The newly-appointed England’s white-ball head coach, Brendon McCullum, outlines his plans when he takes over as the country’s all-format coach early next year. McCullum and Test captain Ben Stokes revived England’s red-ball cricket by injecting aggression into the players and pushing them to play entertaining yet fearless cricket. With him entering the white-ball circuit, McCullum has backed regular captain Jos Buttler to keep his job despite the change in the leadership group rumours.

Speaking to the media for the first time since being named England’s all-format coach, McCullum backed Buttler to enjoy his time in the middle, calling him the country’s greatest ever.

“I am very confident in Buttler as captain. What I want from Jos is for him to enjoy the next few years,” McCullum said during a presser at the Oval ahead of the third and final Test against Sri Lanka, starting on Friday (September 6).&nbsp;

“If he retired tomorrow, he would probably go down as the greatest white-ball player England have produced, so there is a chance for however long he plays to not protect anything and play with a smile on his face. My job is to push him towards that.”

“He has been a little bit miserable at times; he is not naturally as expressive as some, but he has done a great job,” he continued.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rishabh-pant-realises-bangladesh-threat-says-cannot-afford-to-underestimate-any-team-756170">Rishabh Pant realises Bangladesh threat, says ‘cannot afford to underestimate any team'</a>

McCullum, who played against Buttler multiple times in the past decade, calls him a champion player and someone who is gifted and a team leader.

The former Kiwi skipper admitted his job is to allow Buttler to play freely so it could give confidence to the dressing room, motivating them to play better every time.

“He has won a World Cup as captain [the T20 edition in Australia in 2022] and been part of World Cup-winning teams previously. He is a gifted player and a fine leader.”

"My job is to get the best out of him so players in the dressing room feel bulletproof and 10 feet tall and know the skipper is going to give them that extra pat on the back and enjoy the ride with them,” Buttler said.

<h2>What will McCullum bring to the table?</h2>

Having impressed one and all with his dynamic coaching style, McCullum vows to instil positivity and style into the already daunting-looking white-ball side that has been through a lot since the past decade.

"I will bring the positivity and style I like to operate with across all formats, and I think it will give us a good chance of being successful."

"The white-ball side has been through a dynasty from when [Eoin Morgan] started it. They have won World Cups, and some once-in-a-generation players have come through at the same time."

"Now, a natural regeneration is required, and that's the bit that excites me. I look around at the talent, and they have learnt how to play from those once-in-a-generation cricketers,” McCullum noted.

(With inputs from agencies)

The newly-appointed England’s white-ball head coach, Brendon McCullum, outlines his plans when he takes over as the country’s all-format coach early next year. McCullum and Test captain Ben Stokes revived England’s red-ball cricket by injecting aggression into the players and pushing them to play entertaining yet fearless cricket.

The newly-appointed England’s white-ball head coach, Brendon McCullum, outlines his plans when he takes over as the country’s all-format coach early next year. McCullum and Test captain Ben Stokes revived England’s red-ball cricket by injecting aggression into the players and pushing them to play entertaining yet fearless cricket. With him entering the white-ball circuit, McCullum has backed regular captain Jos Buttler to keep his job despite the change in the leadership group rumours. Speaking to the media for the first time since being named England’s all-format coach, McCullum backed Buttler to enjoy his time in the middle, calling him the country’s greatest ever. “I am very confident in Buttler as captain. What I want from Jos is for him to enjoy the next few years,” McCullum said during a presser at the Oval ahead of the third and final Test against Sri Lanka, starting on Friday (September 6). “If he retired tomorrow, he would probably go down as the greatest white-ball player England have produced, so there is a chance for however long he plays to not protect anything and play with a smile on his face. My job is to push him towards that.” “He has been a little bit miserable at times; he is not naturally as expressive as some, but he has done a great job,” he continued. ALSO READ: Rishabh Pant realises Bangladesh threat, says ‘cannot afford to underestimate any team' McCullum, who played against Buttler multiple times in the past decade, calls him a champion player and someone who is gifted and a team leader. The former Kiwi skipper admitted his job is to allow Buttler to play freely so it could give confidence to the dressing room, motivating them to play better every time. “He has won a World Cup as captain [the T20 edition in Australia in 2022] and been part of World Cup-winning teams previously. He is a gifted player and a fine leader.” "My job is to get the best out of him so players in the dressing room feel bulletproof and 10 feet tall and know the skipper is going to give them that extra pat on the back and enjoy the ride with them,” Buttler said. What will McCullum bring to the table? Having impressed one and all with his dynamic coaching style, McCullum vows to instil positivity and style into the already daunting-looking white-ball side that has been through a lot since the past decade. "I will bring the positivity and style I like to operate with across all formats, and I think it will give us a good chance of being successful." "The white-ball side has been through a dynasty from when [Eoin Morgan] started it. They have won World Cups, and some once-in-a-generation players have come through at the same time." "Now, a natural regeneration is required, and that's the bit that excites me. I look around at the talent, and they have learnt how to play from those once-in-a-generation cricketers,” McCullum noted. (With inputs from agencies)

Brendon McCullum backs Jos Buttler to remain white-ball captain, calls him England’s ‘greatest ever’

England Test skipper Ben Stokes has expressed 'surprise' over the appointment of Brendon McCullum as the English side's all-format coach. McCullum had been England's Test coach since 2022 and now has been given the added responsibility of white-ball as well. He replaces Matthew Mott who was sacked following England's failure to defend the T20 World Cup title, earlier in 2024.

"I was very surprised by the news. First and foremost, I think it's an unbelievable move for English cricket to go back to having a coach in charge of all the teams. You look at what Baz has achieved with the Test side, it's been amazing," said Stokes as reported by news agency IANS citing cricket news website ESPNCricinfo.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/ipl-2025-rahul-dravid-set-be-back-at-rajasthan-royals-as-head-coach-755848">IPL 2025: Rahul Dravid set to be back at Rajasthan Royals as head coach</a>

Stokes, however, is super excited for McCullum to work with white-ball skipper Jos Buttler during a time when England is facing criticism for failing to defend both their ODI World Cup and T20 World Cup titles.

"I'm really excited for the white-ball team to have the opportunity to be able to work with Baz, listen to him speak, and hear his opinions. I think Jos is going to really, really enjoy having him as his coach to work with," Stokes said.

"And you look at all the new faces who are coming into that white-ball team now, I couldn't think of a better person for them to come in and work under at international level for the first time. He just gives everyone the platform to go out and enjoy themselves. Baz never puts any added pressure on anybody's shoulders," he added.

McCullum will start his twin role from&nbsp;January 2025. Interim white-ball head coach Marcus Trescothick will fulfil his role during the upcoming Australia series as well as the Caribbean tour in November as well.

"I've thoroughly enjoyed my time with the Test team, and I'm excited to extend my role to include the white-ball sides," McCullum said on his appointment.

McCullum had shown little to no interest in the role earlier, given the hectic schedule of England. He, however, took the job after assurance from the director of men's cricket Rob Key.

England Test skipper Ben Stokes has expressed 'surprise' over the appointment of Brendon McCullum as the English side's all-format coach. McCullum had been England's Test coach since 2022 and now has been given the added responsibility of white-ball as well.

England Test skipper Ben Stokes has expressed 'surprise' over the appointment of Brendon McCullum as the English side's all-format coach. McCullum had been England's Test coach since 2022 and now has been given the added responsibility of white-ball as well. He replaces Matthew Mott who was sacked following England's failure to defend the T20 World Cup title, earlier in 2024. "I was very surprised by the news. First and foremost, I think it's an unbelievable move for English cricket to go back to having a coach in charge of all the teams. You look at what Baz has achieved with the Test side, it's been amazing," said Stokes as reported by news agency IANS citing cricket news website ESPNCricinfo. Also Read: IPL 2025: Rahul Dravid set to be back at Rajasthan Royals as head coach Stokes, however, is super excited for McCullum to work with white-ball skipper Jos Buttler during a time when England is facing criticism for failing to defend both their ODI World Cup and T20 World Cup titles. "I'm really excited for the white-ball team to have the opportunity to be able to work with Baz, listen to him speak, and hear his opinions. I think Jos is going to really, really enjoy having him as his coach to work with," Stokes said. "And you look at all the new faces who are coming into that white-ball team now, I couldn't think of a better person for them to come in and work under at international level for the first time. He just gives everyone the platform to go out and enjoy themselves. Baz never puts any added pressure on anybody's shoulders," he added. McCullum will start his twin role from January 2025. Interim white-ball head coach Marcus Trescothick will fulfil his role during the upcoming Australia series as well as the Caribbean tour in November as well. "I've thoroughly enjoyed my time with the Test team, and I'm excited to extend my role to include the white-ball sides," McCullum said on his appointment. McCullum had shown little to no interest in the role earlier, given the hectic schedule of England. He, however, took the job after assurance from the director of men's cricket Rob Key.

'Unbelievable move...,' England Test skipper Ben Stokes 'surprised' as Brendon McCullum named white-ball coach

England Test coach Brendon McCullum has been named their white-ball coach as well, making him the first all-format coach of England since his Test predecessor Chris Silverwood. McCullum's appointment comes after the sacking of white-ball coach Matthew Mott under whom England failed to defend their 50-over and 20-over World Cup titles.

McCullum will start his twin role from January 2025. Interim white-ball head coach Marcus Trescothick will fulfil his role during the upcoming Australia series as well as the Caribbean tour in November as well.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/thought-of-dropping-me-india-pacer-mohammed-shami-on-not-playing-first-few-games-in-odi-world-cup-2023-755557">'Thought of dropping me...,' India pacer Mohammed Shami on not playing first few games in ODI World Cup 2023</a>

"I've thoroughly enjoyed my time with the Test team, and I'm excited to extend my role to include the white-ball sides," McCullum said on his appointment.

"This new challenge is something I'm ready to embrace, and I'm eager to work closely with Jos and the team to build on the strong foundations that are already in place," he added.

McCullum had shown little to no interest in the role earlier, given the hectic schedule of England. He, however, took the job after assurance from director of men's cricket Rob Key.

"Rob Key's vision for the future of English cricket is something that really resonated with me. The idea of a unified coaching structure, especially with the schedule easing next year, made perfect sense. I'm energised by the prospect of guiding both teams and am grateful for the support from the ECB and my family as I take on these added responsibilities," said McCullum.

Former New Zealand skipper Brendon McCullum had taken over England's Test set-up in 2022 and the attitude of the team had changed almost overnight. They may not have the result to show for it but their flamboyant style of cricket has sure gotten them acknowledgement and praise from fans.

England Test coach Brendon McCullum has been named their white-ball coach as well, making him the first all-format coach of England since his Test predecessor Chris Silverwood.

England Test coach Brendon McCullum has been named their white-ball coach as well, making him the first all-format coach of England since his Test predecessor Chris Silverwood. McCullum's appointment comes after the sacking of white-ball coach Matthew Mott under whom England failed to defend their 50-over and 20-over World Cup titles. McCullum will start his twin role from January 2025. Interim white-ball head coach Marcus Trescothick will fulfil his role during the upcoming Australia series as well as the Caribbean tour in November as well. Also Read: 'Thought of dropping me...,' India pacer Mohammed Shami on not playing first few games in ODI World Cup 2023 "I've thoroughly enjoyed my time with the Test team, and I'm excited to extend my role to include the white-ball sides," McCullum said on his appointment. "This new challenge is something I'm ready to embrace, and I'm eager to work closely with Jos and the team to build on the strong foundations that are already in place," he added. McCullum had shown little to no interest in the role earlier, given the hectic schedule of England. He, however, took the job after assurance from director of men's cricket Rob Key. "Rob Key's vision for the future of English cricket is something that really resonated with me. The idea of a unified coaching structure, especially with the schedule easing next year, made perfect sense. I'm energised by the prospect of guiding both teams and am grateful for the support from the ECB and my family as I take on these added responsibilities," said McCullum. Former New Zealand skipper Brendon McCullum had taken over England's Test set-up in 2022 and the attitude of the team had changed almost overnight. They may not have the result to show for it but their flamboyant style of cricket has sure gotten them acknowledgement and praise from fans.

'Eager to work...,' Brendon McCullum named England's new white-ball coach

Former World Cup-winning England Captain Eoin Morgan has vouched for India’s Rahul Dravid and New Zealand’s Brendon McCullum - England’s Test team coach, among the options for England’s white-ball coach.&nbsp;

Since Matthew Mott’s resignation following England’s failed campaigns in the past two ICC events, the ECB is seeking a high-profile name to replace him at the top, with Morgan feeling McCullum is the lead contender, calling him ‘one of the best in the world’.

The ECB confirmed the change at the top after England failed to defend their crown in the T20 World Cup in the Americas under Mott, losing to eventual winners India in the semis.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-franchises-urge-two-year-ban-on-foreign-players-for-pulling-out-of-season-without-legitimate-cause-746529">IPL franchises urge two-year ban on foreign players for pulling out of season without legitimate cause</a>

The 2019 WC winners also got knocked out of the group stages during the 2023 World Cup, losing to Australia, India and Afghanistan. Mott stepped down last week after two years in charge of England’s white-ball side.

Speaking of the changes the ECB must bring to ensure England stays at the top of the white-ball side, Morgan suggested a few big names to take over.

"In my eyes, at the moment, you would go to Rahul Dravid, Ricky Ponting, Stephen Fleming and Brendon McCullum," Morgan said during a chat with Sky Sports.

“I say that because I believe he is one of the best coaches in the world. You can see what he did with the England Test team.

"Yes, the big question will be how he makes it fit over the course of the 12 months, but from Rob Key's point of view, he needs to make the job attractive,” he continued.

Stating clearly why the board must appoint a proven coach and not bring in someone new, Morgan said, "The option is not to have someone come in and let them grow in the job. You're talking about winning World Cups and winning Champions trophies.

"This is not an opportunity for a young guy to come in. You want the best person on the planet to come in and help Jos Buttler and the England cricket team get better,” the former England captain noted.

<h2>Dravid is out of job</h2>

The former India great and a T20 World Cup-winning coach, Rahul Dravid, has been out of work since his contract ended with the Indian Team in July.&nbsp;Although the BCCI offered him a new contract, Dravid declined, citing spending more time with family as one of the reasons.

Meanwhile, Dravid is not seeking a full-time job, but earlier reports suggested that he remains in the fray to coach an IPL team&nbsp;next season onwards.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Former World Cup-winning England Captain Eoin Morgan has vouched for India’s Rahul Dravid and New Zealand’s Brendon McCullum - England’s Test team coach, among the options for England’s white-ball coach.

