<p>Australian Cricket team head coach Andrew McDonald has bagged a four-year extension on his current deal as confirmed by Cricket Australia (CA) on Wednesday (Oct 30). McDonald, having helped the Aussies win the World Test Championship (WTC) and the ODI World Cup in 2023 will stay at the helm until the next edition of the ODI World Cup. The deal also means he will remain in charge of the side during Australia’s next India tour for the Border-Gavaksar series.</p>

<h2><strong>McDonald's extends deal with Cricket Australia</strong></h2>

<p>"I am very fortunate to have an exceptional group of leaders, players, coaches and staff who are fully invested in the ongoing well-being, success and development of this group," McDonald said.</p>

<p>"The professionalism, commitment and experience of my fellow coaches and the wider staff have ensured the journey has been extremely successful but just as importantly created a culture of unity, trust and inclusivity," he further said.</p>

<p>Having taken charge of the side after Justin Langer’s unfortunate exit from the role in 2022, McDonald has been a popular figure in the Australian camp. He has been instrumental in driving the team’s approach in all three formats where Australia have stamped their authority. His biggest achievement was to lead Australia to the ODI World Cup in India in 2023 despite the team losing the opening two matches of the league stage.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/sl-vs-wi-2nd-t20i-live-streaming-when-and-where-to-watch-sri-lanka-vs-west-indies-penultimate-contest-767564">SL vs WI, 2nd T20I Live Streaming: When and where to watch Sri Lanka vs West Indies penultimate contest</a></strong></p>

<p>The 43-year-old former Victoria all-rounder will now have the opportunity to win Test series in England and India during the extended term.</p>

<p>Nick Hockley, the Cricket Australia CEO, said: "Andrew has proven to be an outstanding men's head coach who as well as delivering exceptional results has built a strong coaching team, methodology and an excellent environment for the team to perform at its best. We are delighted to extend his tenure for a further two years."</p>


Australian Cricket team head coach Andrew McDonald has bagged a four-year extension on his current deal as confirmed by Cricket Australia (CA) on Wednesday (Oct 30).

Australian Cricket team head coach Andrew McDonald has bagged a four-year extension on his current deal as confirmed by Cricket Australia (CA) on Wednesday (Oct 30). McDonald, having helped the Aussies win the World Test Championship (WTC) and the ODI World Cup in 2023 will stay at the helm until the next edition of the ODI World Cup. The deal also means he will remain in charge of the side during Australia’s next India tour for the Border-Gavaksar series. McDonald's extends deal with Cricket Australia "I am very fortunate to have an exceptional group of leaders, players, coaches and staff who are fully invested in the ongoing well-being, success and development of this group," McDonald said. "The professionalism, commitment and experience of my fellow coaches and the wider staff have ensured the journey has been extremely successful but just as importantly created a culture of unity, trust and inclusivity," he further said. Having taken charge of the side after Justin Langer’s unfortunate exit from the role in 2022, McDonald has been a popular figure in the Australian camp. He has been instrumental in driving the team’s approach in all three formats where Australia have stamped their authority. His biggest achievement was to lead Australia to the ODI World Cup in India in 2023 despite the team losing the opening two matches of the league stage. ALSO READ | SL vs WI, 2nd T20I Live Streaming: When and where to watch Sri Lanka vs West Indies penultimate contest The 43-year-old former Victoria all-rounder will now have the opportunity to win Test series in England and India during the extended term. Nick Hockley, the Cricket Australia CEO, said: "Andrew has proven to be an outstanding men's head coach who as well as delivering exceptional results has built a strong coaching team, methodology and an excellent environment for the team to perform at its best. We are delighted to extend his tenure for a further two years."

Cricket Australia extends head coach Andrew McDonald's contract, to be at helm until 2027 ODI World Cup

<p>Cricket Australia (CA) has lifted David Warner’s leadership ban after a review by the Conduct Commission on Friday (Oct 25). Warner, who was banned for a lifetime from leading the side, is now eligible to lead Sydney Thunder in the Big Bash League (BBL) for the upcoming season. The CA banned Warner in 2018 from leading any side at the senior level after the sandpaper gate in South Africa, where he was the side's vice-captain.</p>

<h2><strong>CA lifts Warner’s leadership ban</strong></h2>

<p>"In its decision, the panel noted 'the respectful and contrite tone of his [Warner's] responses, as well as the content impressed the Review Panel and led it to the unanimous view that he was sincere and genuine in acknowledging responsibility for the conduct and in his statement that he had extreme remorse for his conduct'," CA's statement said.</p>

<p>After the infamous 2018 sandpaper gate scandal, Warner and Steve Smith were banned from international cricket for tampering with the ball in a Test match in South Africa. The issue came into the limelight after TV cameras caught the incident, which was later accepted by the Australian cricketers.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-v-nz-2024-2nd-test-virats-un-kohli-shot-draws-flak-as-batting-greats-struggle-against-spin-continues-770628">IND v NZ 2024, 2nd Test: Virat’s ‘un-Kohli’ shot draws flak as batting great’s struggle against spin continues</a></strong></p>

<p>As a consequence of the events, Smith and Warner received bans while being prohibited from leading the side. Smith, however, would return to lead Australia after Tim Paine withdrew before the 2021-22 Ashes while new skipper Pat Cummins tested positive for COVID-19.</p>

<p>As things stand, Warner is in talks with Sydney Thunder with the possibility of him leading the side in the 2024-25 season. He has already proven his qualities as a leader having led SunRisers Hyderabad (SRH) to the 2016 Indian Premier League (IPL) title. He was also Delhi Capitals’ captain in IPL 2023 when Rishabh Pant was not available due to his car accident. However, he is no longer captain of the side and is also expected to be released ahead of the mega auctions.</p>


Cricket Australia (CA) has lifted David Warner’s leadership ban after a review by the Conduct Commission on Friday (Oct 25). Warner, who was banned for a lifetime from leading the side, is now eligible to lead Sydney Thunder in the Big Bash League (BBL) for the upcoming season.

Cricket Australia (CA) has lifted David Warner’s leadership ban after a review by the Conduct Commission on Friday (Oct 25). Warner, who was banned for a lifetime from leading the side, is now eligible to lead Sydney Thunder in the Big Bash League (BBL) for the upcoming season. The CA banned Warner in 2018 from leading any side at the senior level after the sandpaper gate in South Africa, where he was the side's vice-captain. CA lifts Warner’s leadership ban "In its decision, the panel noted 'the respectful and contrite tone of his [Warner's] responses, as well as the content impressed the Review Panel and led it to the unanimous view that he was sincere and genuine in acknowledging responsibility for the conduct and in his statement that he had extreme remorse for his conduct'," CA's statement said. After the infamous 2018 sandpaper gate scandal, Warner and Steve Smith were banned from international cricket for tampering with the ball in a Test match in South Africa. The issue came into the limelight after TV cameras caught the incident, which was later accepted by the Australian cricketers. ALSO READ | IND v NZ 2024, 2nd Test: Virat’s ‘un-Kohli’ shot draws flak as batting great’s struggle against spin continues As a consequence of the events, Smith and Warner received bans while being prohibited from leading the side. Smith, however, would return to lead Australia after Tim Paine withdrew before the 2021-22 Ashes while new skipper Pat Cummins tested positive for COVID-19. As things stand, Warner is in talks with Sydney Thunder with the possibility of him leading the side in the 2024-25 season. He has already proven his qualities as a leader having led SunRisers Hyderabad (SRH) to the 2016 Indian Premier League (IPL) title. He was also Delhi Capitals’ captain in IPL 2023 when Rishabh Pant was not available due to his car accident. However, he is no longer captain of the side and is also expected to be released ahead of the mega auctions.

Cricket Australia overturns David Warner's leadership ban, now eligible to lead Sydney Thunder in BBL

<p>Cricket&nbsp;Australia&nbsp;announced a net deficit of A$31.9 million ($21.34m) for the 2023-4 financial year on Thursday, results that were better than expected at a low-point in the game's four-year cycle. With a lucrative five-test home series against India starting in November and an Ashes series on home soil next year, the governing body can expect a big boost to revenue over the next 18 months.</p>

<p>"The better than forecast financial result ... is the result of a strong collaborative effort across&nbsp;Australian&nbsp;cricket&nbsp;to both manage costs and drive revenue," chief executive Nick Hockley said in news release.</p>

<p>Higher than expected crowds at last season's home internationals against Pakistan and West Indies netted an extra A$7 million, while an additional A$11 million landed in the coffers from the ICC, Indian Premier League and the Indian tax office.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/cricket-australia-announces-ashes-2025-26-fixtures-gabba-to-host-day-night-test-match-767931">Cricket Australia announces Ashes 2025-26 fixtures, Gabba to host day-night Test match</a></strong></p>

<p>As a result, CA was able to fund a 7% increase in player payments in the first year of the new pay deal.</p>

<p>At the grassroots level, CA reported an increase in registered participation in community&nbsp;cricket&nbsp;from 627,793 to 661,161, although there was a 3% drop in the number of junior&nbsp;cricketers.</p>

<p>"The strong growth in registered participation was the result of targeted programmes to increase participation in areas including 5-12 year-olds, women and girls and players of South Asian heritage," Hockley added.</p>

<p><em><strong>Disclaimer:</strong>&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.</em></p>


Cricket Australia announced a net deficit of A$31.9 million ($21.34m) for the 2023-4 financial year on Thursday, results that were better than expected at a low-point in the game's four-year cycle.

Cricket Australia announced a net deficit of A$31.9 million ($21.34m) for the 2023-4 financial year on Thursday, results that were better than expected at a low-point in the game's four-year cycle. With a lucrative five-test home series against India starting in November and an Ashes series on home soil next year, the governing body can expect a big boost to revenue over the next 18 months. "The better than forecast financial result ... is the result of a strong collaborative effort across Australian cricket to both manage costs and drive revenue," chief executive Nick Hockley said in news release. Higher than expected crowds at last season's home internationals against Pakistan and West Indies netted an extra A$7 million, while an additional A$11 million landed in the coffers from the ICC, Indian Premier League and the Indian tax office. Also read: Cricket Australia announces Ashes 2025-26 fixtures, Gabba to host day-night Test match As a result, CA was able to fund a 7% increase in player payments in the first year of the new pay deal. At the grassroots level, CA reported an increase in registered participation in community cricket from 627,793 to 661,161, although there was a 3% drop in the number of junior cricketers. "The strong growth in registered participation was the result of targeted programmes to increase participation in areas including 5-12 year-olds, women and girls and players of South Asian heritage," Hockley added. 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.

Big paydays ahead? Cricket Australia losses lower than expected for 2023-24 financial year

<p>Australia has dealt a massive blow in their quest to win back the Border-Gavaskar series as their star all-rounder Cameron Green could miss the entire summer with a back injury. Per the latest reports, Cricket Australia's medical staff has assessed Green's injury, with back surgery emerging as a potential option. In that case, Green will miss the five-Test match series against India starting November 22.</p>

<p>Cricket Australia already has plenty riding on their shoulders, including finding David Warner's replacement at the top. Though Travis Head emerged as the latest option to open alongside Usman Khawaja despite Steve Smith holding onto that spot, Green was one of the names discussed earlier. With Green potentially out of the India Tests, CA must dig in quickly into their domestic setup seeking answers.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/pak-vs-eng-1st-test-double-centurion-joe-root-becomes-first-englishman-to-score-20k-intl-runs-766242">Pak vs Eng, 1st Test: Double centurion Joe Root becomes first Englishman to score 20k int'l runs</a></strong></p>

<p>Meanwhile, Green flew home from the UK in September after complaining of back soreness following the third ODI against England. He underwent scans in England and Australia (upon landing), with CA's medical team taking their time before going public with a final announcement.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Although Green, 25, has had four stress fractures before but none since 2019, CA managed his workload remarkably in the first four years of his international career.&nbsp;</p>

<p>With Green having two options and time seems to run out for him and the hosts, all parties involved will come up with a final decision sooner. In the case of Green undergoing back surgery, he will miss the entire home summer, including the white-ball series against Pakistan; however, if he decides against going for it, Green could play, but only as a batter.</p>

<h2>Australia to reshuffle batting order</h2>

<p>If Green is ruled out of the India series, Australia will have to reshuffle the batting order, bringing Smith back to his original position of number four. In that case, Australia's middle order would have Marnus (at 3) and Smith to follow, with Head and Mitchell Marsh playing at number five and six, respectively. Keeper-batter Alex Carey will play at number seven.</p>

<p>That, however, will continue to leave the door open for an opener's slot, with domestic giants Marcus Harris, Matt Renshaw and Cameron Bancroft leading the race.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Australia has dealt a massive blow in their quest to win back the Border-Gavaskar series as their star all-rounder Cameron Green could miss the entire summer with a back injury.

Australia has dealt a massive blow in their quest to win back the Border-Gavaskar series as their star all-rounder Cameron Green could miss the entire summer with a back injury. Per the latest reports, Cricket Australia's medical staff has assessed Green's injury, with back surgery emerging as a potential option. In that case, Green will miss the five-Test match series against India starting November 22. Cricket Australia already has plenty riding on their shoulders, including finding David Warner's replacement at the top. Though Travis Head emerged as the latest option to open alongside Usman Khawaja despite Steve Smith holding onto that spot, Green was one of the names discussed earlier. With Green potentially out of the India Tests, CA must dig in quickly into their domestic setup seeking answers. ALSO READ: Pak vs Eng, 1st Test: Double centurion Joe Root becomes first Englishman to score 20k int'l runs Meanwhile, Green flew home from the UK in September after complaining of back soreness following the third ODI against England. He underwent scans in England and Australia (upon landing), with CA's medical team taking their time before going public with a final announcement. Although Green, 25, has had four stress fractures before but none since 2019, CA managed his workload remarkably in the first four years of his international career. With Green having two options and time seems to run out for him and the hosts, all parties involved will come up with a final decision sooner. In the case of Green undergoing back surgery, he will miss the entire home summer, including the white-ball series against Pakistan; however, if he decides against going for it, Green could play, but only as a batter. Australia to reshuffle batting order If Green is ruled out of the India series, Australia will have to reshuffle the batting order, bringing Smith back to his original position of number four. In that case, Australia's middle order would have Marnus (at 3) and Smith to follow, with Head and Mitchell Marsh playing at number five and six, respectively. Keeper-batter Alex Carey will play at number seven. That, however, will continue to leave the door open for an opener's slot, with domestic giants Marcus Harris, Matt Renshaw and Cameron Bancroft leading the race. (With inputs from agencies)

Massive blow to Australia as Cameron Green doubtful for Border-Gavaskar series

<p>Former Sri Lankan Test cricketer Dulip Samaraweera was banned Thursday from holding any position within Australian cricket for 20 years over "inappropriate behaviour".</p>

<p>The 52-year-old, who played seven Tests and five ODIs in the 1990s, was appointed head coach of the Victoria state women's team in May.</p>

<p>But his tenure was short-lived after&nbsp;alleged inappropriate behaviour towards a woman player.</p>

<p>Cricket Australia's Conduct Commission banned him "from  holding any position within CA or a state or territory association (including any W/BBL team) for 20 years ".</p>

<p>In a statement, it cited a serious breach of their code of conduct.</p>

<p>Cricket Victoria chief Nick Cummins commended the bravery of the victim for speaking up.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/ind-vs-ban-1st-test-ravi-ashwin-ton-mounts-indias-comeback-after-mahmuds-four-fer-jadeja-unbeaten-on-83-760109">IND vs BAN, 1st Test: Ravi Ashwin ton mounts India's comeback after Mahmud's four-fer; Jadeja unbeaten on 86</a></strong></p>

<p>"We strongly support the decision taken by the Code of Conduct Commission today, banning Dulip Samaraweera for 20 years," Cummins told cricket.com.au.</p>

<p>"It is our view that the conduct was utterly reprehensible and a betrayal of everything we stand for at Cricket Victoria.</p>

<p>"The victim in this case has demonstrated incredible strength of character and courage in speaking up."</p>

<p><em>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.</em></p>


Former Sri Lankan Test cricketer Dulip Samaraweera was banned Thursday from holding any position within Australian cricket for 20 years over "inappropriate behaviour".

Former Sri Lankan Test cricketer Dulip Samaraweera was banned Thursday from holding any position within Australian cricket for 20 years over "inappropriate behaviour". The 52-year-old, who played seven Tests and five ODIs in the 1990s, was appointed head coach of the Victoria state women's team in May. But his tenure was short-lived after alleged inappropriate behaviour towards a woman player. Cricket Australia's Conduct Commission banned him "from  holding any position within CA or a state or territory association (including any W/BBL team) for 20 years ". In a statement, it cited a serious breach of their code of conduct. Cricket Victoria chief Nick Cummins commended the bravery of the victim for speaking up. ALSO READ | IND vs BAN, 1st Test: Ravi Ashwin ton mounts India's comeback after Mahmud's four-fer; Jadeja unbeaten on 86 "We strongly support the decision taken by the Code of Conduct Commission today, banning Dulip Samaraweera for 20 years," Cummins told cricket.com.au. "It is our view that the conduct was utterly reprehensible and a betrayal of everything we stand for at Cricket Victoria. "The victim in this case has demonstrated incredible strength of character and courage in speaking up." 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.

