader Sunday and will be played in Dubai International Cricket Stadium.

Kolkata Knight Riders and Rajasthan Royals are set to square off for a playoff spot in this year's Indian Premier League. It will be the second match on a doubleheader Sunday and will be played in Dubai International Cricket Stadium. Kolkata have not been impressive in past few matches and their disappointing loss against CSK put them in a sticky position. making it a must-win game for them. Except Nitish Rana, KKR's top order have fallen out of form. Former skipper Dinesh Karthik has performed poorly in last few matches. Pat Cummins has been better with the bowl. Rajasthan Royals, on the other hand, have given some powerful performance in the past matches where they defeated teams like Kings XI Punjab and Mumbai Indians. Ben Stokes' form with the bat has been beneficial for RR. Uthappa's form has been better after opening the innings for the Royals. Jofra Archer has been the most successful bowler for RR this year. Probable XI: Shubman Gill, Nitish Rana, Rahul Tripathi, Sunil Narine, Eoin Morgan (c), Dinesh Karthik (wk), Pat Cummins, Rinku Singh, Kamlesh Nagarkoti/Shivam Mavi/Prasidh Krishna, Lockie Ferguson, Varun Chakravarthy. Probable XI: Robin Uthappa, Ben Stokes, Steven Smith (c), Sanju Samson (wk), Jos Buttler, Riyan Parag, Rahul Tewatia, Jofra Archer, Shreyas Gopal, Varun Aaron, Kartik Tyagi. Squads: Kolkata Knight Riders Squad: Shubman Gill, Nitish Rana, Rahul Tripathi, Rinku Singh, Eoin Morgan(c), Dinesh Karthik(w), Sunil Narine, Pat Cummins, Lockie Ferguson, Kamlesh Nagarkoti, Varun Chakravarthy, Shivam Mavi, Andre Russell, Kuldeep Yadav, Prasidh Krishna, Ali Khan, Tom Banton, Manimaran Siddharth, Chris Green, Tim Seifert, Nikhil Naik, Siddhesh Lad, Sandeep Warrier Rajasthan Royals Squad: Robin Uthappa, Ben Stokes, Sanju Samson(w), Steven Smith(c), Jos Buttler, Riyan Parag, Rahul Tewatia, Jofra Archer, Shreyas Gopal, Varun Aaron, Kartik Tyagi, David Miller, Manan Vohra, Ankit Rajpoot, Jaydev Unadkat, Aniruddha Joshi, Tom Curran, Andrew Tye, Shashank Singh, Mahipal Lomror, Oshane Thomas, Mayank Markande, Anuj Rawat, Yashasvi Jaiswal, Akash Singh

IPL 2020 Preview: Do-or-die fixture for Kolkata Knight Riders and Rajasthan Royals

Rajasthan Royals end Kings XI Punjab's dream run after beating them by 7 wickets at the Sheikh Zayed Stadium in the 50th match of IPL 2020.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/chris-gayle-becomes-first-player-to-smash-1000-sixes-in-t20-cricket-339105" hreflang="en">Chris Gayle becomes first player to smash 1000 sixes in T20 cricket</a>

Royals won the toss and chose to bowl first. KXIP lost Mandeep in the first over itself. However, a 120-run partnership between KL Rahul and Chris Gayle brought KXIP back in the game. Gayle's blistering 99-run knock powered Punjab to a respectable 185 at the end of the innings.&nbsp;

Royals, on the other hand, started the chase on a high with Stokes smashing a half-century in the powerplay itself. Samson continued Stokes' on-slaught after Englishman's dismissal. KXIP bowlers were no match for RR batsmen and they repeated the same mistakes in Sharjah. Buttler and Smith's partnership landed a final blow to KXIP.&nbsp;

Despite this loss, KXIP stay&nbsp;on the fourth spot. But RR climb to fifth spot&nbsp;and close into the play-off spot.&nbsp;

Gayle's knock went in vain as he became the first cricketer in T20 history to smash 1000 sixes in the shortest format.

The Universe Boss smashed 8 sixes in his blistering knock against the Royals and saved the day for KXIP.&nbsp;

Rajasthan Royals end Kings XI Punjab's dream run after beating them by 7 wickets at the Sheikh Zayed Stadium in the 50th match of IPL 2020. Also read: Chris Gayle becomes first player to smash 1000 sixes in T20 cricket Royals won the toss and chose to bowl first.

Rajasthan Royals end Kings XI Punjab's dream run after beating them by 7 wickets at the Sheikh Zayed Stadium in the 50th match of IPL 2020. Also read: Chris Gayle becomes first player to smash 1000 sixes in T20 cricket Royals won the toss and chose to bowl first. KXIP lost Mandeep in the first over itself. However, a 120-run partnership between KL Rahul and Chris Gayle brought KXIP back in the game. Gayle's blistering 99-run knock powered Punjab to a respectable 185 at the end of the innings. Royals, on the other hand, started the chase on a high with Stokes smashing a half-century in the powerplay itself. Samson continued Stokes' on-slaught after Englishman's dismissal. KXIP bowlers were no match for RR batsmen and they repeated the same mistakes in Sharjah. Buttler and Smith's partnership landed a final blow to KXIP. Despite this loss, KXIP stay on the fourth spot. But RR climb to fifth spot and close into the play-off spot. Gayle's knock went in vain as he became the first cricketer in T20 history to smash 1000 sixes in the shortest format. The Universe Boss smashed 8 sixes in his blistering knock against the Royals and saved the day for KXIP.

IPL 2020: Rajasthan Royals end Kings XI Punjab's winning streak after beating them by 7 wickets

England cricketer Ben Stokes’ recent joke about not wishing a 14-day quarantine on his ‘worst enemy’ Marlon Samuels didn’t go down well with the former West Indies cricketer.

Marlon Samuels slammed the England star and also targeted Australia great Shane Warne as he made it clear he was not all pleased with Ben Stokes’ recent joke about him.

Highlighting the demands of quarantining, Stokes recently quipped that he wouldn't wish the process on his "worst enemy" Marlon Samuels.

Samuels posted a couple of expletive-laden messages on his Instagram story. Marlon Samuels also dragged Stokes’ wife in a derogatory manner while boasting about his skin tone. He further targeted Shane Warne too as well as some West Indies cricketers.

“no white boy could diss me in the sports and no get back diss look at this b*tch still thinking about me give me 14 days with you wife turn har into Jamaican in 14 seconds mate none of yall knows me that simply means it’s my f***ing superior skin tone,” Samuels wrote on his Instagram story. 
 
<img alt="Marlon Samuels" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="a96629b5-48e3-4e1e-9476-21a97efe4ead" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Marlon-Samuels-Instagram-Story-Post.jpg" /> 
 
Marlon Samuels' Instagram Story Post (Photo Credits: Instagram)

The two players have engaged in a fierce war of words when the West Indies and England were playing a Test match in early 2014.&nbsp;

Stokes is currently playing in the IPL in the UAE.

(With inputs from agencies)

England cricketer Ben Stokes’ recent joke about not wishing a 14-day quarantine on his ‘worst enemy’ Marlon Samuels didn’t go down well with the former West Indies cricketer.

England cricketer Ben Stokes’ recent joke about not wishing a 14-day quarantine on his ‘worst enemy’ Marlon Samuels didn’t go down well with the former West Indies cricketer. Marlon Samuels slammed the England star and also targeted Australia great Shane Warne as he made it clear he was not all pleased with Ben Stokes’ recent joke about him. Highlighting the demands of quarantining, Stokes recently quipped that he wouldn't wish the process on his "worst enemy" Marlon Samuels. Samuels posted a couple of expletive-laden messages on his Instagram story. Marlon Samuels also dragged Stokes’ wife in a derogatory manner while boasting about his skin tone. He further targeted Shane Warne too as well as some West Indies cricketers. “no white boy could diss me in the sports and no get back diss look at this b*tch still thinking about me give me 14 days with you wife turn har into Jamaican in 14 seconds mate none of yall knows me that simply means it’s my f***ing superior skin tone,” Samuels wrote on his Instagram story. Marlon Samuels' Instagram Story Post (Photo Credits: Instagram) The two players have engaged in a fierce war of words when the West Indies and England were playing a Test match in early 2014. Stokes is currently playing in the IPL in the UAE. (With inputs from agencies)

Marlon Samuels reacts ugly to Ben Stokes' quarantine remarks, shares expletive-laden posts on Instagram

Rajasthan Royals have been struggling in this year's Indian Premier League. Despite a good start, RR witnessed a drastic fall in form and currently are second-last in IPL points table.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/it-hurts-me-to-say-this-scott-styris-on-chennai-super-kings-hopes-in-ipl-2020-337393" hreflang="en">'It hurts me to say this...' - Scott Styris on Chennai Super Kings' hopes in IPL 2020</a>

Their batting order has seen a decline as the tournament progressed. Former India opener Aakash Chopra has slammed RR’s batting order and said that the decision to open the innings with Ben Stokes and playing an explosive batsman like Jos Buttler at No. 4 makes no sense.&nbsp;

Chopra, on his YouTube channel, said: "Rajasthan Royals have an issue that their batting order is actually a disorder. Their batting order is beyond my understanding at this point of time because Jos Buttler, who is their best player is being sent at No.4 while they are opening with Ben Stokes, whose bat is not firing."

"The extent to which Ben Stokes’ bat has not been firing can be understood by the fact that he has played more than 100 deliveries and he is yet to hit a six. They have signed Ben Stokes and not Aakash Chopra that he is scoring with just the fours and singles."

Star all-rounder has failed to leave an impact on Royals this year. The Englishman has scored 110 runs as an opener for the team. But the strike-rate is concerning for the team.&nbsp;

"Rajasthan Royals had expectations from Ben Stokes but he is not able to deliver there but the entire innings is becoming slow. Because of that Sanju Samson plays a bad shot to get out as the pressure is mounting," he added.&nbsp;

"By the time Steve Smith comes to bat, the match is almost going out of their hands and in such a situation if Jos Buttler gets out, already you have reduced his effectiveness by giving him less overs to bat, then your whole boat sinks."

Rajasthan Royals have been struggling in this year's Indian Premier League. Despite a good start, RR witnessed a drastic fall in form and currently are second-last in IPL points table.

Rajasthan Royals have been struggling in this year's Indian Premier League. Despite a good start, RR witnessed a drastic fall in form and currently are second-last in IPL points table. Also read: 'It hurts me to say this...' - Scott Styris on Chennai Super Kings' hopes in IPL 2020 Their batting order has seen a decline as the tournament progressed. Former India opener Aakash Chopra has slammed RR’s batting order and said that the decision to open the innings with Ben Stokes and playing an explosive batsman like Jos Buttler at No. 4 makes no sense. Chopra, on his YouTube channel, said: "Rajasthan Royals have an issue that their batting order is actually a disorder. Their batting order is beyond my understanding at this point of time because Jos Buttler, who is their best player is being sent at No.4 while they are opening with Ben Stokes, whose bat is not firing." "The extent to which Ben Stokes’ bat has not been firing can be understood by the fact that he has played more than 100 deliveries and he is yet to hit a six. They have signed Ben Stokes and not Aakash Chopra that he is scoring with just the fours and singles." Star all-rounder has failed to leave an impact on Royals this year. The Englishman has scored 110 runs as an opener for the team. But the strike-rate is concerning for the team. "Rajasthan Royals had expectations from Ben Stokes but he is not able to deliver there but the entire innings is becoming slow. Because of that Sanju Samson plays a bad shot to get out as the pressure is mounting," he added. "By the time Steve Smith comes to bat, the match is almost going out of their hands and in such a situation if Jos Buttler gets out, already you have reduced his effectiveness by giving him less overs to bat, then your whole boat sinks."