Former World Cup-winning England Captain Eoin Morgan has vouched for India’s Rahul Dravid and New Zealand’s Brendon McCullum - England’s Test team coach, among the options for England’s white-ball coach. Since Matthew Mott’s resignation following England’s failed campaigns in the past two ICC events, the ECB is seeking a high-profile name to replace him at the top, with Morgan feeling McCullum is the lead contender, calling him ‘one of the best in the world’. The ECB confirmed the change at the top after England failed to defend their crown in the T20 World Cup in the Americas under Mott, losing to eventual winners India in the semis. ALSO READ: IPL franchises urge two-year ban on foreign players for pulling out of season without legitimate cause The 2019 WC winners also got knocked out of the group stages during the 2023 World Cup, losing to Australia, India and Afghanistan. Mott stepped down last week after two years in charge of England’s white-ball side. Speaking of the changes the ECB must bring to ensure England stays at the top of the white-ball side, Morgan suggested a few big names to take over. "In my eyes, at the moment, you would go to Rahul Dravid, Ricky Ponting, Stephen Fleming and Brendon McCullum," Morgan said during a chat with Sky Sports. “I say that because I believe he is one of the best coaches in the world. You can see what he did with the England Test team. "Yes, the big question will be how he makes it fit over the course of the 12 months, but from Rob Key's point of view, he needs to make the job attractive,” he continued. Stating clearly why the board must appoint a proven coach and not bring in someone new, Morgan said, "The option is not to have someone come in and let them grow in the job. You're talking about winning World Cups and winning Champions trophies. "This is not an opportunity for a young guy to come in. You want the best person on the planet to come in and help Jos Buttler and the England cricket team get better,” the former England captain noted. Dravid is out of job The former India great and a T20 World Cup-winning coach, Rahul Dravid, has been out of work since his contract ended with the Indian Team in July. Although the BCCI offered him a new contract, Dravid declined, citing spending more time with family as one of the reasons. Meanwhile, Dravid is not seeking a full-time job, but earlier reports suggested that he remains in the fray to coach an IPL team next season onwards. (With inputs from agencies)

Eoin Morgan picks Rahul Dravid, Brendon McCullum as options for England’s white-ball coach

Ben Stokes-led England inflicted a series whitewash over West Indies as hosts ended the three-match Test series with a 3-0 scoreline, on Sunday (July 28). While the hosts were challenged in the last two Tests, they came out on top and negated every threat to beat Kraigg Brathwaite-led side in every game. The home series win is special for England following their 4-1 drubbing at the hands of India, early this year. Moreover, they have a new-look side with James Anderson's retirement and Jonny Bairstow losing his spot after his 100th Test (in Dharamsala). Thus, Test coach Brendon McCullum reacted to the series win by saying that 'it is really satisfying' to see the team's growth.

After the series win, McCullum said, "It's really satisfying, the growth of the side in general. Sometimes, when you lose, you get a period of reflection (indicating about the India series loss) and what we've seen is a team which has bounced back with a bit more of a harder feel to it."

<section itemprop="articleBody">
McCullum further reckoned that England are not a "finished product" yet, and&nbsp;have taken giant strides towards becoming the team that can win not only at home but also abroad.
</section>

<section itemprop="articleBody">
The former New Zealand captain stated, "The group and the understanding of how we want to play as a team is starting to get to where we want it to. We're not the finished product, absolutely, but this has been a step forward. You're starting to formulate the sort of side able to go up against the best teams in the world. There were delicate moments in this series and it really tested us, so it was extremely satisfying."
</section>

<section itemprop="articleBody">
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/india-to-host-2025-asia-cup-bangladesh-named-hosts-for-2027-edition-confirms-acc-745490">India to host 2025 Asia Cup, Bangladesh named hosts for 2027 edition, confirms ACC</a>

<section itemprop="articleBody">
For England, the likes of young guns such as&nbsp;Gus Atkinson and&nbsp;&nbsp;Jamie Smith stepped up in their respective roles. The two youngsters made a solid mark with Atkinson ending the series with 22 scalps (most by any) whereas Smith amassed 207 runs at a strike-rate of 71.62. In addition, Chris Woakes -- who is now the leader of the pace attack following Anderson's retirement -- took the new role with ease, returning with 11 wickets (third-most). Even Shoaib Bashir, playing his first series at home, ended with a five-fer in the second Test in Trent Bridge, Nottingham.

McCullum spoke at length on the changes within the team and said, "We knew we needed to make a couple of improvements to continue to improve as a side. We brought in some new faces and some guys that have shown that they're very comfortable at international level, and until you give some people an opportunity, you don't know right?
</section>

<section itemprop="articleBody">
"What we've seen from Gus Atkinson, from Shoaib Bashir and Jamie Smith.. these guys have shown that international cricket is where they belong and they've performed accordingly. It's really satisfying from that point of view, but also the growth of the side in general," he added.

Stokes-led England have moved to the sixth spot in the ongoing 2023-25 ICC World Test Championship (WTC) after the series triumph over West Indies.&nbsp;
</section>
</section>

Ben Stokes-led England inflicted a series whitewash over West Indies as hosts ended the three-match Test series with a 3-0 scoreline, on Sunday (July 28). While the hosts were challenged in the last two Tests, they came out on top and negated every threat to beat Kraigg Brathwaite-led side in every game.

Ben Stokes-led England inflicted a series whitewash over West Indies as hosts ended the three-match Test series with a 3-0 scoreline, on Sunday (July 28). While the hosts were challenged in the last two Tests, they came out on top and negated every threat to beat Kraigg Brathwaite-led side in every game. The home series win is special for England following their 4-1 drubbing at the hands of India, early this year. Moreover, they have a new-look side with James Anderson's retirement and Jonny Bairstow losing his spot after his 100th Test (in Dharamsala). Thus, Test coach Brendon McCullum reacted to the series win by saying that 'it is really satisfying' to see the team's growth. After the series win, McCullum said, "It's really satisfying, the growth of the side in general. Sometimes, when you lose, you get a period of reflection (indicating about the India series loss) and what we've seen is a team which has bounced back with a bit more of a harder feel to it." McCullum further reckoned that England are not a "finished product" yet, and have taken giant strides towards becoming the team that can win not only at home but also abroad. The former New Zealand captain stated, "The group and the understanding of how we want to play as a team is starting to get to where we want it to. We're not the finished product, absolutely, but this has been a step forward. You're starting to formulate the sort of side able to go up against the best teams in the world. There were delicate moments in this series and it really tested us, so it was extremely satisfying." Also read: India to host 2025 Asia Cup, Bangladesh named hosts for 2027 edition, confirms ACC For England, the likes of young guns such as Gus Atkinson and Jamie Smith stepped up in their respective roles. The two youngsters made a solid mark with Atkinson ending the series with 22 scalps (most by any) whereas Smith amassed 207 runs at a strike-rate of 71.62. In addition, Chris Woakes -- who is now the leader of the pace attack following Anderson's retirement -- took the new role with ease, returning with 11 wickets (third-most). Even Shoaib Bashir, playing his first series at home, ended with a five-fer in the second Test in Trent Bridge, Nottingham. McCullum spoke at length on the changes within the team and said, "We knew we needed to make a couple of improvements to continue to improve as a side. We brought in some new faces and some guys that have shown that they're very comfortable at international level, and until you give some people an opportunity, you don't know right? "What we've seen from Gus Atkinson, from Shoaib Bashir and Jamie Smith.. these guys have shown that international cricket is where they belong and they've performed accordingly. It's really satisfying from that point of view, but also the growth of the side in general," he added. Stokes-led England have moved to the sixth spot in the ongoing 2023-25 ICC World Test Championship (WTC) after the series triumph over West Indies.

'We're not finished product but...': Brendon McCullum reacts after England's Test series win vs West Indies

Former England captain Eoin Morgan has denied rumours of him getting the coaching role for the national side after he spoke out on the current situation. Morgan, England’s captain when they won their only ODI World Cup in 2019, has been linked with the national team job for the limited-overs format. However, those rumours were quickly rested when Morgan was commentating during The Hundred on Tuesday (July 24).

<h2>Eoin Morgan ends coaching job rumours</h2>

"This news is actually news to me," Morgan said while commentating.

"It's obviously not nice when a coach comes under fire and there is a lot of speculation about his future, but only time will tell what will happen.

"I've been asked a lot [in the media] over the past couple of months about the role, and if I would take it on," Morgan said.

"My answer has simply been that the timing for everything in my life at the moment is not right. Yes, I want to coach down the line. But I have a young family, and I spend a lot more time at home and watching cricket doing this [commentary]. I'm absolutely loving what I'm doing,"&nbsp;he added.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/paris-olympics-2024-ioc-reviews-palestinian-letter-to-ban-israeli-athletes-from-summer-games-743583">Paris Olympics 2024: IOC reviews Palestinian letter to ban Israeli athletes from Summer Games</a>

England have enjoyed stellar success in the Test format in the last two years where they have beaten all nations in the Test series except India and Australia. However, things have changed in the limited-overs format in the last couple of years after winning the T20 World Cup in Australia in 2022. England under Jos Buttler were favourites to win the ODI World Cup in India in 2023 but faced a humiliating exit in the league stage which started the downfall.

The team was also lucky to get into the semifinals of the 2024 T20 World Cup where they faced a humiliating defeat to India before exiting. Current head coach Matthew Mott and Buttler are both under review according to reports with big changes expected in the coming days. The long-term plan of the ECB remains to prioritise the ODI World Cup in 2027 rather than the 2026 T20 World Cup in India and Sri Lanka.

Former England captain Eoin Morgan has denied rumours of him getting the coaching role for the national side after he spoke out on the current situation. Morgan, England’s captain when they won their only ODI World Cup in 2019, has been linked with the national team job for the limited-overs format.

Former England captain Eoin Morgan has denied rumours of him getting the coaching role for the national side after he spoke out on the current situation. Morgan, England’s captain when they won their only ODI World Cup in 2019, has been linked with the national team job for the limited-overs format. However, those rumours were quickly rested when Morgan was commentating during The Hundred on Tuesday (July 24). Eoin Morgan ends coaching job rumours "This news is actually news to me," Morgan said while commentating. "It's obviously not nice when a coach comes under fire and there is a lot of speculation about his future, but only time will tell what will happen. "I've been asked a lot [in the media] over the past couple of months about the role, and if I would take it on," Morgan said. "My answer has simply been that the timing for everything in my life at the moment is not right. Yes, I want to coach down the line. But I have a young family, and I spend a lot more time at home and watching cricket doing this [commentary]. I'm absolutely loving what I'm doing," he added. ALSO READ | Paris Olympics 2024: IOC reviews Palestinian letter to ban Israeli athletes from Summer Games England have enjoyed stellar success in the Test format in the last two years where they have beaten all nations in the Test series except India and Australia. However, things have changed in the limited-overs format in the last couple of years after winning the T20 World Cup in Australia in 2022. England under Jos Buttler were favourites to win the ODI World Cup in India in 2023 but faced a humiliating exit in the league stage which started the downfall. The team was also lucky to get into the semifinals of the 2024 T20 World Cup where they faced a humiliating defeat to India before exiting. Current head coach Matthew Mott and Buttler are both under review according to reports with big changes expected in the coming days. The long-term plan of the ECB remains to prioritise the ODI World Cup in 2027 rather than the 2026 T20 World Cup in India and Sri Lanka.

Former England captain Eoin Morgan denies rumours of taking over as white-ball coach

England cricket team will face a&nbsp;major&nbsp;obstacle in replacing retiring James Anderson after being dealt a blow on Friday (May 17). England&nbsp;are likely to&nbsp;be without star pacer Josh Tongue&nbsp;as he continues to recover from a long-term injury&nbsp;issue, according to a statement.

The pectoral injury will keep the English pacer away from action with no time scale on his return, with&nbsp;Brendon&nbsp;McCullum’s&nbsp;side already set to be without Anderson after the&nbsp;Lord’s&nbsp;Test against the West Indies&nbsp;which&nbsp;starts on July 10.

<h2>Tongue unlikely to play against West Indies&nbsp;</h2>

"Josh has had a setback to his original injury. There is no timescale on when&nbsp;he'll&nbsp;return to action,"&nbsp;the England &amp; Wales Cricket Board said in a statement.

Tongue&nbsp;made his debut&nbsp;for England last year before the home Ashes when Ben&nbsp;Stokes’&nbsp;side beat Ireland in a historic one-off contest at Lords.

Interestingly, both&nbsp;of&nbsp;Tongue’s&nbsp;Test matches have&nbsp;been played&nbsp;at&nbsp;Lord’s&nbsp;with&nbsp;his second contest in the red-ball format coming against Australia in the Ashes.

In his two Test matches for the side, he has scalped&nbsp;10&nbsp;wickets with a best of 66/5.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/mi-vs-lsg-ipl-2024-match-67-head-to-head-playing-xi-prediction-pitch-report-all-you-need-to-know-722374">MI vs LSG, IPL 2024, Match 67: Head-to-head, playing XI, prediction, pitch report | All you need to know</a>

He has a proven track record with Worcestershire in the First Class circuit with 177 wickets in 50 matches.

His injury could also force him to sit out of The&nbsp;Hundred&nbsp;where he represents the Manchester Originals.&nbsp;

The last 12 months have seen&nbsp;major&nbsp;revolutions in England's pace bowling unit after Stuart Broad announced his Test retirement.

Broad hung his boots after the home Ashes last year&nbsp;leaving&nbsp;big shoes to fill.&nbsp;

England have enjoyed a stellar run of form under Brendon McCullum ever since he took charge of the side in June 2022.

They are yet to lose a home Test series under his coaching.&nbsp;

His only series defeat came earlier this year when India got the better of Stokes and company 4-1.&nbsp;

England cricket team will face a major obstacle in replacing retiring James Anderson after being dealt a blow on Friday (May 17). England are likely to be without star pacer Josh Tongue as he continues to recover from a long-term injury issue, according to a statement.

England cricket team will face a major obstacle in replacing retiring James Anderson after being dealt a blow on Friday (May 17). England are likely to be without star pacer Josh Tongue as he continues to recover from a long-term injury issue, according to a statement. The pectoral injury will keep the English pacer away from action with no time scale on his return, with Brendon McCullum’s side already set to be without Anderson after the Lord’s Test against the West Indies which starts on July 10. Tongue unlikely to play against West Indies "Josh has had a setback to his original injury. There is no timescale on when he'll return to action," the England & Wales Cricket Board said in a statement. Tongue made his debut for England last year before the home Ashes when Ben Stokes’ side beat Ireland in a historic one-off contest at Lords. Interestingly, both of Tongue’s Test matches have been played at Lord’s with his second contest in the red-ball format coming against Australia in the Ashes. In his two Test matches for the side, he has scalped 10 wickets with a best of 66/5. ALSO READ | MI vs LSG, IPL 2024, Match 67: Head-to-head, playing XI, prediction, pitch report | All you need to know He has a proven track record with Worcestershire in the First Class circuit with 177 wickets in 50 matches. His injury could also force him to sit out of The Hundred where he represents the Manchester Originals. The last 12 months have seen major revolutions in England's pace bowling unit after Stuart Broad announced his Test retirement. Broad hung his boots after the home Ashes last year leaving big shoes to fill. England have enjoyed a stellar run of form under Brendon McCullum ever since he took charge of the side in June 2022. They are yet to lose a home Test series under his coaching. His only series defeat came earlier this year when India got the better of Stokes and company 4-1.

England likely to start home summer without Josh Tongue as plans to replace retiring James Anderson stumble

England great James Anderson will take a call on his illustrious Test career following recent talks with Test head coach Brendon McCullum, per the latest reports.

England great James Anderson will take a call on his illustrious Test career following recent talks with Test head coach Brendon McCullum, per the latest reports. Anderson, 41, is the third-highest wicket-taker in Tests with 700 wickets from 187 matches and the leading-most among all pacers to play this game. Per a Guardian report, McCullum flew from New Zealand to the UK to meet Anderson in person and talk about the future, mainly concentrating on the build-up for next year’s Ashes. Speaking with James over a game of golf, McCullum is said to have conveyed his plans of looking beyond him following the upcoming English summer. Anderson created history during the away winter India tour earlier this year, completing 700 wickets – most by a seamer and counting. Even at this age, he bowled over 110 overs across seven innings, picking just ten wickets. Although he’s been a revelation with the new ball, both at home and away, Anderson struggled to leave an impact during the home Ashes last year, picking just five wickets at an average of over 85 across four Tests. Meanwhile, following the 2024 T20 World Cup in the Caribbean and the USA, England will host West Indies for three Tests in July, with Sri Lanka coming over next for the three-match series. England’s series against Sri Lanka starts with a Test in Old Trafford in August - Anderson’s home ground. ALSO READ: IPL 2024: Fan touches MS Dhoni’s feet during GT tie as Mahi continues merry run with late sixes – WATCH Anderson earlier commented that he would manage his workload for the home series against West Indies and Sri Lanka, due to which he hasn’t represented Lancashire in County this summer. Moreover, England men’s managing director, Robert Key, also addressed this, saying he is looking forward to the younger crop of seamers to take English cricket forward, with the likes of Brydon Carse, Josh Tongue, Matt Potts, Gus Atkinson, Matt Fisher, Saqib Mahmood and John Turner. End of a partnership Last year’s Ashes was Stuart Broad’s final in the whites, as he announced his retirement mid-way into the final Test at The Oval. Anderson and Broad both had picked 851 Test wickets between them. Although this number is impressive considering every era, it’s still third behind McGrath and Warne (1001) and Muttiah Muralitharan and Chaminda Vaas (895). With Broad already retired and Anderson set to announce his retirement anytime ahead of the English summer, perhaps the greatest modern-day partnership will end.