Australia bans former Sri Lanka Test cricketer Dulip Samaraweera for 20 years

<p>Australian great Shane Warne’s daughter, Brooke&nbsp;Warne, sent her late father ‘heavenly greetings’ on his 55th birthday. Taking to her Instagram account, Brooke wished her father by sharing a heartfelt note and childhood pictures of both.</p>

<p>"Happy heavenly birthday to you Dad❤️‍🩹 I love you so much, today will always be your special day! ❤️"</p>

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<p style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px; margin-bottom:0; margin-top:8px; overflow:hidden; padding:8px 0 7px; text-align:center; text-overflow:ellipsis; white-space:nowrap;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/C_1MVH3zNN7/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px; text-decoration:none;" target="_blank">A post shared by B R O O K E 🍿 W A R N E (@brookewarne)</a></p>
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<p>Warne passed away on March 4, 2022. The spin great was found unresponsive in his villa in Thailand, dying of a suspected heart attack. The news of him passing away shocked the cricketing world.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Two years since his shocking death, the cricket world continues to mourn Warne’s demise, with tributes pouring in from all quarters.&nbsp;</p>

<p>However, as Warne would have turned 55 on Friday (Sep 13), the cricketing fraternity and fans flood social media with birthday greetings.</p>

<p><strong>Let’s check out some posts –</strong></p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">An unforgettable great of our game.<br />
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Remembering Shane Warne, born <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/OnThisDay?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#OnThisDay</a> in 1969.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/LoveLords?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#LoveLords</a> <a href="https://t.co/bamIN90bvQ">pic.twitter.com/bamIN90bvQ</a></p>
— Lord's Cricket Ground (@HomeOfCricket) <a href="https://twitter.com/HomeOfCricket/status/1834487181961781603?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 13, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Happy birthday, Warnie.<br />
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A poetic tribute to the life and magic of Shane Keith Warne, as read by Australia Test captain Pat Cummins ⚡️⚡️⚡️ <a href="https://t.co/PNqgIrgU7f">pic.twitter.com/PNqgIrgU7f</a></p>
— cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) <a href="https://twitter.com/cricketcomau/status/1834431382984294575?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 13, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">The Flipper™️<br />
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Happy birthday King 👑 <a href="https://t.co/0uV36fduTa">pic.twitter.com/0uV36fduTa</a></p>
— cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) <a href="https://twitter.com/cricketcomau/status/1834476353548345667?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 13, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Happy Birthday to the King of Spin and Victoria's favourite son, Shane Warne 💙<br />
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Had to post this pearler again 🤯 <a href="https://t.co/CKzEtnTzW8">pic.twitter.com/CKzEtnTzW8</a></p>
— Victorian Cricket Team (@VicStateCricket) <a href="https://twitter.com/VicStateCricket/status/1834415980220752035?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 13, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">55th Anniversary<br />
Shane Warne<br />
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Upon the dust of that storied pitch, where shadows danced and fate conspired,⁰He fashioned an art beyond mere chance, a craft of deeper fires.⁰With but a flick of his cunning wrist, a subtle turn of hand,⁰He spun, as if by sorcery, wonders.<br />
A… <a href="https://t.co/D0zlaqlVzl">pic.twitter.com/D0zlaqlVzl</a></p>
— Dr. Nauman Niaz (@DrNaumanNiaz) <a href="https://twitter.com/DrNaumanNiaz/status/1834465183835562026?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 13, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<h2>An Ode to the Great Man</h2>

<p>Shane Warne made his international debut against India during the 1992 Sydney Test. Though he picked just one wicket across two innings during that game, Warner ended up with 708 Test wickets – second-most by any bowler in Tests.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Meanwhile, considering how fast bowling dictated terms during those eras, Warne’s leg-spin surprised cricket fans, who enjoyed watching him destroy the opposition at will for the next 15 years.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/those-who-deliberately-lose-former-pakistan-cricketer-blasts-shoaib-malik-accuses-him-of-match-fixing-758340">Those who deliberately lose..: Former Pakistan cricketer BLASTS Shoaib Malik, accuses him of match-fixing</a></strong></p>

<p>Warne’s emergence on the international stage brought the onus back on spin, and alongside Sri Lankan great Muttiah Muralitharan – Test cricket's highest wicket-taker (800), both revolutionised spin bowling.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Of all the bowlers to ever grace this game, Warne is the only one to bowl two ‘Ball of the Century’ – to former England captains Mike Gatting and Andrew Strauss, respectively. While the one to Gatting came during the 1993 Manchester Test, Warne’s second ‘Ball of the Century’ to Strauss came during the famous 2005 Ashes Test series – dubbed by many as the greatest Test series since 2000.</p>

<p>Meanwhile, Warne has served as a mentor, commentator, and cricket broadcaster since announcing retirement from cricket. Under Warne, who was the captain and mentor of the IPL franchise, Rajasthan Royals, during the inaugural season in 2008, led the team to their only title to date.&nbsp;</p>


Australian great Shane Warne’s daughter, Brooke Warne, sent her late father ‘heavenly greetings’ on his 55th birthday. Taking to her Instagram account, Brooke wished her father by sharing a heartfelt note and childhood pictures of both.

Australian great Shane Warne’s daughter, Brooke Warne, sent her late father ‘heavenly greetings’ on his 55th birthday. Taking to her Instagram account, Brooke wished her father by sharing a heartfelt note and childhood pictures of both. "Happy heavenly birthday to you Dad❤️‍🩹 I love you so much, today will always be your special day! ❤️" View this post on Instagram A post shared by B R O O K E 🍿 W A R N E (@brookewarne) × Warne passed away on March 4, 2022. The spin great was found unresponsive in his villa in Thailand, dying of a suspected heart attack. The news of him passing away shocked the cricketing world. Two years since his shocking death, the cricket world continues to mourn Warne’s demise, with tributes pouring in from all quarters. However, as Warne would have turned 55 on Friday (Sep 13), the cricketing fraternity and fans flood social media with birthday greetings. Let’s check out some posts – An unforgettable great of our game. Remembering Shane Warne, born #OnThisDay in 1969.#LoveLords pic.twitter.com/bamIN90bvQ — Lord's Cricket Ground (@HomeOfCricket) September 13, 2024 × Happy birthday, Warnie. A poetic tribute to the life and magic of Shane Keith Warne, as read by Australia Test captain Pat Cummins ⚡️⚡️⚡️ pic.twitter.com/PNqgIrgU7f — cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) September 13, 2024 × The Flipper™️ Happy birthday King 👑 pic.twitter.com/0uV36fduTa — cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) September 13, 2024 × Happy Birthday to the King of Spin and Victoria's favourite son, Shane Warne 💙 Had to post this pearler again 🤯 pic.twitter.com/CKzEtnTzW8 — Victorian Cricket Team (@VicStateCricket) September 13, 2024 × 55th Anniversary Shane Warne Upon the dust of that storied pitch, where shadows danced and fate conspired,⁰He fashioned an art beyond mere chance, a craft of deeper fires.⁰With but a flick of his cunning wrist, a subtle turn of hand,⁰He spun, as if by sorcery, wonders. A… pic.twitter.com/D0zlaqlVzl — Dr. Nauman Niaz (@DrNaumanNiaz) September 13, 2024 × An Ode to the Great Man Shane Warne made his international debut against India during the 1992 Sydney Test. Though he picked just one wicket across two innings during that game, Warner ended up with 708 Test wickets – second-most by any bowler in Tests. Meanwhile, considering how fast bowling dictated terms during those eras, Warne’s leg-spin surprised cricket fans, who enjoyed watching him destroy the opposition at will for the next 15 years. ALSO READ: Those who deliberately lose..: Former Pakistan cricketer BLASTS Shoaib Malik, accuses him of match-fixing Warne’s emergence on the international stage brought the onus back on spin, and alongside Sri Lankan great Muttiah Muralitharan – Test cricket's highest wicket-taker (800), both revolutionised spin bowling. Of all the bowlers to ever grace this game, Warne is the only one to bowl two ‘Ball of the Century’ – to former England captains Mike Gatting and Andrew Strauss, respectively. While the one to Gatting came during the 1993 Manchester Test, Warne’s second ‘Ball of the Century’ to Strauss came during the famous 2005 Ashes Test series – dubbed by many as the greatest Test series since 2000. Meanwhile, Warne has served as a mentor, commentator, and cricket broadcaster since announcing retirement from cricket. Under Warne, who was the captain and mentor of the IPL franchise, Rajasthan Royals, during the inaugural season in 2008, led the team to their only title to date.

Shane Warne’s Birthday: Daughter Brooke pens heartfelt note, sends ‘heavenly greetings’ to late father

<p>Australia pacer Jhye Richardson has revealed his struggles with mental health during the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021. The pacer was part of KL Rahul-led Punjab Kings with Mohammed Shami and Chris Gayle as his teammates.</p>

<p>"A lot of it started during COVID. My trip to the IPL – I left home not in the headspace that I probably should have been," Richardson told cricket.com.au.</p>

<p>"Then things sort of hit the fan while I was away, and everything with COVID and not being able to get home and stuff like that, it just toppled on top of each other.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/infectious-character-ricky-ponting-warns-australia-about-rishabh-pants-drama-from-behind-stumps-757880">'Infectious character...,' Ricky Ponting warns Australia about Rishabh Pant's drama from behind stumps</a></p>

<p>"I think you don't realise what sort of space you're in until it becomes too much, which is why now I encourage a lot of young cricketers to work on their mental health – even if they think that they're going okay.</p>

<p>"It's like practicing for the short ball. The more you practice the short ball, the better you're going to be at it when that situation arises out in the middle. It's very similar off the field."</p>

<p>"Everything just got to a point where there was some professional intervention that needed to happen. I'm not willing to go into a whole lot of detail, but I just landed in a spot where things were bad enough that I stepped back and said, 'I can't continue thinking the way that I am' and (needed) to get a bit more education and knowledge about how the brain works."</p>

<p>The pacer lauded the plethora of information available these days regarding the topic and the process to deal with the issues has become a lot easier.</p>

<p>"The resources within cricket nowadays make the process of dealing with mental health issues a lot easier and there is a lot more education there.</p>

<p>"But as someone who has dealt with anxiety, not just on the field but away from cricket and day-to-day living, it can be quite exhausting," Richardson added.</p>


Australia pacer Jhye Richardson has revealed his struggles with mental health during the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021. The pacer was part of KL Rahul-led Punjab Kings with Mohammed Shami and Chris Gayle as his teammates.

Australia pacer Jhye Richardson has revealed his struggles with mental health during the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021. The pacer was part of KL Rahul-led Punjab Kings with Mohammed Shami and Chris Gayle as his teammates. "A lot of it started during COVID. My trip to the IPL – I left home not in the headspace that I probably should have been," Richardson told cricket.com.au. "Then things sort of hit the fan while I was away, and everything with COVID and not being able to get home and stuff like that, it just toppled on top of each other. Also Read: 'Infectious character...,' Ricky Ponting warns Australia about Rishabh Pant's drama from behind stumps "I think you don't realise what sort of space you're in until it becomes too much, which is why now I encourage a lot of young cricketers to work on their mental health – even if they think that they're going okay. "It's like practicing for the short ball. The more you practice the short ball, the better you're going to be at it when that situation arises out in the middle. It's very similar off the field." "Everything just got to a point where there was some professional intervention that needed to happen. I'm not willing to go into a whole lot of detail, but I just landed in a spot where things were bad enough that I stepped back and said, 'I can't continue thinking the way that I am' and (needed) to get a bit more education and knowledge about how the brain works." The pacer lauded the plethora of information available these days regarding the topic and the process to deal with the issues has become a lot easier. "The resources within cricket nowadays make the process of dealing with mental health issues a lot easier and there is a lot more education there. "But as someone who has dealt with anxiety, not just on the field but away from cricket and day-to-day living, it can be quite exhausting," Richardson added.

'My trip to the IPL...,' Aussie pacer Jhye Richardson reveals battling with mental health issues

<p>The iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) will host the one-off Test between the game’s oldest rivals, Australia and England, in March 2027 to celebrate this format’s 150th anniversary, Cricket Australia announced in a statement on Sunday (August 18).&nbsp;</p>

<p>MCG and Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG) are locked in to host the Boxing Day and New Year’s Test, respectively, till 2031, while Adelaide Oval will host the pre-Christmas Test in either day and night or day format for the next seven years.</p>

<p>A standalone celebratory match at MCG will honour the inaugural Test played at this venue from March 15-19 in 1877.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"The 150th anniversary Test match at the MCG in March 2027 will be a wonderful celebration of the pinnacle format of the game at one of the world's great sporting arenas, and we can't wait to host England on that occasion,” Cricket Australia (CA) CEO Nick Hockley said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Meanwhile, this one-off match will replicate the Centenary Test held in 1977 (from 12-17 March) to mark 100 years of Test cricket, which Australia won by 45 runs. Veterans Rod Marsh and Derek Randall hit hundreds, while Dennis Lillee picked 11 wickets in that match.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/those-who-made-errors-are-still-there-former-pakistan-captain-salman-butt-slams-pcb-over-fitness-issues-750956">'Those who made errors are still there': Former Pakistan captain Salman Butt slams PCB over fitness issues</a></strong></p>

<p>Besides, in conjunction with respective state and territory governments, CA finalised the venues for home fixtures till 2031.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The newly-built Optus Stadium in Perth will play the kick-off of the home fixtures for the next three seasons.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"We are delighted to confirm long-term hosting rights, which provide certainty around the locations of some fantastic cricket over the next seven years.”</p>

<p>"We are confident this schedule ensures the best cricket will be played in the best venues at the right times across the country, including a fantastic mix of iconic Test matches, new blockbusters such as the West Test and Christmas Test and exciting day-night fixtures,” Hockley continued.</p>

<h2>Gabba loses spot</h2>

<p>This decision means the iconic Gabba in Brisbane, which hosted the season’s curtain-raiser for over four decades, will not host the opener from now. While Perth will host the 2025-26 men’s Ashes first Test, Gabba is guaranteed a pre-Christmas day-night Ashes Test besides being scheduled to host a Test match against India later this summer.</p>

<p>Given Brisbane will host the 2032 Summer Olympics, the Gabba will be redeveloped, meaning it will not host a Test match for a considerable period after the next men’s Ashes Test there.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"In Brisbane, it is harder [to plan] because of the infrastructure," Baird, CA chairman said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"There is just uncertainty, so we're not sure of the long-term solution. What we do know is the Gabba has a use for life that ends in 2030. We need a solution and are working with the AFL as well on a long-term solution.</p>

<p>"We want a great venue in Brisbane that can support Queensland Cricket and Australian cricket for years to come,” he continued.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


The iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) will host the one-off Test between the game’s oldest rivals, Australia and England, in March 2027 to celebrate this format’s 150th anniversary, Cricket Australia announced in a statement on Sunday (August 18).

The iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) will host the one-off Test between the game’s oldest rivals, Australia and England, in March 2027 to celebrate this format’s 150th anniversary, Cricket Australia announced in a statement on Sunday (August 18). MCG and Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG) are locked in to host the Boxing Day and New Year’s Test, respectively, till 2031, while Adelaide Oval will host the pre-Christmas Test in either day and night or day format for the next seven years. A standalone celebratory match at MCG will honour the inaugural Test played at this venue from March 15-19 in 1877. "The 150th anniversary Test match at the MCG in March 2027 will be a wonderful celebration of the pinnacle format of the game at one of the world's great sporting arenas, and we can't wait to host England on that occasion,” Cricket Australia (CA) CEO Nick Hockley said. Meanwhile, this one-off match will replicate the Centenary Test held in 1977 (from 12-17 March) to mark 100 years of Test cricket, which Australia won by 45 runs. Veterans Rod Marsh and Derek Randall hit hundreds, while Dennis Lillee picked 11 wickets in that match. ALSO READ: 'Those who made errors are still there': Former Pakistan captain Salman Butt slams PCB over fitness issues Besides, in conjunction with respective state and territory governments, CA finalised the venues for home fixtures till 2031. The newly-built Optus Stadium in Perth will play the kick-off of the home fixtures for the next three seasons. "We are delighted to confirm long-term hosting rights, which provide certainty around the locations of some fantastic cricket over the next seven years.” "We are confident this schedule ensures the best cricket will be played in the best venues at the right times across the country, including a fantastic mix of iconic Test matches, new blockbusters such as the West Test and Christmas Test and exciting day-night fixtures,” Hockley continued. Gabba loses spot This decision means the iconic Gabba in Brisbane, which hosted the season’s curtain-raiser for over four decades, will not host the opener from now. While Perth will host the 2025-26 men’s Ashes first Test, Gabba is guaranteed a pre-Christmas day-night Ashes Test besides being scheduled to host a Test match against India later this summer. Given Brisbane will host the 2032 Summer Olympics, the Gabba will be redeveloped, meaning it will not host a Test match for a considerable period after the next men’s Ashes Test there. "In Brisbane, it is harder [to plan] because of the infrastructure," Baird, CA chairman said. "There is just uncertainty, so we're not sure of the long-term solution. What we do know is the Gabba has a use for life that ends in 2030. We need a solution and are working with the AFL as well on a long-term solution. "We want a great venue in Brisbane that can support Queensland Cricket and Australian cricket for years to come,” he continued. (With inputs from agencies)

MCG locked in to host Australia-England one-off Test to celebrate format’s 150th anniversary in March 2027

<p>Cricket Australia CEO Nick Hockley has compared the Border-Gavaskar Trophy to the Ashes as&nbsp;he made a bold statement on the upcoming series between the nations on Saturday (Aug 10). India will face Australia in a five-match Test series later in the year as the nations compete in a repeat of the World Test Championship (WTC) 2023 final. The two nations are top contenders to reach the 2025 WTC final but a lot will depend on the outcome of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy.</p>

<h2><strong>Nick Hockley makes a bold comment on BGT</strong></h2>

<p>“The Border Gavaskar Trophy and the Ashes are both massive tours on the Australian cricket calendar and are largely comparable in commercial terms, with fantastic crowds and huge broadcast audiences for each. Ticket sales from India are already six times greater than for the previous non-COVID series,” Hockley told Hindustan Times.</p>

<p>The series will start on November 22 as the sides will square off the first Test match in Perth. It will also break the tradition of a four-match series as it will move into a five-match cycle starting from the upcoming tour. This will mean that the Border-Gavaskar Trophy will be in power with the Ashes as both tournaments will consist of the same number of matches.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/paris-olympics-2024-meaningless-algerias-imane-khelif-reacts-after-winning-boxing-gold-amid-gender-row-748956">Paris Olympics 2024: 'Meaningless...,' Algeria's Imane Khelif reacts after winning boxing gold amid gender row</a></strong></p>

<p>The series will be new coach Gautam Gambhir’s first big test away from home as he tries stamping authority on the side. Gambhir took over as the coach of the side during the Sri Lanka tour where India lost the ODI series 2-0 while they had earlier won the T20I series 3-0.</p>

<p>The tour is likely to be Rohit Sharma’s last away assignment as captain (unless they reach the WTC final) in the Test format. It is also likely to be Virat Kohli’s last away tour to Australia in the Test format as he reaches the twilight of his career. He did not participate in the entire Test series having opted to return to India for paternity leave. Ajinkya Rahane would then help India win the series Down Under in 2020-21 while Ravi Shastri was still the coach.</p>


Cricket Australia CEO Nick Hockley has compared the Border-Gavaskar Trophy to the Ashes as he made a bold statement on the upcoming series between the nations on Saturday (Aug 10).