'Disorder': Aakash Chopra criticizes Rajasthan batting order in IPL 2020

AB de Villiers was adjudged the Player of the Match after his wonderful batting performance against Kolkata Knight Riders on Monday. His 73 runs off 33 balls, helped his team register a thumping victory over KKR.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/superman-virat-kohli-compliments-ab-de-villiers-innings-against-kkr-334979" hreflang="en">'Superman': Virat Kohli compliments AB de Villiers' innings against KKR</a>

However, Rajasthan Royals star all-rounder Ben Stokes believes someone else was more deserving of the award. According to him, RCB leg-spinner Yuzvendra Chahal should have been declared the Player of the Match after his economical figures of 1/12 in four overs.&nbsp;

Ben Stokes took to Twitter and said: "In a batters game @yuzi_chahal should get MOM here,incredible figures especially as it’s in Sharjah".

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In a batters game <a href="https://twitter.com/yuzi_chahal?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@yuzi_chahal</a> should get MOM here,incredible figures especially as it’s in Sharjah 👏
— Ben Stokes (@benstokes38) <a href="https://twitter.com/benstokes38/status/1315704384202956802?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 12, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Chahal has been an asset to RCB this season. He has scalped 10 wickets from seven matches for the franchise. Despite his figures of 1/48 against Mumbai Indians, Chahal has maintained a decent economy rate.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/game-needs-you-back-ravi-shastris-special-message-for-ab-de-villiers-334974" hreflang="en">'Game needs you back': Ravi Shastri's special message for AB de Villiers</a>

Ravi Shastri and Virat Kohli also praised the South African for his blistering innings against KKR.&nbsp;

AB de Villiers was adjudged the Player of the Match after his wonderful batting performance against Kolkata Knight Riders on Monday. His 73 runs off 33 balls, helped his team register a thumping victory over KKR.

AB de Villiers was adjudged the Player of the Match after his wonderful batting performance against Kolkata Knight Riders on Monday. His 73 runs off 33 balls, helped his team register a thumping victory over KKR. Also read: 'Superman': Virat Kohli compliments AB de Villiers' innings against KKR However, Rajasthan Royals star all-rounder Ben Stokes believes someone else was more deserving of the award. According to him, RCB leg-spinner Yuzvendra Chahal should have been declared the Player of the Match after his economical figures of 1/12 in four overs. Ben Stokes took to Twitter and said: "In a batters game @yuzi_chahal should get MOM here,incredible figures especially as it’s in Sharjah". In a batters game @yuzi_chahal should get MOM here,incredible figures especially as it’s in Sharjah 👏 — Ben Stokes (@benstokes38) October 12, 2020 × Chahal has been an asset to RCB this season. He has scalped 10 wickets from seven matches for the franchise. Despite his figures of 1/48 against Mumbai Indians, Chahal has maintained a decent economy rate. Also read: 'Game needs you back': Ravi Shastri's special message for AB de Villiers Ravi Shastri and Virat Kohli also praised the South African for his blistering innings against KKR.

IPL 2020: Ben Stokes says this RCB player should have been the Man of the Match instead of ABD

Rajasthan Royals' star all-rounder Ben Stokes is set to return to the Indian Premier League tonight. The Royals took to Twitter to share the picture of Ben Stokes en route to the UAE.&nbsp;

He will be joining the team after missing a couple of games in the IPL 2020.&nbsp;

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Stoked. 😁✈️<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/HallaBol?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#HallaBol</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RoyalsFamily?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RoyalsFamily</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/benstokes38?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@benstokes38</a> <a href="https://t.co/pcAvyIcaaF">pic.twitter.com/pcAvyIcaaF</a>
— Rajasthan Royals (@rajasthanroyals) <a href="https://twitter.com/rajasthanroyals/status/1312298331297599488?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 3, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Ben Stokes was in New Zealand to attend his ailing father. While leaving for UAE, Stokes posted pictures on Instagram with his family and wrote: 'goodbyes never get easier'.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2020-royal-challengers-bangalore-vs-rajasthan-royals-preview-stats-and-players-to-watch-out-for-332191" hreflang="en">IPL 2020, Royal Challengers Bangalore vs Rajasthan Royals: Preview, stats and players to watch out for</a>

According to the rules in Indian Premier League, Stokes will go through mandatory quarantine of six days upon his arrival in UAE. The English are most likely to feature in the match against Delhi Capitals on October 14. There are possibilities of him even playing against SRH on October 11, but it is likely to be too early for the player.&nbsp;

Stokes has not been on the cricket pitch ever since his pullout from the Test series against Pakistan, which was played earlier this summer. He pulled out to be with his father, who was diagnosed with cancer and is currently in New Zealand.&nbsp;

Stokes began training this month, he took to social media to post some pictures. He was seen practising with the red ball. He captioned it: "Wrong colour ball but training's training".

Rajasthan Royals' star all-rounder Ben Stokes is set to return to the Indian Premier League tonight. The Royals took to Twitter to share the picture of Ben Stokes en route to the UAE.

Rajasthan Royals' star all-rounder Ben Stokes is set to return to the Indian Premier League tonight. The Royals took to Twitter to share the picture of Ben Stokes en route to the UAE. He will be joining the team after missing a couple of games in the IPL 2020. Stoked. 😁✈️#HallaBol | #RoyalsFamily | @benstokes38 pic.twitter.com/pcAvyIcaaF — Rajasthan Royals (@rajasthanroyals) October 3, 2020 × Ben Stokes was in New Zealand to attend his ailing father. While leaving for UAE, Stokes posted pictures on Instagram with his family and wrote: 'goodbyes never get easier'. Also read: IPL 2020, Royal Challengers Bangalore vs Rajasthan Royals: Preview, stats and players to watch out for According to the rules in Indian Premier League, Stokes will go through mandatory quarantine of six days upon his arrival in UAE. The English are most likely to feature in the match against Delhi Capitals on October 14. There are possibilities of him even playing against SRH on October 11, but it is likely to be too early for the player. Stokes has not been on the cricket pitch ever since his pullout from the Test series against Pakistan, which was played earlier this summer. He pulled out to be with his father, who was diagnosed with cancer and is currently in New Zealand. Stokes began training this month, he took to social media to post some pictures. He was seen practising with the red ball. He captioned it: "Wrong colour ball but training's training".

IPL 2020: Ben Stokes to arrive in UAE tonight, confirms Rajasthan Royals

The head coach of Rajasthan Royals, Andrew McDonald, has said that they are "not sure" about the availability of Ben Stokes in the IPL 2020 as he is with his ailing father in New Zealand.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/paceman-ali-khan-becomes-first-american-to-join-ipl-will-play-for-kkr-327713" hreflang="en">Paceman Ali Khan becomes first American to join IPL; will play for KKR</a>

England's star all-rounder has been going through a tough phase in his life, he even pulled out of three-match series against Pakistan in August before the second Test to be with his father, diagnosed with brain cancer.&nbsp;

"First and foremost, thoughts with the Stokes family. It's a difficult scenario, so we're giving him as much time as he needs, and connecting with him as best we can," McDonald was quoted as saying by ESPNcricinfo.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ecb-planning-to-cut-62-jobs-due-to-financial-ramifications-of-covid-19-327708" hreflang="en">ECB planning to cut 62 jobs due to financial ramifications of COVID-19</a>

"So yeah, we're not sure where Stokesy's at right now, but once it has played out, then we can make our decisions from there. But I don't want to second-guess what will happen with him just yet."

On December 23, 2019, Stokes' father Ged, who is a former New Zealand rugby league international, was admitted to hospital in Johannesburg due to serious illness.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2020-csk-batsman-ruturaj-gaikwad-continues-to-be-covid-19-positive-remains-in-quarantine-327699" hreflang="en">IPL 2020: CSK batsman Ruturaj Gaikwad continues to be COVID-19 positive, remains in quarantine</a>

McDonald was also asked Rajasthan Royals' captain Steve Smith, who was ruled out of two Australia ODIs with a concussion in England. However, the coach did not seem to worry.&nbsp;

"Steve Smith is a bit more clear-cut, I think. He needs a little bit of time, it was a short turnaround between game one and two where the concussion happened, so I'd imagine there were some lingering side effects.&nbsp;

"They'll be erring on the side of caution, so hopefully (they will) see him out there again on Wednesday (for the third ODI against England in Manchester)."

The head coach of Rajasthan Royals, Andrew McDonald, has said that they are "not sure" about the availability of Ben Stokes in the IPL 2020 as he is with his ailing father in New Zealand.

The head coach of Rajasthan Royals, Andrew McDonald, has said that they are "not sure" about the availability of Ben Stokes in the IPL 2020 as he is with his ailing father in New Zealand. Also read: Paceman Ali Khan becomes first American to join IPL; will play for KKR England's star all-rounder has been going through a tough phase in his life, he even pulled out of three-match series against Pakistan in August before the second Test to be with his father, diagnosed with brain cancer. "First and foremost, thoughts with the Stokes family. It's a difficult scenario, so we're giving him as much time as he needs, and connecting with him as best we can," McDonald was quoted as saying by ESPNcricinfo. Also read: ECB planning to cut 62 jobs due to financial ramifications of COVID-19 "So yeah, we're not sure where Stokesy's at right now, but once it has played out, then we can make our decisions from there. But I don't want to second-guess what will happen with him just yet." On December 23, 2019, Stokes' father Ged, who is a former New Zealand rugby league international, was admitted to hospital in Johannesburg due to serious illness. Also read: IPL 2020: CSK batsman Ruturaj Gaikwad continues to be COVID-19 positive, remains in quarantine McDonald was also asked Rajasthan Royals' captain Steve Smith, who was ruled out of two Australia ODIs with a concussion in England. However, the coach did not seem to worry. "Steve Smith is a bit more clear-cut, I think. He needs a little bit of time, it was a short turnaround between game one and two where the concussion happened, so I'd imagine there were some lingering side effects. "They'll be erring on the side of caution, so hopefully (they will) see him out there again on Wednesday (for the third ODI against England in Manchester)."

IPL 2020: Rajasthan Royals' star all-rounder Ben Stokes' availability still in doubt

England may have won the series opener against Pakistan but the absence of Ben Stokes leaves them with arguably the bigger selection headache going into Thursday's second Test at Southampton.

Pakistan were much the better side for much of last week's first Test at Old Trafford and, despite a second-innings collapse, were still favourites to win when they reduced England to 117-5 in pursuit of a target of 277.

But a sixth-wicket partnership of 139 between Chris Woakes (84 not out) and Jos Buttler (75) turned the tide as England went 1-0 up in a three-match series on Saturday.

Since England won with more than a day to spare in Manchester, it has been announced that star all-rounder Stokes will miss the rest of the series as a result of travelling to New Zealand to be with his ill father.

A quad injury meant that the end of England's 2-1 series win over the West Indies last month -- a campaign that marked international cricket's return from the coronavirus lockdown -- and the first Test against Pakistan saw vice-captain Stokes effectively deployed as a specialist batsman by skipper Joe Root.

Stokes, however, still took two important wickets on the third evening against Pakistan.

<h2>- 'Confidence' -</h2>

The obvious move for England would be to recall batsman Zak Crawley, who has missed out on the last two matches while an extra bowler has been deployed because of Stokes' injury problems.

Buttler underlined his skill in a run-chase last week but the wicketkeeper, by his own admission, had a poor match with the gloves.

England do have the option to recall Ben Foakes, widely regarded as a better keeper, and play Buttler as a specialist batsman.

But Root appeared wary of that suggestion when he praised fellow World Cup winner Buttler's innings by saying: "I think it will provide him with a huge amount of confidence in all aspects of his game and he should take that forward for the rest of the series."

Root himself could do with a big score having managed just one Test hundred in 18 months.

England are in the middle of a sequence of six Tests in seven weeks, a gruelling schedule that has seen them adopt a policy of rotating their quicks.

James Anderson, England's all-time leading Test wicket-taker bristled at talk he was considering retirement after a meagre match haul of 1-97 at his Lancashire home ground last week meant the 38-year-old has taken just six wickets at an expensive average of 41 in three Tests this season.

He could now make way for left-armer Sam Curran, who has won all his eight home Tests, or fast bowler Mark Wood.

