Australian all-rounder Moises Henriques recently led his team Sydney Sixers to a title win in Big Bash League (BBL) and said that he was looking to do the same with Punjab Kings' KL Rahul.&nbsp;

“Just because you're the captain, it doesn't mean you run the show. I had 10 other very good players, very good leaders out there helping me,” the Punjab Kings website quoted Henriques as saying.

“And now I'll be trying to do the same for KL (Rahul), whether it be while playing or watching the game. It is about trying to make the team get better from wherever I may be,” he added.

Henriques felt that good fielding is vital for a team and could switch it in their favour.&nbsp;

“I think fielding is a huge part of the game that doesn't get the praise and the acknowledgement it deserves. A lot of the best teams I've played with have had really good fielding setups,” said Henriques.

“If you can constantly save 5-10 runs in the field whilst the other teams are probably losing a few runs on the field everytime. If you take that half catch or the odd run-out chance, you do it multiple times in a season and it will probably get you two or three extra wins through the course of a season,” explained the 34-year-old.

Punjab Kings' will open their Indian Premier League 2021 campaign with Rajashtan Royals on April 12 at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai.

(With Agency Inputs)

Australian all-rounder Moises Henriques recently led his team Sydney Sixers to a title win in Big Bash League (BBL) and said that he was looking to do the same with Punjab Kings' KL Rahul.

Australian all-rounder Moises Henriques recently led his team Sydney Sixers to a title win in Big Bash League (BBL) and said that he was looking to do the same with Punjab Kings' KL Rahul. “Just because you're the captain, it doesn't mean you run the show. I had 10 other very good players, very good leaders out there helping me,” the Punjab Kings website quoted Henriques as saying. “And now I'll be trying to do the same for KL (Rahul), whether it be while playing or watching the game. It is about trying to make the team get better from wherever I may be,” he added. Henriques felt that good fielding is vital for a team and could switch it in their favour. “I think fielding is a huge part of the game that doesn't get the praise and the acknowledgement it deserves. A lot of the best teams I've played with have had really good fielding setups,” said Henriques. “If you can constantly save 5-10 runs in the field whilst the other teams are probably losing a few runs on the field everytime. If you take that half catch or the odd run-out chance, you do it multiple times in a season and it will probably get you two or three extra wins through the course of a season,” explained the 34-year-old. Punjab Kings' will open their Indian Premier League 2021 campaign with Rajashtan Royals on April 12 at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai. (With Agency Inputs)

IPL 2021- 'I'll try to do same': BBL winning skipper on repeating same feat under KL Rahul

Sydney Sixers put up an enthralling performance with both bat and ball against Melbourne Renegades to pull off the "biggest victory" in the Big Bash League (BBL) history. The team secured a 145-run win over their opponents here on Sunday.

Josh Philippe led the charge with the bat, breaking his own record for the highest BBL score by a Sixers player during a scintillating knock of 95 off 57 balls, which included nine fours and three sixes.

Apart from Philippe, Jordan Silk scored unbeaten 45 runs off just 19 deliveries as Sydney Sixers racked up a total of 205 runs after being asked to bat first.

After setting a mammoth target for Melbourne Renegades, Sydney Sixers dominated their opponents with the ball as well, ending their innings in just the 11th over when they had just 60 runs on the board.

Ben Dwarshuis was the chief destroyer with the ball, finishing with career-best figures of 4/13 off 2.4 overs. Steve O`Keefe chimed in with 3/16 from 3 overs, while Carlos Brathwaite picked up 2/12.

"The biggest victory in the history of the BBL. Massive effort from the @SixersBBL #BBL10," BBL wrote on Twitter. "The BIGGEST winning margin in @BBL history!" Sydney Sixers tweeted. The Sixers now have a six-day break before returning to action when they face the Adelaide Strikers at Blundstone Arena next Sunday.&nbsp;

Sydney Sixers put up an enthralling performance with both bat and ball against Melbourne Renegades to pull off the "biggest victory" in the Big Bash League (BBL) history.

Sydney Sixers put up an enthralling performance with both bat and ball against Melbourne Renegades to pull off the "biggest victory" in the Big Bash League (BBL) history. The team secured a 145-run win over their opponents here on Sunday. Josh Philippe led the charge with the bat, breaking his own record for the highest BBL score by a Sixers player during a scintillating knock of 95 off 57 balls, which included nine fours and three sixes. Apart from Philippe, Jordan Silk scored unbeaten 45 runs off just 19 deliveries as Sydney Sixers racked up a total of 205 runs after being asked to bat first. After setting a mammoth target for Melbourne Renegades, Sydney Sixers dominated their opponents with the ball as well, ending their innings in just the 11th over when they had just 60 runs on the board. Ben Dwarshuis was the chief destroyer with the ball, finishing with career-best figures of 4/13 off 2.4 overs. Steve O`Keefe chimed in with 3/16 from 3 overs, while Carlos Brathwaite picked up 2/12. "The biggest victory in the history of the BBL. Massive effort from the @SixersBBL #BBL10," BBL wrote on Twitter. "The BIGGEST winning margin in @BBL history!" Sydney Sixers tweeted. The Sixers now have a six-day break before returning to action when they face the Adelaide Strikers at Blundstone Arena next Sunday.

Sydney Sixers thrash Melbourne Renegades to claim ''biggest victory'' in BBL history

Australian batsmen Steve Smith will not be participating in the Twenty20 Big Bash League this season as he said that continuing to play in bio-secure bubbles amid the COVID-19 pandemic will take a toll on his mental health.

The Aussie has played already played under the bio-secure bubble. First, the T20 series in England and now, he is a part of the on-going IPL in the UAE.&nbsp;

Australia's domestic league will commence in December and will go on till February. This league will be played after India's Tour of Australia.&nbsp;

"I'll be honest with you, absolutely no chance," Smith was quoted as saying by ESPNcricinfo.&nbsp;

"It's still early days with the bubbles. We don't know how long it's going to last for.

"There's an uncertainty there. It's just going to be about having open conversations with coaches, general managers, whoever, to ensure that people are keeping their headspace in a reasonable place.

"When guys are starting to find things a bit tough mentally from just living in the bubble, being able to get out - even if it might just be a few days of being normal might be a real help. Those conversations need to be had."