Cricket Australia CEO Nick Hockley has compared the Border-Gavaskar Trophy to the Ashes as he made a bold statement on the upcoming series between the nations on Saturday (Aug 10). India will face Australia in a five-match Test series later in the year as the nations compete in a repeat of the World Test Championship (WTC) 2023 final. The two nations are top contenders to reach the 2025 WTC final but a lot will depend on the outcome of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy. Nick Hockley makes a bold comment on BGT “The Border Gavaskar Trophy and the Ashes are both massive tours on the Australian cricket calendar and are largely comparable in commercial terms, with fantastic crowds and huge broadcast audiences for each. Ticket sales from India are already six times greater than for the previous non-COVID series,” Hockley told Hindustan Times. The series will start on November 22 as the sides will square off the first Test match in Perth. It will also break the tradition of a four-match series as it will move into a five-match cycle starting from the upcoming tour. This will mean that the Border-Gavaskar Trophy will be in power with the Ashes as both tournaments will consist of the same number of matches. ALSO READ | Paris Olympics 2024: 'Meaningless...,' Algeria's Imane Khelif reacts after winning boxing gold amid gender row The series will be new coach Gautam Gambhir’s first big test away from home as he tries stamping authority on the side. Gambhir took over as the coach of the side during the Sri Lanka tour where India lost the ODI series 2-0 while they had earlier won the T20I series 3-0. The tour is likely to be Rohit Sharma’s last away assignment as captain (unless they reach the WTC final) in the Test format. It is also likely to be Virat Kohli’s last away tour to Australia in the Test format as he reaches the twilight of his career. He did not participate in the entire Test series having opted to return to India for paternity leave. Ajinkya Rahane would then help India win the series Down Under in 2020-21 while Ravi Shastri was still the coach.

IND vs AUS: Cricket Australia CEO Nick Hockley compares BGT to Ashes, says 'it has same commercial value'

<p>Cricket Australia’s (CA) CEO Nick Hockley has shown interest in bringing arch-rivals India and Pakistan together on the same board to play white-ball cricket. Though both Asian powerhouses don’t indulge in bilateral cricket owing to tense relations, these two teams play only in ICC events and the Asia Cup. Knowing the gravity of this contest regarding its reach, engagement and revenue generation, CA is keen on putting them together.</p>

<p>Besides, Hockley wants to host a tri-series sometime soon involving Australia – something that hasn’t happened among the top teams in a long time. The last time these three teams played on Australian soil in a tri-series was nearly a quarter of a century ago.</p>

<p>With no reports of three concerned boards coming together for this, Hockley remains keen on CA initiating such an initiative.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/pm-modi-meets-t20-world-cup-winning-indian-team-in-new-delhi-watch-737734">PM Modi meets T20 World Cup-winning Indian Team in New Delhi - WATCH</a></strong></p>

<p>"Pakistan and India are traditional rival teams; there is a lot of excitement for their matches," Hockley said. "To the extent that we’d be able to facilitate or help in that, we’d be very open to do so. However, the final decision rests with the respective cricket boards of India and Pakistan."</p>

<p>Hockley’s idea is to bridge the gap between India and Pakistan on the cricket front at the international level, with billions of fans worldwide invested in this blockbuster contest. Even in the recently-concluded T20 World Cup in the Americas, the India-Pakistan Group A match (in New York) garnered the most views and engagement, with history suggesting that a game between two Asian giants makes the most money for the broadcasters too.</p>

<p>Meanwhile, India and Pakistan last played a bilateral series 12 years ago in India and&nbsp;the last Test series took place&nbsp;in 2008. Though Pakistan has travelled to India for multiple ICC tournaments since, including the 2016 T20 World Cup and the 50-over World Cup last year, India last toured Pakistan in 2008 (for the Asia Cup).&nbsp;</p>

<p>However, with ICC granting Pakistan the hosting rights of the returning Champions Trophy format, taking place during the February-March window next year, questions are raised on BCCI and Team India’s stance.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The BCCI is yet to respond to ICC’s draft schedule for the eight-team tournament, which includes all India matches at the Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore, with the latest reports suggesting that India is in Group A alongside the hosts Pakistan, New Zealand and Bangladesh.&nbsp;</p>

<h2>Ten-team World Cup format is best</h2>

<p>Following ICC’s call to increase the number of participating teams from the next 50-over WC edition onwards (from 10 to 14), Hockley said the ten-team format is the best, as it gives weightage to every game.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"The ODI World Cup, which India hosted last year, was fantastic. I think the ten-team format, where every game counts, is excellent.</p>

<p>"From an Australian perspective, we would continue to value all three formats and would also want that each bilateral series must have consequences in terms of qualifications for the World Cups," Hockley concluded.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Cricket Australia’s (CA) CEO Nick Hockley has shown interest in bringing arch-rivals India and Pakistan together on the same board to play white-ball cricket. Though both Asian powerhouses don’t indulge in bilateral cricket owing to tense relations, these two teams play only in ICC events and the Asia Cup.

Cricket Australia’s (CA) CEO Nick Hockley has shown interest in bringing arch-rivals India and Pakistan together on the same board to play white-ball cricket. Though both Asian powerhouses don’t indulge in bilateral cricket owing to tense relations, these two teams play only in ICC events and the Asia Cup. Knowing the gravity of this contest regarding its reach, engagement and revenue generation, CA is keen on putting them together. Besides, Hockley wants to host a tri-series sometime soon involving Australia – something that hasn’t happened among the top teams in a long time. The last time these three teams played on Australian soil in a tri-series was nearly a quarter of a century ago. With no reports of three concerned boards coming together for this, Hockley remains keen on CA initiating such an initiative. ALSO READ: PM Modi meets T20 World Cup-winning Indian Team in New Delhi - WATCH "Pakistan and India are traditional rival teams; there is a lot of excitement for their matches," Hockley said. "To the extent that we’d be able to facilitate or help in that, we’d be very open to do so. However, the final decision rests with the respective cricket boards of India and Pakistan." Hockley’s idea is to bridge the gap between India and Pakistan on the cricket front at the international level, with billions of fans worldwide invested in this blockbuster contest. Even in the recently-concluded T20 World Cup in the Americas, the India-Pakistan Group A match (in New York) garnered the most views and engagement, with history suggesting that a game between two Asian giants makes the most money for the broadcasters too. Meanwhile, India and Pakistan last played a bilateral series 12 years ago in India and the last Test series took place in 2008. Though Pakistan has travelled to India for multiple ICC tournaments since, including the 2016 T20 World Cup and the 50-over World Cup last year, India last toured Pakistan in 2008 (for the Asia Cup). However, with ICC granting Pakistan the hosting rights of the returning Champions Trophy format, taking place during the February-March window next year, questions are raised on BCCI and Team India’s stance. The BCCI is yet to respond to ICC’s draft schedule for the eight-team tournament, which includes all India matches at the Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore, with the latest reports suggesting that India is in Group A alongside the hosts Pakistan, New Zealand and Bangladesh. Ten-team World Cup format is best Following ICC’s call to increase the number of participating teams from the next 50-over WC edition onwards (from 10 to 14), Hockley said the ten-team format is the best, as it gives weightage to every game. "The ODI World Cup, which India hosted last year, was fantastic. I think the ten-team format, where every game counts, is excellent. "From an Australian perspective, we would continue to value all three formats and would also want that each bilateral series must have consequences in terms of qualifications for the World Cups," Hockley concluded. (With inputs from agencies)

Gear up for India-Pakistan bilateral series as Cricket Australia ‘happy’ to play hosts

<p>Australia Test opener Usman Khawaja has backed Afghanistan skipper Rashid Khan's stance that the two nations should be playing bilateral cricket. Khawaja's stand is juxtaposed to Cricket Australia who has refused to play against the trouble-torn&nbsp;nation.</p>

<p>The reason behind Australia's refusal to play cricket with Afghanistan is 'deteriorating conditions of women and human rights' after takeover of Taliban following USA's exit.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"I personally think yes we should be playing Afghanistan," Khawaja told Nine Newspapers at event in Melbourne.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/win-an-icc-event-or-face-axe-gautam-gambhirs-one-of-several-conditions-for-india-coach-job-report-734648">Win an ICC event or face axe – Gautam Gambhir’s ‘one of several conditions’ for India coach job - Report</a></p>

<p>"I am sympathetic to both sides of the puzzle. I totally respect and agree with a lot of aspects of the stance Cricket Australia has in terms of women's cricket in Afghanistan, but there's also another side to it, of promoting and growing the game.</p>

<p>"This is the second time Australia have backed out of a bilateral series, and I talked to Rashid Khan. He was really disappointed, more so because the Afghanistan people love cricket, and for them cricket is one of the few things they enjoy and brings happiness, and the fact they were going to play Australia was going to be huge, and they don't get to see that now. So it actually hurts the people, and the people are separate from the government," he added.</p>

<p>The comments come after Afghan skipper Rashid said 'there's no solution' to Australia's refusal to play bilateral cricket with the Asian country.</p>

<p>The two teams, however, keep meeting in ICC event, most recently in the ongoing T20 World Cup where Afghanistan came out as winner in a humdinger of a match. Afghans had come close to beating Australia in last year's ODI World Cup as well but Glenn Maxwell's extra-ordinary innings saw the eventual champions power through.</p>

<p>Currently, Afghanistan have an outside chance to making it to the semis of 2024 T20 WC, given they beat Bangladesh and Australia lose to India in their last Super 8 stage match.</p>


Australia Test opener Usman Khawaja has backed Afghanistan skipper Rashid Khan's stance that the two nations should be playing bilateral cricket. Khawaja's stand is juxtaposed to Cricket Australia who has refused to play against the trouble-torn nation.

Australia Test opener Usman Khawaja has backed Afghanistan skipper Rashid Khan's stance that the two nations should be playing bilateral cricket. Khawaja's stand is juxtaposed to Cricket Australia who has refused to play against the trouble-torn nation. The reason behind Australia's refusal to play cricket with Afghanistan is 'deteriorating conditions of women and human rights' after takeover of Taliban following USA's exit. "I personally think yes we should be playing Afghanistan," Khawaja told Nine Newspapers at event in Melbourne. Also Read: Win an ICC event or face axe – Gautam Gambhir’s ‘one of several conditions’ for India coach job - Report "I am sympathetic to both sides of the puzzle. I totally respect and agree with a lot of aspects of the stance Cricket Australia has in terms of women's cricket in Afghanistan, but there's also another side to it, of promoting and growing the game. "This is the second time Australia have backed out of a bilateral series, and I talked to Rashid Khan. He was really disappointed, more so because the Afghanistan people love cricket, and for them cricket is one of the few things they enjoy and brings happiness, and the fact they were going to play Australia was going to be huge, and they don't get to see that now. So it actually hurts the people, and the people are separate from the government," he added. The comments come after Afghan skipper Rashid said 'there's no solution' to Australia's refusal to play bilateral cricket with the Asian country. The two teams, however, keep meeting in ICC event, most recently in the ongoing T20 World Cup where Afghanistan came out as winner in a humdinger of a match. Afghans had come close to beating Australia in last year's ODI World Cup as well but Glenn Maxwell's extra-ordinary innings saw the eventual champions power through. Currently, Afghanistan have an outside chance to making it to the semis of 2024 T20 WC, given they beat Bangladesh and Australia lose to India in their last Super 8 stage match.

Aussie Usman Khawaja in favor of 'playing bilateral cricket' vs Afghanistan against Cricket Australia's stance

<p>David Warner feels the infamous ball-tampering controversy of 2018 dubbed&nbsp;'Sandpapergate' would always cast a shadow on his cricketing career, which is set to end soon. Warner, who retired from Tests and ODIs, is set to call it quits from international cricket altogether after the end of the ongoing T20 World Cup 2024, being held in the West Indies and the USA.</p>

<p>Reflecting on his decorated career, the Aussie opener said he felt the 2018 infamous incident remains the only blemish in his career, in which he has won the WTC, ODI WC and T20 WC for the national side.</p>

<p>Talking to the reporters ahead of Mitchell Marsh-led Australia's Super 8 campaign in the T20 WC, Warner said, "My back was always up against the wall when I came back, and I knew that. I copped my fair share over my career. I've probably been the only one that's ever copped a lot of flak, whether it's people who don't like the Australian cricket team or don't like me."</p>

<p>"I've always been that person who has copped it. I always feel like I've taken a lot of pressure off a lot of guys as well and I think, understandably, I've been that person to be able to absorb that. But one can only absorb (so much). For me, it's great to go out knowing I'm not going to cop it anymore. I felt I had great support from, especially our coaching group now and selectors have been great. All in all, I've had a privileged career, since 2018 I've really enjoyed that time coming back and just being around the guys and training hard and working as hard as I can."</p>

<h2>What was the 'Sandpapergate'?</h2>

<p>During Australia's tour of South Africa in early 2018, Steve Smith-led visitors were involved in a four-match Test series where the Sandpaper fiasco (i.e. the ball-tampering scandal) occurred, during the penultimate Test in Cape Town. Australian opener Cameron Bancroft was caught by television cameras trying to rough up one side of the ball with sandpaper -- in order to make the red cherry swing in flight.</p>

<p>Then captain Smith and vice-captain Warner were also found to be involved in the ball-tampering incident. As a result, all three received unprecedented sanctions from Cricket Australia (CA).</p>

<p>Smith and Warner were handed a one-year international ban each whereas&nbsp;Bancroft faced a nine-month suspension. Warner was regarded as the mastermind behind the whole scandal.</p>

<p><strong>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/t20-wc-there-is-keenness-to-do-something-special-says-rohit-sharma-before-indias-hectic-super-8-campaign-732785">T20 WC: There is keenness to do something special, says Rohit Sharma before India's 'hectic' Super 8 campaign</a></strong></p>

<p>Warner added, "It's going to be inevitable that when people talk about me in 20 or 30 years' time, there will always be that sandpaper scandal. But for me, if they're real cricket tragics, and they love cricket, and my closest supporters, they will always see me as that cricketer. Someone who tried to change the game. Someone who tried to follow in the footsteps of the openers before me and tried to score runs at a great tempo and change Test cricket in a way. Be that person who went from T20 cricket to play Test cricket - batting at No. 6 and then opening. For me, hopefully I can be remembered for that, but I understand 2018. It always comes up, and it's unfortunate - but it is what it is."</p>

<p>Warner has been one of the all-time greats for Australia, amassing&nbsp;8,786 and&nbsp;6,932 runs in Tests and ODIs, respectively. In T20Is, the swashbuckling left-hander has scored&nbsp;3,215 runs. The 37-year-old has 49 international tons under his belt. He will look to guide Australia to their second T20 WC title later this month and sign off on a glorious high.</p>


David Warner feels the infamous ball-tampering controversy of 2018 dubbed 'Sandpapergate' would always cast a shadow on his cricketing career, which is set to end soon.

David Warner feels the infamous ball-tampering controversy of 2018 dubbed 'Sandpapergate' would always cast a shadow on his cricketing career, which is set to end soon. Warner, who retired from Tests and ODIs, is set to call it quits from international cricket altogether after the end of the ongoing T20 World Cup 2024, being held in the West Indies and the USA. Reflecting on his decorated career, the Aussie opener said he felt the 2018 infamous incident remains the only blemish in his career, in which he has won the WTC, ODI WC and T20 WC for the national side. Talking to the reporters ahead of Mitchell Marsh-led Australia's Super 8 campaign in the T20 WC, Warner said, "My back was always up against the wall when I came back, and I knew that. I copped my fair share over my career. I've probably been the only one that's ever copped a lot of flak, whether it's people who don't like the Australian cricket team or don't like me." "I've always been that person who has copped it. I always feel like I've taken a lot of pressure off a lot of guys as well and I think, understandably, I've been that person to be able to absorb that. But one can only absorb (so much). For me, it's great to go out knowing I'm not going to cop it anymore. I felt I had great support from, especially our coaching group now and selectors have been great. All in all, I've had a privileged career, since 2018 I've really enjoyed that time coming back and just being around the guys and training hard and working as hard as I can." What was the 'Sandpapergate'? During Australia's tour of South Africa in early 2018, Steve Smith-led visitors were involved in a four-match Test series where the Sandpaper fiasco (i.e. the ball-tampering scandal) occurred, during the penultimate Test in Cape Town. Australian opener Cameron Bancroft was caught by television cameras trying to rough up one side of the ball with sandpaper -- in order to make the red cherry swing in flight. Then captain Smith and vice-captain Warner were also found to be involved in the ball-tampering incident. As a result, all three received unprecedented sanctions from Cricket Australia (CA). Smith and Warner were handed a one-year international ban each whereas Bancroft faced a nine-month suspension. Warner was regarded as the mastermind behind the whole scandal. Also read: T20 WC: There is keenness to do something special, says Rohit Sharma before India's 'hectic' Super 8 campaign Warner added, "It's going to be inevitable that when people talk about me in 20 or 30 years' time, there will always be that sandpaper scandal. But for me, if they're real cricket tragics, and they love cricket, and my closest supporters, they will always see me as that cricketer. Someone who tried to change the game. Someone who tried to follow in the footsteps of the openers before me and tried to score runs at a great tempo and change Test cricket in a way. Be that person who went from T20 cricket to play Test cricket - batting at No. 6 and then opening. For me, hopefully I can be remembered for that, but I understand 2018. It always comes up, and it's unfortunate - but it is what it is." Warner has been one of the all-time greats for Australia, amassing 8,786 and 6,932 runs in Tests and ODIs, respectively. In T20Is, the swashbuckling left-hander has scored 3,215 runs. The 37-year-old has 49 international tons under his belt. He will look to guide Australia to their second T20 WC title later this month and sign off on a glorious high.