<h2>- 'Deal with pressure better' -</h2>

Pakistan coach Misbah-ul-Haq insisted his side could recover from an agonising loss as they try to avoid a defeat that will condemn them to a first series defeat by England in a decade.

"We need to improve 10 to 15 percent and deal with pressure situations a little better but we shouldn't be mentally down," he said, with Pakistan denied the usual vocal support they enjoy in England after COVID-19 turned this campaign into a behind closed doors series.

Pakistan captain Azhar Ali, criticised for his tactics during Buttler and Woakes' decisive stand, has made just one fifty in 10 innings since becoming skipper in November.

But he denied captaincy was affecting his batting.&nbsp;

"When I bat, I'm not thinking about the captaincy, whether or not I'm out of form.

"And when I'm captain, I don't think about my batting at all."

Should Pakistan have concerns about the fitness of their pace trio of Mohammad Abbas, Shaheen Afridi and Naseem Shah, they could bring in another quick such as Sohail Khan.

Pakistan played two leg-spinners at Old Trafford, with Shadab Khan backing up Yasir Shah, but they could now deploy a fourth seamer if they feel the Ageas Bowl pitch won't take as much turn.

England may have won the series opener against Pakistan but the absence of Ben Stokes leaves them with arguably the bigger selection headache going into Thursday's second Test at Southampton.

England may have won the series opener against Pakistan but the absence of Ben Stokes leaves them with arguably the bigger selection headache going into Thursday's second Test at Southampton. Pakistan were much the better side for much of last week's first Test at Old Trafford and, despite a second-innings collapse, were still favourites to win when they reduced England to 117-5 in pursuit of a target of 277. But a sixth-wicket partnership of 139 between Chris Woakes (84 not out) and Jos Buttler (75) turned the tide as England went 1-0 up in a three-match series on Saturday. Since England won with more than a day to spare in Manchester, it has been announced that star all-rounder Stokes will miss the rest of the series as a result of travelling to New Zealand to be with his ill father. A quad injury meant that the end of England's 2-1 series win over the West Indies last month -- a campaign that marked international cricket's return from the coronavirus lockdown -- and the first Test against Pakistan saw vice-captain Stokes effectively deployed as a specialist batsman by skipper Joe Root. Stokes, however, still took two important wickets on the third evening against Pakistan. - 'Confidence' - The obvious move for England would be to recall batsman Zak Crawley, who has missed out on the last two matches while an extra bowler has been deployed because of Stokes' injury problems. Buttler underlined his skill in a run-chase last week but the wicketkeeper, by his own admission, had a poor match with the gloves. England do have the option to recall Ben Foakes, widely regarded as a better keeper, and play Buttler as a specialist batsman. But Root appeared wary of that suggestion when he praised fellow World Cup winner Buttler's innings by saying: "I think it will provide him with a huge amount of confidence in all aspects of his game and he should take that forward for the rest of the series." Root himself could do with a big score having managed just one Test hundred in 18 months. England are in the middle of a sequence of six Tests in seven weeks, a gruelling schedule that has seen them adopt a policy of rotating their quicks. James Anderson, England's all-time leading Test wicket-taker bristled at talk he was considering retirement after a meagre match haul of 1-97 at his Lancashire home ground last week meant the 38-year-old has taken just six wickets at an expensive average of 41 in three Tests this season. He could now make way for left-armer Sam Curran, who has won all his eight home Tests, or fast bowler Mark Wood. - 'Deal with pressure better' - Pakistan coach Misbah-ul-Haq insisted his side could recover from an agonising loss as they try to avoid a defeat that will condemn them to a first series defeat by England in a decade. "We need to improve 10 to 15 percent and deal with pressure situations a little better but we shouldn't be mentally down," he said, with Pakistan denied the usual vocal support they enjoy in England after COVID-19 turned this campaign into a behind closed doors series. Pakistan captain Azhar Ali, criticised for his tactics during Buttler and Woakes' decisive stand, has made just one fifty in 10 innings since becoming skipper in November. But he denied captaincy was affecting his batting. "When I bat, I'm not thinking about the captaincy, whether or not I'm out of form. "And when I'm captain, I don't think about my batting at all." Should Pakistan have concerns about the fitness of their pace trio of Mohammad Abbas, Shaheen Afridi and Naseem Shah, they could bring in another quick such as Sohail Khan. Pakistan played two leg-spinners at Old Trafford, with Shadab Khan backing up Yasir Shah, but they could now deploy a fourth seamer if they feel the Ageas Bowl pitch won't take as much turn.

Stokes' absence leaves England with Pakistan problem

England National Selectors on Wednesday named a 14-strong squad for the second Test against Pakistan scheduled to start on Thursday (August 13) at the Ageas Bowl in Southampton.

Sussex pacer Ollie Robinson has been added to the squad for the first time as he replaces ace all-rounder Ben Stokes, who left the bio-secure bubble after the completion of first Test for family reasons.

England lead the three-match Test series 1-0 after a thunderous comeback in the second innings of the match. While England ended up trailing Pakistan in the first squad, a lackluster performance with the bat by the visitors and questionable captaincy by Azhar Ali in the second innings, helped England chase down the total.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/stokes-absence-leaves-england-with-pakistan-problem-319907" hreflang="en">Stokes' absence leaves England with Pakistan problem</a>

Both Chris Woakes and Jos Buttler roared with the bat to help England seal their third consecutive Test win. &nbsp;

<h2>England Test Squad for second Test vs Pakistan:</h2>

Joe Root (Yorkshire) Captain, James Anderson (Lancashire), Jofra Archer (Sussex), Dominic Bess (Somerset), Stuart Broad (Nottinghamshire), Rory Burns (Surrey), Jos Buttler (Lancashire), Zak Crawley (Kent), Sam Curran (Surrey), Ollie Pope (Surrey), Ollie Robinson (Sussex), Dom Sibley (Warwickshire), Chris Woakes (Warwickshire), Mark Wood (Durham).

<h2>England vs Pakistan three-match Test Series:</h2>

1st Test: England v Pakistan, 5-9 August, Emirates Old Trafford, Manchester (England won by three wickets)

2nd Test: England v Pakistan, 13-17 August, Ageas Bowl, Southampton

3rd Test: England v Pakistan, 21-25 August, Ageas Bowl, Southampton 
&nbsp;

England National Selectors on Wednesday named a 14-strong squad for the second Test against Pakistan scheduled to start on Thursday (August 13) at the Ageas Bowl in Southampton.

England National Selectors on Wednesday named a 14-strong squad for the second Test against Pakistan scheduled to start on Thursday (August 13) at the Ageas Bowl in Southampton. Sussex pacer Ollie Robinson has been added to the squad for the first time as he replaces ace all-rounder Ben Stokes, who left the bio-secure bubble after the completion of first Test for family reasons. England lead the three-match Test series 1-0 after a thunderous comeback in the second innings of the match. While England ended up trailing Pakistan in the first squad, a lackluster performance with the bat by the visitors and questionable captaincy by Azhar Ali in the second innings, helped England chase down the total. ALSO READ: Stokes' absence leaves England with Pakistan problem Both Chris Woakes and Jos Buttler roared with the bat to help England seal their third consecutive Test win. England Test Squad for second Test vs Pakistan: Joe Root (Yorkshire) Captain, James Anderson (Lancashire), Jofra Archer (Sussex), Dominic Bess (Somerset), Stuart Broad (Nottinghamshire), Rory Burns (Surrey), Jos Buttler (Lancashire), Zak Crawley (Kent), Sam Curran (Surrey), Ollie Pope (Surrey), Ollie Robinson (Sussex), Dom Sibley (Warwickshire), Chris Woakes (Warwickshire), Mark Wood (Durham). England vs Pakistan three-match Test Series: 1st Test: England v Pakistan, 5-9 August, Emirates Old Trafford, Manchester (England won by three wickets) 2nd Test: England v Pakistan, 13-17 August, Ageas Bowl, Southampton 3rd Test: England v Pakistan, 21-25 August, Ageas Bowl, Southampton

Robinson replaces Stokes as England name squad for 2nd Test vs Pakistan

England all-rounder Ben Stokes will miss the remainder of the test series against Pakistan for family reasons, the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) said on Sunday.

The ECB confirmed Stokes will fly to New Zealand later this week and will miss England’s two test matches against Pakistan at the Ageas Bowl in Southampton starting on Aug. 13 and Aug. 21.

The 29-year-old has featured in all four test matches this summer, leading the team in Joe Root’s absence against West Indies last month.

“The England and Wales Cricket Board, along with the Stokes family, requests that all media respects the family’s privacy at this time,” the board said in a statement.

England took a 1-0 lead in the series against Pakistan after winning the opening test by three wickets at Old Trafford on Saturday.

England all-rounder Ben Stokes will miss the remainder of the test series against Pakistan for family reasons, the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) said on Sunday.

England all-rounder Ben Stokes will miss the remainder of the test series against Pakistan for family reasons, the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) said on Sunday. The ECB confirmed Stokes will fly to New Zealand later this week and will miss England’s two test matches against Pakistan at the Ageas Bowl in Southampton starting on Aug. 13 and Aug. 21. The 29-year-old has featured in all four test matches this summer, leading the team in Joe Root’s absence against West Indies last month. “The England and Wales Cricket Board, along with the Stokes family, requests that all media respects the family’s privacy at this time,” the board said in a statement. England took a 1-0 lead in the series against Pakistan after winning the opening test by three wickets at Old Trafford on Saturday.

England's Stokes to miss rest of Pakistan series

Ben Stokes impressed with both bat and ball as England beat the West Indies by 113 runs in the second Test at Old Trafford on Monday.

West Indies, set a nominal 312 to win, were bowled out for 198 on the fifth and final day as England levelled the three-match series at 1-1.

All-rounder Stokes made 176 in England's first-innings 469-9 declared and a dashing 78 not out on Monday that set up another declaration by home captain Joe Root.

Stokes capped a dominant individual display as he also took two key wickets Monday after Stuart Broad's early treble helped reduce the West Indies to 37-4.

Shamarh Brooks (62) and Jermaine Blackwood (55) kept England at bay during a fifth-wicket stand of exactly 100.

But Stokes, yet again proved a partnership breaker when his short ball had Blackwood, who made a match-clinching 95 in West Indies' four-wicket win in the first Test at Southampton, gloving to diving wicketkeeper Jos Buttler on the stroke of tea.

From then on, it always looked likely England would finish the job, despite having no spectators to roar them on in this behind-closed-doors campaign.

"It was a brilliant week's cricket from the outset," Root told Sky Sports. "Going on and making a 400-plus score for the third time in four games, we're making real progress."

<h2>- 'Stokes getting better and better' -</h2>

As for Stokes's man-of-the-match effort, Root said it "doesn't surprise me".

"He seems to want to keep getting better and better and we're seeing those results out on the field."

Stokes played down his contribution, telling the BBC: "Everyone has put their hands up and contributed to a great win."

England's plans for this match were thrown into disarray when fast bowler Jofra Archer had to be omitted for breaching the bio-secure rules governing a series that marks international cricket's return from the coronavirus lockdown.

But such was England's dominance they still won despite the whole of Saturday's third day being washed out.

Recalled paceman Broad, angry at being rested from the series opener, struck just five balls into the West Indies second innings Monday when he had John Campbell caught behind.

Broad finished with 3-42 having rocked the West Indies in their first innings with a burst of three wickets in 14 balls.

"I'm a little disappointed with the way we batted," said West Indies captain Jason Holder.

Chris Woakes then had West Indies dangerman Kraigg Brathwaite lbw and Broad clipped the top of Shai Hope's off stump.

Brooks' fine innings ended when he was plumb lbw to left-arm quick Sam Curran.

There was a worrying moment for England when Stokes could not complete his 15th over but afterwards he said: "There's absolutely nothing to worry about."

England spinner Dom Bess got in on the act at the finish.

Two balls after Holder drove him for six, Bess bowled the all-rounder between bat and pad with a classic off-break.