Smith is not the first player to have concerns over players' mental health in bubbles, with England's limited-overs skipper Eoin Morgan also saying players may withdraw from tours if their mental health is at risk.

(Inputs from Reuters)

Australian batsmen Steve Smith will not be participating in the Twenty20 Big Bash League this season as he said that continuing to play in bio-secure bubbles amid the COVID-19 pandemic will take a toll on his mental health.

Australian batsmen Steve Smith will not be participating in the Twenty20 Big Bash League this season as he said that continuing to play in bio-secure bubbles amid the COVID-19 pandemic will take a toll on his mental health. The Aussie has played already played under the bio-secure bubble. First, the T20 series in England and now, he is a part of the on-going IPL in the UAE. Australia's domestic league will commence in December and will go on till February. This league will be played after India's Tour of Australia. "I'll be honest with you, absolutely no chance," Smith was quoted as saying by ESPNcricinfo. "It's still early days with the bubbles. We don't know how long it's going to last for. "There's an uncertainty there. It's just going to be about having open conversations with coaches, general managers, whoever, to ensure that people are keeping their headspace in a reasonable place. "When guys are starting to find things a bit tough mentally from just living in the bubble, being able to get out - even if it might just be a few days of being normal might be a real help. Those conversations need to be had." Smith is not the first player to have concerns over players' mental health in bubbles, with England's limited-overs skipper Eoin Morgan also saying players may withdraw from tours if their mental health is at risk. (Inputs from Reuters)

'Absolutely no chance': Steve Smith on participating in Big Bash League

Big Bash League (BBL) franchises are looking to rope in the Indian trio of MS Dhoni, Suresh Raina and Yuvraj Singh. All three of Dhoni, Raina and Yuvraj have retired from international cricket with the former two still participating in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020.&nbsp;

With BBL allowing three foreign players per team, all the franchises are eyeing Dhoni, Raina and Yuvraj to not only bolster their squads but also to gain massive popularity in India. However, they will have to get NOC from the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) first.

According to a report in cricket.com.au, BBL is keen on adding some Indian firepower to their arsenal with Dhoni, Raina and Yuvraj leading the pecking order.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/kapil-dev-suffers-heart-attack-undergoes-angioplasty-surgery-337402" hreflang="en">Kapil Dev suffers heart attack, undergoes angioplasty surgery</a>

The BCCI has clearly stated that it won’t allow their players to play in foreign leagues due to the exclusivity factor in IPL and domestic competitions. However, few players like Yuvraj, Manpreet Gony, Pravin Tambe among others have participated in overseas leagues after retiring from the BCCI. They are no more allowed to take part in Indian domestic tournaments including the IPL.

Notably, all three of Dhoni, Raina and Yuvraj will be free when BBL 2020-21 kicks off in December. Interestingly, in December 2016, Dhoni had said that he will see how the future goes after retirement as the quality of BBL demands a lot of physical fitness.&nbsp;

“We are quite focused on international cricket for now so I can’t really make any comment on that [BBL future]. We’ll see how the future goes. It depends on when I retire and whether I’m in a position to play international cricket. The Big Bash, the quality of cricket is high so a lot depends on the physical fitness and the will to carry on and play more cricket,” the Ranchi superstar had said. 
&nbsp;

Big Bash League (BBL) franchises are looking to rope in the Indian trio of MS Dhoni, Suresh Raina and Yuvraj Singh. All three of Dhoni, Raina and Yuvraj have retired from international cricket with the former two still participating in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020.

Big Bash League (BBL) franchises are looking to rope in the Indian trio of MS Dhoni, Suresh Raina and Yuvraj Singh. All three of Dhoni, Raina and Yuvraj have retired from international cricket with the former two still participating in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020. With BBL allowing three foreign players per team, all the franchises are eyeing Dhoni, Raina and Yuvraj to not only bolster their squads but also to gain massive popularity in India. However, they will have to get NOC from the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) first. According to a report in cricket.com.au, BBL is keen on adding some Indian firepower to their arsenal with Dhoni, Raina and Yuvraj leading the pecking order. ALSO READ: Kapil Dev suffers heart attack, undergoes angioplasty surgery The BCCI has clearly stated that it won’t allow their players to play in foreign leagues due to the exclusivity factor in IPL and domestic competitions. However, few players like Yuvraj, Manpreet Gony, Pravin Tambe among others have participated in overseas leagues after retiring from the BCCI. They are no more allowed to take part in Indian domestic tournaments including the IPL. Notably, all three of Dhoni, Raina and Yuvraj will be free when BBL 2020-21 kicks off in December. Interestingly, in December 2016, Dhoni had said that he will see how the future goes after retirement as the quality of BBL demands a lot of physical fitness. “We are quite focused on international cricket for now so I can’t really make any comment on that [BBL future]. We’ll see how the future goes. It depends on when I retire and whether I’m in a position to play international cricket. The Big Bash, the quality of cricket is high so a lot depends on the physical fitness and the will to carry on and play more cricket,” the Ranchi superstar had said.

MS Dhoni, Suresh Raina and Yuvraj Singh in Big Bash League? Australian franchises eye Indian trio

England speedster Jofra Archer has opted out of the Big Bash League 2020-21 to spend time with his family. Archer has been one of the England players who have been inside the bio-secure bubble since the restart of cricket in the UK. He has been part of the England team since the series against the West Indies and will now head to the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/ipl">Indian Premier League</a> in the UAE.&nbsp;

Archer will remain inside the bubble during the course of IPL 2020 and the Barbadian-born English pacer said he’s had enough of ‘bubbles’ in the current year. In BBL, Archer plays for Hobart Hurricanes and has scalped 35 wickets in 28 matches.

After the completion of the ongoing ODI series against Australia, Archer will be moved to the UAE, inside another bubble, for IPL 2020, where he will be seen playing for Rajasthan Royals.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/exclusive-hope-to-carry-domestic-form-into-ipl-2020-says-kings-xi-punjabs-mandeep-singh-327464" hreflang="en">Exclusive: Hope to carry domestic form into IPL 2020, says Kings XI Punjab's Mandeep Singh</a>

Archer admitted that staying inside the bio-bubble is mentally challenging while revealing he hasn’t seen his family since February. He is likely to tour to South Africa with England after the completion of IPL and hence wants to spend time with family in December before gearing up for the tour of India.

