Australia included batter Nic Maddinson in the playing XI for the first Test against South Africa, and the batter failed on his return to red-ball cricket after a decade-long hiatus. Maddinson, whose selection stirred up a debate among former Australian cricketers, was out for a 33-ball duck in the first session of Day 1 (Oct 9) of the Durban Test. Maddinson's 33-ball stay is the longest for a duck by any Australian opener in history and the third longest overall among opening batters.<h2>Maddinson faces most balls by an Aussie opener for a duck</h2>Batting first after winning the toss, Maddinson, who last played for Australia in Tests in 2016 against Pakistan, walked out to bat with Travis Head, who had backed his selection call. Wiaan Mulder, famous for choosing not to break Brian Lara's 400-run Test innings record, dismissed Head (9) in the 8th over with the team total at 17 runs.15 balls later, lanky Proteas all-rounder Marco Jansen went through Maddinson's defense to rattle the stumps – ending the batter's long and perilous 33-ball stay – now an unwanted record.

List of Openers with Longest Stay at Crease for a Duck in Tests

At 24/2, Steve Smith and Marnus Labuschagne joined forces and added 60 runs for the third wicket before the latter was dismissed for 37 by Mulder. Australia ended the first session at 84/3 with Labuschagne's wicket, with Smith at the crease on 25 not out.<h2>Maddinson's career at a glance</h2>Maddinson made his debut for Australia first in T20Is – against India in October 2013, scoring 34 off 16 balls. The Test debut came three years later in November 2016 – also against South Africa, but in Adelaide – where he scored a 12-ball duck in the only innings he batted. In his last Test, against Pakistan in December 2016, Maddinson scored 22 runs in the only innings he batted in.Overall, Maddinson played only three Tests before coming back to the side against South Africa, scoring 27 runs in four innings with a best of 22. In the Sheffield Shield – Australia's domestic red-ball tournament – he has played 88 matches and scored 7,832 runs at an average of 37 with 18 tons and 36 fifties. His last first-class match was against Western Australia for New South Wales in March 2025, where he scored 4 and 0 in the two innings, respectively.

Returning to Test cricket after 10 years, Nic Maddinson set a record for the longest duck by an Australian opener, lasting 33 balls against South Africa in Durban before being bowled.

Australia included batter Nic Maddinson in the playing XI for the first Test against South Africa, and the batter failed on his return to red-ball cricket after a decade-long hiatus. Maddinson, whose selection stirred up a debate among former Australian cricketers, was out for a 33-ball duck in the first session of Day 1 (Oct 9) of the Durban Test. Maddinson's 33-ball stay is the longest for a duck by any Australian opener in history and the third longest overall among opening batters. Maddinson faces most balls by an Aussie opener for a duck Batting first after winning the toss, Maddinson, who last played for Australia in Tests in 2016 against Pakistan, walked out to bat with Travis Head, who had backed his selection call. Wiaan Mulder, famous for choosing not to break Brian Lara's 400-run Test innings record, dismissed Head (9) in the 8th over with the team total at 17 runs. 15 balls later, lanky Proteas all-rounder Marco Jansen went through Maddinson's defense to rattle the stumps – ending the batter's long and perilous 33-ball stay – now an unwanted record.

Returning to Test cricket after 10 years, Nic Maddinson set a record for the longest duck by an Australian opener, lasting 33 balls against South Africa in Durban before being bowled.

AUS vs SA: Maddinson, back after decade-long Test hiatus, faces most balls by an Aussie opener, but for a duck

Steve Smith says he is still traumatised by the infamous "Sandpapergate" ball-tampering scandal in 2018, but the former Australia skipper is undaunted about returning to South Africa for his first Test series since. The prolific batsman was sent home in disgrace, banned for a year and sacked as captain after conspiring to alter the ball using sandpaper during the third Test in Cape Town eight years ago.David Warner, considered the ringleader, was suspended for 12 months and stripped of all leadership roles while Cameron Bancroft was slapped with a nine-month ban.Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-squad-west-indies-2026-odi-t20i-auqib-nabi-mayank-yadav-1789573587522">Auqib Nabi earns maiden ODI call-up; Mayank returns for WI T20Is| check squads</a>Smith, preparing for the first Test in Durban on October 9 before the series moves to Gqeberha and Cape Town, said he still suffers flashbacks to a traumatic period of his life.He is haunted by memories of leaving Johannesburg airport, with cameras clicking furiously around him, and a harrowing Sydney press conference on his return when he broke down in tears."I'm not a big fan of cameras ... I get anxious around cameras to be honest," he told News Corp. in an interview published Thursday."That was a traumatic experience in my life and when I hear the flash of a camera it makes me revisit that in a way."The 24-48 hours of being told by James Sutherland (then-Cricket Australia chief executive) that I was getting banned for a year. That and going through the airport in Johannesburg getting absolutely mobbed, and then flying back and doing that press conference."I still have little flashbacks here and there of it."Smith bore the brunt of the scandal that is considered one of Australian sport's darkest moments, but bounced back emphatically.He smashed a superb century against England on his return and has gone from strength to strength, with 10,920 Test runs so far at an average of 56."It was certainly a difficult period, particularly the initial period a few days after," he said."The mental state I was in was not great. That's somewhere I'd like not to get to again, but I certainly learned from that and have been able to move forward with my life."I've tried to kind of erase a lot of 2018 and what happened," he added."I can't remember a lot about the series. I've tried to block most of it out of my memory bank."Smith has been back to South Africa for a white-ball series since 2018, but not for a Test and he is bracing for hostile crowds.But the 37-year-old is unperturbed, having negotiated multiple Ashes tours to England since 2018, where the Barmy Army abused him relentlessly."It's something I'm kind of used to. I've copped a lot at times away from home at different venues across my career and it's something that I take in my own stride," he said."I use it as motivation to try and go out and do well and try and take a positive from it."

Smith, preparing for the first Test in Durban on October 9 before the series moves to Gqeberha and Cape Town, said he still suffers flashbacks to a traumatic period of his life.

Steve Smith says he is still traumatised by the infamous "Sandpapergate" ball-tampering scandal in 2018, but the former Australia skipper is undaunted about returning to South Africa for his first Test series since. The prolific batsman was sent home in disgrace, banned for a year and sacked as captain after conspiring to alter the ball using sandpaper during the third Test in Cape Town eight years ago. David Warner, considered the ringleader, was suspended for 12 months and stripped of all leadership roles while Cameron Bancroft was slapped with a nine-month ban. Also Read - Auqib Nabi earns maiden ODI call-up; Mayank returns for WI T20Is| check squads Smith, preparing for the first Test in Durban on October 9 before the series moves to Gqeberha and Cape Town, said he still suffers flashbacks to a traumatic period of his life. He is haunted by memories of leaving Johannesburg airport, with cameras clicking furiously around him, and a harrowing Sydney press conference on his return when he broke down in tears. "I'm not a big fan of cameras ... I get anxious around cameras to be honest," he told News Corp. in an interview published Thursday. "That was a traumatic experience in my life and when I hear the flash of a camera it makes me revisit that in a way. "The 24-48 hours of being told by James Sutherland (then-Cricket Australia chief executive) that I was getting banned for a year. That and going through the airport in Johannesburg getting absolutely mobbed, and then flying back and doing that press conference. "I still have little flashbacks here and there of it." Smith bore the brunt of the scandal that is considered one of Australian sport's darkest moments, but bounced back emphatically. He smashed a superb century against England on his return and has gone from strength to strength, with 10,920 Test runs so far at an average of 56. "It was certainly a difficult period, particularly the initial period a few days after," he said. "The mental state I was in was not great. That's somewhere I'd like not to get to again, but I certainly learned from that and have been able to move forward with my life. "I've tried to kind of erase a lot of 2018 and what happened," he added. "I can't remember a lot about the series. I've tried to block most of it out of my memory bank." Smith has been back to South Africa for a white-ball series since 2018, but not for a Test and he is bracing for hostile crowds. But the 37-year-old is unperturbed, having negotiated multiple Ashes tours to England since 2018, where the Barmy Army abused him relentlessly. "It's something I'm kind of used to. I've copped a lot at times away from home at different venues across my career and it's something that I take in my own stride," he said. "I use it as motivation to try and go out and do well and try and take a positive from it."

Smith, preparing for the first Test in Durban on October 9 before the series moves to Gqeberha and Cape Town, said he still suffers flashbacks to a traumatic period of his life.

AUS vs SA: Steve Smith still gets 'little flashbacks' from sandpaper gate

Seven former Australia cricket captains have written to Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong, expressing humanitarian concerns over the detention of former Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan, according to Cricinfo. The letter was signed by Allan Border, Greg Chappell, Ian Chappell, Belinda Clark, Kim Hughes, Mark Taylor and Steve Waugh.&nbsp;&nbsp;The former captains said that they were writing "not as diplomats or political figures, but as former captains who felt compelled to speak up".&nbsp;The group also made it clear that they were not taking any position on the legal or political cases involving Khan, saying those matters were for Pakistan to handle. Instead, they said their concern was about the treatment of people in detention, calling it “a matter of basic humanity, whatever their politics”.&nbsp;The latest letter is another appeal from former international cricketers regarding Khan, who previously led Pakistan in cricket before becoming the country’s prime minister.&nbsp;On Aug 23, 22 former international cricket captains from different countries had written to Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, seeking better medical care for Khan.&nbsp;They claimed that the treatment being provided to him did not meet the requirements of a Supreme Court directive.&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rift-in-france-football-dembele-hits-back-after-mbappe-s-chosen-one-remark-1789461966788">Rift in France football? Dembele hits back after Mbappe's 'chosen one' remark</a>&nbsp;The former captains made three requests. First, they asked for the medical board ordered by the Supreme Court, including Khan’s own doctors, to be allowed to carry out a complete and independent assessment of his health, particularly reports of vision loss in his right eye.&nbsp;Second, they called for the weekly family visits ordered by the court to take place without interruptions or administrative delays.&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/premier-league-vars-involved-in-haaland-s-controversial-goal-vs-manchester-united-not-given-appointment-this-week-1789454931696">PL VARs, involved in Haaland's goal, not given appointment this week</a>&nbsp;Third, they asked authorities to provide Khan with the treatment recommended by the medical assessment without any delay.&nbsp;The August appeal followed an earlier letter in February, which was signed by 14 former international captains. Since then, former Pakistan stars Javed Miandad, Wasim Akram and Moin Khan have also raised concerns over the issue. Current Australia captain Pat Cummins has also spoken about the matter.

Jailed former Pakistan captain Imran Khan has received support from seven former Australian captains, who have expressed concern over his treatment in detention and called for proper medical care and access to his family and legal counsel.

Seven former Australia cricket captains have written to Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong, expressing humanitarian concerns over the detention of former Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan, according to Cricinfo. The letter was signed by Allan Border, Greg Chappell, Ian Chappell, Belinda Clark, Kim Hughes, Mark Taylor and Steve Waugh. The former captains said that they were writing "not as diplomats or political figures, but as former captains who felt compelled to speak up". The group also made it clear that they were not taking any position on the legal or political cases involving Khan, saying those matters were for Pakistan to handle. Instead, they said their concern was about the treatment of people in detention, calling it “a matter of basic humanity, whatever their politics”. The latest letter is another appeal from former international cricketers regarding Khan, who previously led Pakistan in cricket before becoming the country’s prime minister. On Aug 23, 22 former international cricket captains from different countries had written to Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, seeking better medical care for Khan. They claimed that the treatment being provided to him did not meet the requirements of a Supreme Court directive. Also Read - Rift in France football? Dembele hits back after Mbappe's 'chosen one' remark The former captains made three requests. First, they asked for the medical board ordered by the Supreme Court, including Khan’s own doctors, to be allowed to carry out a complete and independent assessment of his health, particularly reports of vision loss in his right eye. Second, they called for the weekly family visits ordered by the court to take place without interruptions or administrative delays. Also Read - PL VARs, involved in Haaland's goal, not given appointment this week Third, they asked authorities to provide Khan with the treatment recommended by the medical assessment without any delay. The August appeal followed an earlier letter in February, which was signed by 14 former international captains. Since then, former Pakistan stars Javed Miandad, Wasim Akram and Moin Khan have also raised concerns over the issue. Current Australia captain Pat Cummins has also spoken about the matter.

Jailed former Pakistan captain Imran Khan has received support from seven former Australian captains, who have expressed concern over his treatment in detention and called for proper medical care and access to his family and legal counsel.

7 former Australian captains back humanitarian plea for Imran Khan

David Warner is one of the best opening batters the world has ever seen. The former Aussie played 112 Tests donning the famous Baggy Green and scored 8,786 runs. In ODIs, he wore the yellow jersey 161 times and scored 6,932 runs and retired from international cricket in 2024. The Aussie has also long been part of the Indian Premier League (IPL), which he has played since 2009 and represented two teams - SunRisers Hyderabad and Delhi Capitals - entertaining millions of fans.In a recent interview with Parimatch Sports, the Aussie talked about evolution of cricket fandom, his special connection with Indian fans and what it takes to create moments that truly resonate with people.Q1: You've played cricket all over the world. How has the relationship between athletes and fans changed since you started your career? David Warner: When I started, most of your interaction with fans happened at the ground. You'd play the match, maybe sign a few autographs afterwards, and that was pretty much it. Today, it's completely different. Fans follow your journey every day through social media, interviews, short videos and everything happening away from the game. That also means athletes have a chance to show more of who they are. People still care about performances, but they also want to understand the person behind them. An honest connection can last much longer than any result on the scoreboard.Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-pacer-siraj-says-his-body-doesn-t-handle-long-breaks-well-1789114286876">India pacer Siraj says his body 'doesn't handle long breaks well'</a> Q2: You have a special relationship with Indian fans that extends well beyond your performances on the pitch. What do you think helped build that connection? David Warner: I think the biggest thing was showing respect for the culture and not being afraid to have some fun. Cricket means so much in India, but so does entertainment. The music, the films and the humour are all part of everyday life. When I started making those videos and joining in with trends, it wasn't because someone told me to do it. I genuinely enjoyed it. Fans can tell when something feels natural, and I think that's why they connected with it. Whether it's through cricket, a funny video or simply sharing a moment with fans. Q3: You've created many memorable moments for fans both on and off the field. What do you think makes a moment something people remember? David Warner: The best sports moments create an emotional connection. Sometimes it's a great story, sometimes it's humour, sometimes it's something completely unexpected. If people are still talking about it or sharing it a week later, that's usually a sign you've done something right. Q4: You've taken part in many projects outside the game. What makes you decide which ones feel right for you? David Warner: For me, it's pretty simple. I want it to feel authentic and enjoyable. If it feels like something fans will genuinely have fun with, I'm interested. I don't want to be standing in front of a camera just holding a product. I'd rather be part of something with a bit of personality. One example was the recent limited-edition T-shirt with Parimatch Sports. When I first saw the design, I immediately connected with it. It brought together lotus flowers, sacred animals and a cricketer, all woven into one illustration. I loved how it captured the culture and passion around cricket in India in a way that felt personal to me. It represented the connection between cricket, India and the fans. Q5: How important has life outside cricket become for you as your career has evolved? David Warner: I think it has become really important. When you're playing cricket all the time, you can get caught up in the game and everything that comes with it. Having time away from cricket gave me the chance to spend more time with my family and focus on myself as a person. For me, it's about getting the best out of myself in every part of life. Cricket is a huge part of who I am, but it's not the only part.