Bess ended the match when Kemar Roach was brilliantly caught by Ollie Pope at short leg.

Earlier, Stokes, promoted to open in a quest for quick runs, took England to 129-3 declared in their second innings.

Having batted cautiously before upping the tempo in his first-innings century, Stokes produced another brilliantly judged batting display as England scored 92 runs in 11 overs on Monday.

Stokes should have been out for 29 when he slogged Shannon Gabriel to deep extra cover only for Campbell to drop a routine catch.

Stokes, England's captain in Root's absence for the first Test, went to fifty with a six off Gabriel that cleared the towering Holder at long-off.

The series finale, also at Old Trafford, starts on Friday, with Holder insisting: "It's all to play for.

"This is the perfect return to cricket."

Ben Stokes impressed with both bat and ball as England beat the West Indies by 113 runs in the second Test at Old Trafford on Monday. West Indies, set a nominal 312 to win, were bowled out for 198 on the fifth and final day as England levelled the three-match series at 1-1.

Ben Stokes impressed with both bat and ball as England beat the West Indies by 113 runs in the second Test at Old Trafford on Monday. West Indies, set a nominal 312 to win, were bowled out for 198 on the fifth and final day as England levelled the three-match series at 1-1. All-rounder Stokes made 176 in England's first-innings 469-9 declared and a dashing 78 not out on Monday that set up another declaration by home captain Joe Root. Stokes capped a dominant individual display as he also took two key wickets Monday after Stuart Broad's early treble helped reduce the West Indies to 37-4. Shamarh Brooks (62) and Jermaine Blackwood (55) kept England at bay during a fifth-wicket stand of exactly 100. But Stokes, yet again proved a partnership breaker when his short ball had Blackwood, who made a match-clinching 95 in West Indies' four-wicket win in the first Test at Southampton, gloving to diving wicketkeeper Jos Buttler on the stroke of tea. From then on, it always looked likely England would finish the job, despite having no spectators to roar them on in this behind-closed-doors campaign. "It was a brilliant week's cricket from the outset," Root told Sky Sports. "Going on and making a 400-plus score for the third time in four games, we're making real progress." - 'Stokes getting better and better' - As for Stokes's man-of-the-match effort, Root said it "doesn't surprise me". "He seems to want to keep getting better and better and we're seeing those results out on the field." Stokes played down his contribution, telling the BBC: "Everyone has put their hands up and contributed to a great win." England's plans for this match were thrown into disarray when fast bowler Jofra Archer had to be omitted for breaching the bio-secure rules governing a series that marks international cricket's return from the coronavirus lockdown. But such was England's dominance they still won despite the whole of Saturday's third day being washed out. Recalled paceman Broad, angry at being rested from the series opener, struck just five balls into the West Indies second innings Monday when he had John Campbell caught behind. Broad finished with 3-42 having rocked the West Indies in their first innings with a burst of three wickets in 14 balls. "I'm a little disappointed with the way we batted," said West Indies captain Jason Holder. Chris Woakes then had West Indies dangerman Kraigg Brathwaite lbw and Broad clipped the top of Shai Hope's off stump. Brooks' fine innings ended when he was plumb lbw to left-arm quick Sam Curran. There was a worrying moment for England when Stokes could not complete his 15th over but afterwards he said: "There's absolutely nothing to worry about." England spinner Dom Bess got in on the act at the finish. Two balls after Holder drove him for six, Bess bowled the all-rounder between bat and pad with a classic off-break. Bess ended the match when Kemar Roach was brilliantly caught by Ollie Pope at short leg. Earlier, Stokes, promoted to open in a quest for quick runs, took England to 129-3 declared in their second innings. Having batted cautiously before upping the tempo in his first-innings century, Stokes produced another brilliantly judged batting display as England scored 92 runs in 11 overs on Monday. Stokes should have been out for 29 when he slogged Shannon Gabriel to deep extra cover only for Campbell to drop a routine catch. Stokes, England's captain in Root's absence for the first Test, went to fifty with a six off Gabriel that cleared the towering Holder at long-off. The series finale, also at Old Trafford, starts on Friday, with Holder insisting: "It's all to play for. "This is the perfect return to cricket."

Stokes stars as England level West Indies series

Ben Stokes on Tuesday dethroned the West Indies captain Jason Holder to become the number one ranked all-rounder in the ICC Test Player Rankings following England’s significant win against the Windies in Manchester.&nbsp;

Stokes now becomes the first England player atop the Test all-rounders list since Andrew Flintoff in Many 2006 while also reaching career-best third position among batsmen.&nbsp;

The English all-rounder trailed Holder by 54 rating points while heading into the second Test at the Old Trafford in Manchester but now enjoys a comfortable lead of 38 points after his <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/stokes-stars-as-england-level-west-indies-series-314865">breathtaking performances of 176 and 78 along with a match haul of three wickets that helped England seal a 113-run win and level the three-match Test series 1-1</a>.

<h2>Holder's reign ends</h2>

Stokes put an end to Holder’s 18-month reign at the top as he became the first from England at the summit since Andrew Flintoff in May 2006. His tall of 497 rating points is the highest by any Test all-rounder since Jacques Kallis aggregated 517 in April 2008.

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🚨 RANKINGS UPDATE 🚨 
 
Ben Stokes is the new No.1 all-rounder 🤩 
 
He is the first England player since Flintoff to be at the top of the <a href="https://twitter.com/MRFWorldwide?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@MRFWorldwide</a> ICC Men's Test Player Rankings for all-rounders. 
 
Full rankings: <a href="https://t.co/AIR0KN4yY5">https://t.co/AIR0KN4yY5</a> <a href="https://t.co/viRzJzuGiC">pic.twitter.com/viRzJzuGiC</a>
— ICC (@ICC) <a href="https://twitter.com/ICC/status/1285485164462772224?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 21, 2020</a></blockquote>
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In the batsmen’s list, Stokes is joint-third with Australian batsmen Marnus Labuschagne and only behind Steve Smith and Virat Kohli. Kane Williamson and Babar Azam are behind of Stokes in the list. Joe Root is ninth whereas English opener Dom Sibley jumped 29 spots to a career-best 35th rank.

Whereas Stuart Broad returned to top 10 in the bowlers’ list after claiming six wickets in the match as he became the England’s top-ranked bowler. James Anderson is now 11th in the list after being rested for the second Test.&nbsp;

For the West Indies, Shamarh Brooks has moved up 27 places to a career-best 45th position after scores of 68 and 62. He is now just four slots behind Holder, who remains the top-ranked West Indies batsman in 41st position despite slipping four places. Holder has also dropped a slot among bowlers to take third place, behind Pat Cummins and Neil Wagner. Roston Chase has gained two places in the bowlers’ list after a five-wicket haul in the first innings. 
&nbsp;

Ben Stokes on Tuesday dethroned the West Indies captain Jason Holder to become the number one ranked all-rounder in the ICC Test Player Rankings following England’s significant win against the Windies in Manchester.

Ben Stokes on Tuesday dethroned the West Indies captain Jason Holder to become the number one ranked all-rounder in the ICC Test Player Rankings following England’s significant win against the Windies in Manchester. Stokes now becomes the first England player atop the Test all-rounders list since Andrew Flintoff in Many 2006 while also reaching career-best third position among batsmen. The English all-rounder trailed Holder by 54 rating points while heading into the second Test at the Old Trafford in Manchester but now enjoys a comfortable lead of 38 points after his breathtaking performances of 176 and 78 along with a match haul of three wickets that helped England seal a 113-run win and level the three-match Test series 1-1. Holder's reign ends Stokes put an end to Holder’s 18-month reign at the top as he became the first from England at the summit since Andrew Flintoff in May 2006. His tall of 497 rating points is the highest by any Test all-rounder since Jacques Kallis aggregated 517 in April 2008. 🚨 RANKINGS UPDATE 🚨 Ben Stokes is the new No.1 all-rounder 🤩 He is the first England player since Flintoff to be at the top of the @MRFWorldwide ICC Men's Test Player Rankings for all-rounders. Full rankings: https://t.co/AIR0KN4yY5 pic.twitter.com/viRzJzuGiC — ICC (@ICC) July 21, 2020 × In the batsmen’s list, Stokes is joint-third with Australian batsmen Marnus Labuschagne and only behind Steve Smith and Virat Kohli. Kane Williamson and Babar Azam are behind of Stokes in the list. Joe Root is ninth whereas English opener Dom Sibley jumped 29 spots to a career-best 35th rank. Whereas Stuart Broad returned to top 10 in the bowlers’ list after claiming six wickets in the match as he became the England’s top-ranked bowler. James Anderson is now 11th in the list after being rested for the second Test. For the West Indies, Shamarh Brooks has moved up 27 places to a career-best 45th position after scores of 68 and 62. He is now just four slots behind Holder, who remains the top-ranked West Indies batsman in 41st position despite slipping four places. Holder has also dropped a slot among bowlers to take third place, behind Pat Cummins and Neil Wagner. Roston Chase has gained two places in the bowlers’ list after a five-wicket haul in the first innings.

ICC Rankings: Ben Stokes dethrones Jason Holder to become No. 1 Test all-rounder

Ben Stokes' power-hitting helped England set a target of 312 for the West Indies at Old Trafford on Day 5 of the second test.&nbsp;

The star all-rounder promoted himself to open the innings for the hosts. Stokes scored 78 runs in just 57 balls and his innings included four fours and three sixes taking the total score to 129/3 declared in their second innings.&nbsp;

Ben Stokes has played a major role in both innings, he scored 176 runs in the first innings helping England declare at 469-9.&nbsp;

England will plan to scalp all wickets before the day ends, however, if the West Indies, who won the first Test at Southampton by four wickets, avoid defeat they will retain the Wisden Trophy following a 2-1 series victory over England in the Caribbean last year.

Netizens lauded Stokes' impressive knock.&nbsp;

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Ben Stokes being a ridiculously good cricketer. 
 
A thread — <a href="https://t.co/sWbmykbb7b">pic.twitter.com/sWbmykbb7b</a>
— Cricket District 🏏 (@cricketdistrict) <a href="https://twitter.com/cricketdistrict/status/1285163820273598464?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 20, 2020</a></blockquote>
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For All Those Saying Ben Stokes Needs To Perform Outside Home &amp; In Asia... 
 
Stokes Has Test Centuries In: 
 
🔹 Aus 🇦🇺, Eng 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿, Ind 🇮🇳 &amp; SA 🇿🇦. 
 
Stokes Has A 4 or 5 Wicket Haul In: 
 
🔹 Aus 🇦🇺, Eng 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿, Ind 🇮🇳, (5 WKT Haul) 
 
🔹 Ban 🇧🇩, SA 🇿🇦, UAE 🇦🇪, WI 🌴 (4 WKT Haul) 
 
Superb. <a href="https://t.co/Jn11KWh3MF">pic.twitter.com/Jn11KWh3MF</a>
— Varun Desai (@LWOSVarun) <a href="https://twitter.com/LWOSVarun/status/1285175824770113537?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 20, 2020</a></blockquote>
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In this game, Ben Stokes has scored 254 of the 443 runs while he has been at the crease (and been dismissed once). He scored his slowest Test century, then the fastest Test fifty by an England opener. What a player.
— Lawrence Booth (@the_topspin) <a href="https://twitter.com/the_topspin/status/1285166979926630400?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 20, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Are we at the point now where we can safely call Sir Ben Stokes the best player in the world? <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ENGvWI?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ENGvWI</a> <a href="https://t.co/QueaEQw0pe">pic.twitter.com/QueaEQw0pe</a>
— K H A Y A M (@KhayamSays) <a href="https://twitter.com/KhayamSays/status/1285164472575942656?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 20, 2020</a></blockquote>
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English batsmen who average 45+ opening the batting since 1980 (min. 78 runs): 
 
Michael Vaughan 
Jack Leach 
Ben Stokes
— Will 🚾 (@ohlookitswill_) <a href="https://twitter.com/ohlookitswill_/status/1285167622821224448?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 20, 2020</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

Ben Stokes' power-hitting helped England set a target of 312 for the West Indies at Old Trafford on Day 5 of the second test. The star all-rounder promoted himself to open the innings for the hosts.