England great James Anderson to retire from Tests after chat with coach McCullum

England Test coach Brendon McCullum is not shying away from accepting the thrashing his team suffered at the hands of India in the recently concluded Test series. After winning the first Test in Hyderabad dramatically, England lost the remaining four Tests to go down 1-4 in what was thought to be a tight contest between two top nations.

Speaking after his team’s loss by an innings and 64 runs in the fifth and final Test in Dharamsala, McCullum admitted that Bazball – a name media gave to England’s fearless and ultra-attacking approach since Brendon and Ben Stokes took over the charge, got exposed big time and, it’s time for some uncomfortable confrontations to ensure players in the dressing room are honest to their motive of providing entertainment to the fans.

"Sometimes, you can get away with things," McCullum said.&nbsp;

"But when you're exposed the way, we have been in the back end of this series in particular, it does require some pretty deep thinking and some adjustment to make sure we're staying true to what we believe in,” the head coach added.

Accepting the result in utmost honesty and reflecting on where they went wrong, McCullum said&nbsp;"as the series went on, England’s approach from being fearless went to being timid," something that contradicts their style of play in Tests, resulting in them going down in each of the last four Tests.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/explained-how-bccis-new-incentive-scheme-initiative-will-change-cricket-dynamics-in-india-698627">Explained – How BCCI’s new ‘incentive scheme’ initiative will change cricket dynamics in India</a>

"If anything, we got more timid as the series went on, and that was because of the pressure that was applied to us by the Indian line-up, not just with the ball. With the bat, they put us under a tremendous amount of pressure, too," McCullum said.

Since the pair took over the leadership role, England prospered in Tests, although they lost several games – eight in 23 matches, seven of which had come since the start of 2023.&nbsp;

<h2>'We need to regroup'</h2>

McCullum accepts that his team’s approach got exposed in this series against India and that they need to regroup and work on several factors to ensure they aren’t repeating the same mistakes in the home summer.&nbsp;

"There are some things where you can get a little bit of luck on your side and you paper over a couple of the cracks. When you are exposed to the way we have been here, you know that you have to get better in some areas."&nbsp;

"The next couple of months will be us working out that and making sure when we come to the summer, we are a more refined version of what we are at the minute,” McCullum added.

England Test coach Brendon McCullum is not shying away from accepting the thrashing his team suffered at the hands of India in the recently concluded Test series.

England Test coach Brendon McCullum is not shying away from accepting the thrashing his team suffered at the hands of India in the recently concluded Test series. After winning the first Test in Hyderabad dramatically, England lost the remaining four Tests to go down 1-4 in what was thought to be a tight contest between two top nations. Speaking after his team’s loss by an innings and 64 runs in the fifth and final Test in Dharamsala, McCullum admitted that Bazball – a name media gave to England’s fearless and ultra-attacking approach since Brendon and Ben Stokes took over the charge, got exposed big time and, it’s time for some uncomfortable confrontations to ensure players in the dressing room are honest to their motive of providing entertainment to the fans. "Sometimes, you can get away with things," McCullum said. "But when you're exposed the way, we have been in the back end of this series in particular, it does require some pretty deep thinking and some adjustment to make sure we're staying true to what we believe in,” the head coach added. Accepting the result in utmost honesty and reflecting on where they went wrong, McCullum said "as the series went on, England’s approach from being fearless went to being timid," something that contradicts their style of play in Tests, resulting in them going down in each of the last four Tests. ALSO READ: Explained – How BCCI’s new ‘incentive scheme’ initiative will change cricket dynamics in India "If anything, we got more timid as the series went on, and that was because of the pressure that was applied to us by the Indian line-up, not just with the ball. With the bat, they put us under a tremendous amount of pressure, too," McCullum said. Since the pair took over the leadership role, England prospered in Tests, although they lost several games – eight in 23 matches, seven of which had come since the start of 2023. 'We need to regroup' McCullum accepts that his team’s approach got exposed in this series against India and that they need to regroup and work on several factors to ensure they aren’t repeating the same mistakes in the home summer. "There are some things where you can get a little bit of luck on your side and you paper over a couple of the cracks. When you are exposed to the way we have been here, you know that you have to get better in some areas." "The next couple of months will be us working out that and making sure when we come to the summer, we are a more refined version of what we are at the minute,” McCullum added.

IND v ENG: ‘We got timid as series went on’ – Brendon McCullum on Bazball getting exposed against India

England coach Brendon McCullum has backed under-fire vice-captain Ollie Pope to return to his usual best in the upcoming fifth and final Test versus India, which gets underway on March 7 in Dharamsala. Ben Stokes' deputy has been off-colour since his majestic 196 in the first Test, in Hyderabad, which helped his side take a 1-0 lead before they faltered in the next three Tests. Pope has not even touched the 50-run mark since his daddy hundred and, hence, there are talks regarding his spot being under threat. Amid all this, McCullum has backed the English batter.

Ahead of the Dharamsala Test, McCullum told reporters, "He’s aware of what he needs to do. He obviously bagged them in the last Test and he’s gutted about that but look at the way he was then helping the skipper on the last day and diving around in the field."

McCullum further opined that he was only interested in seeing Pope bring his best to the table, both as a batter and fielder. "That’s the stuff you’re desperate for as a coach, to see people giving it their best regardless of their own performance. He displayed great leadership qualities and that showed where he’s at as a player, member of this team and as a person," the former New Zealand captain stated.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/r-ashwin-vs-nathan-lyon-england-batter-joe-root-points-out-difference-between-two-great-spinners-696410">R Ashwin vs Nathan Lyon: England batter Joe Root points out difference between two great spinners</a>

Since Pope's struggles, many have pointed out that he has looked shaky at the start. However, McCullum brushed aside all such claims by saying that even greats such as Ricky Ponting and Kevin Pietersen used to take time before settling in. "Look at Kevin Pietersen and Ricky Ponting when they first went out to bat. They were frenetic at the start and everyone’s susceptible when they first go out there. It’s just the way it is.

"But Popey is trying to be as calm as he can be when he goes out there and there’s a period when he needs to grab information from the wicket and get the rhythm of how the game is going," added McCullum.

The fifth and final Test between India and England gets underway on March 7. With the hosts already having an unassailable 3-1 lead, there is still a lot to play for (especially the WTC points) and, hence, Stokes &amp; Co. will be eager to finish off on a high.

England coach Brendon McCullum has backed under-fire vice-captain Ollie Pope to return to his usual best in the upcoming fifth and final Test versus India, which gets underway on March 7 in Dharamsala.

England coach Brendon McCullum has backed under-fire vice-captain Ollie Pope to return to his usual best in the upcoming fifth and final Test versus India, which gets underway on March 7 in Dharamsala. Ben Stokes' deputy has been off-colour since his majestic 196 in the first Test, in Hyderabad, which helped his side take a 1-0 lead before they faltered in the next three Tests. Pope has not even touched the 50-run mark since his daddy hundred and, hence, there are talks regarding his spot being under threat. Amid all this, McCullum has backed the English batter. Ahead of the Dharamsala Test, McCullum told reporters, "He’s aware of what he needs to do. He obviously bagged them in the last Test and he’s gutted about that but look at the way he was then helping the skipper on the last day and diving around in the field." McCullum further opined that he was only interested in seeing Pope bring his best to the table, both as a batter and fielder. "That’s the stuff you’re desperate for as a coach, to see people giving it their best regardless of their own performance. He displayed great leadership qualities and that showed where he’s at as a player, member of this team and as a person," the former New Zealand captain stated. Also read: R Ashwin vs Nathan Lyon: England batter Joe Root points out difference between two great spinners Since Pope's struggles, many have pointed out that he has looked shaky at the start. However, McCullum brushed aside all such claims by saying that even greats such as Ricky Ponting and Kevin Pietersen used to take time before settling in. "Look at Kevin Pietersen and Ricky Ponting when they first went out to bat. They were frenetic at the start and everyone’s susceptible when they first go out there. It’s just the way it is. "But Popey is trying to be as calm as he can be when he goes out there and there’s a period when he needs to grab information from the wicket and get the rhythm of how the game is going," added McCullum. The fifth and final Test between India and England gets underway on March 7. With the hosts already having an unassailable 3-1 lead, there is still a lot to play for (especially the WTC points) and, hence, Stokes & Co. will be eager to finish off on a high.

IND vs ENG: 'He knows what he needs to do' - McCullum backs under-fire Pope ahead of Dharamsala Test

India batter Yashasvi Jaiswal is on the brink of surpassing England coach Brendon McCullum and skipper Ben Stokes for most Test sixes in a calendar year. The Indian batter has already hit 23 sixes in the current year (2024) while Stokes had hit 26 in 2022 and McCullum had smashed 33 maximums in 2014.

India are currently playing a five-Test series against England at home and the last Test will be played from March 7, offering an opportunity for Jaiswal to create history. The batter has been in sublime form in the series with 655 runs to his name in eight innings of the previous four Tests.&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/aus-vs-nz-1st-test-nathan-lyon-admits-frustration-over-australias-collapse-in-second-innings-695898">AUS vs NZ, 1st Test: Nathan Lyon admits 'frustration' over Australia's collapse in second innings</a>

Jaiswal has scored these runs at a stunning average of 93.57 to go with four centuries and two fifties as well. Notably, both of his hundreds have been double tons as well - 209 in first innings of the second Test in Vizag and 2014 not out in second innings of the third Test in Rajkot. His batting exploits have ensured India an unassailable 3-1 lead in the series.

Kishan rejected BCCI's offer to play in England Tests

Keeper-batter KS Bharat was out of touch in the first two matches, failing with the bat in hand. The selectors were keen on replacing him with Ishan Kishan in the playing XI for the remaining games, but with Ishan refusing to accept the offer, as per reports.&nbsp;

Following the South Africa ODIs late last year, Ishan informed BCCI of its decision to remain unavailable for selection, citing mental fatigue. The BCCI, soon after, released a mandate asking him and Shreyas Iyer to make themselves available for their Ranji Trophy teams. Amidst the backlash Ishan and Shreyas Iyer received following declining to appear for their respective state sides in the Ranji Trophy, the BCCI released them from the latest list of centrally contracted players.&nbsp;

India batter Yashasvi Jaiswal is on the brink of surpassing England coach Brendon McCullum and skipper Ben Stokes for most Test sixes in a calendar year. The Indian batter has already hit 23 sixes in the current year (2024) while Stokes had hit 26 in 2022 and McCullum had smashed 33 maximums in 2014.

India batter Yashasvi Jaiswal is on the brink of surpassing England coach Brendon McCullum and skipper Ben Stokes for most Test sixes in a calendar year. The Indian batter has already hit 23 sixes in the current year (2024) while Stokes had hit 26 in 2022 and McCullum had smashed 33 maximums in 2014. India are currently playing a five-Test series against England at home and the last Test will be played from March 7, offering an opportunity for Jaiswal to create history. The batter has been in sublime form in the series with 655 runs to his name in eight innings of the previous four Tests. Also Read: AUS vs NZ, 1st Test: Nathan Lyon admits 'frustration' over Australia's collapse in second innings Jaiswal has scored these runs at a stunning average of 93.57 to go with four centuries and two fifties as well. Notably, both of his hundreds have been double tons as well - 209 in first innings of the second Test in Vizag and 2014 not out in second innings of the third Test in Rajkot. His batting exploits have ensured India an unassailable 3-1 lead in the series. Kishan rejected BCCI's offer to play in England Tests Keeper-batter KS Bharat was out of touch in the first two matches, failing with the bat in hand. The selectors were keen on replacing him with Ishan Kishan in the playing XI for the remaining games, but with Ishan refusing to accept the offer, as per reports. Following the South Africa ODIs late last year, Ishan informed BCCI of its decision to remain unavailable for selection, citing mental fatigue. The BCCI, soon after, released a mandate asking him and Shreyas Iyer to make themselves available for their Ranji Trophy teams. Amidst the backlash Ishan and Shreyas Iyer received following declining to appear for their respective state sides in the Ranji Trophy, the BCCI released them from the latest list of centrally contracted players.

IND vs ENG: Yashasvi Jaiswal closes in on THIS record of England coach Brendon McCullum and skipper Ben Stokes

England's Test coach Brendon McCullum has acknowledged that Ollie Robinson put in a subpar performance in the recently-concluded Ranchi Test against India. The medium pacer, playing his first Test of the five-match series, failed to take any wicket across two innings and dropped a catch too. With the bat, Robinson, however, scored 58 in the first innings but got out on duck in the second innings. His failure with ball although is something for which he's facing a lot of flak.

“Everything he did leading into the Test match suggested we’d see not just the Ollie Robinson we’d seen previously but a better version of it,” said McCullum on Tuesday (Feb 27).&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/india-batter-shreyas-iyer-to-play-in-mumbais-ranji-trophy-semi-final-match-vs-tamil-nadu-amid-scrutiny-694462">India batter Shreyas Iyer to play in Mumbai's Ranji Trophy semi-final match vs Tamil Nadu amid scrutiny</a>

“For one reason or another it didn’t quite work out for him. Obviously he’s not just as disappointed as everyone else, he’s the most disappointed out of everyone,” he added. It is rare of generally ultra-positive McCullum to accept the poor performance from one of his players.&nbsp;

India eventually won the Ranchi Test, fourth of the series, by 5 wickets and took an unassailable 3-1 lead with one more Test to go in Dharamsala which starts March 7.

After the match, former England skipper Michael Atherton also said that he was 'disappointed' with Robinson who didn't bowl a single over in India's second innings.

"Ollie Robinson, I was really disappointed with him in this game. I felt that he bowled, his pace was pedestrian, and he was quite down on pace. He looks like a bowler who needs a good run of game time now, not necessarily with England either," Atherton said on Sky Cricket Podcast.

England had started the Test series well by winning the first Test in Hyderabad but three consecutive losses after that have left their World Test Championship (WTC) standing in tatters as well. The Three Lions are currently second last in ongoing 2023-25 cycle with three wins, five losses and one draw in nine games.

England's Test coach Brendon McCullum has acknowledged that Ollie Robinson put in a subpar performance in the recently-concluded Ranchi Test against India. The medium pacer, playing his first Test of the five-match series, failed to take any wicket across two innings and dropped a catch too.