David Warner shared how fan interactions shifted to digital spaces, his genuine love for Indian culture built a strong bond, and balancing life outside cricket keeps him grounded.

David Warner is one of the best opening batters the world has ever seen. The former Aussie played 112 Tests donning the famous Baggy Green and scored 8,786 runs. In ODIs, he wore the yellow jersey 161 times and scored 6,932 runs and retired from international cricket in 2024. The Aussie has also long been part of the Indian Premier League (IPL), which he has played since 2009 and represented two teams - SunRisers Hyderabad and Delhi Capitals - entertaining millions of fans. In a recent interview with Parimatch Sports, the Aussie talked about evolution of cricket fandom, his special connection with Indian fans and what it takes to create moments that truly resonate with people. Q1: You've played cricket all over the world. How has the relationship between athletes and fans changed since you started your career? David Warner: When I started, most of your interaction with fans happened at the ground. You'd play the match, maybe sign a few autographs afterwards, and that was pretty much it. Today, it's completely different. Fans follow your journey every day through social media, interviews, short videos and everything happening away from the game. That also means athletes have a chance to show more of who they are. People still care about performances, but they also want to understand the person behind them. An honest connection can last much longer than any result on the scoreboard. Also Read - India pacer Siraj says his body 'doesn't handle long breaks well' Q2: You have a special relationship with Indian fans that extends well beyond your performances on the pitch. What do you think helped build that connection? David Warner: I think the biggest thing was showing respect for the culture and not being afraid to have some fun. Cricket means so much in India, but so does entertainment. The music, the films and the humour are all part of everyday life. When I started making those videos and joining in with trends, it wasn't because someone told me to do it. I genuinely enjoyed it. Fans can tell when something feels natural, and I think that's why they connected with it. Whether it's through cricket, a funny video or simply sharing a moment with fans. Q3: You've created many memorable moments for fans both on and off the field. What do you think makes a moment something people remember? David Warner: The best sports moments create an emotional connection. Sometimes it's a great story, sometimes it's humour, sometimes it's something completely unexpected. If people are still talking about it or sharing it a week later, that's usually a sign you've done something right. Q4: You've taken part in many projects outside the game. What makes you decide which ones feel right for you? David Warner: For me, it's pretty simple. I want it to feel authentic and enjoyable. If it feels like something fans will genuinely have fun with, I'm interested. I don't want to be standing in front of a camera just holding a product. I'd rather be part of something with a bit of personality. One example was the recent limited-edition T-shirt with Parimatch Sports. When I first saw the design, I immediately connected with it. It brought together lotus flowers, sacred animals and a cricketer, all woven into one illustration. I loved how it captured the culture and passion around cricket in India in a way that felt personal to me. It represented the connection between cricket, India and the fans. Q5: How important has life outside cricket become for you as your career has evolved? David Warner: I think it has become really important. When you're playing cricket all the time, you can get caught up in the game and everything that comes with it. Having time away from cricket gave me the chance to spend more time with my family and focus on myself as a person. For me, it's about getting the best out of myself in every part of life. Cricket is a huge part of who I am, but it's not the only part.

David Warner shared how fan interactions shifted to digital spaces, his genuine love for Indian culture built a strong bond, and balancing life outside cricket keeps him grounded.

'Beyond the Scoreboard': Former Aussie batter David Warner on fans, culture, and life after cricket

The Big Bash League (BBL) will be partially privatised, starting with the sale of the struggling Melbourne Renegades, Cricket Australia (CA) announced on Tuesday. The governing body wants to bring in private investment to the Twenty20 competition as it looks to shore up the game's financial future, which has come under threat from lucrative leagues abroad. &nbsp;"Beginning the sales process for the Renegades allows us to take the first step in a self-determination model for our members and represents a defining moment for the game," said Cricket Australia chair Mike Baird. "This is a significant decision that has involved an enormous amount of analysis, discussion and collaboration over many months." &nbsp;Cricket Australia said it could offer other franchises for sale further down the track. &nbsp;Cricket Australia said it aimed for the Renegades to have new ownership in place for the next season.&nbsp;Also read| <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/deflated-me-mentally-ex-pak-coach-gillespie-slams-aaqib-javed-s-intereference-claims-pcb-owes-him-money-1788860291800">'Deflated me mentally': Ex-Pak coach Gillespie slams Aaqib Javed's interference, claims PCB owes him money</a> &nbsp;Melbourne is in Victoria, and the state's cricket association said the sale would help Australia keep pace with an "evolving" cricket landscape. &nbsp;"We're enthusiastic about moving forward with this process and taking the Melbourne Renegades to market," said Cricket Victoria director Shaun Richardson. &nbsp;Privatisation has been a thorny issue in Australia, with an initial proposal to sell stakes in each of BBL's eight teams stalling earlier this year amid concerns about a loss of control for the game's local custodians. &nbsp;While the Victoria, Western Australia and Tasmania cricket associations voiced support and South Australia said it was open to the idea, New South Wales and Queensland rejected the move.<h2>BBL 16 Opener in India</h2>The first game of BBL 16 between Melbourne Renegades and Perth Scorchers will take place outside of Australia at Chepauk in Chennai, marking a unique and historic occasion for franchise cricket worldwide. Chennai will host the Renegades' home game on December 12, starting at 2:40 PM local time.&nbsp; &nbsp;This BBL match, taking place on foreign soil, was organised as a joint initiative between CA and the BCCI to deepen Australia-India cricket and diplomatic ties.&nbsp;(With inputs from AFP)

Cricket Australia has announced the partial privatisation of the Big Bash League, opening the sales process for the Melbourne Renegades ahead of the BBL 16 opener in Chennai.

The Big Bash League (BBL) will be partially privatised, starting with the sale of the struggling Melbourne Renegades, Cricket Australia (CA) announced on Tuesday. The governing body wants to bring in private investment to the Twenty20 competition as it looks to shore up the game's financial future, which has come under threat from lucrative leagues abroad. "Beginning the sales process for the Renegades allows us to take the first step in a self-determination model for our members and represents a defining moment for the game," said Cricket Australia chair Mike Baird. "This is a significant decision that has involved an enormous amount of analysis, discussion and collaboration over many months." Cricket Australia said it could offer other franchises for sale further down the track. Cricket Australia said it aimed for the Renegades to have new ownership in place for the next season. Also read| 'Deflated me mentally': Ex-Pak coach Gillespie slams Aaqib Javed's interference, claims PCB owes him money Melbourne is in Victoria, and the state's cricket association said the sale would help Australia keep pace with an "evolving" cricket landscape. "We're enthusiastic about moving forward with this process and taking the Melbourne Renegades to market," said Cricket Victoria director Shaun Richardson. Privatisation has been a thorny issue in Australia, with an initial proposal to sell stakes in each of BBL's eight teams stalling earlier this year amid concerns about a loss of control for the game's local custodians. While the Victoria, Western Australia and Tasmania cricket associations voiced support and South Australia said it was open to the idea, New South Wales and Queensland rejected the move. BBL 16 Opener in India The first game of BBL 16 between Melbourne Renegades and Perth Scorchers will take place outside of Australia at Chepauk in Chennai, marking a unique and historic occasion for franchise cricket worldwide. Chennai will host the Renegades' home game on December 12, starting at 2:40 PM local time. This BBL match, taking place on foreign soil, was organised as a joint initiative between CA and the BCCI to deepen Australia-India cricket and diplomatic ties. (With inputs from AFP)

Cricket Australia has announced the partial privatisation of the Big Bash League, opening the sales process for the Melbourne Renegades ahead of the BBL 16 opener in Chennai.

Cricket Australia opens BBL to private investment; Melbourne Renegades set to be first club sold

Anaya Bangar, daughter of former Indian all-rounder and ex-India batting coach Sanjay Bangar, will be returning to competitive cricket, but in Australia. The 25-year-old, who underwent gender-affirming surgery in March earlier this year, has received confirmation to play community cricket in Australia. She had previously represented Mumbai in U-19 age-group cricket alongside the likes of India Test cap Sarfaraz Khan. Bangar reached out to Cricket Australia in June, and a reply came in July allowing her to participate in women's community cricket. For Elite Cricket in Australia (e.g., Women's Big Bash League), she would have to clear Cricket Australia's testosterone-related eligibility criteria.<h2>Anaya set for return to competitive cricket</h2>“It is a great day for me, especially after knowing the fact that I can play cricket. There was a stage when I thought I would never play cricket again, but thanks to Cricket Australia, it has given me another chance,” Anaya said while talking to The Indian Express.Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/pak-bowling-coach-umar-gul-blames-cold-weather-for-loss-in-first-test-vs-england-1787719337943">Pak bowling coach Umar Gul blames 'cold weather' for loss in first Test vs ENG</a>She moved to Cricket Australia after receiving no reply from the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) about her eligibility to play as a trans athlete. The ICC, the apex body of cricket, does not allow trans athletes to participate at the elite level of women's cricket if they have gone through male puberty, under a rule passed in 2023.

Cricket Australia, however, under its Transgender and Gender Diverse Players in Elite Cricket Policy, requires a player's testosterone to be below 10 nmol/L (nanomoles per litre) for a year to consider them eligible to play elite cricket.<h2>Anaya's transformation as a trans athlete</h2>Anaya, born as Aryan Bangar, chose to have gender-affirming surgery to align her physical characteristics with her gender identity. After the surgery, she <a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/DMbJvW_Mte_/?hl=en&amp;img_index=1">penned a note on Instagram</a>, saying: "This journey has taught me that becoming yourself means losing people who only loved the version of you that made sense to them. Not everyone will hold space for your truth. And not everyone is meant to."

Anaya Bangar, daughter of ex-India coach Sanjay Bangar, was cleared by Cricket Australia to play community cricket following gender-affirming surgery, with WBBL eligibility set for March 2027.

Anaya Bangar, daughter of former Indian all-rounder and ex-India batting coach Sanjay Bangar, will be returning to competitive cricket, but in Australia. The 25-year-old, who underwent gender-affirming surgery in March earlier this year, has received confirmation to play community cricket in Australia. She had previously represented Mumbai in U-19 age-group cricket alongside the likes of India Test cap Sarfaraz Khan. Bangar reached out to Cricket Australia in June, and a reply came in July allowing her to participate in women's community cricket. For Elite Cricket in Australia (e.g., Women's Big Bash League), she would have to clear Cricket Australia's testosterone-related eligibility criteria. Anaya set for return to competitive cricket “It is a great day for me, especially after knowing the fact that I can play cricket. There was a stage when I thought I would never play cricket again, but thanks to Cricket Australia, it has given me another chance,” Anaya said while talking to The Indian Express. Also Read - Pak bowling coach Umar Gul blames 'cold weather' for loss in first Test vs ENG She moved to Cricket Australia after receiving no reply from the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) about her eligibility to play as a trans athlete. The ICC, the apex body of cricket, does not allow trans athletes to participate at the elite level of women's cricket if they have gone through male puberty, under a rule passed in 2023.

Anaya Bangar, daughter of ex-India coach Sanjay Bangar, was cleared by Cricket Australia to play community cricket following gender-affirming surgery, with WBBL eligibility set for March 2027.

Trans athlete Anaya, daughter of ex-India coach Sanjay Bangar, set to play cricket in Australia

Australian allrounder Ashleigh Gardner has broken her silence on her divorce from wife Monica Wright for the first time, saying she felt the need to address the matter because of the attention it had brought to Cricket Australia. Gardner also said she wants the best for Wright moving forward.&nbsp;&nbsp;Wright accused Gardner last month of cheating on her, reportedly with Georgia Voll and also questioned Cricket Australia’s decision not to take action against Gardner and called for her to be removed as Australia’s vice-captain.&nbsp;Wright initially responded to the allegations by sharing a Daily Mail report on her Instagram story. She described the report as vague and hinted that she would later share her side of the story.&nbsp;Gardner addressed the situation in an Instagram story on Thursday afternoon.&nbsp;“While my separation from my wife is a personal matter, I understand my current relationship status needed to be addressed by Cricket Australia given my position as vice-captain,” Gardner posted.&nbsp;“I wish Monica nothing but happiness and success in the future. I won’t be making any further public comment on this matter at this time and ask that the privacy of those involved is respected,” she added.

Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/afg-vs-ire-sediqullah-atal-scripts-history-with-highest-odi-score-on-birthday-1786614540284">AFG vs IRE: Sediqullah Atal scripts history with highest ODI score on birthday</a>&nbsp;Gardner and Wright got married in Apr 2025, however, reports suggest that their relationship faced difficulties while Gardner was in India for the 2025 Women’s ODI World Cup.&nbsp;Wright also travelled to India during the tournament, where an unnamed source described their meeting as awkward.&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ban-vs-aus-1st-test-mahmud-leads-bangladesh-s-dominance-over-australia-on-day-1-1786611677784">BAN vs AUS 1st Test: Mahmud leads Bangladesh's dominance over Australia on Day 1</a>&nbsp;The couple have since separated, with Gardner reportedly moving out of their Sydney home. She has continued to receive support from the cricket community, with her Women’s Big Bash League side Sydney Sixers backing her during the controversy, according to news.com.au.&nbsp;Gardner remains an important part of the Australian team on the field. She was also part of the squad that continued Australia’s dominance in the Women’s T20 World Cup, with the team winning its seventh title from eight final appearances.

Australia women’s vice-captain Ashleigh Gardner opened up about her separation from wife Monica Wright, asking for privacy as she deals with the difficult period.

Australian allrounder Ashleigh Gardner has broken her silence on her divorce from wife Monica Wright for the first time, saying she felt the need to address the matter because of the attention it had brought to Cricket Australia. Gardner also said she wants the best for Wright moving forward. Wright accused Gardner last month of cheating on her, reportedly with Georgia Voll and also questioned Cricket Australia’s decision not to take action against Gardner and called for her to be removed as Australia’s vice-captain. Wright initially responded to the allegations by sharing a Daily Mail report on her Instagram story. She described the report as vague and hinted that she would later share her side of the story. Gardner addressed the situation in an Instagram story on Thursday afternoon. “While my separation from my wife is a personal matter, I understand my current relationship status needed to be addressed by Cricket Australia given my position as vice-captain,” Gardner posted. “I wish Monica nothing but happiness and success in the future. I won’t be making any further public comment on this matter at this time and ask that the privacy of those involved is respected,” she added.

Australia women’s vice-captain Ashleigh Gardner opened up about her separation from wife Monica Wright, asking for privacy as she deals with the difficult period.