T20 WC: 'I've always been...': Outgoing David Warner on facing more flak on Sandpapergate than peers

<p>Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) were seen in top form on Tuesday (April 23) after they chased down 211 runs against Chennai Super Kings (CSK) in the Indian Premier League (IPL). The contest played at the MA&nbsp;Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai saw Marcus Stoinis overshadow Ruturaj&nbsp;Gaikwad’s&nbsp;ton&nbsp;to lead LSG to win. After scoring the unbeaten 124-run knock, Stoinis said he was fine about not getting central contact by Cricket Australia and wants to continue his fine run.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Stoinis fine despite snub</strong></h2>

<p>"I've&nbsp;got a great relationship with the [Australia] coach [Andrew McDonald],"&nbsp;Stoinis said.&nbsp;"Me not getting a contract, I&nbsp;knew that a while ago.&nbsp;I think it&nbsp;is great to give younger kids a crack and let them take my spot.&nbsp;I'm&nbsp;absolutely fine with that on the contract list. But on the playing front,&nbsp;obviously&nbsp;want to make sure that&nbsp;I'm&nbsp;there&nbsp;and&nbsp;that's&nbsp;also why&nbsp;it's&nbsp;so lucky for us and for me particularly to have this competition [the IPL],&nbsp;that's&nbsp;why I love it so much."</p>

<p>The Aussie&nbsp;star's&nbsp;124-run innings consisted of 13 fours and&nbsp;6&nbsp;sixes&nbsp;which&nbsp;helped his side down CSK for the first time on their home turf.&nbsp;He and Nicholas Pooran (34)&nbsp;were the architects of the win as LSG now&nbsp;have momentum ahead of a crucial run-in.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/two-teenage-premier-league-players-arrested-in-england-over-rape-allegation-714389">Two teenage Premier League players arrested in England over rape allegation</a></p>

<h2><strong>What happened in the match?</strong></h2>

<p>In another high-scoring affair in IPL 2024, LSG did a league double over CSK despite&nbsp;Gaikwad’s&nbsp;unbeaten 108. Marcus Stoinis, without a central contract with Australia, scored an unbeaten 124 off 63 balls to register a famous win for LSG. The last-over thriller condemned CSK to their first home defeat&nbsp;of the season, leaving the race for playoff spots wide open.&nbsp;This&nbsp;was&nbsp;also&nbsp;LSG’s&nbsp;second win over CSK in the season, having got&nbsp;the better of them in the previous match.&nbsp;</p>

<p>LSG&nbsp;are next in action against Rajasthan Royals (RR) on&nbsp;Saturday (April 27)&nbsp;with&nbsp;the league leaders in top form.&nbsp;On the flip side, CSK face in-form Sunrisers Hyderabad on Sunday (April 28) before squaring off against Punjab Kings (PBKS) on May 1 in Chennai.</p>


Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) were seen in top form on Tuesday (April 23) after they chased down 211 runs against Chennai Super Kings (CSK) in the Indian Premier League (IPL).

Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) were seen in top form on Tuesday (April 23) after they chased down 211 runs against Chennai Super Kings (CSK) in the Indian Premier League (IPL). The contest played at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai saw Marcus Stoinis overshadow Ruturaj Gaikwad’s ton to lead LSG to win. After scoring the unbeaten 124-run knock, Stoinis said he was fine about not getting central contact by Cricket Australia and wants to continue his fine run. Stoinis fine despite snub "I've got a great relationship with the [Australia] coach [Andrew McDonald]," Stoinis said. "Me not getting a contract, I knew that a while ago. I think it is great to give younger kids a crack and let them take my spot. I'm absolutely fine with that on the contract list. But on the playing front, obviously want to make sure that I'm there and that's also why it's so lucky for us and for me particularly to have this competition [the IPL], that's why I love it so much." The Aussie star's 124-run innings consisted of 13 fours and 6 sixes which helped his side down CSK for the first time on their home turf. He and Nicholas Pooran (34) were the architects of the win as LSG now have momentum ahead of a crucial run-in. ALSO READ | Two teenage Premier League players arrested in England over rape allegation What happened in the match? In another high-scoring affair in IPL 2024, LSG did a league double over CSK despite Gaikwad’s unbeaten 108. Marcus Stoinis, without a central contract with Australia, scored an unbeaten 124 off 63 balls to register a famous win for LSG. The last-over thriller condemned CSK to their first home defeat of the season, leaving the race for playoff spots wide open. This was also LSG’s second win over CSK in the season, having got the better of them in the previous match. LSG are next in action against Rajasthan Royals (RR) on Saturday (April 27) with the league leaders in top form. On the flip side, CSK face in-form Sunrisers Hyderabad on Sunday (April 28) before squaring off against Punjab Kings (PBKS) on May 1 in Chennai.

IPL 2024: I'm absolutely fine, says LSG centurion Marcus Stoinis despite getting snubbed by Cricket Australia

<p><meta name="uuid" content="uuidjnqrzDuqnsYW" /></p>

<p>Several star Australian cricketers, including Marcus Stoinis, Ashton Agar, Jason Behrendorff and Andrew Tye, have decided to take the freelance route after facing omission from Western&nbsp;Australia’s&nbsp;cricket contracts for the upcoming season. Their absence from the contract list means all four can explore freelance franchise opportunities worldwide, with several T20 league competitions occurring regularly.</p>

<p>While Stoinis and Agar&nbsp;were left&nbsp;out of Cricket&nbsp;Australia’s&nbsp;central contract list for 2024-25, Behrendorff was their T20I player of the year. Although all four will walk into the playing XI for WA in the 50-over Marsh Cup tournament, their omissions, mainly that of Agar, will raise concerns about&nbsp;cricket’s&nbsp;changing&nbsp;dynamics in&nbsp;today’s&nbsp;world.</p>

<p>Following missing out on getting regular games for his state side in the domestic competition, Agar, 30, will now explore more chances of playing in franchise-based T20 leagues. Agar might remain available for selection for Australia in ODIs and T20Is, falling to Corey Rocchiccioli as&nbsp;WA's&nbsp;No. 1 Sheffield Shield spinner could have prompted him to opt against signing a WA contract this time.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2024-fleming-lauds-ms-dhonis-skill-set-in-pre-season-as-mahi-turns-back-clock-against-lsg-713259">IPL 2024: Fleming lauds MS Dhoni’s skill-set in pre-season as Mahi turns back clock against LSG</a></strong></p>

<p>Per the latest reports, the left-arm all-rounder, after consultation with&nbsp;WA's&nbsp;General Manager of High Performance, Kade Harvey, WA coach Adam Voges, Australia coach Andrew McDonald and&nbsp;Australia's&nbsp;chairman of selectors&nbsp;George&nbsp;Bailey, decided to go freelance.&nbsp;</p>

<h2>Different players, different terms</h2>

<p>All four might be on the same page of willing to go freelance to turn up for different franchise-based T20 leagues worldwide, they&nbsp;have laid down different terms&nbsp;and conditions with their state board regarding their availability.&nbsp;</p>

<p>While Agar, Jason and Tye will remain in the scheme of things regarding selection for Marsh Cup and Sheffield Shield when they are not playing any T20 cricket,&nbsp;Stoinis’&nbsp;situation is different, considering his unavailability for WA last season.</p>

<p>However, earlier this year, Stoinis said he was open to playing for Western Australia if an opportunity arises, including playing Shield games.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Ashton, Jason and AJ will continue to be supported by our High-Performance program as valued members of the WA Cricket setup,"&nbsp;Harvey said.</p>

<p>Stoinis is currently playing for Lucknow Super Giants in the IPL. He signed a three-year deal in the Big Bash League with Melbourne Stars until 2026-27. The 34-year-old all-rounder had also plied his trade in the Major League Cricket (MLC) in the USA for San Francisco Unicorns.&nbsp;</p>

<p>With the T20 World Cup squad selection date&nbsp;around the corner, CA selectors will keep a keen eye on&nbsp;Stoinis’&nbsp;performance in the IPL 2024.&nbsp;</p>


Several star Australian cricketers, including Marcus Stoinis, Ashton Agar, Jason Behrendorff and Andrew Tye, have decided to take the freelance route after facing omission from Western Australia’s cricket contracts for the upcoming season.

Several star Australian cricketers, including Marcus Stoinis, Ashton Agar, Jason Behrendorff and Andrew Tye, have decided to take the freelance route after facing omission from Western Australia’s cricket contracts for the upcoming season. Their absence from the contract list means all four can explore freelance franchise opportunities worldwide, with several T20 league competitions occurring regularly. While Stoinis and Agar were left out of Cricket Australia’s central contract list for 2024-25, Behrendorff was their T20I player of the year. Although all four will walk into the playing XI for WA in the 50-over Marsh Cup tournament, their omissions, mainly that of Agar, will raise concerns about cricket’s changing dynamics in today’s world. Following missing out on getting regular games for his state side in the domestic competition, Agar, 30, will now explore more chances of playing in franchise-based T20 leagues. Agar might remain available for selection for Australia in ODIs and T20Is, falling to Corey Rocchiccioli as WA's No. 1 Sheffield Shield spinner could have prompted him to opt against signing a WA contract this time. ALSO READ: IPL 2024: Fleming lauds MS Dhoni’s skill-set in pre-season as Mahi turns back clock against LSG Per the latest reports, the left-arm all-rounder, after consultation with WA's General Manager of High Performance, Kade Harvey, WA coach Adam Voges, Australia coach Andrew McDonald and Australia's chairman of selectors George Bailey, decided to go freelance. Different players, different terms All four might be on the same page of willing to go freelance to turn up for different franchise-based T20 leagues worldwide, they have laid down different terms and conditions with their state board regarding their availability. While Agar, Jason and Tye will remain in the scheme of things regarding selection for Marsh Cup and Sheffield Shield when they are not playing any T20 cricket, Stoinis’ situation is different, considering his unavailability for WA last season. However, earlier this year, Stoinis said he was open to playing for Western Australia if an opportunity arises, including playing Shield games. "Ashton, Jason and AJ will continue to be supported by our High-Performance program as valued members of the WA Cricket setup," Harvey said. Stoinis is currently playing for Lucknow Super Giants in the IPL. He signed a three-year deal in the Big Bash League with Melbourne Stars until 2026-27. The 34-year-old all-rounder had also plied his trade in the Major League Cricket (MLC) in the USA for San Francisco Unicorns. With the T20 World Cup squad selection date around the corner, CA selectors will keep a keen eye on Stoinis’ performance in the IPL 2024.

Marcus Stoinis, Ashton Agar among star Australian players to go freelance without WA contracts

<p>All-rounder Rashid Khan is reconsidering playing in the Big Bash League (BBL) after Cricket Australia (CA) indefinitely postponed the T20I series with Afghanistan last month. Rashid said he was 'hurt' by CA's decision and that him playing in Australia's premier T20 franchise tournament&nbsp;was undermining his teammates.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Speaking to <em>ESPNcricinfo</em>, Rashid, who is a big crowd puller in the BBL playing for Adelaide Strikers, lamented the treatment meted by CA towards his country.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"It does hurt you. You do want to play against the best teams and that's where your cricket is going to improve more and more. You only get the opportunity playing against them [Australia] in the World Cups, but not in bilateral series," said Rashid on the eve of Gujarat Titans' IPL match against Delhi Capitals.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"You don't want to play with my colleagues and you want to play with me. So what's the difference? It means I'm putting my colleagues down as well. My country down as well."</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/afghanistan-skipper-rashid-khan-hits-no-look-six-against-ireland-in-t20i-watch-701383"><strong>Watch |&nbsp;Afghanistan skipper Rashid Khan hits NO LOOK six against Ireland in T20I</strong></a></p>

<p>Rashid highlighted the recent T20I series against India and said such bilateral matches against big teams helped the Afghanistan side understand and raise its level in the international circuit.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"We nearly chased 200 [212] against India. Imagine if you wouldn't have played that, where would the confidence come from?"</p>

<p>Last year, Rashid had threatened to withdraw from the BBL but changed his mind and entered the draft. However, he missed out on the tournament as he had to undergo back surgery.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>What did CA say?</strong></h2>

<p>In March, CA binned the series due to concerns over the human rights of women and girls in the Islamic country under Taliban rule.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The board stated that the assessment from the Australian government was "that conditions for women and girls in Afghanistan" were getting worse. It also noted that Afghanistan remains the only full member of the International Cricket Council (ICC) without a women's team at the senior level.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-australia-postpone-t20i-series-vs-afghanistan-citing-concerns-over-womens-rights-in-asian-country-701763"><strong>Also read |&nbsp;Cricket Australia postpones T20I series vs Afghanistan citing concerns over women's rights in country</strong></a></p>

<p>"For this reason, we have maintained our previous position and will postpone the bilateral series against Afghanistan," the statement added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Despite not playing regular matches with the top teams, Afghanistan came perilously close to defeating Australia in the ODI World Cup last year in India. It took a herculean double hundred from Glenn Maxwell for Australia to get over the line when Afghanistan looked like prevailing at one stage.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


All-rounder Rashid Khan is reconsidering playing in the Big Bash League (BBL) after Cricket Australia (CA) indefinitely postponed the T20I series with Afghanistan last month.

All-rounder Rashid Khan is reconsidering playing in the Big Bash League (BBL) after Cricket Australia (CA) indefinitely postponed the T20I series with Afghanistan last month. Rashid said he was 'hurt' by CA's decision and that him playing in Australia's premier T20 franchise tournament was undermining his teammates. Speaking to ESPNcricinfo, Rashid, who is a big crowd puller in the BBL playing for Adelaide Strikers, lamented the treatment meted by CA towards his country. "It does hurt you. You do want to play against the best teams and that's where your cricket is going to improve more and more. You only get the opportunity playing against them [Australia] in the World Cups, but not in bilateral series," said Rashid on the eve of Gujarat Titans' IPL match against Delhi Capitals. "You don't want to play with my colleagues and you want to play with me. So what's the difference? It means I'm putting my colleagues down as well. My country down as well." Watch | Afghanistan skipper Rashid Khan hits NO LOOK six against Ireland in T20I Rashid highlighted the recent T20I series against India and said such bilateral matches against big teams helped the Afghanistan side understand and raise its level in the international circuit. "We nearly chased 200 [212] against India. Imagine if you wouldn't have played that, where would the confidence come from?" Last year, Rashid had threatened to withdraw from the BBL but changed his mind and entered the draft. However, he missed out on the tournament as he had to undergo back surgery. What did CA say? In March, CA binned the series due to concerns over the human rights of women and girls in the Islamic country under Taliban rule. The board stated that the assessment from the Australian government was "that conditions for women and girls in Afghanistan" were getting worse. It also noted that Afghanistan remains the only full member of the International Cricket Council (ICC) without a women's team at the senior level. Also read | Cricket Australia postpones T20I series vs Afghanistan citing concerns over women's rights in country "For this reason, we have maintained our previous position and will postpone the bilateral series against Afghanistan," the statement added. Despite not playing regular matches with the top teams, Afghanistan came perilously close to defeating Australia in the ODI World Cup last year in India. It took a herculean double hundred from Glenn Maxwell for Australia to get over the line when Afghanistan looked like prevailing at one stage. (With inputs from agencies)

‘You don’t want to play with my colleagues’: Rashid Khan hints at skipping BBL over CA’s Afghanistan stance

<p>A decade since its last edition, the Champions League T20, fondly known as CLT20 among cricket fans, could be back, Nick Cummins - Cricket Victoria CEO, hinted. The game’s three biggest boards – the BCCI, ECB and CA, have begun talks on bringing back the competition, which Nick feels was ahead of its time. However, the only challenge is to find a window for this.</p>

<p>Cummins said the T20 landscape wasn’t mature 10 years ago, but now it is, adding, for the first time, a CLT20 for women could also be introduced.</p>

<p>"I think the Champions League was ahead of its time. The T20 landscape wasn't mature enough at that point. I think it is now," Cummins said on the sidelines of an event in Mumbai on Tuesday.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"I know that there's an active conversation between Cricket Australia, the ECB, and the BCCI about the Champions League."</p>

<p>"It's just trying to find a window as to when you actually play that because you've also got all the ICC tournaments as well. It may be that the first iteration of the Champions League will be of the women… [it may involve cricketers playing in] the WPL, the Hundred and the WBBL,” Cummins added.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/retired-official-marais-erasmus-admits-umpires-made-two-crucial-errors-in-2019-world-cup-final-706919">Retired official Marais Erasmus admits umpires made ‘two crucial errors’ in 2019 World Cup final</a></strong></p>

<p>Meanwhile, the introduction of CLT20 raised quite a few eyebrows back in the day, with six editions from 2009 to 2014 being successfully held, four times in India and twice in South Africa. The Indian Premier League’s defending champions Chennai Super Kings (CSK) won the last edition against Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) in Bengaluru in 2014.&nbsp;</p>

<p>At that time in the competition, three teams from India, two each from Australia and South Africa, and one each from Pakistan, West Indies and New Zealand were part of it.</p>

<p>While CSK and Mumbai Indians (MI) won the tournament twice, New South Wales and Sydney Sixers won it on the remaining two occasions.</p>

<h2>Big 3 to decide CLT20 future</h2>

<p>Cummins said he is in talks with Cricket Australia’s CEO Nick Hockley, with the BCCI secretary Jay Shah yet to have his say on this matter.</p>

<p>"I'm constantly talking to Nick Hockley, Cricket Australia CEO, for a Champions League, because I think it's pretty important to bring that back," Cummins said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"There are talks about it. It's probably a question to ask Jay Shah. But certainly, from an Australian cricket perspective, we are very open to the idea of the Champions League. It's just about finding a window in the FTP, but I think that's the next step in the evolution of cricket,” he said.&nbsp;</p>


A decade since its last edition, the Champions League T20, fondly known as CLT20 among cricket fans, could be back, Nick Cummins - Cricket Victoria CEO, hinted. The game’s three biggest boards – the BCCI, ECB and CA, have begun talks on bringing back the competition, which Nick feels was ahead of its time.