England's Test coach Brendon McCullum has acknowledged that Ollie Robinson put in a subpar performance in the recently-concluded Ranchi Test against India. The medium pacer, playing his first Test of the five-match series, failed to take any wicket across two innings and dropped a catch too. With the bat, Robinson, however, scored 58 in the first innings but got out on duck in the second innings. His failure with ball although is something for which he's facing a lot of flak. “Everything he did leading into the Test match suggested we’d see not just the Ollie Robinson we’d seen previously but a better version of it,” said McCullum on Tuesday (Feb 27). Also Read: India batter Shreyas Iyer to play in Mumbai's Ranji Trophy semi-final match vs Tamil Nadu amid scrutiny “For one reason or another it didn’t quite work out for him. Obviously he’s not just as disappointed as everyone else, he’s the most disappointed out of everyone,” he added. It is rare of generally ultra-positive McCullum to accept the poor performance from one of his players. India eventually won the Ranchi Test, fourth of the series, by 5 wickets and took an unassailable 3-1 lead with one more Test to go in Dharamsala which starts March 7. After the match, former England skipper Michael Atherton also said that he was 'disappointed' with Robinson who didn't bowl a single over in India's second innings. "Ollie Robinson, I was really disappointed with him in this game. I felt that he bowled, his pace was pedestrian, and he was quite down on pace. He looks like a bowler who needs a good run of game time now, not necessarily with England either," Atherton said on Sky Cricket Podcast. England had started the Test series well by winning the first Test in Hyderabad but three consecutive losses after that have left their World Test Championship (WTC) standing in tatters as well. The Three Lions are currently second last in ongoing 2023-25 cycle with three wins, five losses and one draw in nine games.

IND vs ENG: England coach Brendon McCullum acknowledges poor performance by Ollie Robinson in Ranchi Test

England’s dream of continuing the unbeaten Test series run under skipper Ben Stokes is facing a serious challenge after the visitors were humbled by India on Sunday (Feb 18) in the Rajkot Test. Stokes, who has yet to show his all-round skills with the ball, is now likely to take matters into his own hands as he prepares for the do-or-die contest&nbsp;in Ranchi. According to England head coach Brendon McCullum, the English World Cup-winning all-rounder is fit and could bowl if he's legitimately able to during the remaining two Tests.

<h2>McCullum on Stokes bowling</h2>

"Well, it's good that he's actually getting into a state where he thinks he might bowl," McCullum said. "But Ben is clever; he's really clever as well. He won't bowl unless he thinks he's legitimately able to bowl. The problem would be if he starts getting into a spell and then he can't get out of the spell. So we'll see what unfolds. If he does get that bit between his teeth, then let's see where the danger lies there and try and pull him away from it. But it's a good sign."

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/explained-why-does-the-india-england-test-series-give-05-ashes-vibes-691755">Explained | Why does the India-England Test series give 2005 Ashes vibes?</a>

<h2>Why England are missing Stokes’ bowling?</h2>

England have so far utilised only two speedsters during the series with Mark Wood and James Anderson shuffling the pack. However, the visitors have missed the services of Stokes with the ball whenever either of the bowlers are to be rested during the spell. In the opening two matches, England played with only one speedster before bringing in both Wood and Anderson for the Rajkot Test. So far in the series, Stokes has scored 180 runs in six innings and has averaged 30 overall in the series.

Stokes will next lead England in the Ranchi Test which starts on Friday (Feb 23) knowing a defeat would crush their dreams of winning a Test series on Indian soil. Currently, hosts India lead the five-match series 2-1 having won the Rajkot Test by a record 434 runs. India&nbsp;earlier won the Vizag contest by 106 runs to level the series.&nbsp;England’s sole victory in the series came in the opening Test in Hyderabad when Ollie Pope led the team’s charge with a brilliant 196-run knock.

England’s dream of continuing the unbeaten Test series run under skipper Ben Stokes is facing a serious challenge after the visitors were humbled by India on Sunday (Feb 18) in the Rajkot Test.

England’s dream of continuing the unbeaten Test series run under skipper Ben Stokes is facing a serious challenge after the visitors were humbled by India on Sunday (Feb 18) in the Rajkot Test. Stokes, who has yet to show his all-round skills with the ball, is now likely to take matters into his own hands as he prepares for the do-or-die contest in Ranchi. According to England head coach Brendon McCullum, the English World Cup-winning all-rounder is fit and could bowl if he's legitimately able to during the remaining two Tests. McCullum on Stokes bowling "Well, it's good that he's actually getting into a state where he thinks he might bowl," McCullum said. "But Ben is clever; he's really clever as well. He won't bowl unless he thinks he's legitimately able to bowl. The problem would be if he starts getting into a spell and then he can't get out of the spell. So we'll see what unfolds. If he does get that bit between his teeth, then let's see where the danger lies there and try and pull him away from it. But it's a good sign." ALSO READ | Explained | Why does the India-England Test series give 2005 Ashes vibes? Why England are missing Stokes’ bowling? England have so far utilised only two speedsters during the series with Mark Wood and James Anderson shuffling the pack. However, the visitors have missed the services of Stokes with the ball whenever either of the bowlers are to be rested during the spell. In the opening two matches, England played with only one speedster before bringing in both Wood and Anderson for the Rajkot Test. So far in the series, Stokes has scored 180 runs in six innings and has averaged 30 overall in the series. Stokes will next lead England in the Ranchi Test which starts on Friday (Feb 23) knowing a defeat would crush their dreams of winning a Test series on Indian soil. Currently, hosts India lead the five-match series 2-1 having won the Rajkot Test by a record 434 runs. India earlier won the Vizag contest by 106 runs to level the series. England’s sole victory in the series came in the opening Test in Hyderabad when Ollie Pope led the team’s charge with a brilliant 196-run knock.

IND vs ENG: Ben Stokes likely to bowl in Ranchi, Dharamsala Tests as England face do-or-die situation

England might have returned to the drawing board after the Rajkot Test hammering, but head coach Brendon McCullum feels out of form Jonny Bairstow wouldn't take long before finding the ‘old form’ back that once made him the poster boy of Bazball.&nbsp;

Giving up keeping meant Bairstow could wholly and solely concentrate on his batting exploits, as predicted by captain Ben Stokes ahead of the series.&nbsp;

"We saw what we managed to get out of him, and I don't want him to worry about anything other than batting at five, getting runs, and what's in front of him in the here and now," Stokes said ahead of the start of the Test series.

However, that didn’t turn out the way everyone thought, as Bairstow struggled to find form in three Tests played thus far. With scores of 0 and 4 in two innings in Rajkot, Bairstow failed miserably in helping his team when the chips were down.&nbsp;

Despite averaging a mere 17 on his fourth India tour, Bairstow might still retain his place in the XI for the do-or-die Test for England in Ranchi, McCullum hinted.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/nz-v-aus-david-warner-recalls-early-days-in-franchise-cricket-ahead-of-farewell-tour-691699">NZ v AUS: David Warner recalls early days in franchise cricket ahead of farewell tour</a>

When asked to comment on the playing XI for the next game, which starts on Friday (Feb 23), the coach said,&nbsp;"You know I can't answer that, I haven't even seen the wicket," when asked about Bairstow's position. "But I'd anticipate Jonny would be playing, yes,"&nbsp;McCullum said.

<h2>‘Bairstow still got it’</h2>

Having played 98 Tests, Bairstow falls in the category of modern-day greats for England. And though he has&nbsp;seen it all since debuting in Tests 12 years ago, the right-handed batter introduced Bazball to world cricket with his impressive strokeplay at the start of Stokes-McCullum tenure.

With him notching up four centuries in Stokes’ first six matches as Test captain, McCullum knows what Jonny can do when in form, and the coach is ready to give him an extended run to get back into the groove.&nbsp;

"Yeah look, he's not scored the volume of runs he would have wanted, and a couple of times he's got out kind of mildly for someone who's got the power game Jonny's got," McCullum said.

"I don't have concerns over him. I'm not blind, but he's done so well for us, and he's had such an impactful career. We know that a top-quality Jonny Bairstow is as good as anyone in any conditions. So from our point of view, we've got to keep on giving him confidence and block out a lot of the external noise as well and keep him really present and focused on what he's trying to achieve, and I'm sure Jonny will come good,” the head coach noted.&nbsp;

India leads the five-match series 2-1.

England might have returned to the drawing board after the Rajkot Test hammering, but head coach Brendon McCullum feels out of form Jonny Bairstow wouldn't take long before finding the ‘old form’ back that once made him the poster boy of Bazball.

England might have returned to the drawing board after the Rajkot Test hammering, but head coach Brendon McCullum feels out of form Jonny Bairstow wouldn't take long before finding the ‘old form’ back that once made him the poster boy of Bazball. Giving up keeping meant Bairstow could wholly and solely concentrate on his batting exploits, as predicted by captain Ben Stokes ahead of the series. "We saw what we managed to get out of him, and I don't want him to worry about anything other than batting at five, getting runs, and what's in front of him in the here and now," Stokes said ahead of the start of the Test series. However, that didn’t turn out the way everyone thought, as Bairstow struggled to find form in three Tests played thus far. With scores of 0 and 4 in two innings in Rajkot, Bairstow failed miserably in helping his team when the chips were down. Despite averaging a mere 17 on his fourth India tour, Bairstow might still retain his place in the XI for the do-or-die Test for England in Ranchi, McCullum hinted. ALSO READ: NZ v AUS: David Warner recalls early days in franchise cricket ahead of farewell tour When asked to comment on the playing XI for the next game, which starts on Friday (Feb 23), the coach said, "You know I can't answer that, I haven't even seen the wicket," when asked about Bairstow's position. "But I'd anticipate Jonny would be playing, yes," McCullum said. ‘Bairstow still got it’ Having played 98 Tests, Bairstow falls in the category of modern-day greats for England. And though he has seen it all since debuting in Tests 12 years ago, the right-handed batter introduced Bazball to world cricket with his impressive strokeplay at the start of Stokes-McCullum tenure. With him notching up four centuries in Stokes’ first six matches as Test captain, McCullum knows what Jonny can do when in form, and the coach is ready to give him an extended run to get back into the groove. "Yeah look, he's not scored the volume of runs he would have wanted, and a couple of times he's got out kind of mildly for someone who's got the power game Jonny's got," McCullum said. "I don't have concerns over him. I'm not blind, but he's done so well for us, and he's had such an impactful career. We know that a top-quality Jonny Bairstow is as good as anyone in any conditions. So from our point of view, we've got to keep on giving him confidence and block out a lot of the external noise as well and keep him really present and focused on what he's trying to achieve, and I'm sure Jonny will come good,” the head coach noted. India leads the five-match series 2-1.

IND v ENG: Jonny Bairstow to play fourth Test despite 434-run hammering in Rajkot, says coach McCullum

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

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

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

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

England coach Brendon McCullum said that the team won't be doing a lot of training during their time off in Abu Dhabi, UAE ahead of the third Test in Rajkot against India that starts&nbsp;February 15. The five-match series is tied at 1-1 after the two teams won one match each. While England won the first game in Hyderabad by 28 runs, India came back emphatically to win the next Test in Vizag by 106 runs.

“There won’t be a whole lot of training,” said McCullum before England's departure on Wednesday (Feb 7). “We have had plenty of training days, two Tests and this is an opportunity to step away from the heat of the battle. I was talking to Rahul Dravid [India’s head coach] and he said all his boys are shooting home as well.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/u19-world-cup-2024-sachin-dhas-uday-saharans-valiant-knocks-help-india-reach-fifth-consecutive-final-687590">U19 World Cup 2024: Sachin Dhas, Uday Saharan’s valiant knocks help India reach fifth consecutive final</a>

“Home for us is a little way away so we chose Abu Dhabi and we are going to enjoy the families [joining us]. Then when we get to Rajkot, we drop the shoulder and go hard,” McCullum added.

McCullum also took note of star India batter Virat Kohli's expected return to the side for the next Test. Kohli was selected in the squad for the first two Tests as well but withdrew ahead of the first Test citing personal reasons.

"If Virat is coming back... we hope everything is well with his family. We will look forward to that challenge too. He is a great competitor. I know him very well and I enjoyed playing against him, I enjoyed our team playing against him. And if you have success against the best, I am sure you have earned it," the England coach said while talking to TalkSport.

Apart from Kohli, KL Rahul is also expected to be back for the third Test after missing the second game due to injury. With both Kohli and Rahul set to return, Shreyas Iyer and Rajat Patidar could be left out of the squad which is expected to be announced soon.&nbsp;

England coach Brendon McCullum said that the team won't be doing a lot of training during their time off in Abu Dhabi, UAE ahead of the third Test in Rajkot against India that starts February 15.

England coach Brendon McCullum said that the team won't be doing a lot of training during their time off in Abu Dhabi, UAE ahead of the third Test in Rajkot against India that starts February 15. The five-match series is tied at 1-1 after the two teams won one match each. While England won the first game in Hyderabad by 28 runs, India came back emphatically to win the next Test in Vizag by 106 runs. “There won’t be a whole lot of training,” said McCullum before England's departure on Wednesday (Feb 7). “We have had plenty of training days, two Tests and this is an opportunity to step away from the heat of the battle. I was talking to Rahul Dravid [India’s head coach] and he said all his boys are shooting home as well. Also Read: U19 World Cup 2024: Sachin Dhas, Uday Saharan’s valiant knocks help India reach fifth consecutive final “Home for us is a little way away so we chose Abu Dhabi and we are going to enjoy the families [joining us]. Then when we get to Rajkot, we drop the shoulder and go hard,” McCullum added. McCullum also took note of star India batter Virat Kohli's expected return to the side for the next Test. Kohli was selected in the squad for the first two Tests as well but withdrew ahead of the first Test citing personal reasons. "If Virat is coming back... we hope everything is well with his family. We will look forward to that challenge too. He is a great competitor. I know him very well and I enjoyed playing against him, I enjoyed our team playing against him. And if you have success against the best, I am sure you have earned it," the England coach said while talking to TalkSport. Apart from Kohli, KL Rahul is also expected to be back for the third Test after missing the second game due to injury. With both Kohli and Rahul set to return, Shreyas Iyer and Rajat Patidar could be left out of the squad which is expected to be announced soon.

'Won’t be a whole lot of training,' says head coach Brendon McCullum on England's mid-series break

Former England captain Ian Botham has credited the English side for reviving the fortunes of Test cricket as Ben Stokes’ men continue to play an aggressive brand of cricket. Termed “Bazball’ after Brendon McCullum took over the charge&nbsp;of the English side as head coach in 2022, the fast-attacking cricket has seen fans once again attracted towards the red-ball format despite the rise of T20 leagues like Indian Premier League (IPL) and the Big Bash League (BBL).

<h2>Botham in awe of Bazball</h2>

"You just have to look at the crowds. The crowds are now starting to come back to Test cricket," Botham told 'SENQ 693'. "Playing against India 20-30 years ago in India, the grounds were heaving. Suddenly, the IPL came along and so did one-day cricket and the crowds then plummeted. People are now coming back and wanting to see (Bazball)."

"You are entertainers at the end of the day and if you want people to come to the games, you have to entertain. They don't want to see someone score 1.2 runs per hour, you want to see guys just boss the game."

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/nepals-star-cricketer-sandeep-lamichhane-jailed-for-eight-years-for-rape-678703/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

"You are going to lose one or two games here or there but England have played 15 and won 12. England sells out games across all five days now which was just unheard of."

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/ipl-2024-dc-coach-ricky-ponting-not-quite-sure-yet-about-rishabh-pants-role-in-upcoming-season-687778">IPL 2024: DC coach Ricky Ponting 'not quite sure yet' about Rishabh Pant's role in upcoming season</a>

Since 2022, England are yet to lose a Test series having enjoyed a stellar run during the last couple of years. Their great run has seen them demolish teams like New Zealand, Pakistan and India while they have drawn against Australia in the Ashes. Ben Stoke has been the central figure during the fast-attacking style of cricket and has successfully led the side during the tenure.