Ashleigh Gardner opens up on controversial separation

Former Australia opener David Warner has pleaded guilty to drink-driving, casting doubt over his captaincy of Sydney Thunder in the Big Bash League. Warner was not required to appear before Waverley Local Court on Wednesday (Jul 22), with his lawyer Bobby Hill entering the plea on his behalf to a mid-range drink-driving charge stemming from an incident on Easter Sunday. Warner was pulled over during a roadside breath test in Sydney's eastern suburbs on April 5, before being taken to Maroubra Police Station, where his blood alcohol reading came in at 0.104 which is more than double the legal limit. The guilty plea now leaves Cricket NSW to decide whether the 39-year-old can continue leading the franchise.<h2>What did Warner's lawyer say?</h2>Addressing the court, Hill said "the parties are in discussion about the facts," while confirming his client's admission of guilt. This was not unexpected as Hill had already signalled a guilty plea back in May, telling the court that Warner was fully aware his conduct was wrong and regretted opting to drive rather than book a cab.According to Hill, the batter had shared a few glasses of wine at a friend's home before making that call, and the lawyer was at pains to stress it was the decision to drive, not the drinking itself, that amounted to poor judgement. Cricket NSW, meanwhile, did not downplay the episode. Chief executive Lee Germon said the allegations were "concerning" and were being taken "very seriously," adding that the organisation was a strong advocate for safe driving and firmly against drink-driving.<h2>What next for Warner?</h2>The Aussie leads Sydney Thunder in BBL and the franchise, along with Sydney Sixers and NSW Blues, are part of a state government campaign against drink-driving, which adds extra scrutiny to how the franchise responds. For now, Warner continues to juggle franchise commitments across the PSL and BBL while awaiting sentencing. Beyond the legal fallout, the bigger question is whether Cricket NSW allows him to retain the Thunder captaincy, a role restored only in 2024 after a lifetime leadership ban tied to the 2018 ball-tampering scandal was overturned.

Warner was pulled over during a roadside breath test in Sydney's eastern suburbs on April 5, before being taken to Maroubra Police Station, where his blood alcohol reading came in at 0.104 which is more than double the legal limit.

Former Australia opener David Warner has pleaded guilty to drink-driving, casting doubt over his captaincy of Sydney Thunder in the Big Bash League. Warner was not required to appear before Waverley Local Court on Wednesday (Jul 22), with his lawyer Bobby Hill entering the plea on his behalf to a mid-range drink-driving charge stemming from an incident on Easter Sunday. Warner was pulled over during a roadside breath test in Sydney's eastern suburbs on April 5, before being taken to Maroubra Police Station, where his blood alcohol reading came in at 0.104 which is more than double the legal limit. The guilty plea now leaves Cricket NSW to decide whether the 39-year-old can continue leading the franchise. What did Warner's lawyer say? Addressing the court, Hill said "the parties are in discussion about the facts," while confirming his client's admission of guilt. This was not unexpected as Hill had already signalled a guilty plea back in May, telling the court that Warner was fully aware his conduct was wrong and regretted opting to drive rather than book a cab. According to Hill, the batter had shared a few glasses of wine at a friend's home before making that call, and the lawyer was at pains to stress it was the decision to drive, not the drinking itself, that amounted to poor judgement. Cricket NSW, meanwhile, did not downplay the episode. Chief executive Lee Germon said the allegations were "concerning" and were being taken "very seriously," adding that the organisation was a strong advocate for safe driving and firmly against drink-driving. What next for Warner? The Aussie leads Sydney Thunder in BBL and the franchise, along with Sydney Sixers and NSW Blues, are part of a state government campaign against drink-driving, which adds extra scrutiny to how the franchise responds. For now, Warner continues to juggle franchise commitments across the PSL and BBL while awaiting sentencing. Beyond the legal fallout, the bigger question is whether Cricket NSW allows him to retain the Thunder captaincy, a role restored only in 2024 after a lifetime leadership ban tied to the 2018 ball-tampering scandal was overturned.

Warner was pulled over during a roadside breath test in Sydney's eastern suburbs on April 5, before being taken to Maroubra Police Station, where his blood alcohol reading came in at 0.104 which is more than double the legal limit.

Ex-Aussie opener David Warner pleads guilty in drink-and-drive case

From India to Australia, here's a look at the top five cricket teams with most ICC titles. This list also includes Pakistan, West Indies and Sri Lanka.

From India to Australia, here's a look at the top five cricket teams with most ICC titles. This list also includes Pakistan, West Indies and Sri Lanka.

5 cricket teams with most ICC titles, check where India stands

The Tamil Nadu Cricket Association (TNCA) has received a request to host the first match of the upcoming Big Bash League (BBL) season in Chennai and delegates from Cricket Australia (CA) recently met TNCA officials to talk about holding the opening match at Chepauk stadium. However, TNCA has said that the final decision will be taken by the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI). A senior TNCA official said that the Australian group, which included two BBL representatives and one CA official, visited Chennai last week to discuss the idea.&nbsp;&nbsp;The TNCA made it clear that the match cannot go ahead without approval from the BCCI and for now, the decision rests with the Indian board.&nbsp;&nbsp;"We have heard their proposal and are fully aware of our jurisdiction. The TNCA has left the matter to the BCCI. We have made it clear to the Australian delegation that without BCCI approval, the plan cannot move forward," a TNCA official said. The ball is in the BCCI court," according to the reports from Cricbuzz.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/los-angeles-mayor-calls-for-2028-olympic-games-la28-chief-organiser-casey-wasserman-to-step-down-over-epstein-files-1771334180848">Los Angeles mayor calls for LA28 chief organiser to step down over Epstein files</a>&nbsp;If the plan gets approval, the match could be played in December. So far, the BCCI has not given any clear response and is believed to be carefully reviewing the situation. &nbsp;&nbsp;According to a report by Australian outlet SEN, this move is part of a wider strategy to connect the Indian market closely with the BBL. This comes at a time when at least two of the league’s eight teams are expected to be put up for sale.&nbsp;&nbsp;"The bold ambition is part of a wider strategy to intertwine the lucrative Indian market with the BBL ahead of a near-certain sale for at least two of its eight franchises," a report in Australian media outlet SEN read.&nbsp;According to reports, the Perth Scorchers are likely to be one of the teams considered for the Chennai match. The time difference between Western Australia and India is only about two and a half hours, which makes scheduling easier.&nbsp;&nbsp;The Scorchers are also the defending champions, making them strong candidates to play in the opening match, although the BBL does not always start its season with the previous year’s winners.&nbsp;

According to reports, the Perth Scorchers are likely to be one of the teams considered for the Chennai match. The time difference between Western Australia and India is only about two and a half hours, which makes scheduling easier. 

The Tamil Nadu Cricket Association (TNCA) has received a request to host the first match of the upcoming Big Bash League (BBL) season in Chennai and delegates from Cricket Australia (CA) recently met TNCA officials to talk about holding the opening match at Chepauk stadium. However, TNCA has said that the final decision will be taken by the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI). A senior TNCA official said that the Australian group, which included two BBL representatives and one CA official, visited Chennai last week to discuss the idea. The TNCA made it clear that the match cannot go ahead without approval from the BCCI and for now, the decision rests with the Indian board. "We have heard their proposal and are fully aware of our jurisdiction. The TNCA has left the matter to the BCCI. We have made it clear to the Australian delegation that without BCCI approval, the plan cannot move forward," a TNCA official said. The ball is in the BCCI court," according to the reports from Cricbuzz. Also Read - Los Angeles mayor calls for LA28 chief organiser to step down over Epstein files If the plan gets approval, the match could be played in December. So far, the BCCI has not given any clear response and is believed to be carefully reviewing the situation. According to a report by Australian outlet SEN, this move is part of a wider strategy to connect the Indian market closely with the BBL. This comes at a time when at least two of the league’s eight teams are expected to be put up for sale. "The bold ambition is part of a wider strategy to intertwine the lucrative Indian market with the BBL ahead of a near-certain sale for at least two of its eight franchises," a report in Australian media outlet SEN read. According to reports, the Perth Scorchers are likely to be one of the teams considered for the Chennai match. The time difference between Western Australia and India is only about two and a half hours, which makes scheduling easier. The Scorchers are also the defending champions, making them strong candidates to play in the opening match, although the BBL does not always start its season with the previous year’s winners.

According to reports, the Perth Scorchers are likely to be one of the teams considered for the Chennai match. The time difference between Western Australia and India is only about two and a half hours, which makes scheduling easier.&nbsp;

Big Bash League set for India debut in Chennai? Cricket Australia exploring move: Report

Australia suffered a major setback just one week before the T20 World Cup 2026, as star pacer Pat Cummins was ruled out of the tournament due to an ongoing back injury. The same issue had troubled him during the Ashes series. Cricket Australia announced their 15-player squad on Saturday (Jan 31), with the tournament set to begin next week in India and Sri Lanka. Mitchell Marsh will captain a strong side aiming to win Australia’s second T20 World Cup title. Cummins is not the only big name missing from the squad, as experienced batter Steve Smith and hard-hitting all-rounder Matt Short were also left out.&nbsp;Also Read -<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-nz-5th-t20i-when-and-where-to-watch-india-vs-new-zealand-match-live-streaming-in-india-1769828087993"> IND vs NZ, 5th T20I: When and where to watch India vs New Zealand match live streaming in India?</a>&nbsp;Selector Tony Dodemaide explained that left-arm pacer Ben Dwarshuis has been chosen as Cummins’ replacement. He further said that Dwarshuis’ ability to swing the ball at good speed and use smart variations makes him a good fit for the expected conditions and the team’s balance.&nbsp;&nbsp;“With Pat needing more time to recover from his back injury Ben is a ready replacement who offers a left-arm pace option as well as dynamic fielding and late-order hitting," Dodemaide said.&nbsp;“We believe his ability to swing the ball at good pace along with clever variations will be well suited to the conditions we expect and overall structure of the squad," he added.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/australian-open-2026-harrison-skupski-clinch-men-s-doubles-crown-1769840910889">Australian Open 2026: Harrison, Skupski clinch men’s doubles crown</a>&nbsp;Australia is placed in Group B along with Ireland, Oman, Sri Lanka and Zimbabwe. They will start their campaign against the Ireland on Feb 11 in Colombo, then face Zimbabwe on Feb 13, Sri Lanka on Feb 16 and Oman on Feb 20.<h2>Australia squad for T20 World Cup 2026</h2>Mitchell Marsh (c), Xavier Bartlett, Cooper Connolly, Tim David, Ben Dwarshuis, Cameron Green, Nathan Ellis, Josh Hazlewood, Travis Head, Josh Inglis, Matthew Kuhnemann, Glenn Maxwell, Matthew Renshaw, Marcus Stoinis and Adam Zampa

Australia is placed in Group B along with Ireland, Oman, Sri Lanka and Zimbabwe. They will start their campaign against the Ireland on Feb 11 in Colombo, then face Zimbabwe on Feb 13, Sri Lanka on Feb 16 and Oman on Feb 20.

Australia suffered a major setback just one week before the T20 World Cup 2026, as star pacer Pat Cummins was ruled out of the tournament due to an ongoing back injury. The same issue had troubled him during the Ashes series. Cricket Australia announced their 15-player squad on Saturday (Jan 31), with the tournament set to begin next week in India and Sri Lanka. Mitchell Marsh will captain a strong side aiming to win Australia’s second T20 World Cup title. Cummins is not the only big name missing from the squad, as experienced batter Steve Smith and hard-hitting all-rounder Matt Short were also left out. Also Read - IND vs NZ, 5th T20I: When and where to watch India vs New Zealand match live streaming in India? Selector Tony Dodemaide explained that left-arm pacer Ben Dwarshuis has been chosen as Cummins’ replacement. He further said that Dwarshuis’ ability to swing the ball at good speed and use smart variations makes him a good fit for the expected conditions and the team’s balance. “With Pat needing more time to recover from his back injury Ben is a ready replacement who offers a left-arm pace option as well as dynamic fielding and late-order hitting," Dodemaide said. “We believe his ability to swing the ball at good pace along with clever variations will be well suited to the conditions we expect and overall structure of the squad," he added. Also Read - Australian Open 2026: Harrison, Skupski clinch men’s doubles crown Australia is placed in Group B along with Ireland, Oman, Sri Lanka and Zimbabwe. They will start their campaign against the Ireland on Feb 11 in Colombo, then face Zimbabwe on Feb 13, Sri Lanka on Feb 16 and Oman on Feb 20. Australia squad for T20 World Cup 2026 Mitchell Marsh (c), Xavier Bartlett, Cooper Connolly, Tim David, Ben Dwarshuis, Cameron Green, Nathan Ellis, Josh Hazlewood, Travis Head, Josh Inglis, Matthew Kuhnemann, Glenn Maxwell, Matthew Renshaw, Marcus Stoinis and Adam Zampa

Australia is placed in Group B along with Ireland, Oman, Sri Lanka and Zimbabwe. They will start their campaign against the Ireland on Feb 11 in Colombo, then face Zimbabwe on Feb 13, Sri Lanka on Feb 16 and Oman on Feb 20.

T20 World Cup 2026: Australia announce final squad, Cummins ruled out

Former Australian batter Damien Martyn has opened up on his health-related issues after he recently returned home from the hospital. The World Cup winner was hospitalised with meningitis, and consequently admitted to a hospital in Queensland, confirmed on Dec 31. However, now recovering from meningitis, Martyn reckons life can be fragile and took to his social media handle to share his experience.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">This post is A BIG thank you to ALL my family, friends and so many other people who have reached out to me! On the 27th of December 2025 my life was taken out of my hands…when meningitis took over my brain, &amp; unbeknownst to me I was placed into a paralysed coma for 8 days to… <a href="https://t.co/3Mt3DS6MZY">pic.twitter.com/3Mt3DS6MZY</a>&mdash; Damien Martyn🏏 (@damienmartyn) <a href="https://twitter.com/damienmartyn/status/2012405092499214598?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 17, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h2>Martyn shares thoughts after home coming</h2>"I'm back," former Australia cricketer Damien Martyn has tweeted as part of a message on social media that's equal parts health update - all positive - and a thank-you note.&nbsp;"After being given a 50/50 chance of surviving, I came out of the induced coma 8 days later...not able to walk or talk. And yet 4 days after that, with the doctors in disbelief, I walked, I talked and proved to them all why I should be released from hospital to start my recovery," former Australia batter Martyn, now 54, wrote after returning home from hospital.&nbsp;ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-chris-gayle-to-brendon-mccullum-5-batters-to-score-fastest-t20-world-cup-hundreds-rilee-rossouw-ahmed-shehzad-1768553361691">From Chris Gayle to Brendon McCullum, 5 batters to score fastest T20 World Cup hundreds</a>&nbsp;Martyn, 54, fell ill on Boxing Day, with news emerging of his condition in the final week of December. A legend of the game, Martyn underwent treatment in Queensland. While there was no official word from the family, former Australian player and stand-in captain Adam Gilchrist gave a health update that week.&nbsp;Speaking on behalf of Martyn's family, close friend Adam Gilchrist said: "He is getting the best of treatment and [Martyn's partner] Amanda and his family know that a lot of people are sending their prayers and best wishes."&nbsp;ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/meet-indians-to-score-most-runs-in-each-of-last-5-t20-world-cups-ft-virat-kohli-kl-rahul-rohit-sharma-2026-t20-world-cup-1768479871185">Meet Indians to score most runs in each of last 5 T20 World Cups ft Virat Kohli</a>&nbsp;Cricket Australia CEO Todd Greenberg said: "I'm saddened to hear of Damien's illness. The best wishes of everyone at CA and in the wider cricket community are with him at this time."&nbsp;An incredible servant of the game, Martyn played at the top level for 14 years, spanning a career from 1992 to 2006, before he joined the Indian Cricket League (ICL). As ICL was branded a rebel league by the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), Martyn’s career at the international level came to an end as players were barred from playing for their national side.