“I’ll tell you; it has been mentally challenging. I‘ll be honest with you, I don’t know if I have much more bubbles left in me for the rest of the year. I haven’t seen my family, really, since February,” Archer was quoted as saying on Fox Sports.

“The IPL is going to be most of October, November, we’re going to South Africa hopefully as well. That only leaves me with a few weeks in December for the rest of the year. I love my Hobart family, but I think I need to spend some time with my real family as well,” Archer stated.

IN PICS |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/ipl-face-off-intense-rivalry-between-mumbai-indians-and-chennai-super-kings-327555" hreflang="en">IPL Face-off: Intense rivalry between Mumbai Indians and Chennai Super Kings</a>

“When the year turns, we’re going to be back in the bubble in the UAE and then India. Family time is really important, especially when you actually cannot see them physically. So, any time off I’m going to spend with them,” he added.

BBL 2020-21 is scheduled to start on December 3. 
&nbsp;

England speedster Jofra Archer has opted out of the Big Bash League 2020-21 to spend time with his family. Archer has been one of the England players who have been inside the bio-secure bubble since the restart of cricket in the UK.

England speedster Jofra Archer has opted out of the Big Bash League 2020-21 to spend time with his family. Archer has been one of the England players who have been inside the bio-secure bubble since the restart of cricket in the UK. He has been part of the England team since the series against the West Indies and will now head to the Indian Premier League in the UAE. Archer will remain inside the bubble during the course of IPL 2020 and the Barbadian-born English pacer said he’s had enough of ‘bubbles’ in the current year. In BBL, Archer plays for Hobart Hurricanes and has scalped 35 wickets in 28 matches. After the completion of the ongoing ODI series against Australia, Archer will be moved to the UAE, inside another bubble, for IPL 2020, where he will be seen playing for Rajasthan Royals. ALSO READ: Exclusive: Hope to carry domestic form into IPL 2020, says Kings XI Punjab's Mandeep Singh Archer admitted that staying inside the bio-bubble is mentally challenging while revealing he hasn’t seen his family since February. He is likely to tour to South Africa with England after the completion of IPL and hence wants to spend time with family in December before gearing up for the tour of India. “I’ll tell you; it has been mentally challenging. I‘ll be honest with you, I don’t know if I have much more bubbles left in me for the rest of the year. I haven’t seen my family, really, since February,” Archer was quoted as saying on Fox Sports. “The IPL is going to be most of October, November, we’re going to South Africa hopefully as well. That only leaves me with a few weeks in December for the rest of the year. I love my Hobart family, but I think I need to spend some time with my real family as well,” Archer stated. IN PICS | IPL Face-off: Intense rivalry between Mumbai Indians and Chennai Super Kings “When the year turns, we’re going to be back in the bubble in the UAE and then India. Family time is really important, especially when you actually cannot see them physically. So, any time off I’m going to spend with them,” he added. BBL 2020-21 is scheduled to start on December 3.

'Mentally challenging...' - Jofra Archer opts out of Big Bash League to spend time with family

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/.../india-vs-australia-3rd-odi-after-dominating- display-by-each-side-it-comes-down-to-decider-275156">Aaron Finch</a>'s half-century guided Melbourne Renegades a seven-wicket victory over Brisbane Heat in the last league match of the Big Bash League (BBL) on Monday.

Renegades skipper Finch played an unbeaten knock of 63 runs including four sixes and two fours. The side chased down the target of 155 at a loss of three wickets with four balls to spare.

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"When you're out of the competition, you pride yourself on denting other teams" 
 
Aaron Finch did just that today 🙃<a href="https://twitter.com/KFCAustralia?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@KFCAustralia</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BBL09?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BBL09</a> <a href="https://t.co/ROOJifanyN">pic.twitter.com/ROOJifanyN</a>
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Tom Cooper (23), Daniel Christian (8), and Beau Webster (14) added brief runs to the scoreboard before losing their wickets.

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SIX! 
 
Scores are level at Marvel Stadium <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BBL09?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BBL09</a> <a href="https://t.co/Ywt1Y68vZ5">pic.twitter.com/Ywt1Y68vZ5</a>
— KFC Big Bash League (@BBL) <a href="https://twitter.com/BBL/status/1221686443833085953?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 27, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Ben Cutting bagged two wickets while Mujeeb Ur Rahman claimed one scalp.

Earlier, Heat won the toss and elected to bat first. The team got off to a bad start and lost Sam Heazlett (6) early in the second over.

Ben Cutting and skipper Cris Lynn built a partnership of 28-run for the second wicket. Cutting (27) was plumbed in front of the wickets by Will Sutherland.

AB de Villiers failed to make his impact on the scoreboard and departed after scoring six runs.

Matt Renshaw and Marnus Labuschagne stitched a 61-run stand for the fifth wicket. Jack Wildermuth's direct hit to the stumps ended Renshaw's 65 runs inning.

Labuschagne played a knock of 28-run before he was sent back to the pavilion by Camron Boyce. For Renegades, Sutherland scalped three wickets and returned with the figures of 3-30 in his four-overs.

Aaron Finch's half-century guided Melbourne Renegades a seven-wicket victory over Brisbane Heat in the last league match of the Big Bash League (BBL) on Monday. Renegades skipper Finch played an unbeaten knock of 63 runs including four sixes and two fours.

Aaron Finch's half-century guided Melbourne Renegades a seven-wicket victory over Brisbane Heat in the last league match of the Big Bash League (BBL) on Monday. Renegades skipper Finch played an unbeaten knock of 63 runs including four sixes and two fours. The side chased down the target of 155 at a loss of three wickets with four balls to spare. "When you're out of the competition, you pride yourself on denting other teams" Aaron Finch did just that today 🙃@KFCAustralia | #BBL09 pic.twitter.com/ROOJifanyN — KFC Big Bash League (@BBL) January 27, 2020 × Tom Cooper (23), Daniel Christian (8), and Beau Webster (14) added brief runs to the scoreboard before losing their wickets. SIX! Scores are level at Marvel Stadium #BBL09 pic.twitter.com/Ywt1Y68vZ5 — KFC Big Bash League (@BBL) January 27, 2020 × Ben Cutting bagged two wickets while Mujeeb Ur Rahman claimed one scalp. Earlier, Heat won the toss and elected to bat first. The team got off to a bad start and lost Sam Heazlett (6) early in the second over. Ben Cutting and skipper Cris Lynn built a partnership of 28-run for the second wicket. Cutting (27) was plumbed in front of the wickets by Will Sutherland. AB de Villiers failed to make his impact on the scoreboard and departed after scoring six runs. Matt Renshaw and Marnus Labuschagne stitched a 61-run stand for the fifth wicket. Jack Wildermuth's direct hit to the stumps ended Renshaw's 65 runs inning. Labuschagne played a knock of 28-run before he was sent back to the pavilion by Camron Boyce. For Renegades, Sutherland scalped three wickets and returned with the figures of 3-30 in his four-overs.