Having already won a series in the sub-continent in Pakistan under Stokes’ captaincy England are looking to repeat the trick in India. Currently, they are level at 1-1 in the five-match Test series having won the opening Test in Hyderabad. Their luck ran out in the second Test match in Vizag where they lost by 106 runs as hosts India mounted a comeback.

The two nations are now scheduled to meet again next Thursday (Feb 15) in the third Test match in Rajkot where both India and England will look to take a vital lead in the series.

Former England captain Ian Botham has credited the English side for reviving the fortunes of Test cricket as Ben Stokes’ men continue to play an aggressive brand of cricket.

Former England captain Ian Botham has credited the English side for reviving the fortunes of Test cricket as Ben Stokes’ men continue to play an aggressive brand of cricket. Termed “Bazball’ after Brendon McCullum took over the charge of the English side as head coach in 2022, the fast-attacking cricket has seen fans once again attracted towards the red-ball format despite the rise of T20 leagues like Indian Premier League (IPL) and the Big Bash League (BBL). Botham in awe of Bazball "You just have to look at the crowds. The crowds are now starting to come back to Test cricket," Botham told 'SENQ 693'. "Playing against India 20-30 years ago in India, the grounds were heaving. Suddenly, the IPL came along and so did one-day cricket and the crowds then plummeted. People are now coming back and wanting to see (Bazball)." "You are entertainers at the end of the day and if you want people to come to the games, you have to entertain. They don't want to see someone score 1.2 runs per hour, you want to see guys just boss the game." × "You are going to lose one or two games here or there but England have played 15 and won 12. England sells out games across all five days now which was just unheard of." ALSO READ | IPL 2024: DC coach Ricky Ponting 'not quite sure yet' about Rishabh Pant's role in upcoming season Since 2022, England are yet to lose a Test series having enjoyed a stellar run during the last couple of years. Their great run has seen them demolish teams like New Zealand, Pakistan and India while they have drawn against Australia in the Ashes. Ben Stoke has been the central figure during the fast-attacking style of cricket and has successfully led the side during the tenure. Having already won a series in the sub-continent in Pakistan under Stokes’ captaincy England are looking to repeat the trick in India. Currently, they are level at 1-1 in the five-match Test series having won the opening Test in Hyderabad. Their luck ran out in the second Test match in Vizag where they lost by 106 runs as hosts India mounted a comeback. The two nations are now scheduled to meet again next Thursday (Feb 15) in the third Test match in Rajkot where both India and England will look to take a vital lead in the series.

IND vs ENG: Former England captain Ian Botham credits 'Bazball' for reviving fortunes of Test cricket

Former England skipper Joe Root has revealed that the English team doesn't do team meetings anymore after Ben Stokes became the skipper and Brendon McCullum came on as the head coach. Root made the comments on Jio Cinema - the official digital broadcaster of the ongoing India vs England Test series. The five-match series is tied at 1-1 after the first two games and there's a nine-day rest period before the next Test starts on February 15 in Rajkot.

"We don't really do team meetings anymore. That's one of the great things about how we do all of our conversations away from the game and just that enjoyment and buzz about spending time with each other," said Root about the new mindset in England camp.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/ipl-2024-dc-coach-ricky-ponting-not-quite-sure-yet-about-rishabh-pants-role-in-upcoming-season-687778">DC coach Ricky Ponting 'not quite sure yet' about Rishabh Pant's role in IPL 2024&nbsp;season</a>

"We don't have to sit in a meeting room and I think it's more authentic and more genuine when you can have it around a dinner table. Having a coffee in the morning or whatever, I think that's when you do your best learning," he added.

Although England lost the second Test by 106 runs, their come-from-behind win by 28 runs in the first Test in Hyderabad speaks volumes about the&nbsp;brand of cricket they play these days.

Termed 'Bazball', India head coach Rahul Dravid also praised the new English style of play and acknowledged that it is not just slogging but skills as well.

"It's not wild slogging, they are actually showing some very good skills. Some of the shots they are playing require a lot of skills and ability. You can't just come and execute those things," said Dravid at the post-match presentation after the second Test in Vizag.

England are currently in Abu Dhabi for the break before the third Test and their coach McCullum has said that the team won't be doing much practice in their time off.

Former England skipper Joe Root has revealed that the English team doesn't do team meetings anymore after Ben Stokes became the skipper and Brendon McCullum came on as the head coach.

Former England skipper Joe Root has revealed that the English team doesn't do team meetings anymore after Ben Stokes became the skipper and Brendon McCullum came on as the head coach. Root made the comments on Jio Cinema - the official digital broadcaster of the ongoing India vs England Test series. The five-match series is tied at 1-1 after the first two games and there's a nine-day rest period before the next Test starts on February 15 in Rajkot. "We don't really do team meetings anymore. That's one of the great things about how we do all of our conversations away from the game and just that enjoyment and buzz about spending time with each other," said Root about the new mindset in England camp. Also Read: DC coach Ricky Ponting 'not quite sure yet' about Rishabh Pant's role in IPL 2024 season "We don't have to sit in a meeting room and I think it's more authentic and more genuine when you can have it around a dinner table. Having a coffee in the morning or whatever, I think that's when you do your best learning," he added. Although England lost the second Test by 106 runs, their come-from-behind win by 28 runs in the first Test in Hyderabad speaks volumes about the brand of cricket they play these days. Termed 'Bazball', India head coach Rahul Dravid also praised the new English style of play and acknowledged that it is not just slogging but skills as well. "It's not wild slogging, they are actually showing some very good skills. Some of the shots they are playing require a lot of skills and ability. You can't just come and execute those things," said Dravid at the post-match presentation after the second Test in Vizag. England are currently in Abu Dhabi for the break before the third Test and their coach McCullum has said that the team won't be doing much practice in their time off.

'We don't do team meetings anymore,' reveals former England skipper Joe Root

England head coach Brendon McCullum has taken note of Virat Kohli’s return to the Indian team as the teams have shifted attention to the Rajkot Test which starts next Thursday (Feb 15). Virat, who did not participate in the opening two matches of the Test series against England will be back in the squad for the third Test. According to McCullum, Virat is one of the finest and greatest players of his generation and will be a big addition to the Indian team.

<h2>Virat set to return to Team India</h2>

"Virat's one of the greatest players of the game has seen. No doubt it improves this squad. As we have said throughout, the depth of Indian cricket, the talent in India is immense. So we respect every opposition player that we come up against," Brendon McCullum told TalkSport.

"If Virat is coming back... we hope everything is well with his family. We will look forward to that challenge too. He is a great competitor. I know him very well and I enjoyed playing against him, I enjoyed our team playing against him. And if you have success against the best, I am sure you have earned it," he added.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/nepals-star-cricketer-sandeep-lamichhane-jailed-for-eight-years-for-rape-678703/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Virat’s return against England will be a massive boost to the Indian side as the hosts look to take a vital lead in the five-match Test series. So far against England, Virat has scored 1991 runs and needs nine more runs to reach the special club of ‘2000’.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/premier-league-manchester-city-blast-brentford-away-to-move-within-two-points-of-top-687309">Premier League: Manchester City blast Brentford away to move within two points of top</a>

England will become Virat’s most favourite Test opponent during the Test series with Australia being the only other nation against whom he has scored more runs. Scoring 52 runs against England, Virat will leapfrog the tally of 2042 runs he has against the Aussies. Virat also has five hundreds and nine fifties against the English side with a best of 235.

Virat’s inclusion will be a timely boost for the Indian side as they are already without the services of Ravindra Jadeja and KL Rahul while Shubman Gill is also nursing an injury after the Vizag Test. His inclusion alongside a fit Gill could see the exclusion of Rajat Patidar from the Playing XI for the Rajkot Test next week.

England head coach Brendon McCullum has taken note of Virat Kohli’s return to the Indian team as the teams have shifted attention to the Rajkot Test which starts next Thursday (Feb 15).

England head coach Brendon McCullum has taken note of Virat Kohli’s return to the Indian team as the teams have shifted attention to the Rajkot Test which starts next Thursday (Feb 15). Virat, who did not participate in the opening two matches of the Test series against England will be back in the squad for the third Test. According to McCullum, Virat is one of the finest and greatest players of his generation and will be a big addition to the Indian team. Virat set to return to Team India "Virat's one of the greatest players of the game has seen. No doubt it improves this squad. As we have said throughout, the depth of Indian cricket, the talent in India is immense. So we respect every opposition player that we come up against," Brendon McCullum told TalkSport. "If Virat is coming back... we hope everything is well with his family. We will look forward to that challenge too. He is a great competitor. I know him very well and I enjoyed playing against him, I enjoyed our team playing against him. And if you have success against the best, I am sure you have earned it," he added. × Virat’s return against England will be a massive boost to the Indian side as the hosts look to take a vital lead in the five-match Test series. So far against England, Virat has scored 1991 runs and needs nine more runs to reach the special club of ‘2000’. ALSO READ | Premier League: Manchester City blast Brentford away to move within two points of top England will become Virat’s most favourite Test opponent during the Test series with Australia being the only other nation against whom he has scored more runs. Scoring 52 runs against England, Virat will leapfrog the tally of 2042 runs he has against the Aussies. Virat also has five hundreds and nine fifties against the English side with a best of 235. Virat’s inclusion will be a timely boost for the Indian side as they are already without the services of Ravindra Jadeja and KL Rahul while Shubman Gill is also nursing an injury after the Vizag Test. His inclusion alongside a fit Gill could see the exclusion of Rajat Patidar from the Playing XI for the Rajkot Test next week.

IND vs ENG: England coach Brendon McCullum takes note of GOAT Virat Kohli's return to Indian side

England Test team coach Brendon McCullum has fired a warning at Team India as the two nations get ready for the second Test match in Visakhapatnam, starting on Friday (Feb 2). McCullum, who has revolutionised English Test cricket since taking over as coach in 2022, thinks his side is equipped to play an all-spin bowling attack which could put the hosts on the back foot. The English side is boosted by the arrival of Shoaib Bashir after visa issues forced him to sit out of the Hyderabad contest.

<h2>McCullum to go all-spin?</h2>

“He comes into the calculations,” McCullum told New Zealand’s SENZ Radio. “If the wickets continue to spin as much as we saw in the first Test, as the series goes on we won’t be afraid to play all spinners, or a balance of what we’ve got.

“We’ll have a look at conditions and make a call. You’re not going to get every call right, especially over here - it’s hard to read some of the wickets. But we’ll make a decision and go quids in on trying to commit to that. Then we’ll see where we land,” the former New Zealand batter added.

England made a sensational start to the five-match Test series against India after winning the Hyderabad contest by 28 runs on Sunday. Tom Hartley on debut scalped seven wickets in the second innings while Ollie Pope was on fire after scoring a match-winning 196-run knock.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/explained-the-curious-case-of-now-suspended-russian-figure-skater-kamila-valieva-685251">Explained | The curious case of now suspended Russian figure skater Kamila Valieva</a>

England already have the spin trio of Jack Leach, Hartley and Rehan Ahmed and with the addition of 20-year-old Shoaib Bashir the spin attack will only get better.

<h2>India on the receiving end of injuries</h2>

While the visitors are on the rise, India are facing issues in both the batting and bowling departments heading into the second match. They will be without KL Rahul and Ravindra Jadeja, with both missing out on the Vizag game due to injuries. Washington Sundar and Sarfaraz Khan have been given SOS, but it is the former who could be preferred to replace Jadeja, while suspense continues over who will replace Rahul with Sarfaraz yet to play at the international level.

England Test team coach Brendon McCullum has fired a warning at Team India as the two nations get ready for the second Test match in Visakhapatnam, starting on Friday (Feb 2).

England Test team coach Brendon McCullum has fired a warning at Team India as the two nations get ready for the second Test match in Visakhapatnam, starting on Friday (Feb 2). McCullum, who has revolutionised English Test cricket since taking over as coach in 2022, thinks his side is equipped to play an all-spin bowling attack which could put the hosts on the back foot. The English side is boosted by the arrival of Shoaib Bashir after visa issues forced him to sit out of the Hyderabad contest. McCullum to go all-spin? “He comes into the calculations,” McCullum told New Zealand’s SENZ Radio. “If the wickets continue to spin as much as we saw in the first Test, as the series goes on we won’t be afraid to play all spinners, or a balance of what we’ve got. “We’ll have a look at conditions and make a call. You’re not going to get every call right, especially over here - it’s hard to read some of the wickets. But we’ll make a decision and go quids in on trying to commit to that. Then we’ll see where we land,” the former New Zealand batter added. England made a sensational start to the five-match Test series against India after winning the Hyderabad contest by 28 runs on Sunday. Tom Hartley on debut scalped seven wickets in the second innings while Ollie Pope was on fire after scoring a match-winning 196-run knock. ALSO READ | Explained | The curious case of now suspended Russian figure skater Kamila Valieva England already have the spin trio of Jack Leach, Hartley and Rehan Ahmed and with the addition of 20-year-old Shoaib Bashir the spin attack will only get better. India on the receiving end of injuries While the visitors are on the rise, India are facing issues in both the batting and bowling departments heading into the second match. They will be without KL Rahul and Ravindra Jadeja, with both missing out on the Vizag game due to injuries. Washington Sundar and Sarfaraz Khan have been given SOS, but it is the former who could be preferred to replace Jadeja, while suspense continues over who will replace Rahul with Sarfaraz yet to play at the international level.

IND vs ENG: England coach Brendon McCullum ready to unleash spin attack, says 'we won’t be afraid to play...'

We did a Nathan Lyon with Tom Hartley in Hyderabad, and it paid off, England Coach Brendon McCullum admitted while speaking on SENZ Radio after the first Test win. With sight set on taking a 2-0 lead in the five-match series, McCullum added England might go for horses for courses policy in the second Test in Vizag, playing four spinners if conditions demand.

Like how Lyon, with just a handful of first-class matches, made his Test debut in 2011, Hartley emerged onto the Test scene with little experience on his back and delivered, guiding England to a famous win in the Hyderabad Test, picking seven wickets in the second innings.

Speaking on picking left-armer Hartley in the first Test, McCullum admitted it was a punk call, and he is glad it paid off.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-v-eng-2nd-test-rajat-not-sarfaraz-should-replace-rahul-gill-not-a-number-3-batter-sarandeep-singh-685159">IND v ENG, 2nd Test - Rajat, not Sarfaraz, should replace Rahul; Gill not a number 3 batter: Sarandeep Singh</a>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/teams-with-most-test-wins-in-india-684840/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

“Tom Hartley, on debut, who has only played a handful of first-class games, stepped up with the bowl. It was a punt selection,” McCullum said on SENZ Radio.&nbsp;

“We saw something in him that we thought will work over here. He is a tough character, and the way the skipper handled him was quite remarkable as well. He obviously bowled us to the Test win,” the coach added.

Referring to Lyon in the same breath as Hartley, McCullum said, “When we picked Tom, people raised their eyebrows, but let’s not forget Nathan Lyon only played a handful of first-class cricket, averaging 40 odd when he first got picked for the Test team for Australia.”

<h2>McCullum hints at changes in XI for Vizag Test</h2>

Having won the first Test in Hyderabad, England has a cushion for experimenting with their playing XI in the second Test in Vizag, starting on Friday. Although the wicket on offer might assist spinners, McCullum said if the conditions demand, England might play four spinners, with Shoaib Bashir getting included in the XI.&nbsp;

Known to be playing the ultra-attacking brand of cricket, which the world labels as ‘Bazball’, McCullum admitted they would stick to their fearless approach in the remainder of the series.&nbsp;

“He was obviously with us in the camp in Abu Dhabi and he really impressed with his skill sets. He fits in the group. He again like Tom Hartley has little first-class experience, but we thought his skill could help us in here.