Damien Martyn, 54, fell ill on Boxing Day, with news emerging of his condition in the final week of December. A legend of the game, Martyn underwent treatment in Queensland. 

Former Australian batter Damien Martyn has opened up on his health-related issues after he recently returned home from the hospital. The World Cup winner was hospitalised with meningitis, and consequently admitted to a hospital in Queensland, confirmed on Dec 31. However, now recovering from meningitis, Martyn reckons life can be fragile and took to his social media handle to share his experience.

Damien Martyn, 54, fell ill on Boxing Day, with news emerging of his condition in the final week of December. A legend of the game, Martyn underwent treatment in Queensland.&nbsp;

Damien Martyn back home, shares heartfelt message 'this experience has reminded me of how fragile life is'

Cricket Australia faces a significant leadership call after Alyssa Healy decided to retire from international cricket after the upcoming multi-format home series against India in Feb-March. Healy's retirement means that Australia will enter the 2026 T20 World Cup later in the year with a new skipper. Healy announced the decision on Willow Talk podcast on Tuesday (Jan 13) and she will retire as one of the most successful players of all time with eight World Cup titles. Now, the question is how Australia will move forward in the captaincy role after her departure. To explore that, let’s take a look at an ESPN podcast report.<h2>Who will lead Australia after Healy's retirement</h2>Vice-captain Tahlia McGrath and allrounder Ashleigh Gardner are the main frontrunners to become the next captain of the Australian women’s team. The 28-year-old, Gardner, has boosted her chances over the past year after being appointed as captain of the Sydney Sixers in the latest WBBL season, taking over from Ellyse Perry. She continued to perform strongly while earning praise for her leadership style.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/icc-odi-rankings-virat-kohli-replaces-rohit-sharma-to-reclaim-no-1-batter-spot-after-four-years-1768383836400">ICC ODI Rankings: Virat Kohli replaces Rohit Sharma to reclaim no. 1 batter spot</a>&nbsp;Gardner has been a reliable match-winner for Australia in all formats and has also acted as vice-captain when McGrath led the team in Healy’s absence. Before Healy announced her retirement, Gardner said she was not chasing the role but would be happy to take it on if it was in the team’s best interest. &nbsp;"It's not something that I ever had ambitions to do, but if the opportunities come up, absolutely, I'd be happy to do that. So, whatever the team needs, I'll try to perform for whatever that looks like," said Gardner.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/u-19-odi-world-cup-2026-faqs-teams-venues-match-details-records-when-and-where-to-watch-in-india-1768386200055">U-19 Men's ODI World Cup: Everything you should know but don't know yet</a>&nbsp;Whereas, McGrath has captained Australia 15 times when Healy was unavailable and was one of the world’s top T20 players. Recently, however, she has struggled for form, including being moved down to no.7 position in the ODI batting order. &nbsp;Young guns Annabel Sutherland and Phoebe Litchfield are also seen as future captaincy options.&nbsp;Healy’s retirement is likely to lead to other changes as well, with Georgia Voll expected to move up the batting order and Beth Mooney set to take over the wicketkeeping role.

Healy’s retirement is likely to lead to other changes as well, with Georgia Voll expected to move up the batting order and Beth Mooney set to take over the wicketkeeping role.

Cricket Australia faces a significant leadership call after Alyssa Healy decided to retire from international cricket after the upcoming multi-format home series against India in Feb-March. Healy's retirement means that Australia will enter the 2026 T20 World Cup later in the year with a new skipper. Healy announced the decision on Willow Talk podcast on Tuesday (Jan 13) and she will retire as one of the most successful players of all time with eight World Cup titles. Now, the question is how Australia will move forward in the captaincy role after her departure. To explore that, let’s take a look at an ESPN podcast report. Who will lead Australia after Healy's retirement Vice-captain Tahlia McGrath and allrounder Ashleigh Gardner are the main frontrunners to become the next captain of the Australian women’s team. The 28-year-old, Gardner, has boosted her chances over the past year after being appointed as captain of the Sydney Sixers in the latest WBBL season, taking over from Ellyse Perry. She continued to perform strongly while earning praise for her leadership style. Also Read - ICC ODI Rankings: Virat Kohli replaces Rohit Sharma to reclaim no. 1 batter spot Gardner has been a reliable match-winner for Australia in all formats and has also acted as vice-captain when McGrath led the team in Healy’s absence. Before Healy announced her retirement, Gardner said she was not chasing the role but would be happy to take it on if it was in the team’s best interest. "It's not something that I ever had ambitions to do, but if the opportunities come up, absolutely, I'd be happy to do that. So, whatever the team needs, I'll try to perform for whatever that looks like," said Gardner. Also Read - U-19 Men's ODI World Cup: Everything you should know but don't know yet Whereas, McGrath has captained Australia 15 times when Healy was unavailable and was one of the world’s top T20 players. Recently, however, she has struggled for form, including being moved down to no.7 position in the ODI batting order. Young guns Annabel Sutherland and Phoebe Litchfield are also seen as future captaincy options. Healy’s retirement is likely to lead to other changes as well, with Georgia Voll expected to move up the batting order and Beth Mooney set to take over the wicketkeeping role.

Healy’s retirement is likely to lead to other changes as well, with Georgia Voll expected to move up the batting order and Beth Mooney set to take over the wicketkeeping role.

Who will lead Australia after Alyssa Healy's retirement - Here's what we know

Former Australian cricketer Damien Martyn was recently diagnosed with meningitis and admitted to a hospital in Gold Coast, and is currently on the road to recovery, his wife Amanda revealed in a recent chat. On December 30, Martyn was placed in an induced coma following the illness, with the cricket world coming together to pray for his speedy recovery. Speaking publicly for the first time since Martyn’s hospitalisation, his wife shared a comforting update with everyone, revealing that Damien is progressing well. &nbsp;While updating his health status, Amanda also expressed gratitude towards the medical team at the Gold Coast University Hospital in Queensland, who have helped Martyn come out of any danger. &nbsp;“Damien is progressing well with his medical treatment. We also want to express our deepest appreciation to the medical team at Gold Coast University Hospital, who have been nothing short of amazing throughout this challenging time. This has been a trying time, and the family ask that you respect their privacy,” Amanda said in a chat with News Corp, as quoted by The West Australian.&nbsp;Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/bangladesh-to-ask-icc-to-reallocate-2026-t20-world-cup-matches-out-of-india-due-to-safety-concerns-mustafizur-rahman-ipl-2026-kkr-1767502320150">Drama escalates as Bangladesh to ask ICC to reallocate T20 WC matches out of India due to ‘safety concerns’</a> &nbsp;Earlier, after getting admitted, Martyn’s close friend and former teammate, Adam Gilchrist, also spoke on the family’s behalf, saying, "He (Martyn) is getting the best of treatment and [Martyn's partner] Amanda and his family know that a lot of people are sending their prayers and best wishes.” &nbsp;At the time when this news broke out, Cricket Australia CEO Todd Greenberg also said, "I'm saddened to hear of Damien's illness. The best wishes of everyone at CA and in the wider cricket community are with him at this time." &nbsp;Meanwhile, Martyn, a right-handed middle-order batter during his time, was one of cricket’s greatest strokemakers, having played 67 Tests from 1992 to 2006. After failing to make a name for himself following his debut, Martyn returned to Australia’s Test side in 2000 before calling time on his career midway through the 2006 Ashes. He scored 4406 Test runs at 46.37, including 13 hundreds. &nbsp;Even in the One-Dayers, Martyn scored over 5000 runs, including five hundreds at an average just above 40. His most famous outing was an unbeaten 88 against India in the 2003 World Cup Final, stitching a 234-run stand with his captain Ricky Ponting, who hit an unbeaten hundred to help Australia post 359-2. &nbsp;The then defending champions won that match by 125 runs, clinching their third world title and second consecutively.&nbsp;

While updating his health status, Amanda also expressed gratitude towards the medical team at the Gold Coast University Hospital in Queensland, who have helped Martyn come out of any danger.

Former Australian cricketer Damien Martyn was recently diagnosed with meningitis and admitted to a hospital in Gold Coast, and is currently on the road to recovery, his wife Amanda revealed in a recent chat. On December 30, Martyn was placed in an induced coma following the illness, with the cricket world coming together to pray for his speedy recovery. Speaking publicly for the first time since Martyn’s hospitalisation, his wife shared a comforting update with everyone, revealing that Damien is progressing well. While updating his health status, Amanda also expressed gratitude towards the medical team at the Gold Coast University Hospital in Queensland, who have helped Martyn come out of any danger. “Damien is progressing well with his medical treatment. We also want to express our deepest appreciation to the medical team at Gold Coast University Hospital, who have been nothing short of amazing throughout this challenging time. This has been a trying time, and the family ask that you respect their privacy,” Amanda said in a chat with News Corp, as quoted by The West Australian. Also read | Drama escalates as Bangladesh to ask ICC to reallocate T20 WC matches out of India due to ‘safety concerns’ Earlier, after getting admitted, Martyn’s close friend and former teammate, Adam Gilchrist, also spoke on the family’s behalf, saying, "He (Martyn) is getting the best of treatment and [Martyn's partner] Amanda and his family know that a lot of people are sending their prayers and best wishes.” At the time when this news broke out, Cricket Australia CEO Todd Greenberg also said, "I'm saddened to hear of Damien's illness. The best wishes of everyone at CA and in the wider cricket community are with him at this time." Meanwhile, Martyn, a right-handed middle-order batter during his time, was one of cricket’s greatest strokemakers, having played 67 Tests from 1992 to 2006. After failing to make a name for himself following his debut, Martyn returned to Australia’s Test side in 2000 before calling time on his career midway through the 2006 Ashes. He scored 4406 Test runs at 46.37, including 13 hundreds. Even in the One-Dayers, Martyn scored over 5000 runs, including five hundreds at an average just above 40. His most famous outing was an unbeaten 88 against India in the 2003 World Cup Final, stitching a 234-run stand with his captain Ricky Ponting, who hit an unbeaten hundred to help Australia post 359-2. The then defending champions won that match by 125 runs, clinching their third world title and second consecutively.

While updating his health status, Amanda also expressed gratitude towards the medical team at the Gold Coast University Hospital in Queensland, who have helped Martyn come out of any danger.

Damien Martyn’s wife provides latest update on cricketer’s recovery, says ‘he is…’

Former Australian cricketer and World Cup winner Damien Martyn has been hospitalised with meningitis, as confirmed on Wednesday (Dec 31). Martyn, a two-time ODI World Cup winner, has been hospitalised in a Queensland hospital in an induced coma, with wishes from former colleagues and the cricketing fraternity pouring in to wish him a speedy recovery. Martyn is a two-time World Cup winner, having played a crucial role in Australia’s 1999 and 2003 triumphs.<h2>Damien Martyn hospitalised</h2>According to the prominent cricket website ESPNcricinfo, Martyn, 54, fell ill on Boxing Day, with news emerging on Tuesday evening of his condition. Martyn is currently in an induced coma. A legend of the game, there, Martyn will undergo treatment in Queensland. While there was no official word from the family, former Australian player and stand-in captain Adam Gilchrist gave a health update.&nbsp;ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-leonard-hutton-to-don-bradman-5-batters-with-highest-individual-score-in-ashes-bob-simpson-bob-cowper-ashes-2025-26-1762276944046">From Leonard Hutton to Don Bradman, 5 batters with highest individual score in Ashes</a>&nbsp;Speaking on behalf of Martyn's family, close friend Adam Gilchrist said: "He is getting the best of treatment and [Martyn's partner] Amanda and his family know that a lot of people are sending their prayers and best wishes."&nbsp;ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-steve-smith-to-joe-root-5-active-batters-with-most-runs-in-ashes-ben-stokes-jonny-bairstow-usman-khawaja-1762275784636">From Steve Smith to Joe Root, 5 active batters with most runs in Ashes</a>&nbsp;Cricket Australia CEO Todd Greenberg said: "I'm saddened to hear of Damien's illness. The best wishes of everyone at CA and in the wider cricket community are with him at this time."&nbsp;An incredible servant of the game, Martyn played at the top level for 14 years, spanning a career from 1992 to 2006, before he joined the Indian Cricket League (ICL). As ICL was branded a rebel league by the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), Martyn’s career at the international level came to an end as players were barred from playing for their national side.

Damien Martyn, a two-time ODI World Cup winner, has been hospitalised in a Queensland hospital in an induced coma, with wishes from former colleagues and the cricketing fraternity pouring in to wish him a speedy recovery.

Former Australian cricketer and World Cup winner Damien Martyn has been hospitalised with meningitis, as confirmed on Wednesday (Dec 31). Martyn, a two-time ODI World Cup winner, has been hospitalised in a Queensland hospital in an induced coma, with wishes from former colleagues and the cricketing fraternity pouring in to wish him a speedy recovery. Martyn is a two-time World Cup winner, having played a crucial role in Australia’s 1999 and 2003 triumphs. Damien Martyn hospitalised According to the prominent cricket website ESPNcricinfo, Martyn, 54, fell ill on Boxing Day, with news emerging on Tuesday evening of his condition. Martyn is currently in an induced coma. A legend of the game, there, Martyn will undergo treatment in Queensland. While there was no official word from the family, former Australian player and stand-in captain Adam Gilchrist gave a health update. ALSO READ | From Leonard Hutton to Don Bradman, 5 batters with highest individual score in Ashes Speaking on behalf of Martyn's family, close friend Adam Gilchrist said: "He is getting the best of treatment and [Martyn's partner] Amanda and his family know that a lot of people are sending their prayers and best wishes." ALSO READ | From Steve Smith to Joe Root, 5 active batters with most runs in Ashes Cricket Australia CEO Todd Greenberg said: "I'm saddened to hear of Damien's illness. The best wishes of everyone at CA and in the wider cricket community are with him at this time." An incredible servant of the game, Martyn played at the top level for 14 years, spanning a career from 1992 to 2006, before he joined the Indian Cricket League (ICL). As ICL was branded a rebel league by the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), Martyn’s career at the international level came to an end as players were barred from playing for their national side.