Ben Stokes' power-hitting helped England set a target of 312 for the West Indies at Old Trafford on Day 5 of the second test. The star all-rounder promoted himself to open the innings for the hosts. Stokes scored 78 runs in just 57 balls and his innings included four fours and three sixes taking the total score to 129/3 declared in their second innings. Ben Stokes has played a major role in both innings, he scored 176 runs in the first innings helping England declare at 469-9. England will plan to scalp all wickets before the day ends, however, if the West Indies, who won the first Test at Southampton by four wickets, avoid defeat they will retain the Wisden Trophy following a 2-1 series victory over England in the Caribbean last year. Netizens lauded Stokes' impressive knock. Ben Stokes being a ridiculously good cricketer. A thread — pic.twitter.com/sWbmykbb7b — Cricket District 🏏 (@cricketdistrict) July 20, 2020 × For All Those Saying Ben Stokes Needs To Perform Outside Home & In Asia... Stokes Has Test Centuries In: 🔹 Aus 🇦🇺, Eng 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿, Ind 🇮🇳 & SA 🇿🇦. Stokes Has A 4 or 5 Wicket Haul In: 🔹 Aus 🇦🇺, Eng 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿, Ind 🇮🇳, (5 WKT Haul) 🔹 Ban 🇧🇩, SA 🇿🇦, UAE 🇦🇪, WI 🌴 (4 WKT Haul) Superb. pic.twitter.com/Jn11KWh3MF — Varun Desai (@LWOSVarun) July 20, 2020 × In this game, Ben Stokes has scored 254 of the 443 runs while he has been at the crease (and been dismissed once). He scored his slowest Test century, then the fastest Test fifty by an England opener. What a player. — Lawrence Booth (@the_topspin) July 20, 2020 × Are we at the point now where we can safely call Sir Ben Stokes the best player in the world? #ENGvWI pic.twitter.com/QueaEQw0pe — K H A Y A M (@KhayamSays) July 20, 2020 × English batsmen who average 45+ opening the batting since 1980 (min. 78 runs): Michael Vaughan Jack Leach Ben Stokes — Will 🚾 (@ohlookitswill_) July 20, 2020 ×

Netizens laud Ben Stokes' power-hitting as England set West Indies 312 to win second Test

Two of the world's best all-rounders in Ben Stokes and Jason Holder will be captaining their respective sides when England face the West Indies in the first Test at Southampton starting Wednesday.

Holder tops the ICC's Test all-rounder rankings, with fellow paceman Stokes in second place as international cricket resumes for the first time since March 2 following the coronavirus lockdown.

They both average in the 30s with the bat, with Holder's bowling mark of 26.37 slightly more economical than Stokes' 32.68.

But while Holder, 28, is a seasoned skipper, Wednesday's match will be the first time the 29-year-old Stokes has captained a cricket team since he was a teenager.

England's talisman has been thrust into the role, with regular skipper Joe Root missing the series opener to attend the birth of his second child.

Pace-bowling all-rounders Ian Botham and Andrew Flintoff saw their individual games decline with the cares of the England captaincy.

The concern is that something similar will happen to Stokes, a key figure in England's World Cup triumph last year when his spectacular century also saw the team to a remarkable win over Australia in an Ashes Test at Headingley.

It appeared any chance of Stokes becoming England captain disappeared when he was charged with affray following an incident outside a Bristol nightclub.

But after being found not guilty at a 2018 trial, he regained a position of responsibility as Root's vice-captain.

"After that happened it was 'right, what am I going to do from this point forward?," Stokes said last week. "I'm quite proud to say I'm in this situation (of being England captain) through hard work and determination."

<h2>- 'Get on top of Ben' -</h2>

Holder was made captain of the West Indies' one-day side aged just 23.

A year later he was put in charge of the Test side against a backdrop of administrative chaos that included bitter rows between senior players and administrators.

Sympathy for his plight has sometimes overshadowed recognition of his cricketing skill.

Holder, however, showed his class with an unbeaten double century against England in the first Test at his Barbados home ground during a 381-run win last year that sent the West Indies on the way to a series victory.

"Hopefully Jason can do what's necessary to get on top of Ben in this first Test," said West Indies coach Phil Simmons.

"Jason has played enough Test cricket now to know what he's working on and, mentally, he's where he wants to be.

"I think Ben is one of them who leads from the front. That's to be shown by all his exploits before in cricket and we will have to make sure that we get on to him very early, because he likes to do what is necessary for his team."

Two of the world's best all-rounders in Ben Stokes and Jason Holder will be captaining their respective sides when England face the West Indies in the first Test at Southampton starting Wednesday.

Two of the world's best all-rounders in Ben Stokes and Jason Holder will be captaining their respective sides when England face the West Indies in the first Test at Southampton starting Wednesday. Holder tops the ICC's Test all-rounder rankings, with fellow paceman Stokes in second place as international cricket resumes for the first time since March 2 following the coronavirus lockdown. They both average in the 30s with the bat, with Holder's bowling mark of 26.37 slightly more economical than Stokes' 32.68. But while Holder, 28, is a seasoned skipper, Wednesday's match will be the first time the 29-year-old Stokes has captained a cricket team since he was a teenager. England's talisman has been thrust into the role, with regular skipper Joe Root missing the series opener to attend the birth of his second child. Pace-bowling all-rounders Ian Botham and Andrew Flintoff saw their individual games decline with the cares of the England captaincy. The concern is that something similar will happen to Stokes, a key figure in England's World Cup triumph last year when his spectacular century also saw the team to a remarkable win over Australia in an Ashes Test at Headingley. It appeared any chance of Stokes becoming England captain disappeared when he was charged with affray following an incident outside a Bristol nightclub. But after being found not guilty at a 2018 trial, he regained a position of responsibility as Root's vice-captain. "After that happened it was 'right, what am I going to do from this point forward?," Stokes said last week. "I'm quite proud to say I'm in this situation (of being England captain) through hard work and determination." - 'Get on top of Ben' - Holder was made captain of the West Indies' one-day side aged just 23. A year later he was put in charge of the Test side against a backdrop of administrative chaos that included bitter rows between senior players and administrators. Sympathy for his plight has sometimes overshadowed recognition of his cricketing skill. Holder, however, showed his class with an unbeaten double century against England in the first Test at his Barbados home ground during a 381-run win last year that sent the West Indies on the way to a series victory. "Hopefully Jason can do what's necessary to get on top of Ben in this first Test," said West Indies coach Phil Simmons. "Jason has played enough Test cricket now to know what he's working on and, mentally, he's where he wants to be. "I think Ben is one of them who leads from the front. That's to be shown by all his exploits before in cricket and we will have to make sure that we get on to him very early, because he likes to do what is necessary for his team."

All-rounders Stokes and Holder to lead from the front

The England Cricket Board on Tuesday confirmed that Test captain Joe Root will miss the first Test of the three-match series against the West Indies. Ace all-rounder Ben Stokes, who has been Root’s deputy since July 2019, will lead the side for the first time with Jos Buttler named vice-captain.

Root is set to leave the training camp at the Ageas Bowl, Southampton on Wednesday to be with his wife, who is expecting their second child later this week. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/.../joe-root-to-miss-opening-test-against-west- indies-ben-stokes-to-lead-england-309433">Root will also miss England’s three-day intra-squad warm-up match starting July 1 and the opening Test versus the Windies</a> starting July 8 at the Ageas Bowl.&nbsp;

<h2>Joe Root to be back for 2nd Test</h2>

The elegant right-handed batsman will begin a seven-day isolation period at home once he leaves the hospital with his family. The English Test skipper will join the rest of the squad ahead of the second Test at the Old Trafford in Manchester on July 13.

Stokes has been backed by his English teammates to don the captain’s armband with ease. However, some of the former England players have said that the Durham all-rounder should not be looked as permanent captain.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-should-cut-ties-with-chinese-sponsors-kxip-co-owner-ness-wadia-309675" hreflang="en">IPL should cut ties with Chinese sponsors: KXIP co-owner Ness Wadia</a>

Stokes has been the pick of the player for England across formats since the last couple of years and the all-rounder has stood in the biggest of moments, be it World Cup or Ashes 2019.&nbsp;

“Getting the opportunity to captain England is a huge honour, even if it is only the once you can still say: ‘Yeah I’ve captained England,’” Stokes had earlier said. “It’s a huge thing to think about and, if it does present itself, then obviously I’m really looking forward to it.”

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/hafeez-riaz-among-six-pakistan-players-cleared-to-tour-england-after-negative-covid-19-tests-309608" hreflang="en">Hafeez, Riaz among six Pakistan players cleared to tour England after negative COVID-19 tests</a>

Asked about this rise from a potentially career-threatening moment, he replied: “After that happened [in Bristol] it was: ‘Right, what am I going to do from this point forward? How am I going to carry and conduct myself?’ I’m quite proud to say I’m in this situation through hard work and determination. It’s been no fluke.

“I don’t normally like to speak about myself in this way but, looking back, I’m proud of what I’ve been able to do since that incident happened. It’s been through complete dedication and hard work towards the job I do.” 
&nbsp;

The England Cricket Board on Tuesday confirmed that Test captain Joe Root will miss the first Test of the three-match series against the West Indies. Ace all-rounder Ben Stokes, who has been Root’s deputy since July 2019, will lead the side for the first time with Jos Buttler named vice-captain.

The England Cricket Board on Tuesday confirmed that Test captain Joe Root will miss the first Test of the three-match series against the West Indies. Ace all-rounder Ben Stokes, who has been Root’s deputy since July 2019, will lead the side for the first time with Jos Buttler named vice-captain. Root is set to leave the training camp at the Ageas Bowl, Southampton on Wednesday to be with his wife, who is expecting their second child later this week. Root will also miss England’s three-day intra-squad warm-up match starting July 1 and the opening Test versus the Windies starting July 8 at the Ageas Bowl. Joe Root to be back for 2nd Test The elegant right-handed batsman will begin a seven-day isolation period at home once he leaves the hospital with his family. The English Test skipper will join the rest of the squad ahead of the second Test at the Old Trafford in Manchester on July 13. Stokes has been backed by his English teammates to don the captain’s armband with ease. However, some of the former England players have said that the Durham all-rounder should not be looked as permanent captain. ALSO READ: IPL should cut ties with Chinese sponsors: KXIP co-owner Ness Wadia Stokes has been the pick of the player for England across formats since the last couple of years and the all-rounder has stood in the biggest of moments, be it World Cup or Ashes 2019. “Getting the opportunity to captain England is a huge honour, even if it is only the once you can still say: ‘Yeah I’ve captained England,’” Stokes had earlier said. “It’s a huge thing to think about and, if it does present itself, then obviously I’m really looking forward to it.” ALSO READ: Hafeez, Riaz among six Pakistan players cleared to tour England after negative COVID-19 tests Asked about this rise from a potentially career-threatening moment, he replied: “After that happened [in Bristol] it was: ‘Right, what am I going to do from this point forward? How am I going to carry and conduct myself?’ I’m quite proud to say I’m in this situation through hard work and determination. It’s been no fluke. “I don’t normally like to speak about myself in this way but, looking back, I’m proud of what I’ve been able to do since that incident happened. It’s been through complete dedication and hard work towards the job I do.”

Ben Stokes to lead England in 1st Test against West Indies; Joe Root to be back for Manchester Tests

Ben Stokes on Wednesday ended Indian skipper Virat Kohli’s three-year reign as Wisden’s leading cricketer in the world following his heroics in the ICC World Cup 2019 and the Ashes.&nbsp;

The 2020 Wisden Cricketers’ Almanack, which was published on Thursday, crowned Stokes as the cricketer of the year as the flamboyant all-rounder became the first Englishman to receive the honour since Andrew Flintoff in 2005.&nbsp;

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Wisden described Stokes’ performance in the World Cup and then in the Ashes as ‘performance of a lifetime’.