A decade since its last edition, the Champions League T20, fondly known as CLT20 among cricket fans, could be back, Nick Cummins - Cricket Victoria CEO, hinted. The game’s three biggest boards – the BCCI, ECB and CA, have begun talks on bringing back the competition, which Nick feels was ahead of its time. However, the only challenge is to find a window for this. Cummins said the T20 landscape wasn’t mature 10 years ago, but now it is, adding, for the first time, a CLT20 for women could also be introduced. "I think the Champions League was ahead of its time. The T20 landscape wasn't mature enough at that point. I think it is now," Cummins said on the sidelines of an event in Mumbai on Tuesday. "I know that there's an active conversation between Cricket Australia, the ECB, and the BCCI about the Champions League." "It's just trying to find a window as to when you actually play that because you've also got all the ICC tournaments as well. It may be that the first iteration of the Champions League will be of the women… [it may involve cricketers playing in] the WPL, the Hundred and the WBBL,” Cummins added. ALSO READ: Retired official Marais Erasmus admits umpires made ‘two crucial errors’ in 2019 World Cup final Meanwhile, the introduction of CLT20 raised quite a few eyebrows back in the day, with six editions from 2009 to 2014 being successfully held, four times in India and twice in South Africa. The Indian Premier League’s defending champions Chennai Super Kings (CSK) won the last edition against Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) in Bengaluru in 2014. At that time in the competition, three teams from India, two each from Australia and South Africa, and one each from Pakistan, West Indies and New Zealand were part of it. While CSK and Mumbai Indians (MI) won the tournament twice, New South Wales and Sydney Sixers won it on the remaining two occasions. Big 3 to decide CLT20 future Cummins said he is in talks with Cricket Australia’s CEO Nick Hockley, with the BCCI secretary Jay Shah yet to have his say on this matter. "I'm constantly talking to Nick Hockley, Cricket Australia CEO, for a Champions League, because I think it's pretty important to bring that back," Cummins said. "There are talks about it. It's probably a question to ask Jay Shah. But certainly, from an Australian cricket perspective, we are very open to the idea of the Champions League. It's just about finding a window in the FTP, but I think that's the next step in the evolution of cricket,” he said.

Champions League T20 could return as BCCI and two other boards begin talks

<p>Cricket Australia (CA) on Thursday (Mar 28) released the central contract list for 2024-25, with 23 players making the cut. There were&nbsp;several surprising omissions as well as additions, especially considering the T20 World Cup is just on the horizon.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Star all-rounder Marcus Stoinis, who was part of Australia's World Cup-winning squad last year, did not find a place in the contract list.</p>

<p>Despite being an integral part of the T20 team, Stoinis'&nbsp;exclusion has surprised many, with pundits attributing it to the string of injuries he has suffered in recent times.</p>

<p>Apart from Stoinis, the likes of Ashton Agar, opener Marcus Harris, pacer Michel Neser and the retiring David Warner have been slipped off the list. Neser would be disappointed mightily as the pacer has been on the fringes for a long time, despite getting little game time.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/cricket-australia-reiterates-desire-to-host-india-vs-pakistan-bilateral-series-704729"><strong>Also read |&nbsp;Cricket Australia reiterates desire to host India vs Pakistan bilateral series</strong></a></p>

<h2><strong>Young inclusions&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>Meanwhile, up-and-coming pacer Xavier Bartlett (25), alongside Nathan Ellis (29) has landed a lucrative CA contract.&nbsp;Matt Short (28), and Western Australia allrounder Aaron Hardie (25) are the other two fresh faces, included in the list.</p>

<p>"Matt, Aaron and Xavier have been extremely impressive in the early stages of their international careers. Their performances and the way they have embraced the international stage has been exciting to watch," said national selection chair George Bailey.</p>

<p>"The panel believes they have strong futures and are deserved of their contracts as they work towards striving to become regulars in the Australian setup," he added.</p>

<p>Australia are the defending champions and would be hoping to go for a second consecutive title with the potent squad they have. The World Cup starts immediately after the culmination of the Indian Premier League (IPL) and is being organised in the US and Caribbean&nbsp;this time around.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The team from Down Under will open the campaign against Oman on June 6 before squaring off against arch-rivals England on June 8.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>CA contracted men's players 2024-25:</strong></p>

<p>Sean Abbott, Xavier Bartlett, Scott Boland, Alex Carey, Pat Cummins, Nathan Ellis, Cameron Green, Aaron Hardie, Josh Hazlewood, Travis Head, Josh Inglis, Usman Khawaja, Marnus Labuschagne, Nathan Lyon, Mitchell Marsh, Glenn Maxwell, Lance Morris, Todd Murphy, Jhye Richardson, Matt Short, Steve Smith, Mitchell Starc, Adam Zampa</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Cricket Australia (CA) on Thursday (Mar 28) released the central contract list for 2024-25, with 23 players making the cut. There were several surprising omissions as well as additions, especially considering the T20 World Cup is just on the horizon.

Cricket Australia (CA) on Thursday (Mar 28) released the central contract list for 2024-25, with 23 players making the cut. There were several surprising omissions as well as additions, especially considering the T20 World Cup is just on the horizon. Star all-rounder Marcus Stoinis, who was part of Australia's World Cup-winning squad last year, did not find a place in the contract list. Despite being an integral part of the T20 team, Stoinis' exclusion has surprised many, with pundits attributing it to the string of injuries he has suffered in recent times. Apart from Stoinis, the likes of Ashton Agar, opener Marcus Harris, pacer Michel Neser and the retiring David Warner have been slipped off the list. Neser would be disappointed mightily as the pacer has been on the fringes for a long time, despite getting little game time. Also read | Cricket Australia reiterates desire to host India vs Pakistan bilateral series Young inclusions Meanwhile, up-and-coming pacer Xavier Bartlett (25), alongside Nathan Ellis (29) has landed a lucrative CA contract. Matt Short (28), and Western Australia allrounder Aaron Hardie (25) are the other two fresh faces, included in the list. "Matt, Aaron and Xavier have been extremely impressive in the early stages of their international careers. Their performances and the way they have embraced the international stage has been exciting to watch," said national selection chair George Bailey. "The panel believes they have strong futures and are deserved of their contracts as they work towards striving to become regulars in the Australian setup," he added. Australia are the defending champions and would be hoping to go for a second consecutive title with the potent squad they have. The World Cup starts immediately after the culmination of the Indian Premier League (IPL) and is being organised in the US and Caribbean this time around. The team from Down Under will open the campaign against Oman on June 6 before squaring off against arch-rivals England on June 8. CA contracted men's players 2024-25: Sean Abbott, Xavier Bartlett, Scott Boland, Alex Carey, Pat Cummins, Nathan Ellis, Cameron Green, Aaron Hardie, Josh Hazlewood, Travis Head, Josh Inglis, Usman Khawaja, Marnus Labuschagne, Nathan Lyon, Mitchell Marsh, Glenn Maxwell, Lance Morris, Todd Murphy, Jhye Richardson, Matt Short, Steve Smith, Mitchell Starc, Adam Zampa (With inputs from agencies)

Several surprising exclusions in Cricket Australia's 23-member central contract list

<p>Cricket Australia (CA) has reiterated its desire to hold a bilateral series between India and Pakistan if the countries agree. CA chief executive Nick Hockley made the comments after releasing the summer schedule for Australia during which they host India and Pakistan in separate series. While Pakistan will be in Australia for a T20I and ODI series of three-match each, India will be starting their five-Test tour four days after the Pakistan series on November 22.</p>

<p>"We're so excited to host Pakistan. We're so excited to host India. If we can help, that's great. But I think in many ways, that's a bilateral series. It's really for others to make that happen," said Hockley.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/womens-asia-cup-2024-full-schedule-announced-india-to-face-pakistan-on-july-21-704504">Women's Asia Cup 2024 full schedule announced, India to face Pakistan on July 21</a></p>

<p>This is not the first time CA has expressed the desire to serve as a neutral venue to host India and Pakistan in a bilateral series. It first made such a statement after the blockbuster 2022 T20 World Cup match between the Asian countries at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG). Over 90,000 people attended that match which saw India win in a thrilling manner.</p>

<p>"I think anyone that was here for the India-Pakistan game at the MCG, it will go down as one of the most memorable occasions, not just sporting occasions, that I've ever been to," Hockley said. "So people want to see that contest. We would love to host that if the opportunity arose. If we can play a role, we'd love to play a role."</p>

<p>CA's head of scheduling, Peter Roach also shared the same views but acknowledged that there's no room for such a series as of now.</p>

<p>"We haven't got a tri-series in the FTP," Roach said. "Going forward we're always interested in opportunities for matches and contests that will engage our fans. It's fair to say every country in the world would love to see India and Pakistan compete in their country."</p>

<p>Notably, India and Pakistan haven't played a bilateral series since 2012-13 due to political tensions between the two countries and currently see each other only in the ICC tournaments.</p>


Cricket Australia (CA) has reiterated its desire to hold a bilateral series between India and Pakistan if the countries agree. CA chief executive Nick Hockley made the comments after releasing the summer schedule for Australia during which they host India and Pakistan in separate series.

Cricket Australia (CA) has reiterated its desire to hold a bilateral series between India and Pakistan if the countries agree. CA chief executive Nick Hockley made the comments after releasing the summer schedule for Australia during which they host India and Pakistan in separate series. While Pakistan will be in Australia for a T20I and ODI series of three-match each, India will be starting their five-Test tour four days after the Pakistan series on November 22. "We're so excited to host Pakistan. We're so excited to host India. If we can help, that's great. But I think in many ways, that's a bilateral series. It's really for others to make that happen," said Hockley. Also Read: Women's Asia Cup 2024 full schedule announced, India to face Pakistan on July 21 This is not the first time CA has expressed the desire to serve as a neutral venue to host India and Pakistan in a bilateral series. It first made such a statement after the blockbuster 2022 T20 World Cup match between the Asian countries at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG). Over 90,000 people attended that match which saw India win in a thrilling manner. "I think anyone that was here for the India-Pakistan game at the MCG, it will go down as one of the most memorable occasions, not just sporting occasions, that I've ever been to," Hockley said. "So people want to see that contest. We would love to host that if the opportunity arose. If we can play a role, we'd love to play a role." CA's head of scheduling, Peter Roach also shared the same views but acknowledged that there's no room for such a series as of now. "We haven't got a tri-series in the FTP," Roach said. "Going forward we're always interested in opportunities for matches and contests that will engage our fans. It's fair to say every country in the world would love to see India and Pakistan compete in their country." Notably, India and Pakistan haven't played a bilateral series since 2012-13 due to political tensions between the two countries and currently see each other only in the ICC tournaments.

Cricket Australia reiterates desire to host India vs Pakistan bilateral series

<p>Cricket Australia has released the venues an schedule for the five-Test Border-Gavaskar trophy against India. The series will begin from November 22 later this year with Perth being the host for the first Test. The other venues are Adelaide, Brisbane, Melbourne and Sydney.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The second Test in Adelaide Oval will a day-night pink-ball game from December 6-10 before the tour moves to iconic Gabba cricket ground in Brisbane from December 14-18. Melbourne will host the traditional Boxing Day Test from December 26 before the New Year's Test, the last one of the series, gets underway in Sydney on January 3, 2025.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/nathan-lyon-says-england-spinner-shoaib-bashir-could-be-a-threat-in-australia-704275">Nathan Lyon says England spinner Shoaib Bashir 'could be a threat' in Australia</a></p>

<p>Notably, India have won their last two series Down Under, in 2018 and 2021.</p>

<p>The reasoning behind selecting Perth as the venue for the first Test is Australia's perfect record in four Tests played at the new ground. They have won one Test each against India (2018), New Zealand (2019), West Indies (2022) and Pakistan (2023).</p>

<p>Brisbane, which traditional has hosted the opening game of Australia summer, also is a stronghold of Aussies, barring one time when &nbsp;India beat them in 2021 to win the series. Overall, India have played seven Tests at Gabba since 1947 and have only once.</p>

<p>Australia, on the other hand, have played 66 Tests in Brisbane, winning 42 of them along with 13 draws and 11 losses.</p>

<p>As for the other venues, Adelaide has been a fort for Australia in day-night Tests as the home team has won all of their seven pink-ball games played their including one against India in 2020-21 series.</p>

<p>Coming to Melbourne, India have preferred playing at the MCG as they have won four out of 14 Tests played at the venue and have drawn two. Notably, India have not lost a Test in Melbourne since the Boxing Day Test in 2014 which ended in a draw. India went on to win their next two games in Melbourne, that is, in 2018 and 2020.</p>

<p>Talking about Sydney, India have played 13 Test at the SCG but have managed just one win back in 1978. They, however, have drawn seven Tests out of remaining 12 and have lost five. The last time India lost at the SCG was back in 2012.</p>


Cricket Australia has released the venues an schedule for the five-Test Border-Gavaskar trophy against India. The series will begin from November 22 later this year with Perth being the host for the first Test.

Cricket Australia has released the venues an schedule for the five-Test Border-Gavaskar trophy against India. The series will begin from November 22 later this year with Perth being the host for the first Test. The other venues are Adelaide, Brisbane, Melbourne and Sydney. The second Test in Adelaide Oval will a day-night pink-ball game from December 6-10 before the tour moves to iconic Gabba cricket ground in Brisbane from December 14-18. Melbourne will host the traditional Boxing Day Test from December 26 before the New Year's Test, the last one of the series, gets underway in Sydney on January 3, 2025. Also Read: Nathan Lyon says England spinner Shoaib Bashir 'could be a threat' in Australia Notably, India have won their last two series Down Under, in 2018 and 2021. The reasoning behind selecting Perth as the venue for the first Test is Australia's perfect record in four Tests played at the new ground. They have won one Test each against India (2018), New Zealand (2019), West Indies (2022) and Pakistan (2023). Brisbane, which traditional has hosted the opening game of Australia summer, also is a stronghold of Aussies, barring one time when India beat them in 2021 to win the series. Overall, India have played seven Tests at Gabba since 1947 and have only once. Australia, on the other hand, have played 66 Tests in Brisbane, winning 42 of them along with 13 draws and 11 losses. As for the other venues, Adelaide has been a fort for Australia in day-night Tests as the home team has won all of their seven pink-ball games played their including one against India in 2020-21 series. Coming to Melbourne, India have preferred playing at the MCG as they have won four out of 14 Tests played at the venue and have drawn two. Notably, India have not lost a Test in Melbourne since the Boxing Day Test in 2014 which ended in a draw. India went on to win their next two games in Melbourne, that is, in 2018 and 2020. Talking about Sydney, India have played 13 Test at the SCG but have managed just one win back in 1978. They, however, have drawn seven Tests out of remaining 12 and have lost five. The last time India lost at the SCG was back in 2012.

Cricket Australia releases venues and dates for Border-Gavaskar series against India. Check inside

<p>On Monday (March 18), Cricket Australia (CA) postponed Australia's overseas T20I series versus Afghanistan, to be held after the T20 World Cup in August. The CA move was made citing concerns over the human rights of women and girls in Afghanistan, which is under the Taliban rule since mid-2021. Thus, Afghanistan Cricket Board (ACB) have reacted to CA's decision and schooled their counterpart. In a lengthy statement, shared on Tuesday (March 19), ACB&nbsp;urged CA to not succumb to 'external pressure' and 'political influences' after the T20I series got cancelled.</p>

<p>On their website, ACB wrote, "The Afghanistan Cricket Board (ACB) expresses disappointment over Cricket Australia's decision to postpone yet another bilateral series against Afghanistan and reiterates its stance on neutral and politics-free cricket across the globe. ACB advocates for keeping cricket distinct from political influence, considering the game’s significance in Afghanistan and its connection to the happiness and joy of the Afghan Nation."</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-australia-postpone-t20i-series-vs-afghanistan-citing-concerns-over-womens-rights-in-asian-country-701763">Cricket Australia postpones T20I series vs Afghanistan citing concerns over women's rights in country</a></strong></p>

<p>In addition, the ACB stated that while they understand the pressure faced by CA, the governing body also slammed the Australian government, asking them&nbsp;not to impose its policies on cricket boards and focus on supporting the development of the game across the globe.</p>

<h2><strong>'ACB urges Cricket Australia to respect and understand its position...'</strong></h2>

<p>The statement further pointed out, "ACB acknowledges the pressures faced by Cricket Australia from the Australian Government and emphasises on the importance of addressing such issues through collaborative efforts between the two cricket boards. The ACB also urges the Australian government not to impose its policies on cricket boards and instead focus on supporting the development of cricket across regions."</p>

<p>It added, "ACB's top management had previously engaged in negotiations with Cricket Australia and proposed exploring alternative solutions instead of publicly announcing withdrawals. ACB expresses disappointment over CA's decision to withdraw from Afghanistan for the third time."</p>

<p>"The three-match T20I series was part of AfghanAtalan's FTP for the ICC 2023-2027 International Calendar, which was approved by the ICC in the presence of the CA delegation, who had agreed to the fixtures at the time. ACB urges Cricket Australia to respect and understand its position as a Full Member nation and look for alternative solutions rather than succumbing to external pressures and/or political influences. The Afghanistan Cricket Board remains committed to negotiating with the International Cricket Council, Cricket Australia, &amp; other full member countries and adhering to ICC principles to ensure cricket remains free from political influence and supported by all parties involved."</p>

<p>Notably, this became the third time since 2021 when CA postponed a bilateral series versus Afghanistan, since Taliban's takeover in the Asian country. The two sides last met each other during the 2023 ODI World Cup, in India, where Glenn Maxwell's 201* bailed Australia out of crisis and led them to a three-wicket win in pursuit of 292 in Mumbai. Both sides are placed in different groups in the upcoming 2024 T20 World Cup. The one-time winners Australia are in Group B whereas the Afghans are placed in Group C.</p>


On Monday (March 18), Cricket Australia (CA) postponed Australia's overseas T20I series versus Afghanistan, to be held after the T20 World Cup in August. The CA move was made citing concerns over the human rights of women and girls in Afghanistan, which is under the Taliban rule since mid-2021.