“He turned up at a perfect time. The guys gave him a huge cheer, and he witness the Test win. He also comes to the calculation for the next Test match. We won’t be afraid to play all spinners if the wickets will turn more,” the head coach said.

We did a Nathan Lyon with Tom Hartley in Hyderabad, and it paid off, England Coach Brendon McCullum admitted while speaking on SENZ Radio after the first Test win.

We did a Nathan Lyon with Tom Hartley in Hyderabad, and it paid off, England Coach Brendon McCullum admitted while speaking on SENZ Radio after the first Test win. With sight set on taking a 2-0 lead in the five-match series, McCullum added England might go for horses for courses policy in the second Test in Vizag, playing four spinners if conditions demand. Like how Lyon, with just a handful of first-class matches, made his Test debut in 2011, Hartley emerged onto the Test scene with little experience on his back and delivered, guiding England to a famous win in the Hyderabad Test, picking seven wickets in the second innings. Speaking on picking left-armer Hartley in the first Test, McCullum admitted it was a punk call, and he is glad it paid off. ALSO READ: IND v ENG, 2nd Test - Rajat, not Sarfaraz, should replace Rahul; Gill not a number 3 batter: Sarandeep Singh × “Tom Hartley, on debut, who has only played a handful of first-class games, stepped up with the bowl. It was a punt selection,” McCullum said on SENZ Radio. “We saw something in him that we thought will work over here. He is a tough character, and the way the skipper handled him was quite remarkable as well. He obviously bowled us to the Test win,” the coach added. Referring to Lyon in the same breath as Hartley, McCullum said, “When we picked Tom, people raised their eyebrows, but let’s not forget Nathan Lyon only played a handful of first-class cricket, averaging 40 odd when he first got picked for the Test team for Australia.” McCullum hints at changes in XI for Vizag Test Having won the first Test in Hyderabad, England has a cushion for experimenting with their playing XI in the second Test in Vizag, starting on Friday. Although the wicket on offer might assist spinners, McCullum said if the conditions demand, England might play four spinners, with Shoaib Bashir getting included in the XI. Known to be playing the ultra-attacking brand of cricket, which the world labels as ‘Bazball’, McCullum admitted they would stick to their fearless approach in the remainder of the series. “He was obviously with us in the camp in Abu Dhabi and he really impressed with his skill sets. He fits in the group. He again like Tom Hartley has little first-class experience, but we thought his skill could help us in here. “He turned up at a perfect time. The guys gave him a huge cheer, and he witness the Test win. He also comes to the calculation for the next Test match. We won’t be afraid to play all spinners if the wickets will turn more,” the head coach said.

IND vs ENG: Tom Hartley’s ‘punt selection’ paid off in Hyderabad – Brendon McCullum lauds newbie’s heroics

Ahead of the India Tests, England head coach Brendon McCullum says he wants his side 'to be bravest' as a huge challenge awaits Ben Stokes &amp; Co. The visiting side have a herculean task to beat India, who remain unbeaten in whites at home since their 1-2 loss to England in 2012/13. McCullum feels confident of the side's preparations&nbsp;in Abu Dhabi and emphasised that 'when to stick and when to twist' the nuances of the game will be a fascinating part.

Speaking to the reporters in Hyderabad, McCullum said, "India is the land of opportunity and that's what sits in front of us now, we'll take the positive option. Other teams might be better, but we want to be the bravest. We've got to do that and that's got to be factored into selection, too."

<section itemprop="articleBody">
<section itemprop="articleBody">
The New Zealander opined, "The guys walked away from Abu Dhabi with a huge amount of confidence that we've prepared as well as we possibly can. In the end, all you're trying to do is get guys in the frame of mind where they feel 10 foot tall and bulletproof when they walk out to play."
</section>
</section>

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/bcci-awards-ex-coach-ravi-shastri-to-receive-lifetime-achievement-award-gill-to-bag-mens-cricketer-honour-682654">BCCI Awards: Ex-coach Ravi Shastri to receive lifetime achievement award, Gill to bag men's cricketer honour</a>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/nepals-star-cricketer-sandeep-lamichhane-jailed-for-eight-years-for-rape-678703/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

McCullum added, "We've got to take 20 wickets with the ball in each Test and we've got to get one more run than them with the bat. It's not rocket science but it will be the nuances of the game and when to stick and when to twist which will be the fascinating part."

<section itemprop="articleBody">
It will all boil down to England's&nbsp;ultra-aggressive batting approach&nbsp;against India's world-class spin trio in the upcoming five Tests. The first Test commences at the Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium in Hyderabad on Jan 25 (Thursday).
</section>

Ahead of the India Tests, England head coach Brendon McCullum says he wants his side 'to be bravest' as a huge challenge awaits Ben Stokes & Co. The visiting side have a herculean task to beat India, who remain unbeaten in whites at home since their 1-2 loss to England in 2012/13.

Ahead of the India Tests, England head coach Brendon McCullum says he wants his side 'to be bravest' as a huge challenge awaits Ben Stokes & Co. The visiting side have a herculean task to beat India, who remain unbeaten in whites at home since their 1-2 loss to England in 2012/13. McCullum feels confident of the side's preparations in Abu Dhabi and emphasised that 'when to stick and when to twist' the nuances of the game will be a fascinating part. Speaking to the reporters in Hyderabad, McCullum said, "India is the land of opportunity and that's what sits in front of us now, we'll take the positive option. Other teams might be better, but we want to be the bravest. We've got to do that and that's got to be factored into selection, too." The New Zealander opined, "The guys walked away from Abu Dhabi with a huge amount of confidence that we've prepared as well as we possibly can. In the end, all you're trying to do is get guys in the frame of mind where they feel 10 foot tall and bulletproof when they walk out to play." Also read: BCCI Awards: Ex-coach Ravi Shastri to receive lifetime achievement award, Gill to bag men's cricketer honour × McCullum added, "We've got to take 20 wickets with the ball in each Test and we've got to get one more run than them with the bat. It's not rocket science but it will be the nuances of the game and when to stick and when to twist which will be the fascinating part." It will all boil down to England's ultra-aggressive batting approach against India's world-class spin trio in the upcoming five Tests. The first Test commences at the Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium in Hyderabad on Jan 25 (Thursday).

Ind vs Eng: We want to be the bravest, says England coach Brendon McCullum ahead of India Tests

New Zealand batter Finn Allen ran riot in the third T20I in Dunedin on Wednesday (Jan 17) and smashed several records on his way. Allen, playing in his 37th T20I contest for the nation, was in bright form on Wednesday as New Zealand beat Pakistan by 45 runs. The win in the third T20I also saw New Zealand pocket the five-match series 3-0 as they now turn their attention to a whitewash by winning the remaining two matches in Christchurch.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Finn Allen produced the highest individual score by a New Zealand batter in T20I history 🇳🇿 
 
More records ➡️ <a href="https://t.co/RlsPoh5tjI">https://t.co/RlsPoh5tjI</a> <a href="https://t.co/FVjriAFlXh">pic.twitter.com/FVjriAFlXh</a>
— ICC (@ICC) <a href="https://twitter.com/ICC/status/1747444514896187791?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 17, 2024</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<h2>Allen runs riot</h2>

Leading the series 2-0, New Zealand were asked to bat first after Pakistan skipper Shaheen Shah Afridi won the toss. The decision boomeranged on the visitors with Allen in sublime form at the University Oval in Dunedin. Allen&nbsp;opened the batting along with Devon Conway,&nbsp; but&nbsp;New Zealand did not have the best start to their innings with the latter dismissed for seven. However, Conway continued his impressive form and scored a record-breaking hundred.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/nepals-star-cricketer-sandeep-lamichhane-jailed-for-eight-years-for-rape-678703/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

In his 137-run knock, Allen smashed 16 sixes, a new record for most sixes hit in an innings of a T20I match. He also broke Brendon McCullum’s record for highest individual score for New Zealand in the T20I format, surpassing his previous best of 123 against Bangladesh in 2012. His 137-run innings came off just 62 balls which included 5 fours as well. He was well supported by Tim Siefert (31 off 23) and Glenn Phillips (19 off 15) as the hosts posted 224/7 in their 20 overs.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/big-bash-league-sydney-sixers-win-last-ball-thriller-against-perth-scorchers-to-enters-qualifiers-watch-680593">Big Bash League: Sydney Sixers win last-ball thriller against Perth Scorchers to enter qualifiers - WATCH</a>

In reply, Pakistan tried giving their best to stay alive in the series but ultimately fell short of the target by 45 runs. Babar Azam was the top scorer with 58 runs off 37 deliveries while Mohammad Rizwan (24) and Mohammad Nawaz (28) also played crucial roles in trying to get to the total. However, with no big partnership in the innings, New Zealand pocketed the match and thereby the series.

The teams will next meet on Friday (Jan 19) before again going head-to-head in the final T20I on Sunday. Both the matches will be played at the Hagley Oval in Christchurch as Pakistan will try to avoid a double whitewash, having already lost 3-0 in the Test series in Australia.

New Zealand batter Finn Allen ran riot in the third T20I in Dunedin on Wednesday (Jan 17) and smashed several records on his way. Allen, playing in his 37th T20I contest for the nation, was in bright form on Wednesday as New Zealand beat Pakistan by 45 runs.

New Zealand batter Finn Allen ran riot in the third T20I in Dunedin on Wednesday (Jan 17) and smashed several records on his way. Allen, playing in his 37th T20I contest for the nation, was in bright form on Wednesday as New Zealand beat Pakistan by 45 runs. The win in the third T20I also saw New Zealand pocket the five-match series 3-0 as they now turn their attention to a whitewash by winning the remaining two matches in Christchurch. Finn Allen produced the highest individual score by a New Zealand batter in T20I history 🇳🇿 More records ➡️ https://t.co/RlsPoh5tjI pic.twitter.com/FVjriAFlXh — ICC (@ICC) January 17, 2024 × Allen runs riot Leading the series 2-0, New Zealand were asked to bat first after Pakistan skipper Shaheen Shah Afridi won the toss. The decision boomeranged on the visitors with Allen in sublime form at the University Oval in Dunedin. Allen opened the batting along with Devon Conway, but New Zealand did not have the best start to their innings with the latter dismissed for seven. However, Conway continued his impressive form and scored a record-breaking hundred. × In his 137-run knock, Allen smashed 16 sixes, a new record for most sixes hit in an innings of a T20I match. He also broke Brendon McCullum’s record for highest individual score for New Zealand in the T20I format, surpassing his previous best of 123 against Bangladesh in 2012. His 137-run innings came off just 62 balls which included 5 fours as well. He was well supported by Tim Siefert (31 off 23) and Glenn Phillips (19 off 15) as the hosts posted 224/7 in their 20 overs. ALSO READ | Big Bash League: Sydney Sixers win last-ball thriller against Perth Scorchers to enter qualifiers - WATCH In reply, Pakistan tried giving their best to stay alive in the series but ultimately fell short of the target by 45 runs. Babar Azam was the top scorer with 58 runs off 37 deliveries while Mohammad Rizwan (24) and Mohammad Nawaz (28) also played crucial roles in trying to get to the total. However, with no big partnership in the innings, New Zealand pocketed the match and thereby the series. The teams will next meet on Friday (Jan 19) before again going head-to-head in the final T20I on Sunday. Both the matches will be played at the Hagley Oval in Christchurch as Pakistan will try to avoid a double whitewash, having already lost 3-0 in the Test series in Australia.

NZ vs PAK: Finn Allen runs riot in Dunedin with record-breaking inning as Kiwis crush Pakistan to win series

England men's cricket team's attacking brand of cricket under coach Brendon McCullum, commonly referred to as 'Bazball' has been added to Collins English Dictionary for 2023. The word Bazball is one of the 10 new words to have found a space in the prestigious dictionary.&nbsp;

The entry in the dictionary reads as follows:&nbsp;“Bazball [ˈbæzbɔːl] noun a style of test cricket in which the batting side plays in a highly aggressive manner. Word origin: C21: after Brendan McCullum, known as Baz (born 1981), New Zealand cricketer and coach.”

The word was first coined by ESPNcricinfo's UK editor Andrew Miller on a podcast ahead of the England vs New Zealand series in June 2022. Baz is the nickname of McCullum, coming from his middle name 'Barrie', with the&nbsp;addition of' ball' an&nbsp;equivalent of any high-profile drama or investigation that adds the word ‘gate’ to a phrase.

Since then, the word has gained immense popularity and&nbsp;is used interchangeably to describe positive intent shown by any team, across sporting disciplines.&nbsp;

<h2>Origins of the word</h2>

While attacking form of cricket has long been played by different teams, McCullum took it a notch above with the England red-ball team. The Three Lions had been playing a conservative brand of cricket, especially in Test matches, which was not bringing the desired results.&nbsp;

Looking for answers, the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) turned to McCullum and appointed him the coach in 2022. Immediately after,&nbsp;he inculcated the habit of playing fearless cricket alongside captain Ben Stokes.

Apart from instructing players to go for their shots, Bazball's core philosophy lies in giving the players a long rope and confidence that they will not be dropped, come what may.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/at-some-point-during-ashes-2023-bazball-had-australia-scratching-their-heads-admits-ricky-ponting-626657">Also read |&nbsp;At some point during Ashes 2023, Bazball had Australia scratching their heads, admits Ricky Ponting</a>

While Bazball was a McCullum-Stokes&nbsp;invention for the Test format, it has carried over to the limited-overs format as well. It was one of the reasons why England were able to get rid of T20 World Cup voodoo and emerged victorious in the 2022&nbsp;edition.&nbsp;

Despite the popularity of the word, coined after his name, McCullum is not an impressed man. On multiple occasions, he has called the usage of the word rather 'silly'.&nbsp;

“I don’t really like that silly term that people are throwing out there. Because there’s actually quite a bit of thought that goes into it," said McCullum.&nbsp;

The ultra-positive side of Bazball, however, is a double-edged sword as England found it in the Ashes earlier this year and during the ongoing World Cup in India.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

England men's cricket team's attacking brand of cricket under coach Brendon McCullum, commonly referred to as 'Bazball' has been added to Collins English Dictionary for 2023.

England men's cricket team's attacking brand of cricket under coach Brendon McCullum, commonly referred to as 'Bazball' has been added to Collins English Dictionary for 2023. The word Bazball is one of the 10 new words to have found a space in the prestigious dictionary. The entry in the dictionary reads as follows: “Bazball [ˈbæzbɔːl] noun a style of test cricket in which the batting side plays in a highly aggressive manner. Word origin: C21: after Brendan McCullum, known as Baz (born 1981), New Zealand cricketer and coach.” The word was first coined by ESPNcricinfo's UK editor Andrew Miller on a podcast ahead of the England vs New Zealand series in June 2022. Baz is the nickname of McCullum, coming from his middle name 'Barrie', with the addition of' ball' an equivalent of any high-profile drama or investigation that adds the word ‘gate’ to a phrase. Since then, the word has gained immense popularity and is used interchangeably to describe positive intent shown by any team, across sporting disciplines. Origins of the word While attacking form of cricket has long been played by different teams, McCullum took it a notch above with the England red-ball team. The Three Lions had been playing a conservative brand of cricket, especially in Test matches, which was not bringing the desired results. Looking for answers, the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) turned to McCullum and appointed him the coach in 2022. Immediately after, he inculcated the habit of playing fearless cricket alongside captain Ben Stokes. Apart from instructing players to go for their shots, Bazball's core philosophy lies in giving the players a long rope and confidence that they will not be dropped, come what may. Also read | At some point during Ashes 2023, Bazball had Australia scratching their heads, admits Ricky Ponting While Bazball was a McCullum-Stokes invention for the Test format, it has carried over to the limited-overs format as well. It was one of the reasons why England were able to get rid of T20 World Cup voodoo and emerged victorious in the 2022 edition. Despite the popularity of the word, coined after his name, McCullum is not an impressed man. On multiple occasions, he has called the usage of the word rather 'silly'. “I don’t really like that silly term that people are throwing out there. Because there’s actually quite a bit of thought that goes into it," said McCullum. The ultra-positive side of Bazball, however, is a double-edged sword as England found it in the Ashes earlier this year and during the ongoing World Cup in India. (With inputs from agencies)

Cricket: 'Bazball' officially added to the Collins English Dictionary

Zak Crawley, England’s leading run-scorer in the recently-concluded Ashes 2023, is ready to bring the Bazball to India for five-match Test series scheduled for the January-February window next year. The right-handed batter, who amassed 480 runs, striking at over 88 and averaging 53.33, feels despite the spin threat, England can stand tall with their approach though they need to adapt to conditions first.