Big Bash League: Finch powers Melbourne Renegades to victory against Brisbane Heat

Australia is going through one of it's worst bushfires in decades, the human death toll reached to 24 now, and it is said that a staggering number of 500 million animals have died due to these fires. Nearly 2000 houses have been destroyed.

As the damage assessment begins, donations have poured in from across the globe.

Also see:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/fierce-wildfires-fuelled-by-searing-temperatures-new-blazes-and-high-winds-in-australia-271558">Fierce wildfires fuelled by searing temperatures, high winds in Australia continue to rage</a>

Australian cricketing legends Ricky Ponting and Shane Warne have decided to temporarily come out of retirement and play a fund-raiser T20 match called the 'Bushfire Cricket Bash'. 
 
The star-studded match is going to be played as a curtain-raiser to the Big Bash League's finals which will be held on February 8. Looking at the points table where <a href="https://www.wionews.com/.../melbourne-stars-marcus-stoinis-becomes- highest-run-getter-in-big-bash-league-after-smashing-147-runs-against-sixe...">Melbourne Stars</a> and Sydney Sixers are trying to book the top spot, predictions are that the final could be played in Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) or the Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG).

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/australian-bushfire-shane-warnes-baggy-green-cap-sold-for-over-a1-million-273347">Australian bushfire: Shane Warne's baggy green cap sold for over A$1 million; beats Dhoni, Bradman</a>

Shane Warne's baggy green cap broke records, he took to twitter to thank his bidder.

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Thankyou so much to everyone that placed a bid &amp; a huge Thankyou / congrats to the successful bidder - you have blown me away with your generosity and this was way beyond my expectations ! The money will go direct to the Red Cross bushfire appeal. Thankyou, Thankyou, Thankyou ❤️ <a href="https://t.co/vyVcA7NfGs">pic.twitter.com/vyVcA7NfGs</a>
— Shane Warne (@ShaneWarne) <a href="https://twitter.com/ShaneWarne/status/1215413839614763008?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 9, 2020</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;These big grounds are likely to attract a massive crowd. The two teams will be led by Ricky Ponting and Shane Warne. The venue will be confirmed on January 31 after the confirmation of the Top Two finalists. 
 
It is not the first time Cricket Australia has worked for a cause, in a Boxing Day tsunami charity match in January 2005 that attracted a crowd of 70,101 to the Melbourne Cricket Ground, they&nbsp;raised A$14.5 million. 
 
The unpredictable fire rage has burnt more than 5.25 million hectares (13 million acres) of land and continues to spread despite volunteer firefighters stepping in.&nbsp;Australia's economy has faced a major setback.

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'The Bushfire Cricket Bash' is going to feature players like Justin Langer, Adam Gilchrist, Brett Lee, Shane Watson, Alex Blackwell, and Micheal Clarke. Steve Waugh and Mel Jones will be involved but in a non-playing capacity. 
 
Alex Blackwell had&nbsp;just retired months ago from the Women's Big Bash League. 
 
Australia’s women’s team will begin the day with a T20I clash against India at the Junction Oval, this contest will be followed by the Bushfire Cricket Bash, and then Big Bash League finals will be played. 
 
“It is going to be a huge and special day. It’s nice to be part of it,” Ponting told reporters on Sunday.

Australia is going through one of it's worst bushfires in decades, the human death toll reached to 24 now, and it is said that a staggering number of 500 million animals have died due to these fires.

Australia is going through one of it's worst bushfires in decades, the human death toll reached to 24 now, and it is said that a staggering number of 500 million animals have died due to these fires. Nearly 2000 houses have been destroyed. As the damage assessment begins, donations have poured in from across the globe. Also see: Fierce wildfires fuelled by searing temperatures, high winds in Australia continue to rage Australian cricketing legends Ricky Ponting and Shane Warne have decided to temporarily come out of retirement and play a fund-raiser T20 match called the 'Bushfire Cricket Bash'. The star-studded match is going to be played as a curtain-raiser to the Big Bash League's finals which will be held on February 8. Looking at the points table where Melbourne Stars and Sydney Sixers are trying to book the top spot, predictions are that the final could be played in Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) or the Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG). Also read: Australian bushfire: Shane Warne's baggy green cap sold for over A$1 million; beats Dhoni, Bradman Shane Warne's baggy green cap broke records, he took to twitter to thank his bidder. Thankyou so much to everyone that placed a bid & a huge Thankyou / congrats to the successful bidder - you have blown me away with your generosity and this was way beyond my expectations ! The money will go direct to the Red Cross bushfire appeal. Thankyou, Thankyou, Thankyou ❤️ pic.twitter.com/vyVcA7NfGs — Shane Warne (@ShaneWarne) January 9, 2020 × These big grounds are likely to attract a massive crowd. The two teams will be led by Ricky Ponting and Shane Warne. The venue will be confirmed on January 31 after the confirmation of the Top Two finalists. It is not the first time Cricket Australia has worked for a cause, in a Boxing Day tsunami charity match in January 2005 that attracted a crowd of 70,101 to the Melbourne Cricket Ground, they raised A$14.5 million. The unpredictable fire rage has burnt more than 5.25 million hectares (13 million acres) of land and continues to spread despite volunteer firefighters stepping in. Australia's economy has faced a major setback. × 'The Bushfire Cricket Bash' is going to feature players like Justin Langer, Adam Gilchrist, Brett Lee, Shane Watson, Alex Blackwell, and Micheal Clarke. Steve Waugh and Mel Jones will be involved but in a non-playing capacity. Alex Blackwell had just retired months ago from the Women's Big Bash League. Australia’s women’s team will begin the day with a T20I clash against India at the Junction Oval, this contest will be followed by the Bushfire Cricket Bash, and then Big Bash League finals will be played. “It is going to be a huge and special day. It’s nice to be part of it,” Ponting told reporters on Sunday.