On Monday (March 18), Cricket Australia (CA) postponed Australia's overseas T20I series versus Afghanistan, to be held after the T20 World Cup in August. The CA move was made citing concerns over the human rights of women and girls in Afghanistan, which is under the Taliban rule since mid-2021. Thus, Afghanistan Cricket Board (ACB) have reacted to CA's decision and schooled their counterpart. In a lengthy statement, shared on Tuesday (March 19), ACB urged CA to not succumb to 'external pressure' and 'political influences' after the T20I series got cancelled. On their website, ACB wrote, "The Afghanistan Cricket Board (ACB) expresses disappointment over Cricket Australia's decision to postpone yet another bilateral series against Afghanistan and reiterates its stance on neutral and politics-free cricket across the globe. ACB advocates for keeping cricket distinct from political influence, considering the game’s significance in Afghanistan and its connection to the happiness and joy of the Afghan Nation." Also read: Cricket Australia postpones T20I series vs Afghanistan citing concerns over women's rights in country In addition, the ACB stated that while they understand the pressure faced by CA, the governing body also slammed the Australian government, asking them not to impose its policies on cricket boards and focus on supporting the development of the game across the globe. 'ACB urges Cricket Australia to respect and understand its position...' The statement further pointed out, "ACB acknowledges the pressures faced by Cricket Australia from the Australian Government and emphasises on the importance of addressing such issues through collaborative efforts between the two cricket boards. The ACB also urges the Australian government not to impose its policies on cricket boards and instead focus on supporting the development of cricket across regions." It added, "ACB's top management had previously engaged in negotiations with Cricket Australia and proposed exploring alternative solutions instead of publicly announcing withdrawals. ACB expresses disappointment over CA's decision to withdraw from Afghanistan for the third time." "The three-match T20I series was part of AfghanAtalan's FTP for the ICC 2023-2027 International Calendar, which was approved by the ICC in the presence of the CA delegation, who had agreed to the fixtures at the time. ACB urges Cricket Australia to respect and understand its position as a Full Member nation and look for alternative solutions rather than succumbing to external pressures and/or political influences. The Afghanistan Cricket Board remains committed to negotiating with the International Cricket Council, Cricket Australia, & other full member countries and adhering to ICC principles to ensure cricket remains free from political influence and supported by all parties involved." Notably, this became the third time since 2021 when CA postponed a bilateral series versus Afghanistan, since Taliban's takeover in the Asian country. The two sides last met each other during the 2023 ODI World Cup, in India, where Glenn Maxwell's 201* bailed Australia out of crisis and led them to a three-wicket win in pursuit of 292 in Mumbai. Both sides are placed in different groups in the upcoming 2024 T20 World Cup. The one-time winners Australia are in Group B whereas the Afghans are placed in Group C.

Don’t succumb to ‘external pressure’: ACB reacts after CA postpones bilateral T20I series

<p>On Tuesday (March 19), Cricket Australia postponed their upcoming overseas T20I series versus Afghanistan, in August, due to concerns over the human rights of women and girls in the country&nbsp;under Taliban rule. This is the third time that Australia have cancelled a bilateral series versus the Rashid Khan starrer Afghanistan since 2021. The Asian country has been under Taliban rule for almost three years now which has affected the cricketing relations between the two nations.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Since the Taliban's takeover of Afghanistan, Australia cancelled a one-off Test match&nbsp;in November 2021. In 2023,&nbsp;they withdrew from a three-match ODI series&nbsp;as well. It was set to be hosted by Afghanistan at a neutral venue, in the UAE.</p>

<p><strong>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2024-trouble-for-ms-dhonis-csk-mustafizur-rahman-stretchered-off-field-during-ban-sl-3rd-odi-701537">IPL 2024: Trouble for MS Dhoni's CSK! Mustafizur Rahman stretchered off field during Ban-SL 3rd ODI</a></strong></p>

<p>CA&nbsp;on Tuesday&nbsp;announced that the decision to postpone the bilateral series came after talks with the Australian government. The board stated that the assessment from the Australian government is "that conditions for women and girls in Afghanistan are getting worse".&nbsp;Notably, Afghanistan remain the only full member of the International Cricket Council without a women's team at the senior level.</p>

<p>A statement from CA read, "For this reason, we have maintained our previous position and will postpone the bilateral series against Afghanistan," a statement from the board read. It added, "CA continues its strong commitment to supporting participation by women and girls in cricket around the world and will continue to actively engage the International Cricket Council and work closely with the Afghanistan Cricket Board to determine what actions could be taken to support the resumption of bilateral matches in the future."</p>

<h2><strong>Australia vs Afghanistan -- An underrated rivalry!</strong></h2>

<p>Over the years, Afghanistan and Australia have been involved in some thrilling contests. In the 2022 T20 World Cup, Aaron Finch-led Australia survived a huge scare when they were up against the Afghans, in Adelaide, during their league&nbsp;match. Back then, the then defending champions Australia won by 4 runs in defence of 168/8. During the 2023 ODI World Cup, in India, both sides squared off in match 39 at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai. Despite Afghans posting a competitive 291-5, courtesy of Ibrahim Zadran's 129*, and reducing the Aussies to 91 for 7, Glenn Maxwell's 201 not out took the Pat Cummins-led side past the finish line for a three-wicket win.&nbsp;</p>


On Tuesday (March 19), Cricket Australia postponed their upcoming overseas T20I series versus Afghanistan, in August, due to concerns over the human rights of women and girls in the country under Taliban rule.

On Tuesday (March 19), Cricket Australia postponed their upcoming overseas T20I series versus Afghanistan, in August, due to concerns over the human rights of women and girls in the country under Taliban rule. This is the third time that Australia have cancelled a bilateral series versus the Rashid Khan starrer Afghanistan since 2021. The Asian country has been under Taliban rule for almost three years now which has affected the cricketing relations between the two nations. Since the Taliban's takeover of Afghanistan, Australia cancelled a one-off Test match in November 2021. In 2023, they withdrew from a three-match ODI series as well. It was set to be hosted by Afghanistan at a neutral venue, in the UAE. Also read: IPL 2024: Trouble for MS Dhoni's CSK! Mustafizur Rahman stretchered off field during Ban-SL 3rd ODI CA on Tuesday announced that the decision to postpone the bilateral series came after talks with the Australian government. The board stated that the assessment from the Australian government is "that conditions for women and girls in Afghanistan are getting worse". Notably, Afghanistan remain the only full member of the International Cricket Council without a women's team at the senior level. A statement from CA read, "For this reason, we have maintained our previous position and will postpone the bilateral series against Afghanistan," a statement from the board read. It added, "CA continues its strong commitment to supporting participation by women and girls in cricket around the world and will continue to actively engage the International Cricket Council and work closely with the Afghanistan Cricket Board to determine what actions could be taken to support the resumption of bilateral matches in the future." Australia vs Afghanistan -- An underrated rivalry! Over the years, Afghanistan and Australia have been involved in some thrilling contests. In the 2022 T20 World Cup, Aaron Finch-led Australia survived a huge scare when they were up against the Afghans, in Adelaide, during their league match. Back then, the then defending champions Australia won by 4 runs in defence of 168/8. During the 2023 ODI World Cup, in India, both sides squared off in match 39 at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai. Despite Afghans posting a competitive 291-5, courtesy of Ibrahim Zadran's 129*, and reducing the Aussies to 91 for 7, Glenn Maxwell's 201 not out took the Pat Cummins-led side past the finish line for a three-wicket win.

Cricket Australia postpones T20I series vs Afghanistan citing concerns over women's rights in country

<p>Australia opener Usman Khawaja has reignited the controversy around the ‘banned’ dove logo, as the officials forced him to remove one from his bat during day three of the ongoing Wellington Test against New Zealand. The incident happened during the 19th over, in Australia's second innings, when Khawaja cracked his bat and asked for a replacement.</p>

<p>Just when Matthew Renshaw, the substitute, ran in with a few options, Khawaja tried them all before locking in on the one. The officials immediately jumped onto the scene, asking Khawaja to remove the controversial dove logo from his bat, which he also tried using on his apparel (shoes here) during the Pakistan series at home late last year.</p>

<p>Against Pakistan at home in 2023, Khawaja donned a human rights sticker of a dove holding an olive branch from it to raise awareness for the humanitarian crisis in Gaza.</p>

<p>Earlier, Khawaja wore a black armband during the series opener against Pakistan in Perth, for which the International Cricket Council (ICC) charged him for breaching the equipment regulations. Khawaja later clarified that it was due to a “personal bereavement”.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/nz-vs-aus-phillips-ravindra-launch-kiwis-fightback-on-day-3-as-hosts-stay-in-hunt-to-clinch-wellington-test-695804">NZ vs AUS: Phillips, Ravindra launch Kiwis fightback on Day 3 as hosts stay in hunt to clinch Wellington Test</a></strong></p>

<p>For the second Test at the MCG, the apex body rejected Khawaja’s plea of donning the dove logo on his bat.</p>

<p>The left-handed batter later accused the ICC of showing double standards through a social media post.</p>

<p>He wrote, “Merry Christmas everybody. Sometimes you just gotta laugh. CYA at Boxing Day!” Khawaja wrote while using the hashtags “inconsistent” and “double standards”.</p>

<p>However, the veteran batter received support from Aussie captain Pat Cummins and Cricket Australia Chief Executive Nick Hockley.</p>

<p>“The symbol of the dove is a universally recognised symbol of peace," Hockley said&nbsp;in December.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“That being said, the ICC have got their rules and think they explained their rationale really clearly and we respect that. What we’ve been really clear about is that we support Uzzie and all our players really to share what they believe over their own channels,” he added.</p>

<h2>New Zealand stay afloat in the chase</h2>

<p>Meanwhile, New Zealand needs another 258 runs to win the first Test in Wellington after being reduced to 111 for three in the chase of 369. While the top three is back in the hut, with Nathan Lyon picking three wickets, New Zealand batsmen Rachin Ravindra and Daryl Mitchell are batting on 56 and 12, respectively.</p>


Australia opener Usman Khawaja has reignited the controversy around the ‘banned’ dove logo, as the officials forced him to remove one from his bat during day three of the ongoing Wellington Test against New Zealand.

Australia opener Usman Khawaja has reignited the controversy around the ‘banned’ dove logo, as the officials forced him to remove one from his bat during day three of the ongoing Wellington Test against New Zealand. The incident happened during the 19th over, in Australia's second innings, when Khawaja cracked his bat and asked for a replacement. Just when Matthew Renshaw, the substitute, ran in with a few options, Khawaja tried them all before locking in on the one. The officials immediately jumped onto the scene, asking Khawaja to remove the controversial dove logo from his bat, which he also tried using on his apparel (shoes here) during the Pakistan series at home late last year. Against Pakistan at home in 2023, Khawaja donned a human rights sticker of a dove holding an olive branch from it to raise awareness for the humanitarian crisis in Gaza. Earlier, Khawaja wore a black armband during the series opener against Pakistan in Perth, for which the International Cricket Council (ICC) charged him for breaching the equipment regulations. Khawaja later clarified that it was due to a “personal bereavement”. ALSO READ: NZ vs AUS: Phillips, Ravindra launch Kiwis fightback on Day 3 as hosts stay in hunt to clinch Wellington Test For the second Test at the MCG, the apex body rejected Khawaja’s plea of donning the dove logo on his bat. The left-handed batter later accused the ICC of showing double standards through a social media post. He wrote, “Merry Christmas everybody. Sometimes you just gotta laugh. CYA at Boxing Day!” Khawaja wrote while using the hashtags “inconsistent” and “double standards”. However, the veteran batter received support from Aussie captain Pat Cummins and Cricket Australia Chief Executive Nick Hockley. “The symbol of the dove is a universally recognised symbol of peace," Hockley said in December. “That being said, the ICC have got their rules and think they explained their rationale really clearly and we respect that. What we’ve been really clear about is that we support Uzzie and all our players really to share what they believe over their own channels,” he added. New Zealand stay afloat in the chase Meanwhile, New Zealand needs another 258 runs to win the first Test in Wellington after being reduced to 111 for three in the chase of 369. While the top three is back in the hut, with Nathan Lyon picking three wickets, New Zealand batsmen Rachin Ravindra and Daryl Mitchell are batting on 56 and 12, respectively.

Usman Khawaja forced to remove ‘banned’ dove logo from bat during day 3 of Wellington Test

<p>Australia have included all-rounder Cameron Green in the playing XI for the second Test against West Indies which started on Thursday (Jan 25) at Brisbane despite him being COVID-19 positive. The all-rounder and the head coach Andrew McDonald had tested positive for the coronavirus a day before the start of the second Test at the Gabba. Apart from them, Travis Head was also tested for the virus but the results were negative for him.</p>

<p>“Cameron Green and Andrew McDonald will be separated from the group until they return a negative test. It will not hinder Green taking part in or McDonald attending the match in line with CA protocols,” Cricket Australia said in a statement, as quoted by Sydney Morning Herald.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/indias-sruyakumar-yadav-named-icc-t20i-cricketer-of-the-year-for-second-time-in-a-row-683411">India's Suryakumar Yadav named ICC T20I cricketer of the year for second time in a row</a></p>

<p>At the toss, Green was also standing separately from the team due to&nbsp;COVID-19. Cricket Australia also posted a picture of him standing at a distance from the team with the caption: "Cameron Green socially distancing at the national anthem - because he's Covid positive!" Have a look at the post below:</p>

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<p>As for the match, West Indies won the toss and elected to bat first. The batting side, however, didn't have the greatest of starts as they lost quick wickets. Josh Hazlewood was the first one to take the wicket for Australia as he sent back West Indies skipper Kraigg Brathwaite. Soon, the visitors were five down and Mitchell Starc took three wickets.</p>

<p>On the course of his three-wicket haul, Starc also reached 350 Test wickets - becoming only the fifth bowler from the country to reach the milestone. Shane Warne tops the list for most wickets with 708 scalps to his name for Australia. Second on the list is Glenn McGrath with 563 wickets to his name. Nathan Lyon (512) and Dennis Lillee (355) are the next two bowlers with the most wickets ahead of Starc for Australia in Tests.&nbsp;</p>


Australia have included all-rounder Cameron Green in the playing XI for the second Test against West Indies which started on Thursday (Jan 25) at Brisbane despite him being COVID-19 positive.

Australia have included all-rounder Cameron Green in the playing XI for the second Test against West Indies which started on Thursday (Jan 25) at Brisbane despite him being COVID-19 positive. The all-rounder and the head coach Andrew McDonald had tested positive for the coronavirus a day before the start of the second Test at the Gabba. Apart from them, Travis Head was also tested for the virus but the results were negative for him. “Cameron Green and Andrew McDonald will be separated from the group until they return a negative test. It will not hinder Green taking part in or McDonald attending the match in line with CA protocols,” Cricket Australia said in a statement, as quoted by Sydney Morning Herald. Also Read: India's Suryakumar Yadav named ICC T20I cricketer of the year for second time in a row At the toss, Green was also standing separately from the team due to COVID-19. Cricket Australia also posted a picture of him standing at a distance from the team with the caption: "Cameron Green socially distancing at the national anthem - because he's Covid positive!" Have a look at the post below: View this post on Instagram A post shared by cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) × As for the match, West Indies won the toss and elected to bat first. The batting side, however, didn't have the greatest of starts as they lost quick wickets. Josh Hazlewood was the first one to take the wicket for Australia as he sent back West Indies skipper Kraigg Brathwaite. Soon, the visitors were five down and Mitchell Starc took three wickets. On the course of his three-wicket haul, Starc also reached 350 Test wickets - becoming only the fifth bowler from the country to reach the milestone. Shane Warne tops the list for most wickets with 708 scalps to his name for Australia. Second on the list is Glenn McGrath with 563 wickets to his name. Nathan Lyon (512) and Dennis Lillee (355) are the next two bowlers with the most wickets ahead of Starc for Australia in Tests.