As England’s next Test is scheduled to get underway after around six months, Crawley, who toured India in 2021 – hitting 67 in two Tests – thinks with newer venues added to the itinerary this time, England is ready to weather any challenge – be it spin, seam and even swing (if any).

"I don't really know much about their grounds," Crawley said after the Oval Test win.

"Sometimes in India, it seams and swings a bit - and they've got unbelievable seamers - so hopefully there are a couple of pitches there that are like that as well, that will suit us a bit more.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-rcb-appoints-andy-flower-as-new-head-coach-ends-partnership-with-mike-hesson-sanjay-bangar-622236">IPL: RCB appoints Andy Flower as new head coach, ends partnership with Mike Hesson, Sanjay Bangar</a>

"But if it's spinning, I feel like we play spin really well as well. We'll just have to adapt, see what we get. But they are pretty unknown grounds - I don't know if they're going to be raggers like Ahmedabad and Chennai, where we were last time," the opener added.

Captain Ben Stokes expressed the exact thoughts when asked about Bazball succeeding in India in the post-match presser in London, saying if England can achieve the results in Pakistan and New Zealand and almost win against the Aussies at home, there is no point why they cannot do it against spin-heavy Indian Team in their conditions.

<h2>Clarity of thought to help England – McCullum</h2>

Addressing a similar question, Test Coach Brendon McCullum said for the touring team to succeed on those dusty tracks in India, having a clarity in thought is important.&nbsp;

"For us, what will be really important for the time India comes will be trying to dial back into what we've achieved in the last 14-15 months, and to try and make sure the team turns up with the same clarity of thought when we go about things," McCullum said.&nbsp;

<h3>Schedule of England’s tour of India 2024 –</h3>

<ul>
	<li>1st Test – January 25-29, Hyderabad</li>
	<li>2nd Test – February 2-6 – Vizag</li>
	<li>3rd Test – February 15-19 – Rajkot</li>
	<li>4th Test – February 23-27 – Ranchi</li>
	<li>5th Test – 7-11 March – Dharamshala</li>
</ul>

WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Zak Crawley, England’s leading run-scorer in the recently-concluded Ashes 2023, is ready to bring the Bazball to India for five-match Test series scheduled for the January-February window next year.

Zak Crawley, England’s leading run-scorer in the recently-concluded Ashes 2023, is ready to bring the Bazball to India for five-match Test series scheduled for the January-February window next year. The right-handed batter, who amassed 480 runs, striking at over 88 and averaging 53.33, feels despite the spin threat, England can stand tall with their approach though they need to adapt to conditions first. As England’s next Test is scheduled to get underway after around six months, Crawley, who toured India in 2021 – hitting 67 in two Tests – thinks with newer venues added to the itinerary this time, England is ready to weather any challenge – be it spin, seam and even swing (if any). "I don't really know much about their grounds," Crawley said after the Oval Test win. "Sometimes in India, it seams and swings a bit - and they've got unbelievable seamers - so hopefully there are a couple of pitches there that are like that as well, that will suit us a bit more. ALSO READ: IPL: RCB appoints Andy Flower as new head coach, ends partnership with Mike Hesson, Sanjay Bangar "But if it's spinning, I feel like we play spin really well as well. We'll just have to adapt, see what we get. But they are pretty unknown grounds - I don't know if they're going to be raggers like Ahmedabad and Chennai, where we were last time," the opener added. Captain Ben Stokes expressed the exact thoughts when asked about Bazball succeeding in India in the post-match presser in London, saying if England can achieve the results in Pakistan and New Zealand and almost win against the Aussies at home, there is no point why they cannot do it against spin-heavy Indian Team in their conditions. Clarity of thought to help England – McCullum Addressing a similar question, Test Coach Brendon McCullum said for the touring team to succeed on those dusty tracks in India, having a clarity in thought is important. "For us, what will be really important for the time India comes will be trying to dial back into what we've achieved in the last 14-15 months, and to try and make sure the team turns up with the same clarity of thought when we go about things," McCullum said. Schedule of England’s tour of India 2024 – 1st Test – January 25-29, Hyderabad 2nd Test – February 2-6 – Vizag 3rd Test – February 15-19 – Rajkot 4th Test – February 23-27 – Ranchi 5th Test – 7-11 March – Dharamshala WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Zak Crawley keen on bringing Bazball game to India, admits adaption is key to success

Stuart Broad announced his retirement in the middle of the fifth and final Test of Ashes 2023. Broad ended his career in a fitting way, slamming a six on his last ball and also claiming the last two wickets of the high-voltage series. The legendary bowler ended with 604 Test scalps and a total of 847 wickets. Even in Ashes 2023, he was England's top wicket-taker (22) and second-most overall.&nbsp;

<h2>'It was not a surprise'</h2>

Recently, Broad's bowling partner James Anderson revealed that the 37-year-old Broad was considering retirement in 2022 before Test captain Ben Stokes and head coach Brendon McCullum persuaded him to reconsider.&nbsp;"Stuart told me about his retirement over a coffee before we got on the team bus for the third day's play. I was a bit shocked initially but when it sank in, it was not a surprise. He considered it last summer but Baz and Stokesy managed to talk him out of it," Anderson wrote in his column for the Telegraph.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/you-are-fool-if-nasser-hussain-backs-james-anderson-to-deliver-in-india-tour-after-dismal-ashes-2023-621938">'You are fool if...': Nasser Hussain backs James Anderson to deliver in India tour after dismal Ashes 2023</a>

He added, "Then if you look back on the Ashes series, as he said himself, it was the perfect way to go out. It was nice we did not go out at the same time together as well. We have always been put in a bracket as a partnership but he is in his own right, one of the best bowlers England has ever produced so he deserved his own send-off."

Broad started his international career in 2006. In his initial years, the pacer bore the brunt of Yuvraj Singh who hit him for 6-sixes in an over during the 2007 T20 World Cup. However, he reinvented himself and became a potent force especially in the purest format of the game. The speedster was a regular in England's Test setup and played 167 games, ending with 3,662 runs -- with a best of 169 versus Pakistan -- and claimed 604 scalps.

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

Stuart Broad announced his retirement in the middle of the fifth and final Test of Ashes 2023. Broad ended his career in a fitting way, slamming a six on his last ball and also claiming the last two wickets of the high-voltage series.

Stuart Broad announced his retirement in the middle of the fifth and final Test of Ashes 2023. Broad ended his career in a fitting way, slamming a six on his last ball and also claiming the last two wickets of the high-voltage series. The legendary bowler ended with 604 Test scalps and a total of 847 wickets. Even in Ashes 2023, he was England's top wicket-taker (22) and second-most overall. 'It was not a surprise' Recently, Broad's bowling partner James Anderson revealed that the 37-year-old Broad was considering retirement in 2022 before Test captain Ben Stokes and head coach Brendon McCullum persuaded him to reconsider. "Stuart told me about his retirement over a coffee before we got on the team bus for the third day's play. I was a bit shocked initially but when it sank in, it was not a surprise. He considered it last summer but Baz and Stokesy managed to talk him out of it," Anderson wrote in his column for the Telegraph. Also read: 'You are fool if...': Nasser Hussain backs James Anderson to deliver in India tour after dismal Ashes 2023 He added, "Then if you look back on the Ashes series, as he said himself, it was the perfect way to go out. It was nice we did not go out at the same time together as well. We have always been put in a bracket as a partnership but he is in his own right, one of the best bowlers England has ever produced so he deserved his own send-off." Broad started his international career in 2006. In his initial years, the pacer bore the brunt of Yuvraj Singh who hit him for 6-sixes in an over during the 2007 T20 World Cup. However, he reinvented himself and became a potent force especially in the purest format of the game. The speedster was a regular in England's Test setup and played 167 games, ending with 3,662 runs -- with a best of 169 versus Pakistan -- and claimed 604 scalps. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Broad considered retirement in 2022, Stokes and McCullum talked him out of it, reveals Anderson

England’s head coach Brendon McCullum has underlined his team’s approach despite them being unable to conquer the Ashes 2023 urn. The hosts despite trailing 0-2 in the Ashes, were able to draw the holy grail as Zak Crawley and Co structured England’s comeback and maintained their 22-year unbeaten record on home soil. Crawley’s counter-attack play coupled with Ben Stokes’ approach with the bat saw England end the series at 2-2 having won the Oval Test in dramatic circumstances.

<h2>Crawley’s innings validates England's approach</h2>

McCullum highlighted how Crawley played a crucial role in the team’s revival, having smashed a&nbsp;189-run knock in the Manchester Test. According to the gaffer, his successful innings against Australia validates England's approach to Test cricket. The youngster was under pressure going into the Ashes but proved his critics wrong with a dazzling display.

"Coming into the series, he was under quite a lot of pressure. The great thing was he was able to block that out as much as possible… you hope that's down to the environment the skipper's trying to create, and the sincere messaging," McCullum said.

Crawley’s knock was the highest by an English player in an Ashes innings this season and will look to replicate his form in time to come.

"480 runs at a strike rate of 90 [88.72], against the best bowling attack in the world, against the Dukes ball, in an Ashes series: people don't do that, you know? As the skipper said: you look at what people's upsides are, what their best days are, what they're capable of achieving rather than focusing on things that might not be there. He's a case in point,” McCullum said in Crawley’s case.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/in-pics-top-moments-from-ashes-2023-featuring-jonny-bairstow-runout-stuart-broads-retirement-621401">IN PICS | Top Moments from Ashes 2023 featuring Jonny Bairstow runout, Stuart Broad's retirement</a>

<h2>What happened in the Ashes?</h2>

Having initially taken a 2-0 lead in the Ashes after the Lord’s Test, England showed a good fight back to level the series at 2-2. Australia won a close contest at Edgbaston while England failed to win the Lord’s affair narrowly. On the flip side, despite conceding a first-innings lead, England managed to win the Headingley Test.

The Manchester Test proved to be the decisive one as England were undone by the rain gods. Rain played spoilsport in the contest as it resulted in Australia retaining the Ashes. On the horizon, despite sitting in the driver’s seat to win their first Ashes on English soil, Pat Cummins’ men stumbled and handed England a crucial win on the final day of the Oval Test.

&nbsp;

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

&nbsp;

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

&nbsp;

You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

England’s head coach Brendon McCullum has underlined his team’s approach despite them being unable to conquer the Ashes 2023 urn. The hosts despite trailing 0-2 in the Ashes, were able to draw the holy grail as Zak Crawley and Co structured England’s comeback and maintained their 22-year unbeaten record on home soil.

England’s head coach Brendon McCullum has underlined his team’s approach despite them being unable to conquer the Ashes 2023 urn. The hosts despite trailing 0-2 in the Ashes, were able to draw the holy grail as Zak Crawley and Co structured England’s comeback and maintained their 22-year unbeaten record on home soil. Crawley’s counter-attack play coupled with Ben Stokes’ approach with the bat saw England end the series at 2-2 having won the Oval Test in dramatic circumstances. Crawley’s innings validates England's approach McCullum highlighted how Crawley played a crucial role in the team’s revival, having smashed a 189-run knock in the Manchester Test. According to the gaffer, his successful innings against Australia validates England's approach to Test cricket. The youngster was under pressure going into the Ashes but proved his critics wrong with a dazzling display. "Coming into the series, he was under quite a lot of pressure. The great thing was he was able to block that out as much as possible… you hope that's down to the environment the skipper's trying to create, and the sincere messaging," McCullum said. Crawley’s knock was the highest by an English player in an Ashes innings this season and will look to replicate his form in time to come. "480 runs at a strike rate of 90 [88.72], against the best bowling attack in the world, against the Dukes ball, in an Ashes series: people don't do that, you know? As the skipper said: you look at what people's upsides are, what their best days are, what they're capable of achieving rather than focusing on things that might not be there. He's a case in point,” McCullum said in Crawley’s case. ALSO READ | IN PICS | Top Moments from Ashes 2023 featuring Jonny Bairstow runout, Stuart Broad's retirement What happened in the Ashes? Having initially taken a 2-0 lead in the Ashes after the Lord’s Test, England showed a good fight back to level the series at 2-2. Australia won a close contest at Edgbaston while England failed to win the Lord’s affair narrowly. On the flip side, despite conceding a first-innings lead, England managed to win the Headingley Test. The Manchester Test proved to be the decisive one as England were undone by the rain gods. Rain played spoilsport in the contest as it resulted in Australia retaining the Ashes. On the horizon, despite sitting in the driver’s seat to win their first Ashes on English soil, Pat Cummins’ men stumbled and handed England a crucial win on the final day of the Oval Test. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Ashes 2023: Brendon McCullum underlines England's Test approach, points Zak Crawley's innings as success story

The rise of T20 cricket might have put the remaining two formats under some stress, but former England Captain Eoin Morgan argues this is for the greater good. Speaking with Digvijay Singh Deo – Sports Editor of WION, in an exclusive chat, Morgan said never before this moment has this game been this popular around the world. Having plied his trade in almost every league, Morgan knows about the pros and cons of this latest format but remains firm in his opinion that the rise of franchise-based T20 leagues will only benefit this game.

While questions surrounding the slow death of Test cricket in the wake of the expansion of T20 leagues keep even the top bosses searching for answers, Morgan sees a positive side of it, saying what this format has done in helping cricket reach the masses outside of regular playing nations neither of the ODIs and Tests was able to do so.

"Cricket has never been more popular around the world. Cricket is spreading far and wide. T20 cricket has allowed cricket to grow at a pace that no other format has been able to achieve it. So, we need to sit back and thank T20 cricket and recognise it for taking it everywhere," Morgan said.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/exclusive-morgan-names-india-england-as-favourites-for-world-cup-picks-t10-as-crickets-ticket-to-olympics-619981">EXCLUSIVE: Morgan names India, England as favourites for World Cup; picks T10 as cricket's ticket to Olympics</a>

Expressing his thoughts on what happens to ODI cricket in the near future, Morgan dropped a bombshell revealing in ten years, ODI cricket will be confined only to 50-over World Cups, as players and boards will be inclined towards playing and hosting franchise-based T20 tournaments, respectively.

"The 50-over format is under pressure the most. The Future Tours Programme (FTP) is looking like there will be more T20 cricket played than bilateral; the game needs to change with that, and that's how it's going to go. You can't fight the exceptional growth and pace at which the game is becoming so popular. I think ODI Cricket is going to become, at some stage, most likely confined to just World Cups," Morgan added.

<h2>Heart goes out to Zimbabwe, West Indies</h2>

Following the end of the ICC World Cup Qualifiers in Zimbabwe, two teams that sealed the remaining spots for the mega event were Sri Lanka and Scotland, thrashing former two-time champions West Indies and Zimbabwe out of the race. With disappointment luring in for both teams, Morgan - currently playing and captaining Harare Hurricane in Zimbabwe’s inaugural T10 league, shared his thoughts.