Damien Martyn, a two-time ODI World Cup winner, has been hospitalised in a Queensland hospital in an induced coma, with wishes from former colleagues and the cricketing fraternity pouring in to wish him a speedy recovery.

Former Australia batter Damien Martyn hospitalised with meningitis

Australian pace legend Brett Lee has been inducted into the Hall of Fame after serving the nation on the field for more than a decade in the 2000s. Lee, who was a member of the Australian side that won the 2003 and 2007 World Cup represented the national side in all three formats with more than 300 aggregate appearances across the formats. Lee retired from the game in 2012 was the nation’s highest wicket-taker in ODIs.<h2>Lee inducted in Australian Hall of Fame</h2>“That (160 km/h) means more to me than any wicket I’ve taken. Of course, the team comes first — to win the (2003) World Cup, the 16 straight Test wins, that’s the pinnacle; that’s why you play the game. But in terms of personal milestones, it wasn’t wickets for me. Because I’d set my goal at such a young age to hit that 160 km/h barrier and to go past it, when you dream about something, you dedicate your life to achieving that dream, and when it comes off, it’s very special,” Lee told cricket.com.au.&nbsp;ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-steve-smith-to-joe-root-5-active-batters-with-most-runs-in-ashes-ben-stokes-jonny-bairstow-usman-khawaja-1762275784636">From Steve Smith to Joe Root, 5 active batters with most runs in Ashes</a>&nbsp;The former pacer represented Australia in 76 Tests, 221 ODIs and 25 T20Is, amassing a combined total of 718 wickets. Lee made his debut for Australia in 1999 against India in the Boxing Day Test before ending his red-ball career at the same venue of Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) in 2008 against Australia.&nbsp;ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-leonard-hutton-to-don-bradman-5-batters-with-highest-individual-score-in-ashes-bob-simpson-bob-cowper-ashes-2025-26-1762276944046">From Leonard Hutton to Don Bradman, 5 batters with highest individual score in Ashes</a>&nbsp;Lee would later retire from the white-ball format in 2012, dropping curtains on a successful career. His last game for the national side was against England at Chester-le-Street, officially announcing retirement in ODIs.&nbsp;With 380 wickets in ODIs for Australia, he topped the chart for most wickets ahead of Glenn McGrath and Shane Warne in the format. He was also rewarded with the Allan Border medal for Best Test Player of the Year in 2008.&nbsp;

Brett Lee represented Australia in 76 Tests, 221 ODIs and 25 T20Is, amassing a combined total of 718 wickets. 

Australian pace legend Brett Lee has been inducted into the Hall of Fame after serving the nation on the field for more than a decade in the 2000s. Lee, who was a member of the Australian side that won the 2003 and 2007 World Cup represented the national side in all three formats with more than 300 aggregate appearances across the formats. Lee retired from the game in 2012 was the nation’s highest wicket-taker in ODIs. Lee inducted in Australian Hall of Fame “That (160 km/h) means more to me than any wicket I’ve taken. Of course, the team comes first — to win the (2003) World Cup, the 16 straight Test wins, that’s the pinnacle; that’s why you play the game. But in terms of personal milestones, it wasn’t wickets for me. Because I’d set my goal at such a young age to hit that 160 km/h barrier and to go past it, when you dream about something, you dedicate your life to achieving that dream, and when it comes off, it’s very special,” Lee told cricket.com.au. ALSO READ | From Steve Smith to Joe Root, 5 active batters with most runs in Ashes The former pacer represented Australia in 76 Tests, 221 ODIs and 25 T20Is, amassing a combined total of 718 wickets. Lee made his debut for Australia in 1999 against India in the Boxing Day Test before ending his red-ball career at the same venue of Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) in 2008 against Australia. ALSO READ | From Leonard Hutton to Don Bradman, 5 batters with highest individual score in Ashes Lee would later retire from the white-ball format in 2012, dropping curtains on a successful career. His last game for the national side was against England at Chester-le-Street, officially announcing retirement in ODIs. With 380 wickets in ODIs for Australia, he topped the chart for most wickets ahead of Glenn McGrath and Shane Warne in the format. He was also rewarded with the Allan Border medal for Best Test Player of the Year in 2008.

Brett Lee represented Australia in 76 Tests, 221 ODIs and 25 T20Is, amassing a combined total of 718 wickets.&nbsp;

Legendary speedster Brett Lee inducted into Australian cricket Hall of Fame

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

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

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

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

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

The International Cricket Council (ICC) is testing a new rule which could soon be the part of international matches across formats. This new rule, pertaining to like-for-like replacement of a player during an internal or external injury, is currently being implemented by Cricket South Africa, Cricket Australia and Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) in multi-day matches at the domestic levels. The boards will report back to the apex body with detailed analysis of the rule and its implementation method after which the ICC would make rules to implement it in the international cricket.<h2>What is this new injury rule being experimented by the ICC?</h2>Under this new injury rule, the boards are trying replacing players for a team which they lose during the match because of an internal or external injury. The internal injury is something which requires a scan, for eg. a muscle tear and the player is sent to scans to determine the extent which is followed by the decision on replacing him for the rest of the match by a like-for-like replacement.Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-have-not-only-beaten-pakistan-in-women-s-odis-but-done-so-while-keeping-this-record-intact-1759753113806">India have not only beaten Pak in women's ODIs but done with THIS record intact</a>As for external injuries, such as dislocation or broken bones, the match referees can take a call on the replacement of the player in consultation with the authorities. As of now, the ICC only allows player substitute for concussions.<h2>Which boards are experimenting with the rule?</h2>Cricket South Africa is experimenting with the rule in the domestic first class cricket and so is Cricket Australia in Sheffield Shield matches. The BCCI is considering only external injuries part of the rule as of now and is experimenting with it in the domestic Duleep Trophy and upcoming Ranji Trophy - domestic multi-day red-ball tournaments.The boards will report back to the ICC after completion of trial period based on which the apex body is expected to formulate the final rules.

Cricket South Africa is experimenting with the rule in the domestic first class cricket and so is Cricket Australia in Sheffield Shield matches. The BCCI is considering only external injuries part of the rule.

The International Cricket Council (ICC) is testing a new rule which could soon be the part of international matches across formats. This new rule, pertaining to like-for-like replacement of a player during an internal or external injury, is currently being implemented by Cricket South Africa, Cricket Australia and Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) in multi-day matches at the domestic levels. The boards will report back to the apex body with detailed analysis of the rule and its implementation method after which the ICC would make rules to implement it in the international cricket. What is this new injury rule being experimented by the ICC? Under this new injury rule, the boards are trying replacing players for a team which they lose during the match because of an internal or external injury. The internal injury is something which requires a scan, for eg. a muscle tear and the player is sent to scans to determine the extent which is followed by the decision on replacing him for the rest of the match by a like-for-like replacement. Also Read - India have not only beaten Pak in women's ODIs but done with THIS record intact As for external injuries, such as dislocation or broken bones, the match referees can take a call on the replacement of the player in consultation with the authorities. As of now, the ICC only allows player substitute for concussions. Which boards are experimenting with the rule? Cricket South Africa is experimenting with the rule in the domestic first class cricket and so is Cricket Australia in Sheffield Shield matches. The BCCI is considering only external injuries part of the rule as of now and is experimenting with it in the domestic Duleep Trophy and upcoming Ranji Trophy - domestic multi-day red-ball tournaments. The boards will report back to the ICC after completion of trial period based on which the apex body is expected to formulate the final rules.

Cricket South Africa is experimenting with the rule in the domestic first class cricket and so is Cricket Australia in Sheffield Shield matches. The BCCI is considering only external injuries part of the rule.

Cricket may get a new rule on injury replacement as boards, including BCCI, begin experiment at domestic level

From Board of Control for Cricket in India(BCCI) to England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB), here 's a look at the top five richest cricket boards in the world.

From Board of Control for Cricket in India(BCCI) to England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB), here 's a look at the top five richest cricket boards in the world.

From BCCI to ECB: Top 5 richest cricket boards in the world, check where PCB stands

Rocky Flintoff, the son of former England all-rounder Andrew Flintoff is making headlines by following his father's footsteps. At just 16 years and 291 days old, Rocky has scored a century for the England Lions and breaks a long-standing record set by his father. The England Lions toured Australia in January this year and played a four-day match against Cricket Australia at the Brisbane ground. During the match Rocky has impressed everyone with a brilliant knock of 108 runs off 127 balls in the first innings and help England to post a good total.&nbsp;With this performance he broke his father's 27-year-old record and become the youngest player to score a century for the England Lions (also known as England A).&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="Joe Root on course to break record against India, can become first batter to achieve THIS milestone">Joe Root on course to break record against India, can become first batter to achieve THIS milestone</a>&nbsp;Before Rocky Flintoff, the record was held by his father Andrew Flintoff who had scored a hundred for the England Lions in 1998 against Kenya in Nairobi at the age of 20 years and 208 days.&nbsp;The England Lions managed to post a total of 316 runs in their first innings. Thanks to Rocky’s innings as it came at a crucial time when the team was struggling, his century includes six sixes and nine boundaries.&nbsp;On the other hand, Cricket Australia team was bowled out for 214 runs in their first innings with England bowler Pat Brown taking five wickets.&nbsp;The 16-year-old made his First-Class and List-A debut in 2024 and plays for Lancashire in county cricket. So far he has appeared in four First-Class matches and seven List-A games.&nbsp;The tour of Australia was also part of England’s preparations for the Ashes series later this year giving young players like Rocky Flintoff a chance to prove themselves.

The 16-year-old made his First-Class and List-A debut in 2024 and plays for Lancashire in county cricket. So far he has appeared in 4 First-Class matches and 7 List-A games.

Rocky Flintoff, the son of former England all-rounder Andrew Flintoff is making headlines by following his father's footsteps. At just 16 years and 291 days old, Rocky has scored a century for the England Lions and breaks a long-standing record set by his father. The England Lions toured Australia in January this year and played a four-day match against Cricket Australia at the Brisbane ground. During the match Rocky has impressed everyone with a brilliant knock of 108 runs off 127 balls in the first innings and help England to post a good total. With this performance he broke his father's 27-year-old record and become the youngest player to score a century for the England Lions (also known as England A). Also Read - Joe Root on course to break record against India, can become first batter to achieve THIS milestone Before Rocky Flintoff, the record was held by his father Andrew Flintoff who had scored a hundred for the England Lions in 1998 against Kenya in Nairobi at the age of 20 years and 208 days. The England Lions managed to post a total of 316 runs in their first innings. Thanks to Rocky’s innings as it came at a crucial time when the team was struggling, his century includes six sixes and nine boundaries. On the other hand, Cricket Australia team was bowled out for 214 runs in their first innings with England bowler Pat Brown taking five wickets. The 16-year-old made his First-Class and List-A debut in 2024 and plays for Lancashire in county cricket. So far he has appeared in four First-Class matches and seven List-A games. The tour of Australia was also part of England’s preparations for the Ashes series later this year giving young players like Rocky Flintoff a chance to prove themselves.

The 16-year-old made his First-Class and List-A debut in 2024 and plays for Lancashire in county cricket. So far he has appeared in 4 First-Class matches and 7 List-A games.

16-year-old son Rocky breaks father and former England all-rounder's 27-year-old record

Cricket Australia is all set to give a 'great send-off' to Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma on India's white-ball tour Down Under later in the year. India, led by ODI skipper Rohit Sharma, will be traveling to Australia for three ODIs and five T20Is in October in what could be the last tour of Rohit and Virat on Australian soil.With both players retired from Test cricket and T20Is, the three ODIs will be the only opportunity for them to play in front of the Aussie crowd, if they continue to play till then. Both the players last toured Australia for Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) Test series 2024-25 which India lost 1-3.Cricket Australia CEO Todd Greenberg, however, is upbeat on the prospect of bumper summer which involves both India men and women teams' tours to Australia along with Ashes.Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/why-labuschagne-opening-in-wtc-final-2025-australia-dropped-opener-konstas-so-they-could-play-this-all-rounder-vs-sa-1749573988727">Why Labuschagne opening in WTC Final 2025? Australia drops opener Konstas for THIS all-rounder vs SA</a>Greenberg, while talking to reporters as reported by Times of India, said: "I think we saw real momentum last year on the back of the BGT series — you know, some record-breaking ticket sales. And I anticipate that we’ll see a number of sellouts across the summer, really starting in August and going through until March.""This might be a summer like we’ve never seen before, just in terms of the amount of content. And if you think about the quality of the players coming, particularly from India — this might be the last time we get to see Virat Kohli or Rohit Sharma play in our country. If that’s the case — who knows, it might not be — but if it is, we want to make sure we give them a great send-off and acknowledge the incredible contribution they've made to international cricket," he added.Both Rohit and Virat are in the fag end of their career and it remains to be seen if they'll talk part in the ODI World Cup 2027 - still two years away - in Africa.

With both players retired from Test cricket and T20Is, the three ODIs will be the only opportunity for them to play in front of the Aussie crowd, if they continue to play till then.

Cricket Australia is all set to give a 'great send-off' to Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma on India's white-ball tour Down Under later in the year. India, led by ODI skipper Rohit Sharma, will be traveling to Australia for three ODIs and five T20Is in October in what could be the last tour of Rohit and Virat on Australian soil. With both players retired from Test cricket and T20Is, the three ODIs will be the only opportunity for them to play in front of the Aussie crowd, if they continue to play till then. Both the players last toured Australia for Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) Test series 2024-25 which India lost 1-3. Cricket Australia CEO Todd Greenberg, however, is upbeat on the prospect of bumper summer which involves both India men and women teams' tours to Australia along with Ashes. Also Read - Why Labuschagne opening in WTC Final 2025? Australia drops opener Konstas for THIS all-rounder vs SA Greenberg, while talking to reporters as reported by Times of India, said: "I think we saw real momentum last year on the back of the BGT series — you know, some record-breaking ticket sales. And I anticipate that we’ll see a number of sellouts across the summer, really starting in August and going through until March." "This might be a summer like we’ve never seen before, just in terms of the amount of content. And if you think about the quality of the players coming, particularly from India — this might be the last time we get to see Virat Kohli or Rohit Sharma play in our country. If that’s the case — who knows, it might not be — but if it is, we want to make sure we give them a great send-off and acknowledge the incredible contribution they've made to international cricket," he added. Both Rohit and Virat are in the fag end of their career and it remains to be seen if they'll talk part in the ODI World Cup 2027 - still two years away - in Africa.

With both players retired from Test cricket and T20Is, the three ODIs will be the only opportunity for them to play in front of the Aussie crowd, if they continue to play till then.