Bushfire Cricket Bash: Ricky Ponting and Shane Warne to come out of retirement to raise funds

Melbourne Stars' Marcus Stoinis became the highest run-getter in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/.../big-bash-league-sydney-thunder-beat-hobart- hurricanes-by-four-wickets-273644">Big Bash League</a> (BBL) here on Sunday.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/big-bash-league-mitchs-blitz-help-perth-scorchers-beat-brisbane-heat-by-34-runs-273687">Big Bash League: Mitchell Marsh's 93 off 41 help Perth Scorchers beat Brisbane Heat</a>

Stoinis played an unbeaten knock of 147 runs against Sydney Sixers to surpass D'Arcy Short, who previously held the record with 122* runs.

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Simply incredible! <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BBL09?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BBL09</a> <a href="https://t.co/zt21JfPm3c">pic.twitter.com/zt21JfPm3c</a>
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The 30-year-old Stoinis thrashed another record with the help of Hilton Cartwright as they both formed a 207-run partnership, highest-ever in the tournament.

Cartwright scored 59 runs before Tom Curran gold hold if him in the final over of the innings. With the help of Stoinis and Cartwright's brilliance, Melbourne Stars managed to put up a total of 219 runs on the board.

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Yeahhhh, no one's getting that cap off Marcus Stoinis anytime soon.<a href="https://twitter.com/BKTtires?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@BKTtires</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BBL09?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BBL09</a> <a href="https://t.co/z3GsfgkrmB">pic.twitter.com/z3GsfgkrmB</a>
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Sydney Sixers are yet to start their innings.&nbsp;

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Melbourne Stars' Marcus Stoinis became the highest run-getter in Big Bash League (BBL) here on Sunday. Also read: Big Bash League: Mitchell Marsh's 93 off 41 help Perth Scorchers beat Brisbane Heat Stoinis played an unbeaten knock of 147 runs against Sydney Sixers to surpass D'Arcy Short, who previously held the record with 122* runs.

Melbourne Stars' Marcus Stoinis became the highest run-getter in Big Bash League (BBL) here on Sunday. Also read: Big Bash League: Mitchell Marsh's 93 off 41 help Perth Scorchers beat Brisbane Heat Stoinis played an unbeaten knock of 147 runs against Sydney Sixers to surpass D'Arcy Short, who previously held the record with 122* runs. Simply incredible! #BBL09 pic.twitter.com/zt21JfPm3c — KFC Big Bash League (@BBL) January 12, 2020 × The 30-year-old Stoinis thrashed another record with the help of Hilton Cartwright as they both formed a 207-run partnership, highest-ever in the tournament. Cartwright scored 59 runs before Tom Curran gold hold if him in the final over of the innings. With the help of Stoinis and Cartwright's brilliance, Melbourne Stars managed to put up a total of 219 runs on the board. Yeahhhh, no one's getting that cap off Marcus Stoinis anytime soon.@BKTtires | #BBL09 pic.twitter.com/z3GsfgkrmB — KFC Big Bash League (@BBL) January 12, 2020 × Sydney Sixers are yet to start their innings.

Melbourne Star's Stoinis becomes highest run-getter in Big Bash League

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Big Bash League's 9th season is going ahead with full throttle. Melbourne Stars And Melbourne Renegades had a screamer. Glenn Maxwell's powerful 83 off 45 balls powered Melbourne Stars to its fifth consecutive victory and maintain it's position in the table as Table-toppers.

Big Bash League's 9th season is going ahead with full throttle. Melbourne Stars And Melbourne Renegades had a screamer. Glenn Maxwell's powerful 83 off 45 balls powered Melbourne Stars to its fifth consecutive victory and maintain it's position in the table as Table-toppers. Also Read: Australian bushfire: Shane Warne's baggy green cap sold for over A$1 million; beats Dhoni, Bradman The Renegades started on a high with Shaun Marsh scoring the most of it (63 runs off 43 balls) and looked on a target that would have surpassed their season-high total of 185, but they lost 5 wickets and just managed to get 22 runs in the last four overs. Renegades managed to pose a total of 168/7. Nathan Coulter-Nile and Sandeep Lammichanne of Melbourne Stars managed to scalp two wickets each. When Melbourne Stars came down to bat, they lost three wickets in quick succession and were at 54/3. But that's before Glenn Maxwell stepped in. Glenn Maxwell struck 7 sixes to hand Melbourne Renegade 8th defeat in a row. He finished off the chase with a six with eight balls to spare. Renegades have not yet managed to get a win in this year's BBL, their forgettable record now extends to 0-8. There were a lot of amusing events that took place like Shaun Marsh's broken-bat, Glenn Maxwell's final six to seal the match. The best moment of the match was Beau Webster's catch that dismissed Ben Dunk. Big Bash league's official Twitter handle congratulated Glenn Maxwell for earning the man of the match. Surprise, surprise 🤷‍♂️@KFCAustralia | #BBL09 pic.twitter.com/wbnPkH0P2p — KFC Big Bash League (@BBL) January 10, 2020 × Final Score Line: Melbourne Renegades: 168/7 (20 overs) Melbourne Stars: 169/3 (18.4 overs) Melbourne Stars Top the Big Bash League table whereas, Melbourne Renegades are at the bottom of the Table

Big Bash League: Maxwell's mammoth knock helps Melbourne Star cruise over Renegades

Australian all-rounder Marcus Stoinis was Sunday slapped with a hefty fine after directing a homophobic slur at <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/australia-thrash-pakistan-to-win-series-2-0-260863">Kane Richardson</a> during a domestic Twenty20 Big Bash League game.

The Melbourne Stars player apologised after being found guilty of breaching Cricket Australia's code of conduct and penalised Aus$7,500 (US$5,200).

"I got caught in the moment and took it too far," Stoinis said of the incident during the clash with cross-town rivals Melbourne Renegades on Saturday.

"I realised immediately I was in the wrong and I apologise to Kane and to the umpires.

"I did the wrong thing and accept responsibility for my actions. The standards are there for a reason and I accept the penalty."