"Ben Stokes pulled off the performance of a lifetime -- twice in the space of a few weeks," said Wisden editor Lawrence Booth.

"First, with a mixture of outrageous talent and good fortune, he rescued England's run-chase in the World Cup final, before helping to hit 15 off the super over. Then, in the third Ashes Test at Headingley, he produced one of the great innings, smashing an unbeaten 135 to pinch a one-wicket win.

"Against red ball or white, he was a force of nature."

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/jos-buttlers-world-cup-final-shirt-raises-ps65000-for-hospital-appeal-291301" hreflang="en">Jos Buttler's World Cup final shirt raises £65,000 for hospital appeal</a>

Earlier in January, Stokes was named ICC’s Player of the Year following his tremendous run of form across formats.

Furthermore, Ellyse Perry of Australia reclaimed the leading women's cricketer in the world title from Indian opener Smriti Mandhana.&nbsp;

England pacer Jofra Archer, Australia’s Pat Cummins and Marnus Labuschagne, Ellyse Perry and Essex spinner Simon Harmer was among the Wisden’s five cricketers of the year.<o:p></o:p>

Ben Stokes on Wednesday ended Indian skipper Virat Kohli’s three-year reign as Wisden’s leading cricketer in the world following his heroics in the ICC World Cup 2019 and the Ashes.

Ben Stokes on Wednesday ended Indian skipper Virat Kohli’s three-year reign as Wisden’s leading cricketer in the world following his heroics in the ICC World Cup 2019 and the Ashes. The 2020 Wisden Cricketers’ Almanack, which was published on Thursday, crowned Stokes as the cricketer of the year as the flamboyant all-rounder became the first Englishman to receive the honour since Andrew Flintoff in 2005. ALSO READ: Virus prevents play at Trump-opened world's biggest cricket stadium Wisden described Stokes’ performance in the World Cup and then in the Ashes as ‘performance of a lifetime’. "Ben Stokes pulled off the performance of a lifetime -- twice in the space of a few weeks," said Wisden editor Lawrence Booth. "First, with a mixture of outrageous talent and good fortune, he rescued England's run-chase in the World Cup final, before helping to hit 15 off the super over. Then, in the third Ashes Test at Headingley, he produced one of the great innings, smashing an unbeaten 135 to pinch a one-wicket win. "Against red ball or white, he was a force of nature." ALSO READ: Jos Buttler's World Cup final shirt raises £65,000 for hospital appeal Earlier in January, Stokes was named ICC’s Player of the Year following his tremendous run of form across formats. Furthermore, Ellyse Perry of Australia reclaimed the leading women's cricketer in the world title from Indian opener Smriti Mandhana. England pacer Jofra Archer, Australia’s Pat Cummins and Marnus Labuschagne, Ellyse Perry and Essex spinner Simon Harmer was among the Wisden’s five cricketers of the year.

Ben Stokes named  Wisden's leading cricketer in the world, ends Virat Kohli's three-year reign

Ben Stokes and Mark Wood made a double strike shortly before tea, breaking stubborn South African resistance and setting up a 191-run win for England on the fourth day of the fourth and final Test at the Wanderers Stadium on Monday.

The win clinched a 3-1 series victory for England.

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Mark Wood picks up his fourth wicket and South Africa are all out for 274. 
 
England win the Johannesburg Test by 191 runs, taking the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SAvENG?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SAvENG</a> series home 3-1! 
 
SCORECARD: <a href="https://t.co/fSsfDFTCrE">https://t.co/fSsfDFTCrE</a> <a href="https://t.co/L0DkRhQS0I">pic.twitter.com/L0DkRhQS0I</a>
— ICC (@ICC) <a href="https://twitter.com/ICC/status/1221809757415264256?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 27, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Set to make a world record 466 to win, South Africa reached 181 for two before Stokes bowled home captain Faf du Plessis for 35.

In the next over man-of-the-match Wood dismissed Rassie van der Dussen for 98. He went on to claim four for 54 to finish with match figures of nine for 100.

Quinton de Kock and Temba Bavuma shone briefly but South Africans were bowled out for 274.

Van der Dussen and Du Plessis batted for all but 13 minutes of an extended two-and-a-half hour afternoon session to give South Africa some hope, making the England bowlers toil on a hot afternoon.

But Stokes bowled a ball which hit a crack and kept low, deflecting off the toe of Du Plessis' bat into the stumps.

Van der Dussen looked set for a maiden Test century but in the next over he fell to Wood two short of the landmark.

He had batted impressively, hitting 15 fours and two sixes in a 133-ball innings but both he and Du Plessis were given a torrid time by Wood, bowling at express pace on a pitch where the bounce was gradually becoming more unpredictable.

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🔸 64 Tests 
🔸 224 wickets 
🔸 13 five-wicket hauls 
 
Congratulations on a terrific Test career, <a href="https://twitter.com/VDP_24?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@VDP_24</a>! <a href="https://t.co/L0OEfskcBN">pic.twitter.com/L0OEfskcBN</a>
— ICC (@ICC) <a href="https://twitter.com/ICC/status/1221815255745081346?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 27, 2020</a></blockquote>
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With tea looming, England set a field which suggested a short-pitched barrage was likely. But Wood then bowled a full-length delivery which Van der Dussen drove awkwardly to short cover where Stuart Broad held a good diving catch.

It was the second wicket for Stokes –- both which came at crucial times shortly before an interval. His first victim was opening batsman Dean Elgar, who was caught and bowled playing an awkward pull shot in the penultimate over before lunch. Stokes finished with two for 47.

De Kock and Bavuma batted brightly in a fifth-wicket stand of 48 before Broad bowled a vicious bouncer which Bavuma gloved to wicketkeeper Jos Buttler.&nbsp;

Broad had Dwaine Pretorius caught at fine leg in his next over and the rest followed.&nbsp;

Vernon Philander, playing in his last Test, struck a couple of beefy blows before falling to Wood who supplied the coup de grace, another lifting ball flicking Anrich Nortje's glove on its way through to Buttler down the legside.

Ben Stokes and Mark Wood made a double strike shortly before tea, breaking stubborn South African resistance and setting up a 191-run win for England on the fourth day of the fourth and final Test at the Wanderers Stadium on Monday.

Ben Stokes and Mark Wood made a double strike shortly before tea, breaking stubborn South African resistance and setting up a 191-run win for England on the fourth day of the fourth and final Test at the Wanderers Stadium on Monday. The win clinched a 3-1 series victory for England. Mark Wood picks up his fourth wicket and South Africa are all out for 274. England win the Johannesburg Test by 191 runs, taking the #SAvENG series home 3-1! SCORECARD: https://t.co/fSsfDFTCrE pic.twitter.com/L0DkRhQS0I — ICC (@ICC) January 27, 2020 × Set to make a world record 466 to win, South Africa reached 181 for two before Stokes bowled home captain Faf du Plessis for 35. In the next over man-of-the-match Wood dismissed Rassie van der Dussen for 98. He went on to claim four for 54 to finish with match figures of nine for 100. Quinton de Kock and Temba Bavuma shone briefly but South Africans were bowled out for 274. Van der Dussen and Du Plessis batted for all but 13 minutes of an extended two-and-a-half hour afternoon session to give South Africa some hope, making the England bowlers toil on a hot afternoon. But Stokes bowled a ball which hit a crack and kept low, deflecting off the toe of Du Plessis' bat into the stumps. Van der Dussen looked set for a maiden Test century but in the next over he fell to Wood two short of the landmark. He had batted impressively, hitting 15 fours and two sixes in a 133-ball innings but both he and Du Plessis were given a torrid time by Wood, bowling at express pace on a pitch where the bounce was gradually becoming more unpredictable. 🔸 64 Tests 🔸 224 wickets 🔸 13 five-wicket hauls Congratulations on a terrific Test career, @VDP_24! pic.twitter.com/L0OEfskcBN — ICC (@ICC) January 27, 2020 × With tea looming, England set a field which suggested a short-pitched barrage was likely. But Wood then bowled a full-length delivery which Van der Dussen drove awkwardly to short cover where Stuart Broad held a good diving catch. It was the second wicket for Stokes –- both which came at crucial times shortly before an interval. His first victim was opening batsman Dean Elgar, who was caught and bowled playing an awkward pull shot in the penultimate over before lunch. Stokes finished with two for 47. De Kock and Bavuma batted brightly in a fifth-wicket stand of 48 before Broad bowled a vicious bouncer which Bavuma gloved to wicketkeeper Jos Buttler. Broad had Dwaine Pretorius caught at fine leg in his next over and the rest followed. Vernon Philander, playing in his last Test, struck a couple of beefy blows before falling to Wood who supplied the coup de grace, another lifting ball flicking Anrich Nortje's glove on its way through to Buttler down the legside.

South Africa vs England, fourth Test: England thump South Africa to win series 3-1

ICC awards: Winners of Sir Garfield Sobers Trophy over the years

England&nbsp;won cricket's World Cup in 2019 but in the Test&nbsp;arena, it proved 12 months of&nbsp;frustration&nbsp;for captain <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/south-africa-beat-england-by-107-runs-in-first-test-270868">Joe Root</a> as they began the&nbsp;year&nbsp;with defeat in the West Indies and ended it with a loss in Pretoria.

"It's been frustrating. It's been quite a big&nbsp;year&nbsp;of transition in Test&nbsp;cricket. There's been a lot of change over the&nbsp;year," said Root, reflecting on how&nbsp;England&nbsp;played 12 Tests in 2019, winning four, drawing two and losing the other six.

They went down 2-1 in the series in the Caribbean at the start of the&nbsp;year, almost botched a first-ever&nbsp;test&nbsp;against Ireland and failed to regain the Ashes at home in a 2-2 drawn series which followed the euphoria of their World Cup triumph.

Then they were beaten 1-0 in a two-match series in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-stunned-new-zealand-fight-to-save-second-australia-test-270820">New Zealand</a> in November and December and finished by losing by 107 runs to South Africa on Sunday in the first of their four-match series.

On the flip side, English cricket fans will always cherish one of their great Test&nbsp;triumphs at <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/former-england-captain-bob-willis-dies-at-70-266269">Headingley</a> against Australia in August when Ben Stokes's remarkable unbeaten 135 carried them to the unlikeliest of one-wicket triumphs.

"If you look at where we were at the back end of Sri Lanka (in 2018), you'd really have thought we were making strides away from home with signs that things had improved," said Root.

England&nbsp;won 3-0 away in Sri Lanka in November 2018 to suggest their young side would have a much more fruitful 2019.

Yet Root now has to look to a busy 2020 to turn things round with the&nbsp;England&nbsp;line-up still unsettled and new coach Chris Silverwood yet to make his mark.

"There is still a long way that this team can go and we are looking at all the areas where we can get better," added Root.

"It's a determined group of players who are very keen to do that. You cannot fault anyone's effort, anyone's desire, the character to want to improve.

"Over time, if we can learn these lessons and find ways of shifting our mentality into the first innings from the second innings, then we are going to give ourselves a much better chance of winning games."

Next up for&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-england-fancied-for-test-series-as-host-look-for-fresh-energy-269648">England&nbsp;</a>is the second&nbsp;test&nbsp;in Cape Town and after they finish in South Africa, they will go to Sri Lanka in March before hosting the West Indies and Pakistan in the summer of 2020.

England won cricket's World Cup in 2019 but in the Test arena, it proved 12 months of frustration for captain Joe Root as they began the year with defeat in the West Indies and ended it with a loss in Pretoria.