Cricket Australia wants to give Rohit and Kohli 'great send-off' - Here's why

Australia have named a 16-member squad for the upcoming five-match <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/t20i">T20I </a>series against West Indies, scheduled to begin on Monday (July 21), in the Caribbean islands. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/mitchell-marsh">Mitchell Marsh</a>, who recently starred for Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) in IPL 2025, returns to lead the side.&nbsp;The squad sees the return of Josh Hazlewood, who played a crucial role in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohli-rcb-beat-pbks-by-6-runs-in-final-to-win-first-ipl-title-in-18-years-1748972749650">Royal Challengers Bengaluru’s (RCB) IPL title win</a>. Cameron Green and Cooper Connolly also make comebacks after recovering from injuries.&nbsp;Notably, IPL performers such as Marcus Stoinis, Jake Fraser-McGurk, and Xavier Bartlett have been left out of the squad. Regular campaigners Pat Cummins, Mitchell Starc, and Travis Head will skip the T20Is to return home after the Test series in West Indies.&nbsp;Two fresh names have earned maiden call-ups: Mitchell Owen and left-arm spinner Matt Kuhnemann. Kuhnemann could be a valuable option on the slower pitches of Jamaica and St. Kitt’s.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">SQUAD ✈️🌴 Mitchell Marsh will lead a squad of 16 for the T20I component of our national men&#39;s team&#39;s upcoming tour of the West Indies. <a href="https://t.co/liw6KlvtUU">pic.twitter.com/liw6KlvtUU</a>&mdash; Cricket Australia (@CricketAus) <a href="https://twitter.com/CricketAus/status/1930128099901092220?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 4, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

“We have a busy T20 schedule coming up through this series, followed by three against South Africa and New Zealand and five matches against India at home as we continue to refine and build a squad we think will be the right fit for the World Cup on the subcontinent," George Bailey, chief selector of Australia was quoted saying.&nbsp;Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/the-wait-is-over-king-kohli-legacy-sealed-rcb-champions-ipl-2025-1749019103870">The wait is over. King Kohli's legacy, sealed. RCB: Champions, IPL 2025</a>&nbsp;Australia’s core for the series includes experienced campaigners like Glenn Maxwell, Adam Zampa, Tim David, and Josh Inglis. Fast bowling depth comes in the form of Nathan Ellis, Ben Dwarshuis, Aaron Hardie, and Spencer Johnson.&nbsp;The series, which will commence on Monday (July 21), is seen as a key step in preparing for the T20I World Cup next year. With senior players resting, this is a golden opportunity for young guns to make a strong statement.&nbsp;Australia’s T20I squad for the West Indies series:Mitchell Marsh (captain), Sean Abbott, Cooper Connolly, Tim David, Ben Dwarshuis, Nathan Ellis, Cameron Green, Aaron Hardie, Josh Hazlewood, Josh Inglis, Spencer Johnson, Matt Kuhnemann, Glenn Maxwell, Mitch Owen, Matthew Short, Adam Zampa

Two fresh names have earned maiden call-ups: Mitchell Owen and left-arm spinner Matt Kuhnemann. Kuhnemann could be a valuable option on the slower pitches of Jamaica and St. Kitt’s.

Australia have named a 16-member squad for the upcoming five-match T20I series against West Indies, scheduled to begin on Monday (July 21), in the Caribbean islands. Mitchell Marsh, who recently starred for Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) in IPL 2025, returns to lead the side. The squad sees the return of Josh Hazlewood, who played a crucial role in Royal Challengers Bengaluru’s (RCB) IPL title win. Cameron Green and Cooper Connolly also make comebacks after recovering from injuries. Notably, IPL performers such as Marcus Stoinis, Jake Fraser-McGurk, and Xavier Bartlett have been left out of the squad. Regular campaigners Pat Cummins, Mitchell Starc, and Travis Head will skip the T20Is to return home after the Test series in West Indies. Two fresh names have earned maiden call-ups: Mitchell Owen and left-arm spinner Matt Kuhnemann. Kuhnemann could be a valuable option on the slower pitches of Jamaica and St. Kitt’s.

Two fresh names have earned maiden call-ups: Mitchell Owen and left-arm spinner Matt Kuhnemann. Kuhnemann could be a valuable option on the slower pitches of Jamaica and St. Kitt’s.

Australia name Marsh-led squad for West Indies T20I series starting July 2, three BIG players miss out

Cricket Australia has officially announced Wednesday (May 28) that India will tour Australia in late 2025 for a white-ball series featuring three <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/odi">One Day Internationals (ODIs)</a> and five <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/t20i">T20 Internationals (T20Is)</a>. In an Instagram post, Cricket Australia stated the high-stake series is set to begin on October 19 and will run till November 8.&nbsp;The ODI series will kick off at Perth Stadium on 19 October, followed by matches at Adelaide Oval on October 23 and the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/sydney-cricket-ground">Sydney Cricket Ground</a> on 25 October.&nbsp;&nbsp;These three 50-over matches will be closely followed by five T20Is in Canberra ( 29 October), Melbourne (31 October), Hobart (2 November ), Gold Coast (6 November) and Brisbane (8 November).&nbsp;Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/jitesh-survives-rathi-run-out-appeal-at-non-striker-end-heres-what-the-rule-says-1748412723483">Jitesh survives Rathi's run-out appeal at non-striker end. Here's what the rule says</a>&nbsp;This tour comes a competitive five-match Border-Gavaskar Test series held earlier in 2025. Cricket Australia expects strong interest from fans once again, both in stadiums and across broadcast and digital platforms.&nbsp;“We smashed many records for attendance, viewing audiences and digital engagement last summer and we're confident that this incredible momentum will continue throughout what promises to be an engrossing season,” Todd Greenberg, Cricket Australia CEO was quoted saying.&nbsp;The last time when India played a white-ball series under the captaincy of Virat Kohli in Australia, the ODI leg was won by the hosts 2-1, while India triumphed back in the T20I series with a 2-1 victory over the Kangroos.&nbsp;This upcoming tour could also be of added significance as it might be the final ODI appearance in Australia for senior Indian players Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma, adding a layer of emotions to the fierce contest.

This tour comes after the two sides faced off in the 2023 World Cup final in India followed by a competitive five-match Border-Gavaskar Test series held earlier in 2025. 

Cricket Australia has officially announced Wednesday (May 28) that India will tour Australia in late 2025 for a white-ball series featuring three One Day Internationals (ODIs) and five T20 Internationals (T20Is). In an Instagram post, Cricket Australia stated the high-stake series is set to begin on October 19 and will run till November 8. The ODI series will kick off at Perth Stadium on 19 October, followed by matches at Adelaide Oval on October 23 and the Sydney Cricket Ground on 25 October. These three 50-over matches will be closely followed by five T20Is in Canberra ( 29 October), Melbourne (31 October), Hobart (2 November ), Gold Coast (6 November) and Brisbane (8 November). Also Read | Jitesh survives Rathi's run-out appeal at non-striker end. Here's what the rule says This tour comes a competitive five-match Border-Gavaskar Test series held earlier in 2025. Cricket Australia expects strong interest from fans once again, both in stadiums and across broadcast and digital platforms. “We smashed many records for attendance, viewing audiences and digital engagement last summer and we're confident that this incredible momentum will continue throughout what promises to be an engrossing season,” Todd Greenberg, Cricket Australia CEO was quoted saying. The last time when India played a white-ball series under the captaincy of Virat Kohli in Australia, the ODI leg was won by the hosts 2-1, while India triumphed back in the T20I series with a 2-1 victory over the Kangroos. This upcoming tour could also be of added significance as it might be the final ODI appearance in Australia for senior Indian players Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma, adding a layer of emotions to the fierce contest.

This tour comes after the two sides faced off in the 2023 World Cup final in India followed by a competitive five-match Border-Gavaskar Test series held earlier in 2025.&nbsp;

India to tour Australia in late 2025 for white ball series. Check schedule inside

Cricket Australia has backed the players' individual decisions as they face tough coming weeks ahead of the World Test Championship (WTC) final against South Africa. In a statement released on Tuesday (May 13), the apex body of Australian Cricket vows to back the individual decisions as players are contract-tied with the Indian Premier League (IPL). In case the players included in the WTC final squad commit to playing in the IPL 2025 and reach the final, they will have only one week to prepare, including travel.
<h2 class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">CA to support players' decision</h2>
"Cricket Australia will support players in their individual decisions whether to return to India or not," CA said in a statement.
"Team management will work through the preparation implications for the World Test Championship final for those players who choose to play in the remaining IPL matches.
"We are maintaining communication with the Australian Government and BCCI around security arrangements and safety."
The IPL Playoffs are scheduled to start from May 29, with the final taking place on June 3.
On Tuesday, Cricket Australia announced the squad for the WTC final with the likes of Pat Cummins, Travis Head and Mitchell Starc still involved. While Cummins and Head (part of the WTC final squad) won&rsquo;t play in the IPL 2025 Playoffs and final, they will have a decision in hand with only three more games remaining in the league season for SunRisers Hyderabad.
ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/bcci-releases-ipl-2025-revised-schedule-tournament-to-restart-on-may-17-final-in-june-9062057" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">BCCI releases IPL 2025 revised schedule, tournament to restart on May 17, final in June</a>
However, that won&rsquo;t be the case for Josh Hazlewood, Josh Inglis and Mitchell Starc as their IPL sides are destined to play in the Playoffs. These players are also named in the 15-man squad for the WTC final by Cricket Australia.
So if any player from the trio features in the IPL final, they will have only seven days to prepare before the WTC summit clash starts at Lord&rsquo;s Cricket Ground against South Africa.

In case the Australian players included in the WTC final squad commit to playing in the IPL 2025 and reach the final, they will have only one week to prepare. World | Cricket | Sports

Cricket Australia has backed the players' individual decisions as they face tough coming weeks ahead of the World Test Championship (WTC) final against South Africa. In a statement released on Tuesday (May 13), the apex body of Australian Cricket vows to back the individual decisions as players are contract-tied with the Indian Premier League (IPL). In case the players included in the WTC final squad commit to playing in the IPL 2025 and reach the final, they will have only one week to prepare, including travel. CA to support players' decision "Cricket Australia will support players in their individual decisions whether to return to India or not," CA said in a statement. "Team management will work through the preparation implications for the World Test Championship final for those players who choose to play in the remaining IPL matches. "We are maintaining communication with the Australian Government and BCCI around security arrangements and safety." The IPL Playoffs are scheduled to start from May 29, with the final taking place on June 3. On Tuesday, Cricket Australia announced the squad for the WTC final with the likes of Pat Cummins, Travis Head and Mitchell Starc still involved. While Cummins and Head (part of the WTC final squad) won’t play in the IPL 2025 Playoffs and final, they will have a decision in hand with only three more games remaining in the league season for SunRisers Hyderabad. ALSO READ | BCCI releases IPL 2025 revised schedule, tournament to restart on May 17, final in June However, that won’t be the case for Josh Hazlewood, Josh Inglis and Mitchell Starc as their IPL sides are destined to play in the Playoffs. These players are also named in the 15-man squad for the WTC final by Cricket Australia. So if any player from the trio features in the IPL final, they will have only seven days to prepare before the WTC summit clash starts at Lord’s Cricket Ground against South Africa.

'Will support players': Cricket Australia backs individual decisions ahead of rescheduled IPL 2025

Cricket Australia is keeping close tabs on the Aussie players and coaching staff currently working in India and Pakistan as diplomatic tension between the two neighbours escalates. As per a statement released on Friday (May 9) by Cricket Australia, it is closely monitoring the situation in Pakistan and India while in touch with the government and diplomats. Both India and Pakistan are nearing a war after India retaliated against Pakistan for killing at least 26 people (mostly tourists) on April 22 in Pahalgam.
<h2 class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">CA keeping close tabs</h2>
"We continue to closely monitor the situation in Pakistan and India, including obtaining regular advice and updates from the Australian Government, the PCB, BCCI and local government authorities, and maintaining communication with our players and support staff currently in the region," CA said in a statement on Friday morning.
On Friday, the Indian Premier League (IPL 2025) was reportedly suspended due to ongoing tensions between India and Pakistan as the two nations near a war. After the Punjab Kings vs Delhi Capitals match in Dharamsala was called off on Thursday due to &ldquo;technical reasons,&rdquo; it was assumed that the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) could take necessary precautions for player safety. However, it has now emerged that the IPL 2025 season will be suspended with immediate effect, with further details awaited.
ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indo-pak-war-latest-news-we-are-proud-neeraj-chopra-reacts-on-indian-defence-forcesswift-reply-to-pakistani-attack-9049871" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Indo-Pak War | 'We are proud,' Neeraj Chopra reacts on Indian defence forces' swift reply to Pakistani attack</a>
"It does not look nice that cricket goes on while the country is at war," a BCCI official told PTI, confirming the suspension of the league, which was to wind up on May 25 in Kolkata.
<h2 class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">What next for IPL 2025?</h2>
While there is no official word on when the IPL 2025 will resume, it is expected that BCCI will move quickly to explore the options as the calendar for players (especially Indian) is tight. The BCCI could move the rest of the IPL 2025 to a foreign country, like it has in the past or wait for a window of 2-3 weeks in the coming months to finish the tournament.<o:p></o:p>

Cricket Australia is keeping close tabs on the Aussie players and coaching staff currently working in India and Pakistan as diplomatic tension between the two neighbours escalates. World | Cricket | Sports

Cricket Australia is keeping close tabs on the Aussie players and coaching staff currently working in India and Pakistan as diplomatic tension between the two neighbours escalates. As per a statement released on Friday (May 9) by Cricket Australia, it is closely monitoring the situation in Pakistan and India while in touch with the government and diplomats. Both India and Pakistan are nearing a war after India retaliated against Pakistan for killing at least 26 people (mostly tourists) on April 22 in Pahalgam. CA keeping close tabs "We continue to closely monitor the situation in Pakistan and India, including obtaining regular advice and updates from the Australian Government, the PCB, BCCI and local government authorities, and maintaining communication with our players and support staff currently in the region," CA said in a statement on Friday morning. On Friday, the Indian Premier League (IPL 2025) was reportedly suspended due to ongoing tensions between India and Pakistan as the two nations near a war. After the Punjab Kings vs Delhi Capitals match in Dharamsala was called off on Thursday due to “technical reasons,” it was assumed that the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) could take necessary precautions for player safety. However, it has now emerged that the IPL 2025 season will be suspended with immediate effect, with further details awaited. ALSO READ | Indo-Pak War | 'We are proud,' Neeraj Chopra reacts on Indian defence forces' swift reply to Pakistani attack "It does not look nice that cricket goes on while the country is at war," a BCCI official told PTI, confirming the suspension of the league, which was to wind up on May 25 in Kolkata. What next for IPL 2025? While there is no official word on when the IPL 2025 will resume, it is expected that BCCI will move quickly to explore the options as the calendar for players (especially Indian) is tight. The BCCI could move the rest of the IPL 2025 to a foreign country, like it has in the past or wait for a window of 2-3 weeks in the coming months to finish the tournament.