Covid-positive Cameron Green in playing XI for Australia in second Test against West Indies

<p>Australia captain Pat Cummins reacted to all-rounder Glenn Maxwell's hospitalisation after a late-night party at an Adelaide pub. The all-rounder got involved in an incident which involved alcohol when he attended a performance by former Aussie cricketer Brett Lee's band 'Six and Out' at the Governer Hindmarsh Hotel. Reportedly, Maxwell lost consciousness backstage after the concert and required medical attention. Thus, he was taken to the hospital but discharged soon.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Now, Cummins has reacted to the entire incident ahead of the second Test between Australia and West Indies at The Gabba. Speaking to the reporters, he said, "We're all adults, been part of night outings, you have got to make your own decisions. I suppose in this actual incident, he was obviously not on tour with the Australians, he was over there for a private event, he was not with the cricket team. So, it is a little bit different. Absolutely, any decision that you make, you have got to own it and be comfortable with it."</p>

<p><strong>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/cricket-australia-investigating-incident-involving-glenn-maxwell-682507">Cricket Australia investigating hospitalization incident involving Glenn Maxwell</a></strong></p>

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<p>Maxwell's manager Ben Tippett clarified that the all-rounder is not under investigation by Cricket Australia (CA) for the late-night party incident.</p>

<p>He told The Age, "Glenn is a little embarrassed by the whole thing. He was a bit sore and sorry on Saturday, but he's back in Melbourne and resumed training yesterday. He's not under investigation by Cricket Australia."</p>

<p>CA also released a statement saying that Maxwell's exclusion from Australia's ODI squad&nbsp;for the WI series has no relation to the late-party incident. The statement confirmed that the 35-year-old will return for the T20I series.</p>

<p>"Cricket Australia is aware of an incident involving Glenn Maxwell in Adelaide at the weekend and is seeking further information," a statement said. "It is not related to him being replaced in the ODI squad, a decision that was made following the BBL and based on his individual management plan. Maxwell is expected to return for the T20 series. No further comment will be made at this time," it added.</p>

<p>In 2022, Maxwell fractured his leg in multiple places while attending a private party following Australia's T20 World Cup debacle at home. Thus, this isn't the first such instance and the veteran cricketer will be wary of his actions going forward.</p>


Australia captain Pat Cummins reacted to all-rounder Glenn Maxwell's hospitalisation after a late-night party at an Adelaide pub. The all-rounder got involved in an incident which involved alcohol when he attended a performance by former Aussie cricketer Brett Lee's band 'Six and Out' at the Governer Hindmarsh Hotel.

Australia captain Pat Cummins reacted to all-rounder Glenn Maxwell's hospitalisation after a late-night party at an Adelaide pub. The all-rounder got involved in an incident which involved alcohol when he attended a performance by former Aussie cricketer Brett Lee's band 'Six and Out' at the Governer Hindmarsh Hotel. Reportedly, Maxwell lost consciousness backstage after the concert and required medical attention. Thus, he was taken to the hospital but discharged soon. Now, Cummins has reacted to the entire incident ahead of the second Test between Australia and West Indies at The Gabba. Speaking to the reporters, he said, "We're all adults, been part of night outings, you have got to make your own decisions. I suppose in this actual incident, he was obviously not on tour with the Australians, he was over there for a private event, he was not with the cricket team. So, it is a little bit different. Absolutely, any decision that you make, you have got to own it and be comfortable with it." Also read: Cricket Australia investigating hospitalization incident involving Glenn Maxwell × Maxwell's manager Ben Tippett clarified that the all-rounder is not under investigation by Cricket Australia (CA) for the late-night party incident. He told The Age, "Glenn is a little embarrassed by the whole thing. He was a bit sore and sorry on Saturday, but he's back in Melbourne and resumed training yesterday. He's not under investigation by Cricket Australia." CA also released a statement saying that Maxwell's exclusion from Australia's ODI squad for the WI series has no relation to the late-party incident. The statement confirmed that the 35-year-old will return for the T20I series. "Cricket Australia is aware of an incident involving Glenn Maxwell in Adelaide at the weekend and is seeking further information," a statement said. "It is not related to him being replaced in the ODI squad, a decision that was made following the BBL and based on his individual management plan. Maxwell is expected to return for the T20 series. No further comment will be made at this time," it added. In 2022, Maxwell fractured his leg in multiple places while attending a private party following Australia's T20 World Cup debacle at home. Thus, this isn't the first such instance and the veteran cricketer will be wary of his actions going forward.

Cummins reacts to Maxwell's hospitalisation after late-night party, all-rounder not under CA investigation

<p>Cricket Australia has confirmed that they are investigating an incident which involved batter Glenn Maxwell being hospitalised on Friday (Jan 19). The 'alcohol-related' incident was first reported by the news outlet Daily Telegraph. The batter, on Monday (Jan 22), was not named in the ODI squad to face West Indies. The board, however, denied any link to his omission to the Friday incident.</p>

<p>"Cricket Australia is aware of an incident involving Glenn Maxwell in Adelaide at the weekend and is seeking further information," a statement by the board read.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/india-batter-virat-kohli-withdraws-from-first-two-tests-against-england-682452">India batter Virat Kohli withdraws from first two Tests against England</a></p>

<p>"It is not related to him being replaced in the ODI squad, a decision that was made following the BBL and based on his individual management plan. Maxwell is expected to return for the T20 series. No further comment will be made at this time," the statement added.</p>

<p>As per the Daily Telegraph, Maxwell was out and watching Six and Out - a band featuring former cricketer Brett Lee at the time of the incident. The batter was taken to an Adelaide hospital in&nbsp;ambulance, although the stay was short. The exact happenings are still being determined.</p>

<p>Maxwell was in Adelaide following his Big Bash League (BBL) franchise Melbourne Stars' exit in the tournament. The batter also stood down as the skipper of the side following the loss.</p>

<h2><strong>Australia bowlers eye rare feat</strong></h2>

<p>Australian skipper and pacer Pat Cummins is hopeful of himself and his fellow bowlers Mitchell Starc, Nathan Lyon and Josh Hazlewood of playing the second home Test against West Indies starting January 25 in Brisbane. If the bowlers make it to playing XI, it would be their fifth Test on the trot - a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/australia-skipper-pat-cummins-hopeful-of-test-bowlers-achieving-this-rare-feat-in-second-wi-test-681835">rare feat Cummins is hopeful of achieving</a>. Notably, all the four bowlers are in their 30s with Cummins being the youngest one at 30 and Lyon being the oldest at 36. &nbsp;</p>


Cricket Australia has confirmed that they are investigating an incident which involved batter Glenn Maxwell being hospitalised on Friday (Jan 19). The 'alcohol-related' incident was first reported by the news outlet Daily Telegraph.

Cricket Australia has confirmed that they are investigating an incident which involved batter Glenn Maxwell being hospitalised on Friday (Jan 19). The 'alcohol-related' incident was first reported by the news outlet Daily Telegraph. The batter, on Monday (Jan 22), was not named in the ODI squad to face West Indies. The board, however, denied any link to his omission to the Friday incident. "Cricket Australia is aware of an incident involving Glenn Maxwell in Adelaide at the weekend and is seeking further information," a statement by the board read. Also Read: India batter Virat Kohli withdraws from first two Tests against England "It is not related to him being replaced in the ODI squad, a decision that was made following the BBL and based on his individual management plan. Maxwell is expected to return for the T20 series. No further comment will be made at this time," the statement added. As per the Daily Telegraph, Maxwell was out and watching Six and Out - a band featuring former cricketer Brett Lee at the time of the incident. The batter was taken to an Adelaide hospital in ambulance, although the stay was short. The exact happenings are still being determined. Maxwell was in Adelaide following his Big Bash League (BBL) franchise Melbourne Stars' exit in the tournament. The batter also stood down as the skipper of the side following the loss. Australia bowlers eye rare feat Australian skipper and pacer Pat Cummins is hopeful of himself and his fellow bowlers Mitchell Starc, Nathan Lyon and Josh Hazlewood of playing the second home Test against West Indies starting January 25 in Brisbane. If the bowlers make it to playing XI, it would be their fifth Test on the trot - a rare feat Cummins is hopeful of achieving. Notably, all the four bowlers are in their 30s with Cummins being the youngest one at 30 and Lyon being the oldest at 36.

Cricket Australia investigating hospitalisation incident involving Glenn Maxwell

<p>Cricket Australia chairman Mike Baird has raised concerns&nbsp;to save Test cricket and ensure all nations, outside of Big 3 (India, Australia and England), are getting equal opportunity to sustain at the top level and host more Tests in this emergence of franchise-based T20 league era.</p>

<p>Baird’s comments have come after Cricket South Africa picked a B-squad for the away New Zealand Tests with seven debutants and an uncapped player named as a captain on the team sheet. With all top-tier players deciding to play the SA20 league instead, CSA faced severe backlash from fans and the other boards, mainly Australia, for prioritising money over history.</p>

<p>However, South Africa’s Test team batting coach, Shukri Conrad, backed this call from the board, arguing that for cricket to survive in this part of the world, regular funding is required, and for which their newer domestic franchise-based T20 tournament must prosper.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/sa20-is-lifeblood-without-it-we-would-not-have-test-cricket-in-country-conrad-responds-to-steve-waugh-676778">'SA20 is lifeblood, without it we would not have Test cricket in country' - Conrad responds to Steve Waugh</a></strong></p>

<p>Speaking on the same lines, while considering the chunk the Big-3 make&nbsp;and how they can help other boards, Baird said that India, Australia, and England must share their wealth with other boards to ensure top players continue playing the longer format, and thus, Test cricket survives.</p>

<p>“If we’re in a position that national teams aren’t being prioritised, then we’ve got a lot of work to do,” Baird told Sydney Morning Herald.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“Ultimately, that might mean costs and consequences for the leading countries. There is undoubtedly an economic element. But there’s also a commonsense element in terms of the way we schedule and the way we collectively as members prioritise. So there is strong resolve, but we need to move, I think, at a much quicker pace,” he added.</p>

<h2>‘We need to support, retain and grow Tests</h2>

<p>Following a daddy jump in BCCI’s share in the ICC revenue (from 38.5% for the 2024-2027 cycle), Indian Cricket will earn $230 million in this period. Meanwhile, CA and ECB will also pocket 6.89 ($41 million) and 6.25 ($37.53 million) per cent, respectively.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Baird argued that the cricket world is running out of time to step up and make attempts to save the oldest format, as everyone must act on it following detailed discussions.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“We need to support, retain and grow Test cricket, and we’re going to have to think through our priorities, and part of that is how we distribute funding.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“I don’t think we can wait, so we have to look at how that funding is allocated, is it going to the right things, and yes, one of the solutions which has been put forward is increasing Test match payments to make them more competitive. They’re all the things we need to bring forward,” Baird added.</p>


Cricket Australia chairman Mike Baird has raised concerns to save Test cricket and ensure all nations, outside of Big 3 (India, Australia and England), are getting equal opportunity to sustain at the top level and host more Tests in this emergence of franchise-based T20 league era.

Cricket Australia chairman Mike Baird has raised concerns to save Test cricket and ensure all nations, outside of Big 3 (India, Australia and England), are getting equal opportunity to sustain at the top level and host more Tests in this emergence of franchise-based T20 league era. Baird’s comments have come after Cricket South Africa picked a B-squad for the away New Zealand Tests with seven debutants and an uncapped player named as a captain on the team sheet. With all top-tier players deciding to play the SA20 league instead, CSA faced severe backlash from fans and the other boards, mainly Australia, for prioritising money over history. However, South Africa’s Test team batting coach, Shukri Conrad, backed this call from the board, arguing that for cricket to survive in this part of the world, regular funding is required, and for which their newer domestic franchise-based T20 tournament must prosper. ALSO READ: 'SA20 is lifeblood, without it we would not have Test cricket in country' - Conrad responds to Steve Waugh Speaking on the same lines, while considering the chunk the Big-3 make and how they can help other boards, Baird said that India, Australia, and England must share their wealth with other boards to ensure top players continue playing the longer format, and thus, Test cricket survives. “If we’re in a position that national teams aren’t being prioritised, then we’ve got a lot of work to do,” Baird told Sydney Morning Herald. “Ultimately, that might mean costs and consequences for the leading countries. There is undoubtedly an economic element. But there’s also a commonsense element in terms of the way we schedule and the way we collectively as members prioritise. So there is strong resolve, but we need to move, I think, at a much quicker pace,” he added. ‘We need to support, retain and grow Tests Following a daddy jump in BCCI’s share in the ICC revenue (from 38.5% for the 2024-2027 cycle), Indian Cricket will earn $230 million in this period. Meanwhile, CA and ECB will also pocket 6.89 ($41 million) and 6.25 ($37.53 million) per cent, respectively. Baird argued that the cricket world is running out of time to step up and make attempts to save the oldest format, as everyone must act on it following detailed discussions. “We need to support, retain and grow Test cricket, and we’re going to have to think through our priorities, and part of that is how we distribute funding. “I don’t think we can wait, so we have to look at how that funding is allocated, is it going to the right things, and yes, one of the solutions which has been put forward is increasing Test match payments to make them more competitive. They’re all the things we need to bring forward,” Baird added.

Cricket's 'Big 3' must share wealth with other nations to help sustain and grow Tests - Mike Baird

<p>Already in headlines for reasons unrelated to on-field cricket, former Aussie quick Mitchell Johnson recently hit out at Cricket Australia for inviting him to an awards night shortly after they cancelled two of his speaking events.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Following Johnson’s uncalled-for remarks on David Warner and chief selector George Bailey ahead of the first Test against Pakistan, CA scrapped Johnson’s two scheduled events during the Perth game.</p>

<p>Although he restrained himself from commenting on this during a radio discussion with Triple M, Johnson lashed out at Cricket Australia on his social media, questioning them for the agenda behind this.</p>

<p>"Is Cricket Australia serious??," Johnson wrote on Instagram, including a screenshot of his invite. "Last week I was cancelled from 2 speaking engagements. This week I'm invited to celebrate with them."</p>

<p>Writing for The West Australian earlier, Johnson questioned why David Warner is getting to choose his farewell series after his involvement in the infamous Sandpaper Gate (during the South Africa series in 2018).&nbsp;</p>

<p>He expressed concerns about the conflict of interest in deciding Warner’s future involving George Bailey.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/sa-vs-ind-virat-kohli-returns-home-due-to-family-emergency-ruturaj-gaikwad-ruled-out-of-south-africa-tests-672472">SA vs IND: Virat Kohli returns home due to family emergency; Ruturaj Gaikwad ruled out of South Africa Tests</a></strong></p>

<p>Meanwhile, Johnson raised his concerns over Cricket Australia backing Warner despite his poor run in Tests, mainly in 2023, with Warner failing during away Ashes.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Although David Warner restrained himself from reverting to Johnson publically, his incredible hundred in the first innings (164 against Pakistan) in Perth answered most questions. The left-handed batter had a jittery start to his innings, but upon settling himself, he took the attack to the opposition, completing a stunning hundred on day one.</p>

<h2>A text that led to trouble</h2>

<p>Shedding light on what happened behind the scenes between two former teammates, Johnson revealed his remarks on Warner were personally motivated by the text messages he received from David and Bailey earlier this year.</p>

<p>"I tried to ring [Warner] to talk to him about it, which I've always been open about with the guys," he explained on his Mitchell Johnson Cricket Show podcast with broadcaster Bharat Sundaresan.</p>

<p>"It was never a personal thing then. Until that point. That is what prompted me to write the article, or part of it, as well. It's definitely a factor,” he added.</p>


Already in headlines for reasons unrelated to on-field cricket, former Aussie quick Mitchell Johnson recently hit out at Cricket Australia for inviting him to an awards night shortly after they cancelled two of his speaking events.

Already in headlines for reasons unrelated to on-field cricket, former Aussie quick Mitchell Johnson recently hit out at Cricket Australia for inviting him to an awards night shortly after they cancelled two of his speaking events. Following Johnson’s uncalled-for remarks on David Warner and chief selector George Bailey ahead of the first Test against Pakistan, CA scrapped Johnson’s two scheduled events during the Perth game. Although he restrained himself from commenting on this during a radio discussion with Triple M, Johnson lashed out at Cricket Australia on his social media, questioning them for the agenda behind this. "Is Cricket Australia serious??," Johnson wrote on Instagram, including a screenshot of his invite. "Last week I was cancelled from 2 speaking engagements. This week I'm invited to celebrate with them." Writing for The West Australian earlier, Johnson questioned why David Warner is getting to choose his farewell series after his involvement in the infamous Sandpaper Gate (during the South Africa series in 2018). He expressed concerns about the conflict of interest in deciding Warner’s future involving George Bailey. ALSO READ: SA vs IND: Virat Kohli returns home due to family emergency; Ruturaj Gaikwad ruled out of South Africa Tests Meanwhile, Johnson raised his concerns over Cricket Australia backing Warner despite his poor run in Tests, mainly in 2023, with Warner failing during away Ashes. Although David Warner restrained himself from reverting to Johnson publically, his incredible hundred in the first innings (164 against Pakistan) in Perth answered most questions. The left-handed batter had a jittery start to his innings, but upon settling himself, he took the attack to the opposition, completing a stunning hundred on day one. A text that led to trouble Shedding light on what happened behind the scenes between two former teammates, Johnson revealed his remarks on Warner were personally motivated by the text messages he received from David and Bailey earlier this year. "I tried to ring [Warner] to talk to him about it, which I've always been open about with the guys," he explained on his Mitchell Johnson Cricket Show podcast with broadcaster Bharat Sundaresan. "It was never a personal thing then. Until that point. That is what prompted me to write the article, or part of it, as well. It's definitely a factor,” he added.