England won cricket's World Cup in 2019 but in the Test arena, it proved 12 months of frustration for captain Joe Root as they began the year with defeat in the West Indies and ended it with a loss in Pretoria. "It's been frustrating. It's been quite a big year of transition in Test cricket. There's been a lot of change over the year," said Root, reflecting on how England played 12 Tests in 2019, winning four, drawing two and losing the other six. They went down 2-1 in the series in the Caribbean at the start of the year, almost botched a first-ever test against Ireland and failed to regain the Ashes at home in a 2-2 drawn series which followed the euphoria of their World Cup triumph. Then they were beaten 1-0 in a two-match series in New Zealand in November and December and finished by losing by 107 runs to South Africa on Sunday in the first of their four-match series. On the flip side, English cricket fans will always cherish one of their great Test triumphs at Headingley against Australia in August when Ben Stokes's remarkable unbeaten 135 carried them to the unlikeliest of one-wicket triumphs. "If you look at where we were at the back end of Sri Lanka (in 2018), you'd really have thought we were making strides away from home with signs that things had improved," said Root. England won 3-0 away in Sri Lanka in November 2018 to suggest their young side would have a much more fruitful 2019. Yet Root now has to look to a busy 2020 to turn things round with the England line-up still unsettled and new coach Chris Silverwood yet to make his mark. "There is still a long way that this team can go and we are looking at all the areas where we can get better," added Root. "It's a determined group of players who are very keen to do that. You cannot fault anyone's effort, anyone's desire, the character to want to improve. "Over time, if we can learn these lessons and find ways of shifting our mentality into the first innings from the second innings, then we are going to give ourselves a much better chance of winning games." Next up for England is the second test in Cape Town and after they finish in South Africa, they will go to Sri Lanka in March before hosting the West Indies and Pakistan in the summer of 2020.

It has been frustrating, big year of transition in Test cricket: Joe Root

Nobody doubted&nbsp;England's title credentials in their home World Cup after the spectacular metamorphosis of Eoin Morgan's side into a white-ball juggernaut since their embarrassing exit from the 2015 tournament.

But few anticipated the drama that would mark their crowning moment as they ended a 44-year wait for a maiden 50-over World Cup title at a mesmerised Lord's.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/englands-ben-stokes-travels-rocky-road-en-route-success-245836">Stokes</a>'s international future had been in doubt after he was involved in a court case over a fight outside a nightclub, but with that behind him, he returned to the fold in spectacular style.

In the final, he channelled his inner gladiator to almost single-handedly drag&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/new-zealand-draw-second-test-with-england-win-series-265850">England</a>&nbsp;to a tie with New Zealand as, after six weeks of cricket, the game was decided by a Super Over.

That too ended level but&nbsp;England&nbsp;knew it would be enough to win the trophy on the obscure boundary countback rule, triggering wild celebrations at the home of cricket and heated debate about the fairness of the rule.

Defeated captain Kane Williamson, adjudged player of the tournament, handled gracefully the heartbreak that cemented New Zealand's reputation as the tournament's perennial bridesmaids.

Three months after the July 14 final, the game's governing body discarded the rule, prompting a sarcastic response from New Zealand's Jimmy Neesham.

"Next on the agenda: Better binoculars for the ice spotters on the Titanic," tweeted the all-rounder who faced five of the six deliveries from Jofra Archer in that fateful Super Over.

Stokes&nbsp;also lit up the Ashes series.

After&nbsp;England&nbsp;had been bowled out for 67 and were running out of batsmen in their second innings, he smashed an incredible unbeaten 135 to secure an astonishing victory in the third Test at Headingley.

His heroics earned him the BBC Sports Personality of the Year award, but even the great all-rounder had to bow to&nbsp;Smith&nbsp;when it came to dominating the series.

&nbsp;

ASHES REDEMPTION

In a drawn series, Australia retained the Ashes largely because&nbsp;Smith&nbsp;redeemed himself in extraordinary fashion after the ball-tampering scandal in South Africa last year.

Stripped of the captaincy and smeared in ignominy after the Cape Town fiasco,&nbsp;Smith&nbsp;became Australia's immovable rock as he amassed 774 runs in seven innings at an average of 110, despite missing the third Test with a concussion.

Financial powerhouse India lost in the World Cup semi-finals but flexed their muscles in the long format. Virat Kohli and his men top the confused and confusing World Test Championship table with seven wins in as many matches, including their first pink-ball Test against Bangladesh last month.

That victory marked their 12th consecutive Test series win at home.

In other significant developments, women's T20 got the nod to feature in the 2022 Commonwealth Games in Birmingham, while Test cricket returned to Pakistan after more than a decade with a two-match series against Sri Lanka.

The game continued to grapple with corruption issues and Bangladesh captain Shakib-Al-Hasan was given a two-year ban, one of which is suspended, for failing to report fixing approaches.

Player-board disputes flared up in Bangladesh and South Africa, the latter also grappling with a tricky transition after quick Dale Steyn quit Test cricket while batsman Hashim Amla and leg-spinner Imran Tahir retired altogether.

The game also lost former&nbsp;England&nbsp;captain <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/former-england-captain-bob-willis-dies-at-70-266269">Bob Willis</a>, one of the heroes of the classic 1981 Ashes series who died of cancer aged 70 this month.

Nobody doubted England's title credentials in their home World Cup after the spectacular metamorphosis of Eoin Morgan's side into a white-ball juggernaut since their embarrassing exit from the 2015 tournament.

Nobody doubted England's title credentials in their home World Cup after the spectacular metamorphosis of Eoin Morgan's side into a white-ball juggernaut since their embarrassing exit from the 2015 tournament. But few anticipated the drama that would mark their crowning moment as they ended a 44-year wait for a maiden 50-over World Cup title at a mesmerised Lord's. Stokes's international future had been in doubt after he was involved in a court case over a fight outside a nightclub, but with that behind him, he returned to the fold in spectacular style. In the final, he channelled his inner gladiator to almost single-handedly drag England to a tie with New Zealand as, after six weeks of cricket, the game was decided by a Super Over. That too ended level but England knew it would be enough to win the trophy on the obscure boundary countback rule, triggering wild celebrations at the home of cricket and heated debate about the fairness of the rule. Defeated captain Kane Williamson, adjudged player of the tournament, handled gracefully the heartbreak that cemented New Zealand's reputation as the tournament's perennial bridesmaids. Three months after the July 14 final, the game's governing body discarded the rule, prompting a sarcastic response from New Zealand's Jimmy Neesham. "Next on the agenda: Better binoculars for the ice spotters on the Titanic," tweeted the all-rounder who faced five of the six deliveries from Jofra Archer in that fateful Super Over. Stokes also lit up the Ashes series. After England had been bowled out for 67 and were running out of batsmen in their second innings, he smashed an incredible unbeaten 135 to secure an astonishing victory in the third Test at Headingley. His heroics earned him the BBC Sports Personality of the Year award, but even the great all-rounder had to bow to Smith when it came to dominating the series. ASHES REDEMPTION In a drawn series, Australia retained the Ashes largely because Smith redeemed himself in extraordinary fashion after the ball-tampering scandal in South Africa last year. Stripped of the captaincy and smeared in ignominy after the Cape Town fiasco, Smith became Australia's immovable rock as he amassed 774 runs in seven innings at an average of 110, despite missing the third Test with a concussion. Financial powerhouse India lost in the World Cup semi-finals but flexed their muscles in the long format. Virat Kohli and his men top the confused and confusing World Test Championship table with seven wins in as many matches, including their first pink-ball Test against Bangladesh last month. That victory marked their 12th consecutive Test series win at home. In other significant developments, women's T20 got the nod to feature in the 2022 Commonwealth Games in Birmingham, while Test cricket returned to Pakistan after more than a decade with a two-match series against Sri Lanka. The game continued to grapple with corruption issues and Bangladesh captain Shakib-Al-Hasan was given a two-year ban, one of which is suspended, for failing to report fixing approaches. Player-board disputes flared up in Bangladesh and South Africa, the latter also grappling with a tricky transition after quick Dale Steyn quit Test cricket while batsman Hashim Amla and leg-spinner Imran Tahir retired altogether. The game also lost former England captain Bob Willis, one of the heroes of the classic 1981 Ashes series who died of cancer aged 70 this month.

Fuelled by Stokes, foiled by Smith: England headline 2019 act

From batting woes to pace aces, major takeaways from Ashes 2019

After taking four wickets on day one of the fifth and final Ashes Test, Australian pacer Mitchell Marsh revealed that many people back home hate him for not cementing a place in the side after being given so many chances by the team management.

"Yeah, most of Australia hates me. Australians are very passionate, they love their cricket, they want people to do well. There is no doubt I have had a lot of opportunity at Test level and I have not quite nailed it, but hopefully they can respect me for the fact I keep coming back and I love playing for Australia, I love the baggy green cap and I will keep trying and hopefully I will win them over one day," ESPN Cricinfo quoted Marsh as saying.

Making a return to the Aussie Test side after almost a year, Marsh was exceptional with the ball in hand, as he got the key breakthroughs of Ben Stokes, Jonny Bairstow, Sam Curran, and Chris Woakes. It was through his spell that Australia was able to come back into the match.

Marsh was named the team vice-captain ahead of the 2018/19 season but he had a poor series against Pakistan in UAE and he was not able to produce good results against India in December last year, as a result, he was dropped from the side.

The all-rounder revealed that he was battling with personal issues and as a result, it took a toll on him and he was unable to contribute to the side.

"I was not making runs, if you bat No. 4 for Australia you need to make runs. Last year was a range of stuff, a few things in my personal life. I lost a close friend to suicide at the start of the summer and when things like that happen, I did not handle it as well as I could have and that transitioned into my cricket at times as well. I understand everyone goes through tough periods in their life but I certainly did not handle it as best I could," Marsh said.

Marsh is playing in his first Test of the ongoing series and he said he wants to be a positive influence on the side even if he does not get opportunities in the playing XI.

"I wanted to come here and have a positive influence on this group, I think I have done that running the drinks and I just waited for my opportunity. I do not necessarily eat that bad, I am just a big eater, so I probably cut down my portion sizes a fair bit. There is no secret coach Justin Langer has certainly challenged me from a fitness perspective, he wanted me to get fitter and stronger and over the last six months I have put everything I have had into it," Marsh said.

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🗣️ “Most of Australia hate me. But hopefully, they can respect me for the fact I keep coming back.” 
 
Mitchell Marsh on what it took to return to the 🇦🇺 XI:<a href="https://t.co/7UuApcbSLB">https://t.co/7UuApcbSLB</a>
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The 27-year-old revealed that he was given a pep talk by the coach Langer to give his all with the ball in hand.

"I think in the past my role as a bowler has been to hold an end. JL came up to me before the start of play and at lunchtime and he just said 'go for it, attack, bowl the way you want to bowl', and I was a little bit, not shocked, but it gave me the confidence to go out there and give it everything I had," Marsh said.

"Maybe a change of mentality allowed me to bowl a bit more attacking as a player and it was fun. I want to be the best I can be at both batting and bowling, I don't really want to pigeonhole one of them. No doubt as an allrounder at times you certainly hit them better than you're bowling or vice versa but that's just something that happens in cricket I guess as an allrounder. I want to be the best allrounder I can be in both facets of the game," he added.

England ended day one of the fifth and final Test in the ongoing Ashes at the score of 271/8 here at the Oval.

After being put in to bat, the team kept on losing wickets at regular intervals and only Joe Root and Jos Buttler have been able to go past the 50-run mark.

Root was dismissed for 57 whereas Buttler is unbeaten on 64.

After taking four wickets on day one of the fifth and final Ashes Test, Australian pacer Mitchell Marsh revealed that many people back home hate him for not cementing a place in the side after being given so many chances by the team management.