Indo-Pak War: Cricket Australia keeping close tabs on Aussie players in IPL, PSL

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/search?title=cricket" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Cricket </a>is a game full of drama and excitement, but nothing kills the excitement when players walk off the field because of bad light in the middle of a game. In a world where technology is constantly improving, fans always wonder why is this still happening in cricket?
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/search?title=cricket+australia" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Cricket Australia&rsquo;s&nbsp;</a>new CEO, Todd Greenberg, stressed the same point in his first round of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/search?title=ICC" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">ICC </a>meetings in Harare, where he made it clear that finding a solution to bad light stoppages is high on his priority list.
From a fan&rsquo;s perspective, it&rsquo;s easy to relate. You spend hours watching a match, only for the action to stop because the light has faded, even when there are floodlights. This kills the entire excitement as we are used to seeing games without any hindrance apart from rain.
<h2>CA CEO open to fixing bad light stoppages</h2>
Greenberg believes this needs to change if cricket wants to keep its audience engaged. &ldquo;My view has always been we are in the entertainment business, and so if we're in the entertainment business, that means we're trying to make sure as many fans can enjoy their cricket as possible,&rdquo; Greenberg told the Daily Telegraph.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/sports-ipl-2025-pat-cummins-takes-aim-at-wankhede-pitch-for-latest-defeat-says-it-wasnt-the-easiest-wicket-8974544" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">IPL 2025: Pat Cummins takes aim at Wankhede pitch for latest defeat, says 'it wasn't the easiest wicket'</a>
&ldquo;The frustration that goes when we walk off with bad light is that we may be one of the last industries left that would do that. We need to find ways to innovate and figure out solutions so that doesn't happen in the future.&rdquo;
Day-night Tests have helped a bit, especially in Australia, with the use of the pink ball. But in traditional Test matches, umpires still stop play once floodlight becomes stronger than natural light, especially when long shadows from the floodlight towers appear on the field.
Greenberg admits it's a tricky issue, and player safety matters but, he believes better communication and innovation can solve it.
&ldquo;I'm a realist and I understand why [play stops for bad light] and I understand the difficulties&hellip; but geez, it's 2025 and we can play in different conditions, I'm certain we can come up with a way to solve some of those challenges,&rdquo; he said.

World | Sports: CA's new CEO, Todd Greenberg, during his first ICC meetings in Harare, stressed that resolving bad light stoppages is high on his priority list. cricket

Cricket is a game full of drama and excitement, but nothing kills the excitement when players walk off the field because of bad light in the middle of a game. In a world where technology is constantly improving, fans always wonder why is this still happening in cricket? Cricket Australia’s new CEO, Todd Greenberg, stressed the same point in his first round of ICC meetings in Harare, where he made it clear that finding a solution to bad light stoppages is high on his priority list. From a fan’s perspective, it’s easy to relate. You spend hours watching a match, only for the action to stop because the light has faded, even when there are floodlights. This kills the entire excitement as we are used to seeing games without any hindrance apart from rain. CA CEO open to fixing bad light stoppages Greenberg believes this needs to change if cricket wants to keep its audience engaged. “My view has always been we are in the entertainment business, and so if we're in the entertainment business, that means we're trying to make sure as many fans can enjoy their cricket as possible,” Greenberg told the Daily Telegraph. Also Read: IPL 2025: Pat Cummins takes aim at Wankhede pitch for latest defeat, says 'it wasn't the easiest wicket' “The frustration that goes when we walk off with bad light is that we may be one of the last industries left that would do that. We need to find ways to innovate and figure out solutions so that doesn't happen in the future.” Day-night Tests have helped a bit, especially in Australia, with the use of the pink ball. But in traditional Test matches, umpires still stop play once floodlight becomes stronger than natural light, especially when long shadows from the floodlight towers appear on the field. Greenberg admits it's a tricky issue, and player safety matters but, he believes better communication and innovation can solve it. “I'm a realist and I understand why [play stops for bad light] and I understand the difficulties… but geez, it's 2025 and we can play in different conditions, I'm certain we can come up with a way to solve some of those challenges,” he said.

Cricket Australia's new CEO Todd Greenberg says 'we need to find ways to overcome bad light stoppages'

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/cricket-australia" rel="dofollow">Cricket Australia</a> has confirmed a bumper home summer for the upcoming season with a white-ball series against South Africa and India before staging the home <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/ashes-series" rel="dofollow">Ashes</a> in mid-November. Darwin returns as an international venue for the first time in 17 years, hosting two men&rsquo;s T20Is between Australia and the Proteas in August. The Men in Blue will tour Australia for eight white-ball games before the hosts play England in the marquee five-match Test series.
After Australia returns home from its tour of the West Indies, it will first host South Africa for three T20Is and as many ODIs across northern Australia, with Darwin, Cairns, and Mackay staging all games.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/ipl-weekly-review-drama-thrills-and-controversy-ipls-opening-week-unpacked-8906369" rel="dofollow">IPL weekly review | Drama, thrills, and controversy: IPL&rsquo;s opening week unpacked</a>
Darwin last staged an international game between Australia and Bangladesh in 2008, and its inclusion means the men&rsquo;s team will play in state and territories in the upcoming season for the first time. Besides, Northern Australia is due to host the two-match Test series against Bangladesh later next year, which was rescheduled from March 2027 due to the 150th anniversary between the Ashes rivals at the MCG.
Meanwhile, India, who conceded the coveted BGT for the first time in a decade during the last away tour, will return Down Under for the white-ball series, including three ODIs and five T20Is. The Men in Blue begins Australia&rsquo;s white-ball leg with the first One-Dayer in Perth on October 19, with Adelaide and Sydney hosting the remaining two matches on 23 and 25, respectively.
The T20I leg begins in Canberra four days later, with the remaining four matches scheduled at the iconic MCG, Hobart, Gold Coast and the Gabba in Brisbane, respectively, on scheduled dates.&nbsp;
However, after the India series and before the home Ashes, the Aussies will travel to New Zealand in October for a short three-match T20I series, the dates of which are yet to be confirmed.&nbsp;
Following hosting the Ashes, which ends in January, all teams will prepare for the T20 World Cup in Sri Lanka and India starting mid-February.&nbsp;
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/ipl-2025-rohit-sharma-left-stunned-as-mohammed-siraj-sends-him-packing-with-a-beauty-watch-8905616" rel="dofollow">IPL 2025: Rohit Sharma left stunned as Mohammed Siraj sends him packing with a beauty- WATCH</a>
<h2>Australia Men's 2025-26 season full schedule -</h2>
<h3>Against South Africa</h3>
<ul>
<li>August 10: 1st T20I, Darwin (N)</li>
<li>August 12: 2nd T20I, Darwin (N)</li>
<li>August 16: 3rd T20I, Cairns (N)</li>
<li>August 19: 1st ODI, Cairns (D/N)</li>
<li>August 22: 2nd ODI, Mackay (D/N)</li>
<li>August 24: 3rd ODI, Mackay (D/N)</li>
</ul>
<h3>Against India</h3>
<ul>
<li>October 19: 1st ODI, Perth Stadium (D/N)</li>
<li>October 23: 2nd ODI, Adelaide (D/N)</li>
<li>October 25: 3rd ODI, SCG (D/N)</li>
<li>October 29: 1st T20I, Canberra (N)</li>
<li>October 31: 2nd T20I, MCG (N)</li>
<li>November 2: 3rd T20I, Hobart (N)</li>
<li>November 6: 4th T20I, Gold Coast (N)</li>
<li>November 8: 5th T20I, Gabba (N)</li>
</ul>
<h3>Men's Ashes</h3>
<ul>
<li>November 21-25: 1st Test, Perth Stadium</li>
<li>December 4-8: 2nd Test, Gabba (D/N)</li>
<li>December 17-21: 3rd Test, Adelaide</li>
<li>December 26-30: 4th Test, MCG</li>
<li>January 4-8, 5th Test, SCG</li>
</ul>
(With inputs from agencies)

Cricket, Sports: Darwin returns as an international venue for the first time in 17 years, hosting two men’s T20Is between Australia and the Proteas in August.

Cricket Australia has confirmed a bumper home summer for the upcoming season with a white-ball series against South Africa and India before staging the home Ashes in mid-November. Darwin returns as an international venue for the first time in 17 years, hosting two men’s T20Is between Australia and the Proteas in August. The Men in Blue will tour Australia for eight white-ball games before the hosts play England in the marquee five-match Test series. After Australia returns home from its tour of the West Indies, it will first host South Africa for three T20Is and as many ODIs across northern Australia, with Darwin, Cairns, and Mackay staging all games. Also read | IPL weekly review | Drama, thrills, and controversy: IPL’s opening week unpacked Darwin last staged an international game between Australia and Bangladesh in 2008, and its inclusion means the men’s team will play in state and territories in the upcoming season for the first time. Besides, Northern Australia is due to host the two-match Test series against Bangladesh later next year, which was rescheduled from March 2027 due to the 150th anniversary between the Ashes rivals at the MCG. Meanwhile, India, who conceded the coveted BGT for the first time in a decade during the last away tour, will return Down Under for the white-ball series, including three ODIs and five T20Is. The Men in Blue begins Australia’s white-ball leg with the first One-Dayer in Perth on October 19, with Adelaide and Sydney hosting the remaining two matches on 23 and 25, respectively. The T20I leg begins in Canberra four days later, with the remaining four matches scheduled at the iconic MCG, Hobart, Gold Coast and the Gabba in Brisbane, respectively, on scheduled dates. However, after the India series and before the home Ashes, the Aussies will travel to New Zealand in October for a short three-match T20I series, the dates of which are yet to be confirmed. Following hosting the Ashes, which ends in January, all teams will prepare for the T20 World Cup in Sri Lanka and India starting mid-February. Also read | IPL 2025: Rohit Sharma left stunned as Mohammed Siraj sends him packing with a beauty- WATCH Australia Men's 2025-26 season full schedule - Against South Africa August 10: 1st T20I, Darwin (N) August 12: 2nd T20I, Darwin (N) August 16: 3rd T20I, Cairns (N) August 19: 1st ODI, Cairns (D/N) August 22: 2nd ODI, Mackay (D/N) August 24: 3rd ODI, Mackay (D/N) Against India October 19: 1st ODI, Perth Stadium (D/N) October 23: 2nd ODI, Adelaide (D/N) October 25: 3rd ODI, SCG (D/N) October 29: 1st T20I, Canberra (N) October 31: 2nd T20I, MCG (N) November 2: 3rd T20I, Hobart (N) November 6: 4th T20I, Gold Coast (N) November 8: 5th T20I, Gabba (N) Men's Ashes November 21-25: 1st Test, Perth Stadium December 4-8: 2nd Test, Gabba (D/N) December 17-21: 3rd Test, Adelaide December 26-30: 4th Test, MCG January 4-8, 5th Test, SCG (With inputs from agencies)

Cricket Australia confirms bumper home season with India, South Africa white-ball series, check full schedule

Cricket Australia decided to celebrate the colorful Indian festival of Holi in a unique manner and with best intentions (hopefully) but the gesture didn't go well with some fans. To mark the festival and extend the greetings of Holi, Cricket Australia hosted an event at the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) for the fans given the craze of the game among Indians.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/unfair-advantage-if-aussie-great-mcgrath-shuts-down-doubters-after-indias-champions-trophy-win-8852376">'Unfair advantage if...,' Aussie great McGrath shuts down doubters after India's Champions Trophy win</a>
The catch, however, was that Cricket Australia not only displayed the ODI World Cup 2023 trophy at the MCG but even allowed the fans to click photos with it. Notably, Australia had won the iconic trophy by beating India in the final on November 19, 2023 in Ahmedabad. Have a look at the photos below:
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Cricket Australia extended warm wishes to everyone celebrating the vibrant festival of <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Holi?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Holi</a>. To join in the festivities, Cricket Australia took the ICC Cricket World Cup 2023 Trophy to Holi events in Melbourne, giving cricket fans and the community a unique opportunity to take&hellip; <a href="https://t.co/UDMLWF9Xkq">pic.twitter.com/UDMLWF9Xkq</a>
&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1900414688221159536?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 14, 2025</a></blockquote>

<script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

The gesture, however good, was not well accepted by fans who showed their displeasure in the comments. Below are what some of them read:
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Ye koi tareeka hai jale pe namak chidkne ka ? 🥹
&mdash; Harsh Tegta (@iamharshtegta) <a href="https://twitter.com/iamharshtegta/status/1900452904357531951?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 14, 2025</a></blockquote>

<script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m88hq0fu-h029w9aw-72omb7xs">
Zakhmu pe namak
&mdash; Dar Younis (@younisrashidd) <a href="https://twitter.com/younisrashidd/status/1900454821062455767?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 14, 2025</a></blockquote>
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m88hql66-ede2unnm-xgmfxt9s">
Aise kon wish krta h 🥲
&mdash; Saikat 🇮🇳 (@saaiiikat) <a href="https://twitter.com/saaiiikat/status/1900420879307407740?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 14, 2025</a></blockquote>
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m88hr7j3-y4gzbijn-gydsakke">
Bas kar bhai kyun rang me bhang krne ki kosis kr raha
&mdash; Amitabh Gupta 🇮🇳 (@hotstarjioIndia) <a href="https://twitter.com/hotstarjioIndia/status/1900419239552704668?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 14, 2025</a></blockquote>
The Indian team was in full flow during the 2023 ODI World Cup before losing the final in an anti-climatic finish. Rohit Sharma-led team was unbeaten throughout the tournament including beating Australia in league stage which gave the fans a lot of hopes.
The Indian fans compared the opportunity to win the 2023 ODI World Cup Final as a means to mend the heartbreak they had suffered in 2003 - when Ricky Ponting-led Australia had decimated Sourav Ganguly-led India in a one-side ODI World Cup Final.
Earlier in 2023, Australia had also beaten India in the World Test Champions (WTC) final. With the win in WTC Final, Australia became the first team to win all ICC titles - ODI World Cup (six times), T20 World Cup (once), Champions Trophy (twice) and WTC (once).
India, meanwhile, bounced back after the crushing loss in 2023 ODI World Cup final and won two back-to-back ICC trophies since - 2024 T20 World Cup and 2025 Champions Trophy.