The incident comes six weeks after fast bowler <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/aus-vs-nz-nathan-lyon-takes-five-as-australia-dominate-in-sydney-272264">James Pattinson</a>, currently playing for Australia in the third Test against New Zealand in Sydney, was banned for player abuse, also reportedly a homophobic slur.

His penalty, a one-match suspension which ruled him out of the first Test against Pakistan, was harsher as it was his third code of conduct breach in the past 18 months.

"The behaviour in this matter falls short of the standards we expect and we have acted accordingly," <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/james-pattinson-banned-for-first-test-against-pakistan-for-personal-abuse-262662">Sean&nbsp;Carroll</a>, Cricket Australia's&nbsp;head of integrity and security said of the Stoinis fine.

He only referred to the matter as "personal abuse of a player", although the Cricket Australia website characterised it as a homophobic slur.

"There is no place for it in the game," added Carroll.

Australian all-rounder Marcus Stoinis was Sunday slapped with a hefty fine after directing a homophobic slur at Kane Richardson during a domestic Twenty20 Big Bash League game.

Australian all-rounder Marcus Stoinis was Sunday slapped with a hefty fine after directing a homophobic slur at Kane Richardson during a domestic Twenty20 Big Bash League game. The Melbourne Stars player apologised after being found guilty of breaching Cricket Australia's code of conduct and penalised Aus$7,500 (US$5,200). "I got caught in the moment and took it too far," Stoinis said of the incident during the clash with cross-town rivals Melbourne Renegades on Saturday. "I realised immediately I was in the wrong and I apologise to Kane and to the umpires. "I did the wrong thing and accept responsibility for my actions. The standards are there for a reason and I accept the penalty." The incident comes six weeks after fast bowler James Pattinson, currently playing for Australia in the third Test against New Zealand in Sydney, was banned for player abuse, also reportedly a homophobic slur. His penalty, a one-match suspension which ruled him out of the first Test against Pakistan, was harsher as it was his third code of conduct breach in the past 18 months. "The behaviour in this matter falls short of the standards we expect and we have acted accordingly," Sean Carroll, Cricket Australia's head of integrity and security said of the Stoinis fine. He only referred to the matter as "personal abuse of a player", although the Cricket Australia website characterised it as a homophobic slur. "There is no place for it in the game," added Carroll.

Marcus Stoinis penalised for passing homophobic slur at Kane Richardson during Big Bash League

Former India women cricketer GS Lakshmi on Tuesday became the first female to be appointed to the <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-england-top-test-and-odi-rankings-after-annual-update-215324&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwi3jvGW6priAhUIwI8KHYXKD0Y4ChAWMAh6BAgEEAI&amp;usg=AOvVaw0IXY23VpZIaMecW8IwXCZQ">ICC </a>International Panel of Match Referees.

The 51-year-old, who first officiated as a match referee in domestic women's cricket in 2008-09, has overseen three women's ODI matches and as many women's T20I games.

"To be selected in the international panel by the ICC is a huge honour for me as it opens up new avenues. I have had a long career as a cricketer in India and also as a Match Referee. I hope to put my experience both as a player and as a match official to good use on the international circuit," Lakshmi said.

"I would like to take this opportunity to thank the ICC, officials at the BCCI, my seniors in the cricketing circuit, my family and colleagues who have supported me over the years. I hope to live up to their expectations by doing my job to the best of my ability," she added.

Following close on the heels of Claire Polosak, who earlier this month became the first ever woman umpire to stand in a men's ODI, Lakshmi will be eligible to referee international games with immediate effect.

<a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/meet-first-woman-umpire-to-stand-in-mens-odi-213896&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwi7yMvT6priAhXJM48KHcsWDFMQFjAAegQIABAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw0g7teBXWV2VJexSloQWhwK">Australia's Eloise Sheridan</a> has joined compatriot Polosak on the ICC Development Panel of Umpires, taking the number of women on that panel to an unprecedented eight.

Sheridan was the reserve umpire for two matches in the Men's Big Bash League 2018-19 and umpired four matches in the Women's Big Bash League the same year.

In October 2018, she became the first woman in <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/humble-aussies-head-to-gallipoli-for-world-cup-inspiration-217745&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwizvey36priAhVU6nMBHeaPCSQQFjAEegQIAhAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw2rgbDdWu96Zc4qjCdvB_6W">Australia </a>to umpire a men's first-grade Premier Cricket final.

"As a player, cricket allowed me to travel, meet wonderful people and share a mutual love for the game. It is great now to be able to continue my involvement in cricket in a different role and give something back to the game that has been such a big part of my life. I couldn`t take up opportunities like this without the continued support of the South Australian Cricket Association and Cricket Australia, as well as my very understanding partner," Sheridan said.

Lauren Agenbag, Kim Cotton, Shivani Mishra, Sue Redfern, Mary Waldron, and Jacqueline Williams are the other women officials on the panel.

The first woman on the ICC Development Panel of Umpires was Kathy Cross, who retired last year.

Meanwhile, Adrian Griffith, ICC Senior Manager - Umpires and Referees said, "We welcome Lakshmi and Eloise to our panels, which is an important step forward in our commitment to encouraging women officials. It is heartening to see their progress and I am sure many more women will be inspired to follow their example. I wish them all the best for a long and enjoyable career."

"We are committed to ensuring greater gender parity among our officials, but all appointments are made purely on merit. The elevation is as a result of a thorough evaluation process that identifies the most talented match officials breaking through to an international level. It is pleasing that through consistently high performance we are able to add more women to our panels," Griffith added.

Former India women cricketer GS Lakshmi on Tuesday became the first female to be appointed to the ICC International Panel of Match Referees. The 51-year-old, who first officiated as a match referee in domestic women's cricket in 2008-09, has overseen three women's ODI matches and as many women's T20I games.