After taking four wickets on day one of the fifth and final Ashes Test, Australian pacer Mitchell Marsh revealed that many people back home hate him for not cementing a place in the side after being given so many chances by the team management. "Yeah, most of Australia hates me. Australians are very passionate, they love their cricket, they want people to do well. There is no doubt I have had a lot of opportunity at Test level and I have not quite nailed it, but hopefully they can respect me for the fact I keep coming back and I love playing for Australia, I love the baggy green cap and I will keep trying and hopefully I will win them over one day," ESPN Cricinfo quoted Marsh as saying. Making a return to the Aussie Test side after almost a year, Marsh was exceptional with the ball in hand, as he got the key breakthroughs of Ben Stokes, Jonny Bairstow, Sam Curran, and Chris Woakes. It was through his spell that Australia was able to come back into the match. Marsh was named the team vice-captain ahead of the 2018/19 season but he had a poor series against Pakistan in UAE and he was not able to produce good results against India in December last year, as a result, he was dropped from the side. The all-rounder revealed that he was battling with personal issues and as a result, it took a toll on him and he was unable to contribute to the side. "I was not making runs, if you bat No. 4 for Australia you need to make runs. Last year was a range of stuff, a few things in my personal life. I lost a close friend to suicide at the start of the summer and when things like that happen, I did not handle it as well as I could have and that transitioned into my cricket at times as well. I understand everyone goes through tough periods in their life but I certainly did not handle it as best I could," Marsh said. Marsh is playing in his first Test of the ongoing series and he said he wants to be a positive influence on the side even if he does not get opportunities in the playing XI. "I wanted to come here and have a positive influence on this group, I think I have done that running the drinks and I just waited for my opportunity. I do not necessarily eat that bad, I am just a big eater, so I probably cut down my portion sizes a fair bit. There is no secret coach Justin Langer has certainly challenged me from a fitness perspective, he wanted me to get fitter and stronger and over the last six months I have put everything I have had into it," Marsh said. 🗣️ “Most of Australia hate me. But hopefully, they can respect me for the fact I keep coming back.” Mitchell Marsh on what it took to return to the 🇦🇺 XI:https://t.co/7UuApcbSLB — ICC (@ICC) September 13, 2019 × The 27-year-old revealed that he was given a pep talk by the coach Langer to give his all with the ball in hand. "I think in the past my role as a bowler has been to hold an end. JL came up to me before the start of play and at lunchtime and he just said 'go for it, attack, bowl the way you want to bowl', and I was a little bit, not shocked, but it gave me the confidence to go out there and give it everything I had," Marsh said. "Maybe a change of mentality allowed me to bowl a bit more attacking as a player and it was fun. I want to be the best I can be at both batting and bowling, I don't really want to pigeonhole one of them. No doubt as an allrounder at times you certainly hit them better than you're bowling or vice versa but that's just something that happens in cricket I guess as an allrounder. I want to be the best allrounder I can be in both facets of the game," he added. England ended day one of the fifth and final Test in the ongoing Ashes at the score of 271/8 here at the Oval. After being put in to bat, the team kept on losing wickets at regular intervals and only Joe Root and Jos Buttler have been able to go past the 50-run mark. Root was dismissed for 57 whereas Buttler is unbeaten on 64.

Most of the Australians hate me, says Mitchell Marsh

England will assess star all-rounder Ben Stokes's fitness to bowl in this week's fifth Test with Australia at the Oval as they look for a consolation win after <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/australia-retain-ashes-with-185-run-win-over-england-in-fourth-test-248509">failing to regain the Ashes</a>.

Stokes was included in an unchanged 13-man England squad announced Monday following a 185-run defeat in the fourth Test on Sunday that ensured Australia would keep hold of the Ashes at 2-1 up with one to play in the five-Test series.

Given the tight turnaround to a Test starting on Thursday, the lack of any changes is not altogether surprising.

It may well be, however, that national selector Ed Smith and his panel do make alterations for the upcoming tour of New Zealand, with promising batsmen Dominic Sibley and Zak Crawley among those pushing for places.

Durham paceman Stokes, England's vice-captain, did not bowl in Australia's second innings at Old Trafford following a right shoulder injury sustained during his 11th over in the tourists' first innings.

If Stokes is unfit to bowl at the Oval in south London, he is expected to play as a specialist batsman.

Stokes has been a shining light amid an often fallible England batting line-up this series, scoring 115 not out in the drawn second Test at Lord's before his stunning unbeaten 135 secured a dramatic one-wicket win in the third Test at Headingley.

England, if Stokes was selected purely as a batsman, would bring in a bowling all-rounder from within the squad in either Sam Curran, who would be playing on his Surrey home ground, or Chris Woakes.

Both Curran and Woakes missed out at Old Trafford.

If England coach Trevor Bayliss, in what will be his last Test before he leaves his post, and captain Joe Root bring in one of the pair, it would likely mean one of the struggling batsmen -- Jason Roy, Jonny Bairstow or Jos Buttler -- making way.

England have been without James Anderson, their all-time leading wicket-taker, for most of this series after the 37-year-old paceman broke down with a calf injury having bowled just four overs during Australia's 251-run win in the first Test at Edgbaston.&nbsp;

England squad for fifth Test:

Rory Burns (Surrey), Joe Denly (Kent), Joe Root (Yorkshire, capt), Jason Roy (Surrey), Ben Stokes (Durham), Jonny Bairstow (Yorkshire, wkt), Jos Buttler (Lancashire), Craig Overton (Somerset), Jofra Archer (Sussex), Jack Leach (Somerset), Stuart Broad (Nottinghamshire), Chris Woakes (Warwickshire), Sam Curran (Surrey)

England will assess star all-rounder Ben Stokes's fitness to bowl in this week's fifth Test with Australia at the Oval as they look for a consolation win after failing to regain the Ashes.

England will assess star all-rounder Ben Stokes's fitness to bowl in this week's fifth Test with Australia at the Oval as they look for a consolation win after failing to regain the Ashes. Stokes was included in an unchanged 13-man England squad announced Monday following a 185-run defeat in the fourth Test on Sunday that ensured Australia would keep hold of the Ashes at 2-1 up with one to play in the five-Test series. Given the tight turnaround to a Test starting on Thursday, the lack of any changes is not altogether surprising. It may well be, however, that national selector Ed Smith and his panel do make alterations for the upcoming tour of New Zealand, with promising batsmen Dominic Sibley and Zak Crawley among those pushing for places. Durham paceman Stokes, England's vice-captain, did not bowl in Australia's second innings at Old Trafford following a right shoulder injury sustained during his 11th over in the tourists' first innings. If Stokes is unfit to bowl at the Oval in south London, he is expected to play as a specialist batsman. Stokes has been a shining light amid an often fallible England batting line-up this series, scoring 115 not out in the drawn second Test at Lord's before his stunning unbeaten 135 secured a dramatic one-wicket win in the third Test at Headingley. England, if Stokes was selected purely as a batsman, would bring in a bowling all-rounder from within the squad in either Sam Curran, who would be playing on his Surrey home ground, or Chris Woakes. Both Curran and Woakes missed out at Old Trafford. If England coach Trevor Bayliss, in what will be his last Test before he leaves his post, and captain Joe Root bring in one of the pair, it would likely mean one of the struggling batsmen -- Jason Roy, Jonny Bairstow or Jos Buttler -- making way. England have been without James Anderson, their all-time leading wicket-taker, for most of this series after the 37-year-old paceman broke down with a calf injury having bowled just four overs during Australia's 251-run win in the first Test at Edgbaston. England squad for fifth Test: Rory Burns (Surrey), Joe Denly (Kent), Joe Root (Yorkshire, capt), Jason Roy (Surrey), Ben Stokes (Durham), Jonny Bairstow (Yorkshire, wkt), Jos Buttler (Lancashire), Craig Overton (Somerset), Jofra Archer (Sussex), Jack Leach (Somerset), Stuart Broad (Nottinghamshire), Chris Woakes (Warwickshire), Sam Curran (Surrey)

England to assess Ben Stokes's bowling fitness for Ashes finale

It is nine days since Ben Stokes hit a remarkable 135 not out to win the third Test of the Ashes series at Headingley, and as he prepares for the next instalment, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/usman-khawaja-dropped-as-steve-smith-returns-for-fourth-ashes-test-247306">Australia</a> captain Tim Paine said thoughts of how to outwit the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/england-call-up-craig-overton-for-fourth-ashes-test-247419">England</a> batsman keep him awake at night.

England were nine wickets down with 73 runs required before Stokes' swashbuckling innings almost single-handedly kept England in the series and denied Australia a win that would have ensured the tourists retained the Ashes.

Questions have been asked of Paine's decisions in the decisive final hours of that Test. But asked whether he fears Stokes' feat may hang over his captaincy in the way that all-rounders Ian Botham and Andrew Flintoff impacted previous Aussie skippers, Paine said his concern was more basic.

Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/justin-langer-cites-muhammad-alis-example-to-inspire-australia-247374">Justin Langer cites Muhammad Ali's example to inspire Australia</a>

"Nah, I haven't lost a hell of a lot of sleep&nbsp;thinking about my captaincy. But I have lost a bit of sleep thinking how we're going to get him out, that's for sure," he said.

"He's a class player, and he's really confident at the moment. He's going well. Like I said, we've got some plans for him - but we've just got to execute them a bit better," he said.

Paine believed spinner Nathan Lyon has troubled Stokes at various times, but he has urged his fielders to provide better support than they did at Headingley.

"I think Nathan has actually bowled really well to him. He's created a number of chances each time he's bowled to&nbsp;him.

"But the other side of it is we hold our chances when Nathan is bowling to him. If we can do that, I think he can open the game up for us through that middle order. The last two Tests in particular, we've let Nathan down a bit with our fielding," he said.

Paine did however engage in some self-criticism about the way the last Test got away from his side.

"We made some mistakes, it happens. We have addressed it as a team and spoken about it honestly. I was certainly one of those people who made mistakes. I would have done some things differently with my field placings," he said.

"There were times, looking back at it, where it was obvious I should have had the field up and allowed Ben to hit a couple of boundaries so we had more balls at the tailender (Jack Leach).

"That's the main thing I would have done differently. It happens in cricket and we have moved on, learnt from it, and we are ready for another great Test match."

It is nine days since Ben Stokes hit a remarkable 135 not out to win the third Test of the Ashes series at Headingley, and as he prepares for the next instalment, Australia captain Tim Paine said thoughts of how to outwit the England batsman keep him awake at night.

It is nine days since Ben Stokes hit a remarkable 135 not out to win the third Test of the Ashes series at Headingley, and as he prepares for the next instalment, Australia captain Tim Paine said thoughts of how to outwit the England batsman keep him awake at night. England were nine wickets down with 73 runs required before Stokes' swashbuckling innings almost single-handedly kept England in the series and denied Australia a win that would have ensured the tourists retained the Ashes. Questions have been asked of Paine's decisions in the decisive final hours of that Test. But asked whether he fears Stokes' feat may hang over his captaincy in the way that all-rounders Ian Botham and Andrew Flintoff impacted previous Aussie skippers, Paine said his concern was more basic. Also Read: Justin Langer cites Muhammad Ali's example to inspire Australia "Nah, I haven't lost a hell of a lot of sleep thinking about my captaincy. But I have lost a bit of sleep thinking how we're going to get him out, that's for sure," he said. "He's a class player, and he's really confident at the moment. He's going well. Like I said, we've got some plans for him - but we've just got to execute them a bit better," he said. Paine believed spinner Nathan Lyon has troubled Stokes at various times, but he has urged his fielders to provide better support than they did at Headingley. "I think Nathan has actually bowled really well to him. He's created a number of chances each time he's bowled to him. "But the other side of it is we hold our chances when Nathan is bowling to him. If we can do that, I think he can open the game up for us through that middle order. The last two Tests in particular, we've let Nathan down a bit with our fielding," he said. Paine did however engage in some self-criticism about the way the last Test got away from his side. "We made some mistakes, it happens. We have addressed it as a team and spoken about it honestly. I was certainly one of those people who made mistakes. I would have done some things differently with my field placings," he said. "There were times, looking back at it, where it was obvious I should have had the field up and allowed Ben to hit a couple of boundaries so we had more balls at the tailender (Jack Leach). "That's the main thing I would have done differently. It happens in cricket and we have moved on, learnt from it, and we are ready for another great Test match."

Ashes 2019: Ben Stokes threat keeps Aussie skipper Paine awake at night

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