To mark the festival and extend the greetings of Holi, Cricket Australia hosted an event at the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) for the fans. Cricket Sports

Cricket Australia decided to celebrate the colorful Indian festival of Holi in a unique manner and with best intentions (hopefully) but the gesture didn't go well with some fans. To mark the festival and extend the greetings of Holi, Cricket Australia hosted an event at the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) for the fans given the craze of the game among Indians. Also Read: 'Unfair advantage if...,' Aussie great McGrath shuts down doubters after India's Champions Trophy win The catch, however, was that Cricket Australia not only displayed the ODI World Cup 2023 trophy at the MCG but even allowed the fans to click photos with it. Notably, Australia had won the iconic trophy by beating India in the final on November 19, 2023 in Ahmedabad. Have a look at the photos below: Cricket Australia extended warm wishes to everyone celebrating the vibrant festival of #Holi. To join in the festivities, Cricket Australia took the ICC Cricket World Cup 2023 Trophy to Holi events in Melbourne, giving cricket fans and the community a unique opportunity to take… pic.twitter.com/UDMLWF9Xkq — ANI (@ANI) March 14, 2025 The gesture, however good, was not well accepted by fans who showed their displeasure in the comments. Below are what some of them read: Ye koi tareeka hai jale pe namak chidkne ka ? 🥹 — Harsh Tegta (@iamharshtegta) March 14, 2025 Zakhmu pe namak — Dar Younis (@younisrashidd) March 14, 2025 Aise kon wish krta h 🥲 — Saikat 🇮🇳 (@saaiiikat) March 14, 2025 Bas kar bhai kyun rang me bhang krne ki kosis kr raha — Amitabh Gupta 🇮🇳 (@hotstarjioIndia) March 14, 2025 The Indian team was in full flow during the 2023 ODI World Cup before losing the final in an anti-climatic finish. Rohit Sharma-led team was unbeaten throughout the tournament including beating Australia in league stage which gave the fans a lot of hopes. The Indian fans compared the opportunity to win the 2023 ODI World Cup Final as a means to mend the heartbreak they had suffered in 2003 - when Ricky Ponting-led Australia had decimated Sourav Ganguly-led India in a one-side ODI World Cup Final. Earlier in 2023, Australia had also beaten India in the World Test Champions (WTC) final. With the win in WTC Final, Australia became the first team to win all ICC titles - ODI World Cup (six times), T20 World Cup (once), Champions Trophy (twice) and WTC (once). India, meanwhile, bounced back after the crushing loss in 2023 ODI World Cup final and won two back-to-back ICC trophies since - 2024 T20 World Cup and 2025 Champions Trophy.

Rubbing it in? Cricket Australia marks Holi by allowing fans to pose with 2023 ODI World Cup trophy: netizens react

Australia faces a tough road ahead as they prepare for the ICC <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/champions-trophy">Champions Trophy</a>, with a rare winless streak, an inexperienced pace attack, and a loss of overall form casting doubts over their campaign. Yet, the Aussie spirit of resilience and big-game performance might still steer them toward another major ICC title.
Australia kicks off their Champions Trophy campaign on February 22 in Lahore against arch-rivals England, followed by matches against South Africa in Rawalpindi and Afghanistan in Lahore.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/wpl-2025-dc-w-vs-mi-w-capitals-win-was-fueled-by-shafali-and-nikis-heroics-says-mithali-raj-8725240">WPL 2025, DC-W vs MI-W: 'Capitals' win was fueled by Shafali and Niki's heroics', says Mithali Raj</a>
However, they enter the tournament without their frontline bowling trio of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/pat-cummins">Pat Cummins</a>, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/mitchell-starc">Mitchell Starc</a>, and Josh Hazlewood. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/steve-smith">Steve Smith</a> steps in as captain, supported by experienced hands like Travis Head, Glenn Maxwell, Alex Carey, and Marnus Labuschagne. Despite promising young talent, recent form raises concerns.
<h2>Recent struggles</h2>
Since their World Cup win in 2023, Australia has played four bilateral ODI series with mixed results. While they clinched wins over West Indies at home and England in the UK, they suffered a home series defeat to Pakistan for the first time in 22 years and were clean-swept by Sri Lanka, capped by a crushing 174-run loss. Their overall record since the 2023 World Cup stands at seven wins and six losses from 13 matches.
<h2>Positives:</h2>
Stable leadership: Despite the absence of Cummins, Starc, and Hazlewood, the squad has leadership depth. Smith, alongside Head, Maxwell, Carey, and Labuschagne, brings stability to the team.
Carey&rsquo;s resurgence: After missing the 2023 World Cup squad, Carey has returned with a bang, scoring 205 runs in his last four innings at an impressive average of 68.33 and a strike rate of 106.77.
Big-match players: Head, Smith, and Maxwell have a reputation for delivering on big stages. Even in poor form, their ability to step up when it counts could inspire the squad.
<h2>Negatives:</h2>
Winless in CT since 2009: Australia hasn&rsquo;t won a match in the tournament since their 2009 title run, with winless campaigns in 2013 and 2017.
Opening partnership a concern?: Travis Head lacks a reliable opening partner with Mitchell Marsh unavailable. Contenders Matt Short, Jake Fraser-McGurk, and Josh Inglis have yet to prove themselves.
Smith and Marnus' form: The team&rsquo;s anchors are struggling; Smith averages 38.55 in 12 matches with just two fifties, while Labuschagne has managed only 163 runs at 23.28 in eight innings.
Depleted pace attack: Without Cummins, Starc, Hazlewood, and Marcus Stoinis (retired from ODIs), the pace unit now has the likes of Sean Abbott, Nathan Ellis, Ben Dwarshuis, Aaron Hardie, and Spencer Johnson&mdash;a far cry from the intimidation of the veterans.
Lack of winning momentum: Recent series losses to Pakistan and Sri Lanka, combined with a whitewash, do little to build confidence.
Maxwell&rsquo;s poor form: After his World Cup heroics, Maxwell has hit a rough patch, scoring just 56 runs and taking five wickets in his last eight matches.
<h2>Australia's Champions Trophy team:</h2>
Steve Smith (captain), Sean Abbott, Alex Carey, Ben Dwarshuis, Nathan Ellis, Jake Fraser-McGurk, Aaron Hardie, Travis Head, Josh Inglis, Spencer Johnson, Marnus Labuschagne, Glenn Maxwell, Tanveer Sangha, Matthew Short, Adam Zampa.
Travelling Reserve: Cooper Connolly.
Despite recent setbacks, Australia&rsquo;s combination of youthful promise and experienced big-match players could help them rediscover their winning formula.
The 'Aussie mentality' remains their greatest weapon.

Sports, Cricket: Australia kicks off their campaign on February 22 in Lahore against England, followed by matches against South Africa in Rawalpindi and Afghanistan back in Lahore

Australia faces a tough road ahead as they prepare for the ICC Champions Trophy, with a rare winless streak, an inexperienced pace attack, and a loss of overall form casting doubts over their campaign. Yet, the Aussie spirit of resilience and big-game performance might still steer them toward another major ICC title. Australia kicks off their Champions Trophy campaign on February 22 in Lahore against arch-rivals England, followed by matches against South Africa in Rawalpindi and Afghanistan in Lahore. Also Read: WPL 2025, DC-W vs MI-W: 'Capitals' win was fueled by Shafali and Niki's heroics', says Mithali Raj However, they enter the tournament without their frontline bowling trio of Pat Cummins, Mitchell Starc, and Josh Hazlewood. Steve Smith steps in as captain, supported by experienced hands like Travis Head, Glenn Maxwell, Alex Carey, and Marnus Labuschagne. Despite promising young talent, recent form raises concerns. Recent struggles Since their World Cup win in 2023, Australia has played four bilateral ODI series with mixed results. While they clinched wins over West Indies at home and England in the UK, they suffered a home series defeat to Pakistan for the first time in 22 years and were clean-swept by Sri Lanka, capped by a crushing 174-run loss. Their overall record since the 2023 World Cup stands at seven wins and six losses from 13 matches. Positives: Stable leadership: Despite the absence of Cummins, Starc, and Hazlewood, the squad has leadership depth. Smith, alongside Head, Maxwell, Carey, and Labuschagne, brings stability to the team. Carey’s resurgence: After missing the 2023 World Cup squad, Carey has returned with a bang, scoring 205 runs in his last four innings at an impressive average of 68.33 and a strike rate of 106.77. Big-match players: Head, Smith, and Maxwell have a reputation for delivering on big stages. Even in poor form, their ability to step up when it counts could inspire the squad. Negatives: Winless in CT since 2009: Australia hasn’t won a match in the tournament since their 2009 title run, with winless campaigns in 2013 and 2017. Opening partnership a concern?: Travis Head lacks a reliable opening partner with Mitchell Marsh unavailable. Contenders Matt Short, Jake Fraser-McGurk, and Josh Inglis have yet to prove themselves. Smith and Marnus' form: The team’s anchors are struggling; Smith averages 38.55 in 12 matches with just two fifties, while Labuschagne has managed only 163 runs at 23.28 in eight innings. Depleted pace attack: Without Cummins, Starc, Hazlewood, and Marcus Stoinis (retired from ODIs), the pace unit now has the likes of Sean Abbott, Nathan Ellis, Ben Dwarshuis, Aaron Hardie, and Spencer Johnson—a far cry from the intimidation of the veterans. Lack of winning momentum: Recent series losses to Pakistan and Sri Lanka, combined with a whitewash, do little to build confidence. Maxwell’s poor form: After his World Cup heroics, Maxwell has hit a rough patch, scoring just 56 runs and taking five wickets in his last eight matches. Australia's Champions Trophy team: Steve Smith (captain), Sean Abbott, Alex Carey, Ben Dwarshuis, Nathan Ellis, Jake Fraser-McGurk, Aaron Hardie, Travis Head, Josh Inglis, Spencer Johnson, Marnus Labuschagne, Glenn Maxwell, Tanveer Sangha, Matthew Short, Adam Zampa. Travelling Reserve: Cooper Connolly. Despite recent setbacks, Australia’s combination of youthful promise and experienced big-match players could help them rediscover their winning formula. The 'Aussie mentality' remains their greatest weapon.

SWOT Analysis: Champions Trophy 2025:-Winless streak and missing stars- Australia’s uphill battle for glory

Cricket Australia on Thursday defended its decision to boycott only some games against Afghanistan after the departing boss of the world governing body accused them of hypocrisy.

Australia have in recent years refused to play bilateral series against Afghanistan, citing discomfort at an ongoing Taliban crackdown on women's sport. But they continue to face Afghanistan in major tournaments such as the World Cup, including a famous loss in the T20 tournament earlier this year.

International Cricket Council chairman Greg Barclay said if Australia wanted to take a stand, they should walk away from World Cup games as well.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/bgt-2024-25-rohit-sharma-confirms-kl-rahul-as-opener-for-adelaide-test-reveals-his-batting-slot-781671">BGT 2024-25: Rohit Sharma confirms KL Rahul as opener for Adelaide Test, reveals his batting slot</a>

"If you want to make a political statement, don't play them in a World Cup," he told the UK's Daily Telegraph newspaper. "Sure, it might cost you a semi-final place, but principles are principles. It's not about having half a principle," added Barclay.

Cricket Australia chairman Mike Baird said he was "very proud of the position we've taken".

"We've taken a position, and we're proudly standing up where we think we should," he said, according to Australian media. "There's all types of lines you can draw. We've drawn a line. We've taken a position, and we're proudly standing up where we think we should."

Australia in March scrapped a T20 men's series against Afghanistan, saying the situation for women in the Taliban-ruled country was deteriorating.

It was the third time since 2021 that Australia refused to play Afghanistan outside of international tournaments.

Before the return of the Taliban, Afghanistan's cricket board was slowly making progress, growing the game among women and contracting a small number of semi-professional players in 2020.

Many of those players eventually fled to Australia.

Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Cricket Australia on Thursday defended its decision to boycott only some games against Afghanistan after the departing boss of the world governing body accused them of hypocrisy.

Cricket Australia on Thursday defended its decision to boycott only some games against Afghanistan after the departing boss of the world governing body accused them of hypocrisy. Australia have in recent years refused to play bilateral series against Afghanistan, citing discomfort at an ongoing Taliban crackdown on women's sport. But they continue to face Afghanistan in major tournaments such as the World Cup, including a famous loss in the T20 tournament earlier this year. International Cricket Council chairman Greg Barclay said if Australia wanted to take a stand, they should walk away from World Cup games as well. ALSO READ: BGT 2024-25: Rohit Sharma confirms KL Rahul as opener for Adelaide Test, reveals his batting slot "If you want to make a political statement, don't play them in a World Cup," he told the UK's Daily Telegraph newspaper. "Sure, it might cost you a semi-final place, but principles are principles. It's not about having half a principle," added Barclay. Cricket Australia chairman Mike Baird said he was "very proud of the position we've taken". "We've taken a position, and we're proudly standing up where we think we should," he said, according to Australian media. "There's all types of lines you can draw. We've drawn a line. We've taken a position, and we're proudly standing up where we think we should." Australia in March scrapped a T20 men's series against Afghanistan, saying the situation for women in the Taliban-ruled country was deteriorating. It was the third time since 2021 that Australia refused to play Afghanistan outside of international tournaments. Before the return of the Taliban, Afghanistan's cricket board was slowly making progress, growing the game among women and contracting a small number of semi-professional players in 2020. Many of those players eventually fled to Australia. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Cricket Australia defends Afghanistan boycott stance after hypocrisy remarks

Cricket Australia named seasoned sports administrator Todd Greenberg as its new chief executive on Tuesday, replacing Nick Hockley after a sometimes tumultuous five-year stint. Greenberg was most recently the boss of the Australian Cricketers' Association, representing players in negotiations with the national governing body. He is also a former chief executive of Australia's National Rugby League.

"Thanks to the work of the current administration the game has strong fundamentals in place," Greenberg said in a Cricket Australia statement.&nbsp; "I want to ensure we build on this momentum so Australian cricket continues to thrive -- from local parks to the nation's biggest stadiums."&nbsp;

His predecessor Hockley announced his resignation in August after five tricky years in the top role.&nbsp;He became tangled in a bruising dispute with a major Australian TV network over cricket broadcast rights.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/bgt-202425-indian-batter-virat-kohli-eyes-don-bradmans-huge-record-in-2nd-test-in-adelaide-781021">BGT 2024/25: Indian batter Virat Kohli eyes Don Bradman's huge record in 2nd Test in Adelaide</a>

The Englishman was also criticised over his handling of star player David Warner's bid to overturn a leadership ban.

Disclaimer:&nbsp;This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Cricket Australia named seasoned sports administrator Todd Greenberg as its new chief executive on Tuesday, replacing Nick Hockley after a sometimes tumultuous five-year stint.

Cricket Australia named seasoned sports administrator Todd Greenberg as its new chief executive on Tuesday, replacing Nick Hockley after a sometimes tumultuous five-year stint. Greenberg was most recently the boss of the Australian Cricketers' Association, representing players in negotiations with the national governing body. He is also a former chief executive of Australia's National Rugby League. "Thanks to the work of the current administration the game has strong fundamentals in place," Greenberg said in a Cricket Australia statement. "I want to ensure we build on this momentum so Australian cricket continues to thrive -- from local parks to the nation's biggest stadiums." His predecessor Hockley announced his resignation in August after five tricky years in the top role. He became tangled in a bruising dispute with a major Australian TV network over cricket broadcast rights. Also read: BGT 2024/25: Indian batter Virat Kohli eyes Don Bradman's huge record in 2nd Test in Adelaide The Englishman was also criticised over his handling of star player David Warner's bid to overturn a leadership ban. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Former rugby league chief Todd Greenberg named Cricket Australia boss, replaces Nick Hockley

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