While he said having Zimbabwe in for the 2023 World Cup would have been great for them and cricket, for what they bring to the game, he was disappointed for the West Indies on not making the cut.

"Zimbabwe was devastated not to qualify for the World Cup, they were disappointed. On the flip side, watching West Indies cricket not qualify, given their reputation they had over the course of generations of producing legends of the game, is sad in many ways because the level of expectations has been there for a long time and the level of performance hasn't met that," Morgan added.

WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The rise of T20 cricket might have put the remaining two formats under some stress, but former England Captain Eoin Morgan argues this is for the greater good. Speaking with Digvijay Singh Deo – Sports Editor of WION, in an exclusive chat, Morgan said never before this moment has this game been this popular around the world.

The rise of T20 cricket might have put the remaining two formats under some stress, but former England Captain Eoin Morgan argues this is for the greater good. Speaking with Digvijay Singh Deo – Sports Editor of WION, in an exclusive chat, Morgan said never before this moment has this game been this popular around the world. Having plied his trade in almost every league, Morgan knows about the pros and cons of this latest format but remains firm in his opinion that the rise of franchise-based T20 leagues will only benefit this game. While questions surrounding the slow death of Test cricket in the wake of the expansion of T20 leagues keep even the top bosses searching for answers, Morgan sees a positive side of it, saying what this format has done in helping cricket reach the masses outside of regular playing nations neither of the ODIs and Tests was able to do so. "Cricket has never been more popular around the world. Cricket is spreading far and wide. T20 cricket has allowed cricket to grow at a pace that no other format has been able to achieve it. So, we need to sit back and thank T20 cricket and recognise it for taking it everywhere," Morgan said. ALSO READ: EXCLUSIVE: Morgan names India, England as favourites for World Cup; picks T10 as cricket's ticket to Olympics Expressing his thoughts on what happens to ODI cricket in the near future, Morgan dropped a bombshell revealing in ten years, ODI cricket will be confined only to 50-over World Cups, as players and boards will be inclined towards playing and hosting franchise-based T20 tournaments, respectively. "The 50-over format is under pressure the most. The Future Tours Programme (FTP) is looking like there will be more T20 cricket played than bilateral; the game needs to change with that, and that's how it's going to go. You can't fight the exceptional growth and pace at which the game is becoming so popular. I think ODI Cricket is going to become, at some stage, most likely confined to just World Cups," Morgan added. Heart goes out to Zimbabwe, West Indies Following the end of the ICC World Cup Qualifiers in Zimbabwe, two teams that sealed the remaining spots for the mega event were Sri Lanka and Scotland, thrashing former two-time champions West Indies and Zimbabwe out of the race. With disappointment luring in for both teams, Morgan - currently playing and captaining Harare Hurricane in Zimbabwe’s inaugural T10 league, shared his thoughts. While he said having Zimbabwe in for the 2023 World Cup would have been great for them and cricket, for what they bring to the game, he was disappointed for the West Indies on not making the cut. "Zimbabwe was devastated not to qualify for the World Cup, they were disappointed. On the flip side, watching West Indies cricket not qualify, given their reputation they had over the course of generations of producing legends of the game, is sad in many ways because the level of expectations has been there for a long time and the level of performance hasn't met that," Morgan added. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

EXCLUSIVE: T20 cricket is future, ODIs will be confined only to World Cups in ten years – Eoin Morgan

Ashes 2023 is turning out to be an exciting series for all cricket lovers. Australia are currently leading the series 2-0, but this hardly tells the story of how nail-biting and competitive the fixtures have been. When England and Australia faced each other on Day 1 of the third Ashes Test, a very peculiar incident happened that is now catching everyone’s attention. Before the toss, England’s head coach, Brendon McCullum was reportedly stopped by the security staff who failed to recognise him.

<h2>Brendon McCullum stopped by the security</h2>

As reported by The Times UK, Brendon McCullum was stopped by a security guard and was not permitted to enter the ground at Headingley, Leeds. The report said, “The security guard on duty did not recognise McCullum, who tried to argue while the person accompanying the New Zealander pointed out that it was fairly critical to the England team's chances that he was allowed through.”

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/odi-world-cup-2023-mohammad-kaif-makes-big-claim-about-team-india-says-chances-are-quite-bright-because-613406">ODI World Cup 2023: Mohammad Kaif makes big claim about Team India, says 'chances are quite bright because...'</a>

The security guard stopped McCullum because he did not have the correct entry pass. This didn’t sit well with the former New Zealand skipper, who was in a hurry for the toss and moved past the guard. It was said that McCullum lost patience and bypassed security when the guard was trying to contact his supervisor and told him, “You'll just have to deal with it.”

<h2>The Third Ashes Test: A game of comebacks</h2>

If England want to keep their hopes alive of winning the series they will have to win this Test. The Ben Stokes-led side made 2 changes in their line-up. They brought in Mark Wood to replace James Anderson and Moeen Ali in place of an injured Ollie Pope. The changes seem to have worked as Wood took a five-for and helped dismiss Australia for 263 runs in the first innings.

On the other side, Australia brought in Mitchell Marsh, who made a return to the side after a long gap of nearly four years. Marsh had a dream comeback and carried Australia to a respectable score. The all-rounder scored a brilliant hundred. Later, he took the crucial wicket of English opener Zak Crawley.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/odi-world-cup-2023-pakistan-pm-forms-high-level-committee-as-national-teams-participation-hangs-in-limbo-613392">ODI World Cup 2023: Pakistan PM forms high-level committee as national team's participation hangs in limbo</a>

<h2>Ashes Third Test</h2>

Despite getting Australia out for 263 on Day 1, England failed to capitalise on the situation, thanks to a six-wicket haul by Pat Cummins. English skipper Ben Stokes once again played a magnificent fighting innings, but could only take the hosts to a score of 237. With Moeen Ali leading the bowling attack with 2 wickets, England would look to finish off Australia’s innings quickly. Australia have a lead of 142 runs, with the star pair of last innings- Mitchell Marsh and Travis Head at the crease.

Australia lead 142 runs in the 3rd Ashes Test. The Pat Cummins-led side were at 116 for 4 at the end of Day 2. The match is a must win game for England if they want to keep their hopes alive of winning the series.

Ashes 2023 is turning out to be an exciting series for all cricket lovers. Australia are currently leading the series 2-0, but this hardly tells the story of how nail-biting and competitive the fixtures have been. When England and Australia faced each other on Day 1 of the third Ashes Test, a very peculiar incident happened that is now catching everyone’s attention. Before the toss, England’s head coach, Brendon McCullum was reportedly stopped by the security staff who failed to recognise him. Brendon McCullum stopped by the security As reported by The Times UK, Brendon McCullum was stopped by a security guard and was not permitted to enter the ground at Headingley, Leeds. The report said, “The security guard on duty did not recognise McCullum, who tried to argue while the person accompanying the New Zealander pointed out that it was fairly critical to the England team's chances that he was allowed through.” Also Read: ODI World Cup 2023: Mohammad Kaif makes big claim about Team India, says 'chances are quite bright because...' The security guard stopped McCullum because he did not have the correct entry pass. This didn’t sit well with the former New Zealand skipper, who was in a hurry for the toss and moved past the guard. It was said that McCullum lost patience and bypassed security when the guard was trying to contact his supervisor and told him, “You'll just have to deal with it.” The Third Ashes Test: A game of comebacks If England want to keep their hopes alive of winning the series they will have to win this Test. The Ben Stokes-led side made 2 changes in their line-up. They brought in Mark Wood to replace James Anderson and Moeen Ali in place of an injured Ollie Pope. The changes seem to have worked as Wood took a five-for and helped dismiss Australia for 263 runs in the first innings. On the other side, Australia brought in Mitchell Marsh, who made a return to the side after a long gap of nearly four years. Marsh had a dream comeback and carried Australia to a respectable score. The all-rounder scored a brilliant hundred. Later, he took the crucial wicket of English opener Zak Crawley. Also Read: ODI World Cup 2023: Pakistan PM forms high-level committee as national team's participation hangs in limbo Ashes Third Test Despite getting Australia out for 263 on Day 1, England failed to capitalise on the situation, thanks to a six-wicket haul by Pat Cummins. English skipper Ben Stokes once again played a magnificent fighting innings, but could only take the hosts to a score of 237. With Moeen Ali leading the bowling attack with 2 wickets, England would look to finish off Australia’s innings quickly. Australia have a lead of 142 runs, with the star pair of last innings- Mitchell Marsh and Travis Head at the crease.

Ashes 2023: Brendon McCullum stopped by security guard at Headingley

England went down to Australia by 43 runs on Day 5 of the second Ashes Test, at Lord's, on Sunday (July 2). The final day began with England resuming at 114 for 4 before the home side lost both Ben Duckett (83) and Jonny Bairstow (10), in a controversial manner, as captain Ben Stokes upped the ante and stitched an entertaining 108-run seventh-wicket stand with Stuart Broad.

The partnership ended with Josh Hazlewood dismissing Stokes for a brilliant 155, laced with nine fours and equal number of sixes, but his departure led to England being dismissed for 327. Thus, the home side lost by 43 runs to concede a 2-0 lead. While Stokes' majestic knock made heads turn, Bairstow's dismissal also led to varied opinions in the cricketing fraternity and social media platforms. The Englishman was caught wandering off the crease after he ducked a slower bouncer off Cameron Green. He soon left the crease as he felt the ball was dead before Aussie wicketkeeper Alex Carey stumped him out; leaving his counterpart shellshocked.&nbsp;

Since then, some have pointed fingers at Australia for foul play whereas a majority feel the right call was made as Bairstow was caught being careless. Following the controversial dismissal, England Test coach Brendon McCullum is hopeful the Bairstow incident will galvanise England unit for a memorable Ashes comeback.

Speaking to BBC Cricket, he said, "I don't know if it's anger but the unit is galvanised. There are times as a coach where you've got to reduce emotion because it's going to bubble over and you can make poor decisions, but there's times when you allow emotion to go because it's going to galvanise the unit."

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ashes-2023-stuart-broad-questions-australias-cultural-change-after-lords-test-controversy-611632">Ashes 2023: Stuart Broad questions Australia's 'cultural change' after Lord's Test controversy</a>

"That's what I felt this emotion did for the side. I looked around the group and the guys were a little upset. If that helps us to win those key moments in the next Test, then I'm all for it," McCullum added.

The third Ashes Test gets underway on Thursday (July 6) at Leeds, Headingley. With the series at a decisive stage, England are expected to make a strong comeback in Headingley -- where they beat Australia by one wicket in pursuit of 359 in the 2019 edition.&nbsp;

England went down to Australia by 43 runs on Day 5 of the second Ashes Test, at Lord's, on Sunday (July 2). The final day began with England resuming at 114 for 4 before the home side lost both Ben Duckett (83) and Jonny Bairstow (10), in a controversial manner, as captain Ben Stokes upped the ante and stitched an entertaining 108-run seventh-wicket stand with Stuart Broad.

England went down to Australia by 43 runs on Day 5 of the second Ashes Test, at Lord's, on Sunday (July 2). The final day began with England resuming at 114 for 4 before the home side lost both Ben Duckett (83) and Jonny Bairstow (10), in a controversial manner, as captain Ben Stokes upped the ante and stitched an entertaining 108-run seventh-wicket stand with Stuart Broad. The partnership ended with Josh Hazlewood dismissing Stokes for a brilliant 155, laced with nine fours and equal number of sixes, but his departure led to England being dismissed for 327. Thus, the home side lost by 43 runs to concede a 2-0 lead. While Stokes' majestic knock made heads turn, Bairstow's dismissal also led to varied opinions in the cricketing fraternity and social media platforms. The Englishman was caught wandering off the crease after he ducked a slower bouncer off Cameron Green. He soon left the crease as he felt the ball was dead before Aussie wicketkeeper Alex Carey stumped him out; leaving his counterpart shellshocked. Since then, some have pointed fingers at Australia for foul play whereas a majority feel the right call was made as Bairstow was caught being careless. Following the controversial dismissal, England Test coach Brendon McCullum is hopeful the Bairstow incident will galvanise England unit for a memorable Ashes comeback. Speaking to BBC Cricket, he said, "I don't know if it's anger but the unit is galvanised. There are times as a coach where you've got to reduce emotion because it's going to bubble over and you can make poor decisions, but there's times when you allow emotion to go because it's going to galvanise the unit." Also Read: Ashes 2023: Stuart Broad questions Australia's 'cultural change' after Lord's Test controversy "That's what I felt this emotion did for the side. I looked around the group and the guys were a little upset. If that helps us to win those key moments in the next Test, then I'm all for it," McCullum added. The third Ashes Test gets underway on Thursday (July 6) at Leeds, Headingley. With the series at a decisive stage, England are expected to make a strong comeback in Headingley -- where they beat Australia by one wicket in pursuit of 359 in the 2019 edition.

'Don't know if it's anger but...': McCullum hopeful Bairstow incident will 'galvanise' Eng for Ashes comeback

Brendon McCullum didn't sound pleased when he said England and Australian players are unlikely to sit together for a beer following what transpired in the second Test in Lord’s, a remark that disappointed his counterpart, Andrew McDonald.

Brendon McCullum didn't sound pleased when he said England and Australian players are unlikely to sit together for a beer following what transpired in the second Test in Lord’s, a remark that disappointed his counterpart, Andrew McDonald. A game of beautiful uncertainties saw several questionable decisions taken during the Test, with Mitchell Starc’s catch to dismiss Ben Duckett and Bairstow’s run-out making headlines. Day five was filled with drama, emotion, verbal throwdowns and whatnot. After losing the second straight Test at home on Sunday by 43 runs, England’s head coach, while speaking with Test Match Special, said, "I can't imagine we'll be having a beer anytime soon if that's what you're asking. From our point of view, we've got three Test matches to try and land some blows and try and win the Ashes, and that's where our focus will be." When asked about the same to McDonald in the post-match presser, the former Aussie all-rounder said he hasn't spoken with Brendon yet, but going by these remarks, he is disappointed with this. ALSO READ: Australia's spin giant Nathan Lyon ruled out of Ashes with calf injury, Todd Murphy likely to play 3rd Test "I haven't spoken to him, [have] heard that comment for the first time and somewhat disappointed by that," McDonald said, replying to McCullum. The drama around Bairstow’s run-out Just when the on-field proceedings were underway in the most usual manner on day five before tea, a cheeky run-out by Carey to dismiss Bairstow triggered a controversy, with fans and pundits sharing opposite views on the throwdown. Though English fans believed that the dismissal was wrong and against the spirit of the game, several experts and Australian cricket enthusiasts argued that whatever happened was within the rule book and should be received and accepted the way it is. Andrew McDonald was no different. He said this dismissal was similar to other forms of outs, adding each team would have taken advantage of the situation and done the same. He urged leaving the crease like that is criminal for a batter, and Bairstow paid the price. "There's no doubt when a player is leaving their crease or leaving their ground at certain periods of time that you take that opportunity," he said. "It's [the same] with every player. It's like when a player is running down the wicket to Nathan Lyon, does he take the opportunity to fire a ball down the leg side, because he's leaving his crease? There's no doubt about that. You see a run-out opportunity at point, you throw at the bowler's end. "But any of these events are always going to polarise opinion," he added. "We saw it on day four with the [Mitchell Starc] catch as well. Some people thought it was out, some people thought it was not out… sometimes, you know, not everyone agrees with it." WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Ashes: Oz head coach throws weight behind Lord's show, says he's disappointed with McCullum's 'beer' comment