Former India women cricketer GS Lakshmi on Tuesday became the first female to be appointed to the ICC International Panel of Match Referees. The 51-year-old, who first officiated as a match referee in domestic women's cricket in 2008-09, has overseen three women's ODI matches and as many women's T20I games. "To be selected in the international panel by the ICC is a huge honour for me as it opens up new avenues. I have had a long career as a cricketer in India and also as a Match Referee. I hope to put my experience both as a player and as a match official to good use on the international circuit," Lakshmi said. "I would like to take this opportunity to thank the ICC, officials at the BCCI, my seniors in the cricketing circuit, my family and colleagues who have supported me over the years. I hope to live up to their expectations by doing my job to the best of my ability," she added. Following close on the heels of Claire Polosak, who earlier this month became the first ever woman umpire to stand in a men's ODI, Lakshmi will be eligible to referee international games with immediate effect. Australia's Eloise Sheridan has joined compatriot Polosak on the ICC Development Panel of Umpires, taking the number of women on that panel to an unprecedented eight. Sheridan was the reserve umpire for two matches in the Men's Big Bash League 2018-19 and umpired four matches in the Women's Big Bash League the same year. In October 2018, she became the first woman in Australia to umpire a men's first-grade Premier Cricket final. "As a player, cricket allowed me to travel, meet wonderful people and share a mutual love for the game. It is great now to be able to continue my involvement in cricket in a different role and give something back to the game that has been such a big part of my life. I couldn`t take up opportunities like this without the continued support of the South Australian Cricket Association and Cricket Australia, as well as my very understanding partner," Sheridan said. Lauren Agenbag, Kim Cotton, Shivani Mishra, Sue Redfern, Mary Waldron, and Jacqueline Williams are the other women officials on the panel. The first woman on the ICC Development Panel of Umpires was Kathy Cross, who retired last year. Meanwhile, Adrian Griffith, ICC Senior Manager - Umpires and Referees said, "We welcome Lakshmi and Eloise to our panels, which is an important step forward in our commitment to encouraging women officials. It is heartening to see their progress and I am sure many more women will be inspired to follow their example. I wish them all the best for a long and enjoyable career." "We are committed to ensuring greater gender parity among our officials, but all appointments are made purely on merit. The elevation is as a result of a thorough evaluation process that identifies the most talented match officials breaking through to an international level. It is pleasing that through consistently high performance we are able to add more women to our panels," Griffith added.

Ex-Indian cricketer GS Lakshmi becomes first female ICC match referee

Nathan Coulter-Nile, who was picked this week for Australia's one-day and Twenty20 tour of India, was taken to the hospital Saturday after a bout of vertigo during a Big Bash League game.&nbsp;

The Perth Scorchers fast bowler had delivered the fifth ball of his final over late in the Twenty20 match against the Adelaide Strikers when he signalled that all was not well.&nbsp;

After consulting with Perth captain Mitchell Marsh, he bowled the sixth ball, which was hit for six, before sinking to his haunches and sitting on the ground. 
Scorchers physio Chris Quinnell said Coulter-Nile had suffered a "bad bout of vertigo".&nbsp;

"He was taken to hospital after the game as a precaution and will be monitored over the next few hours," Quinnell said on the BBL website.&nbsp;

Coulter-Nile's inclusion in Australia's squad for the India tour came after he was left out of recent home limited-overs internationals with back issues.&nbsp;

Nathan Coulter-Nile, who was picked this week for Australia's one-day and Twenty20 tour of India, was taken to the hospital Saturday after a bout of vertigo during a Big Bash League game.

Nathan Coulter-Nile, who was picked this week for Australia's one-day and Twenty20 tour of India, was taken to the hospital Saturday after a bout of vertigo during a Big Bash League game. The Perth Scorchers fast bowler had delivered the fifth ball of his final over late in the Twenty20 match against the Adelaide Strikers when he signalled that all was not well. After consulting with Perth captain Mitchell Marsh, he bowled the sixth ball, which was hit for six, before sinking to his haunches and sitting on the ground. Scorchers physio Chris Quinnell said Coulter-Nile had suffered a "bad bout of vertigo". "He was taken to hospital after the game as a precaution and will be monitored over the next few hours," Quinnell said on the BBL website. Coulter-Nile's inclusion in Australia's squad for the India tour came after he was left out of recent home limited-overs internationals with back issues.

Nathan Coulter-Nile suffers vertigo bout during BBL game

Jofra Archer took a one-hand remarkable catch near the boundary rope during a Big Bash League match between Hobart Hurricanes and Brisbane Heat on Tuesday.&nbsp;

The 23-year-old bowling all-rounder displayed tremendous fitness by taking such a stunning catch to dismiss Max Bryant for just seven.&nbsp;

Bryant smashed a full-length delivery by James Faulkner but Jofra outstretched his right hand and lobed the ball back, crossed the boundary line and came back quickly to complete the catch.

Archer later impressed with the ball and claimed two big wickets in Chris Lynn (10) and Matt Renshaw (0).

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JOFRA ARCHER STOP IT 😲😲<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BBL08?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BBL08</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/BKTtires?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@BKTtires</a> <a href="https://t.co/ZjkGB7BjVp">pic.twitter.com/ZjkGB7BjVp</a>
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The BBL has witnessed some top cricketers delighting cricket fans with such remarkable catches from time and again. Earlier this month, all-rounder Ben Cutting suffered a nasty blow to his face while attempting a catch during a BBL match against Melbourne Renegades.

Jofra Archer took a one-hand remarkable catch near the boundary rope during a Big Bash League match between Hobart Hurricanes and Brisbane Heat on Tuesday. The 23-year-old bowling all-rounder displayed tremendous fitness by taking such a stunning catch to dismiss Max Bryant for just seven.

Jofra Archer took a one-hand remarkable catch near the boundary rope during a Big Bash League match between Hobart Hurricanes and Brisbane Heat on Tuesday. The 23-year-old bowling all-rounder displayed tremendous fitness by taking such a stunning catch to dismiss Max Bryant for just seven. Bryant smashed a full-length delivery by James Faulkner but Jofra outstretched his right hand and lobed the ball back, crossed the boundary line and came back quickly to complete the catch. Archer later impressed with the ball and claimed two big wickets in Chris Lynn (10) and Matt Renshaw (0). JOFRA ARCHER STOP IT 😲😲#BBL08 | @BKTtires pic.twitter.com/ZjkGB7BjVp — cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) January 29, 2019 × The BBL has witnessed some top cricketers delighting cricket fans with such remarkable catches from time and again. Earlier this month, all-rounder Ben Cutting suffered a nasty blow to his face while attempting a catch during a BBL match against Melbourne Renegades.

Watch: Jofra Archer's one-handed stunner near the boundary rope

Australia batsman <a href="http://www.wionews.com/search?q=bancroft">Cameron Bancroft</a> scored just two runs after returning from a nine-month ban while playing in a Big Bash League clash on Sunday.&nbsp;

Bancroft came in after Ashton Turner's wicket but lost his wicket to Riley Meredith after facing three balls at&nbsp;Launceston's Aurora Stadium.

His ban for <a href="http://www.wionews.com/search?q=ball+tampering">ball-tampering</a> expired on December 29 and he was immediately rushed into the Perth Scorchers squad for their BBL clash with the Hobart Hurricanes.&nbsp;

The 26-year-old opener was suspended from international and state cricket after attempting to alter the ball in a Test against South Africa in March.&nbsp;

Then-Australian captain Steve Smith and his deputy David Warner were exiled for a year with their suspensions due to run out in late March.&nbsp;

"What a journey this has been over the last nine months," Bancroft wrote on Instagram when his ban got completed.&nbsp;

"Grateful of where I am and the person I continue to grow to be. Thank you to every person, group, team and community I have come across over the last nine months. You know who you are."&nbsp;

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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
10 mins until our men clash with the <a href="https://twitter.com/HurricanesBBL?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@HurricanesBBL</a> 🔥 
📺LIVE <a href="https://twitter.com/SevenPerth?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@SevenPerth</a> + <a href="https://twitter.com/FoxCricket?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@FoxCricket</a> 
📲 <a href="https://t.co/w4rkE5rCBo">https://t.co/w4rkE5rCBo</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MADETOUGH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MADETOUGH</a> <a href="https://t.co/VfSeOHYj6h">pic.twitter.com/VfSeOHYj6h</a>
— Perth Scorchers (@ScorchersBBL) <a href="https://twitter.com/ScorchersBBL/status/1079287325530583041?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 30, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Bancroft re-emerged into public life with an explosive television interview on Wednesday in which he confirmed Warner asked him to use sandpaper to rough up the ball.&nbsp;

He claimed he went along with it "to fit in" and because he "didn't know any better".&nbsp;

Australia batsman Cameron Bancroft scored just two runs after returning from a nine-month ban while playing in a Big Bash League clash on Sunday. Bancroft came in after Ashton Turner's wicket but lost his wicket to Riley Meredith after facing three balls at Launceston's Aurora Stadium.

Australia batsman Cameron Bancroft scored just two runs after returning from a nine-month ban while playing in a Big Bash League clash on Sunday. Bancroft came in after Ashton Turner's wicket but lost his wicket to Riley Meredith after facing three balls at Launceston's Aurora Stadium. His ban for ball-tampering expired on December 29 and he was immediately rushed into the Perth Scorchers squad for their BBL clash with the Hobart Hurricanes. The 26-year-old opener was suspended from international and state cricket after attempting to alter the ball in a Test against South Africa in March. Then-Australian captain Steve Smith and his deputy David Warner were exiled for a year with their suspensions due to run out in late March. "What a journey this has been over the last nine months," Bancroft wrote on Instagram when his ban got completed. "Grateful of where I am and the person I continue to grow to be. Thank you to every person, group, team and community I have come across over the last nine months. You know who you are." 10 mins until our men clash with the @HurricanesBBL 🔥 📺LIVE @SevenPerth + @FoxCricket 📲 https://t.co/w4rkE5rCBo #MADETOUGH pic.twitter.com/VfSeOHYj6h — Perth Scorchers (@ScorchersBBL) December 30, 2018 × Bancroft re-emerged into public life with an explosive television interview on Wednesday in which he confirmed Warner asked him to use sandpaper to rough up the ball. He claimed he went along with it "to fit in" and because he "didn't know any better".

Cameron Bancroft scores 2 runs for Perth Scorchers after returning from ball-tampering ban

Australia's high-octane Big Bash League (BBL) will break with tradition and do away with the coin toss when its new season starts later this month.

Instead, captains will flip a bat, calling "hills" or "flats" rather than heads or tails.

"For me it's a great moment which reflects what BBL is about," Kim McConnie, Cricket Australia's head of the Big Bash League said on the competition's website.

"Some people don't like change but I'd also challenge people to say when was the last time anyone watched the coin toss or really focused on it to a great extent?

"Now we are making it much more relevant to families, we are creating a moment which is much more fitting with kids."

Australia's Twenty20 BBL has steadily gained traction since it was launched eight years ago with the fast-paced, family-friendly competition attracting big crowds and strong television ratings.

It has always tried to innovate and was the tournament that first introduced Zings flashing stumps, which light up when the bails are dislodged.&nbsp;

They are now are used in international matches.

McConnie dismissed concerns over the fairness of the bat-flipping process.

"I've got it from great authority at our (bat-maker) Kookaburra friends that this is a tested and weighted bat to deliver that equity," she said.

The new BBL season starts on December 19 and runs through till February 17, featuring eight teams. Adelaide Strikers are the defending champions.

Australia's high-octane Big Bash League (BBL) will break with tradition and do away with the coin toss when its new season starts later this month. Instead, captains will flip a bat, calling "hills" or "flats" rather than heads or tails.

Australia's high-octane Big Bash League (BBL) will break with tradition and do away with the coin toss when its new season starts later this month. Instead, captains will flip a bat, calling "hills" or "flats" rather than heads or tails. "For me it's a great moment which reflects what BBL is about," Kim McConnie, Cricket Australia's head of the Big Bash League said on the competition's website. "Some people don't like change but I'd also challenge people to say when was the last time anyone watched the coin toss or really focused on it to a great extent? "Now we are making it much more relevant to families, we are creating a moment which is much more fitting with kids." Australia's Twenty20 BBL has steadily gained traction since it was launched eight years ago with the fast-paced, family-friendly competition attracting big crowds and strong television ratings. It has always tried to innovate and was the tournament that first introduced Zings flashing stumps, which light up when the bails are dislodged. They are now are used in international matches. McConnie dismissed concerns over the fairness of the bat-flipping process. "I've got it from great authority at our (bat-maker) Kookaburra friends that this is a tested and weighted bat to deliver that equity," she said. The new BBL season starts on December 19 and runs through till February 17, featuring eight teams. Adelaide Strikers are the defending champions.

Australia Big Bash League to swap coin toss for bat flip

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Watch: Jofra Archer's one-handed stunner near the boundary rope

Cameron Bancroft scores 2 runs for Perth Scorchers after returning from ball-tampering ban

Australia Big Bash League to swap coin toss for bat flip