Mitchell Johnson hits out at Cricket Australia for awards invite after speaking-event snub

<p>Cricket Australia (CA) and RISE Worldwide have announced a four-year partnership that will see RISE exclusively manage Cricket Australia’s sponsorship sales for virtual inventory in India. This will commence from the 2023/24 season and go on till the 2026/27 season.</p>

<p>During the 2020/21 season, RISE became the exclusive global agency for Cricket Australia in a game-changing partnership opening up a new revenue stream and business model for CA with virtual sponsorships.</p>

<p>Speaking about the partnership, Stephanie Beltrame, Executive General Manager, Broadcast &amp; Commercial, Cricket Australia, said, “Australian Cricket is blessed that we have so many fans in India. And as the recent ICC World Cup and World Test Championship Final demonstrated, the epic rivalry between India and Australia is unmatched in World Cricket.”</p>

<p>The tenure of the partnership will cover various marquee series including:</p>

<ul>
	<li>India’s tour of Australia in 2024/2025 and 2025/2026</li>
	<li>Ashes in 2025/2026</li>
	<li>The annual Big Bash League and other select International matches during the partnership</li>
</ul>

<p>“As we look forward to tours of Australia by both the India Men’s and Women’s Teams’ in season 24/25 and beyond, we are excited to partner with RISE Worldwide to offer targeted, customised and premium sponsorship opportunities for Indian brands. RISE Worldwide have a proven track-record and demonstrated ability to deliver value to brands looking to reach a mass audience in India.”</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/bbl-sydney-sixers-tom-curran-faces-four-match-ban-for-umpire-intimidation-club-to-lodge-appeal-672094">BBL: Sydney Sixers' Tom Curran faces four-match ban for umpire intimidation, club to lodge appeal</a></p>

<p>The sentiment was echoed by Nikhil Bardia, Head of Sponsorship Sales and Talent, RISE Worldwide, who said, “We are thrilled to partner with Cricket Australia again. Virtual inventory provides a canvas for brands to innovatively engage and communicate their brand logo &amp; messaging to the target customer group, specific to each region. This provides an opportunity for Cricket Australia to partner with like-minded brands, as they develop a deeper relationship with the Indian ecosystem. Australian cricket has a vast followership across the globe and through our experience at RISE Worldwide, we hope to unlock more value for Cricket Australia.”</p>

<p>The matches broadcasted in India will feature assets customised to stakeholders in India like virtual pitch mats &amp; and virtual sight screens with representation of relevant brands. In addition to exclusively managing the virtual inventory, RISE will also help Cricket Australia grow its brand presence build connections and deepen engagement with Indian fans and stakeholders.</p>


Cricket Australia (CA) and RISE Worldwide have announced a four-year partnership that will see RISE exclusively manage Cricket Australia’s sponsorship sales for virtual inventory in India.

Cricket Australia (CA) and RISE Worldwide have announced a four-year partnership that will see RISE exclusively manage Cricket Australia’s sponsorship sales for virtual inventory in India. This will commence from the 2023/24 season and go on till the 2026/27 season. During the 2020/21 season, RISE became the exclusive global agency for Cricket Australia in a game-changing partnership opening up a new revenue stream and business model for CA with virtual sponsorships. Speaking about the partnership, Stephanie Beltrame, Executive General Manager, Broadcast & Commercial, Cricket Australia, said, “Australian Cricket is blessed that we have so many fans in India. And as the recent ICC World Cup and World Test Championship Final demonstrated, the epic rivalry between India and Australia is unmatched in World Cricket.” The tenure of the partnership will cover various marquee series including: India’s tour of Australia in 2024/2025 and 2025/2026 Ashes in 2025/2026 The annual Big Bash League and other select International matches during the partnership “As we look forward to tours of Australia by both the India Men’s and Women’s Teams’ in season 24/25 and beyond, we are excited to partner with RISE Worldwide to offer targeted, customised and premium sponsorship opportunities for Indian brands. RISE Worldwide have a proven track-record and demonstrated ability to deliver value to brands looking to reach a mass audience in India.” ALSO READ | BBL: Sydney Sixers' Tom Curran faces four-match ban for umpire intimidation, club to lodge appeal The sentiment was echoed by Nikhil Bardia, Head of Sponsorship Sales and Talent, RISE Worldwide, who said, “We are thrilled to partner with Cricket Australia again. Virtual inventory provides a canvas for brands to innovatively engage and communicate their brand logo & messaging to the target customer group, specific to each region. This provides an opportunity for Cricket Australia to partner with like-minded brands, as they develop a deeper relationship with the Indian ecosystem. Australian cricket has a vast followership across the globe and through our experience at RISE Worldwide, we hope to unlock more value for Cricket Australia.” The matches broadcasted in India will feature assets customised to stakeholders in India like virtual pitch mats & and virtual sight screens with representation of relevant brands. In addition to exclusively managing the virtual inventory, RISE will also help Cricket Australia grow its brand presence build connections and deepen engagement with Indian fans and stakeholders.

Cricket Australia signs new deal for virtual inventory sponsorship sales in India

<p>Australia all-rounder Cameron Green has revealed that he was born with chronic kidney disease. Green, who is not part of the Pat Cummins-led Australia XI for their ongoing first&nbsp;Test versus Pakistan in Perth, shared that at one stage he had a life expectancy of just 12.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The 24-year-old Green, who made his international debut in 2020, has already been part of Australia's Ashes 2023 campaign, where they retained the urn with a 2-2 scoreline in England, WTC 2023 win and ODI World Cup triumph last month. Talking on Channel 7, Green revealed more about the disease and how he has to be careful to&nbsp;manage&nbsp;his professional career. He, however, narrated an incident where he had a concerning episode while playing an ODI last year.</p>

<p>Green told, "My parents got told when I was born that I had chronic kidney disease. Basically, there's no symptoms, it was just picked up through ultrasounds. Chronic kidney disease is basically a progressive disease of your kidney's health function. Unfortunately, mine doesn't filter the blood as well as other kidneys. They're at about 60% at the moment which is stage two."</p>

<p>"I consider myself very lucky that I'm not as affected physically by chronic kidney disease as other people who are affected by the same thing. With chronic kidney disease there's five stages, with stage one being the least severe, and stage five being transplant or dialysis. Fortunately, I'm stage two, but if you don't look after them enough, it goes back down. Kidneys can't get better. It's irreversible. So anything you can do to slow the progression, you basically try and do," the youngster mentioned.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/im-a-proud-indian-mohammed-shami-lashes-out-at-trolls-over-sajda-controversy-during-odi-world-cup-669531">I'm a proud Indian: Mohammed Shami lashes out at trolls over ‘Sajda’ controversy during ODI World Cup</a></strong></p>

<p>Green's disease was picked up during his mother Bee Tracey's pregnancy. It was detected when she had her 19-week pregnancy scan. His father Gary further revealed that at one stage Green's&nbsp;life expectancy was very low and he was not expected to live beyond the age of 12.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In this regard, Gary&nbsp;stated, "At the time it was unchartered territory as such, the prognosis wasn't great. There were life expectancy issues that he might not expect to live past twelve years of age."</p>

<p>Meanwhile, Green narrated an incident where he suffered considerable pain while representing Australia in an ODI, in Cairns, versus New Zealand in 2022. Back then, he made an impressive 89 not out in his side's&nbsp;successful 233-run chase after bowling five overs (0 for 33) and fielding the full 50 overs.</p>

<p>Recalling the match, Green said, "I think it was pretty well documented that I had a pretty long day of bowling and a pretty long bat as well, and then had a cramping episode. It took me a long time to realise that it was probably my kidney function that was affecting my cramping. I always thought I didn't drink enough, didn't eat enough, didn't look after myself during the game as well as I could have, but I think over time I realised that I was doing absolutely everything right, but I was still cramping, unfortunately."</p>

<p>He added, "I have told a few guys in the cricket world. The coaching staff are all over it. I think all the guys in the Aussie cricket team, I've told. After a few cramping episodes, I probably had to come off and tell them that it's probably more than not being professional enough because I knew in the background I was eating and drinking as much as I could to give myself the best chance."</p>

<p>Green was not preferred in Australia's playing XI for their home summer's opening match, where they locked horns with Pakistan in the first Test&nbsp;in Perth. Australia are in a commanding position on Day 1, on Thursday (Dec 14), riding on David Warner's majestic ton.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Green was part of Australia's 2023 ODI WC campaign, where they beat India in the final to win their sixth title overall. Ahead of the IPL 2024 mini-auction, he made heads turn as well, being&nbsp;traded by Mumbai Indians (MI) and joining the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB).</p>


Australia all-rounder Cameron Green has revealed that he was born with chronic kidney disease. Green, who is not part of the Pat Cummins-led Australia XI for their ongoing first Test versus Pakistan in Perth, shared that at one stage he had a life expectancy of just 12.

Australia all-rounder Cameron Green has revealed that he was born with chronic kidney disease. Green, who is not part of the Pat Cummins-led Australia XI for their ongoing first Test versus Pakistan in Perth, shared that at one stage he had a life expectancy of just 12. The 24-year-old Green, who made his international debut in 2020, has already been part of Australia's Ashes 2023 campaign, where they retained the urn with a 2-2 scoreline in England, WTC 2023 win and ODI World Cup triumph last month. Talking on Channel 7, Green revealed more about the disease and how he has to be careful to manage his professional career. He, however, narrated an incident where he had a concerning episode while playing an ODI last year. Green told, "My parents got told when I was born that I had chronic kidney disease. Basically, there's no symptoms, it was just picked up through ultrasounds. Chronic kidney disease is basically a progressive disease of your kidney's health function. Unfortunately, mine doesn't filter the blood as well as other kidneys. They're at about 60% at the moment which is stage two." "I consider myself very lucky that I'm not as affected physically by chronic kidney disease as other people who are affected by the same thing. With chronic kidney disease there's five stages, with stage one being the least severe, and stage five being transplant or dialysis. Fortunately, I'm stage two, but if you don't look after them enough, it goes back down. Kidneys can't get better. It's irreversible. So anything you can do to slow the progression, you basically try and do," the youngster mentioned. Also read: I'm a proud Indian: Mohammed Shami lashes out at trolls over ‘Sajda’ controversy during ODI World Cup Green's disease was picked up during his mother Bee Tracey's pregnancy. It was detected when she had her 19-week pregnancy scan. His father Gary further revealed that at one stage Green's life expectancy was very low and he was not expected to live beyond the age of 12. In this regard, Gary stated, "At the time it was unchartered territory as such, the prognosis wasn't great. There were life expectancy issues that he might not expect to live past twelve years of age." Meanwhile, Green narrated an incident where he suffered considerable pain while representing Australia in an ODI, in Cairns, versus New Zealand in 2022. Back then, he made an impressive 89 not out in his side's successful 233-run chase after bowling five overs (0 for 33) and fielding the full 50 overs. Recalling the match, Green said, "I think it was pretty well documented that I had a pretty long day of bowling and a pretty long bat as well, and then had a cramping episode. It took me a long time to realise that it was probably my kidney function that was affecting my cramping. I always thought I didn't drink enough, didn't eat enough, didn't look after myself during the game as well as I could have, but I think over time I realised that I was doing absolutely everything right, but I was still cramping, unfortunately." He added, "I have told a few guys in the cricket world. The coaching staff are all over it. I think all the guys in the Aussie cricket team, I've told. After a few cramping episodes, I probably had to come off and tell them that it's probably more than not being professional enough because I knew in the background I was eating and drinking as much as I could to give myself the best chance." Green was not preferred in Australia's playing XI for their home summer's opening match, where they locked horns with Pakistan in the first Test in Perth. Australia are in a commanding position on Day 1, on Thursday (Dec 14), riding on David Warner's majestic ton. Green was part of Australia's 2023 ODI WC campaign, where they beat India in the final to win their sixth title overall. Ahead of the IPL 2024 mini-auction, he made heads turn as well, being traded by Mumbai Indians (MI) and joining the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB).

Australian all-rounder Cameron Green reveals he was born with chronic kidney disease

<p>Cricket Australia (CA) CEO Nick Hockley has urged his men to focus on the on-field matters as his side gets ready for the upcoming three-match Test series against Pakistan. Australian cricket has been in the spotlight for the recent off-field spat between former speedster Mitchell Johnson and star opener David Warner. Both have been exchanging words before the start of the Pakistan series in regards to Warner’s Test retirement plans for which Johnson criticised the board as he regards the former as a controversial figure due to the sandpaper-gate saga in 2018.</p>

<h2><strong>Nick Hockley calls for on-field focus</strong></h2>

<p>"A fair amount has been said, and everyone's entitled to their own opinions. I think what you've seen over this year and the last two years is the current men's team in all formats playing in great spirit. The success of the World Cup is being hailed as arguably the greatest World Cup victory out of the six to beat India in India. I know that this team really wants to do its talking on the pitch," Hockley told the reporters on Wednesday.</p>

<p>Despite a poor run of form in the red-ball format, Australian selectors opted to pick Warner in the Test series against Pakistan with the left-hand batter likely to announce his retirement. To treat the batter with a fitting send-off, CA named him in the 14-man squad for the first Test and will likely retain his place for the third Test in Sydney. The Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG) also happens to be the home ground of Warner and is likely to get a fitting reception.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/explained-how-team-india-has-problems-aplenty-for-2024-t20-world-cup-669246">Explained: How Team India has problems aplenty for 2024 T20 World Cup</a></p>

<p>However, embroiled in controversies in the past, former pacer Johnson believes Warner should not have been guaranteed a place in the team due to poor form. He also believes Warner does not deserve a good farewell provided he was the epicentre in the 2018 sandpaper-gate saga in South Africa.</p>

<p>Australia will look to continue their impressive start to the current World Test Championship (WTC) cycle having retained the Ashes with a 2-2 draw. Pat Cummins and Co have named a strong squad for the opening contest in Perth as they look to stamp their authority on the three-match series. The opening contest will start on Thursday while the second match will take place at the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) on Boxing Day with the final match taking place from 3 January 2024 at the SCG.</p>


Cricket Australia (CA) CEO Nick Hockley has urged his men to focus on the on-field matters as his side gets ready for the upcoming three-match Test series against Pakistan.

Cricket Australia (CA) CEO Nick Hockley has urged his men to focus on the on-field matters as his side gets ready for the upcoming three-match Test series against Pakistan. Australian cricket has been in the spotlight for the recent off-field spat between former speedster Mitchell Johnson and star opener David Warner. Both have been exchanging words before the start of the Pakistan series in regards to Warner’s Test retirement plans for which Johnson criticised the board as he regards the former as a controversial figure due to the sandpaper-gate saga in 2018. Nick Hockley calls for on-field focus "A fair amount has been said, and everyone's entitled to their own opinions. I think what you've seen over this year and the last two years is the current men's team in all formats playing in great spirit. The success of the World Cup is being hailed as arguably the greatest World Cup victory out of the six to beat India in India. I know that this team really wants to do its talking on the pitch," Hockley told the reporters on Wednesday. Despite a poor run of form in the red-ball format, Australian selectors opted to pick Warner in the Test series against Pakistan with the left-hand batter likely to announce his retirement. To treat the batter with a fitting send-off, CA named him in the 14-man squad for the first Test and will likely retain his place for the third Test in Sydney. The Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG) also happens to be the home ground of Warner and is likely to get a fitting reception. ALSO READ | Explained: How Team India has problems aplenty for 2024 T20 World Cup However, embroiled in controversies in the past, former pacer Johnson believes Warner should not have been guaranteed a place in the team due to poor form. He also believes Warner does not deserve a good farewell provided he was the epicentre in the 2018 sandpaper-gate saga in South Africa. Australia will look to continue their impressive start to the current World Test Championship (WTC) cycle having retained the Ashes with a 2-2 draw. Pat Cummins and Co have named a strong squad for the opening contest in Perth as they look to stamp their authority on the three-match series. The opening contest will start on Thursday while the second match will take place at the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) on Boxing Day with the final match taking place from 3 January 2024 at the SCG.

Warner vs Johnson: CA CEO urges Pat Cummins' men to do talking on pitch despite off-field drama

<p>Cricket Australia (CA) issued an apology after a racist term was displayed on the scoreboard during Day 1 of&nbsp;Pakistan's four-day warm-up Test versus Prime Minister's XI at the Manuka Oval, Canberra on Wednesday (Dec 6).&nbsp;</p>

<p>During the opening day, a ticker showed ‘P**I’ instead of PAK, and it immediately made heads turn. It is to be noted that ‘P**I’ is a derogatory term used against people of South Asian descent. Australian journalist Danny Saeed was quick to point out the same, which led to a swift change to&nbsp;the scorecard.</p>

<h2><strong>'This was obviously regrettable'</strong></h2>

<p>A clarifier on this from CA read: "The graphic was an automatic feed from a data provider which had not been used previously for a Pakistan game. This was obviously regrettable, and the error we corrected manually as soon as it came to light."</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">A clarifier on this from CA: “The graphic was an automatic feed from a data provider which had not been used previously for a Pakistan game. This was obviously regrettable, and the error we corrected manually as soon as it came to light.” <a href="https://t.co/7FttR2iZTR">https://t.co/7FttR2iZTR</a></p>
— Daany Saeed (@daanysaeed) <a href="https://twitter.com/daanysaeed/status/1732281398613144000?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 6, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/wi-great-brian-lara-calls-shubman-gill-most-talented-batter-in-this-generation-makes-bold-claim-666793">WI great Brian Lara calls Shubman Gill 'most talented batter in this generation', makes BOLD claim</a></strong></p>

<p>Talking about the opening day's proceedings, Shan Masood-led Pakistan opted to bat first. While&nbsp;Jordan Buckingham was the pick of the bowlers for the PM's XI, with 5 for 81, Masood made a bright start to his Test captaincy tenure with a fine 298-ball 201. Babar Azam (40), Sarfaraz Ahmed (41) and Abdullah Shafique (38) were the other contributors as Pakistan declared at 391 for 9. On Day Two, on Friday (Dec 7), the PM's XI have started off on a positive note being well-placed at 100-1 at the time of publishing this report.</p>

<p>After the conclusion of the four-day warm-up Test, Pakistan will face Pat Cummins-led Australia in the three-match series opener at Perth Stadium, Perth on Dec 14.&nbsp;</p>


Cricket Australia (CA) issued an apology after a racist term was displayed on the scoreboard during Day 1 of Pakistan's four-day warm-up Test versus Prime Minister's XI at the Manuka Oval, Canberra on Wednesday (Dec 6).

Cricket Australia (CA) issued an apology after a racist term was displayed on the scoreboard during Day 1 of Pakistan's four-day warm-up Test versus Prime Minister's XI at the Manuka Oval, Canberra on Wednesday (Dec 6). During the opening day, a ticker showed ‘P**I’ instead of PAK, and it immediately made heads turn. It is to be noted that ‘P**I’ is a derogatory term used against people of South Asian descent. Australian journalist Danny Saeed was quick to point out the same, which led to a swift change to the scorecard. 'This was obviously regrettable' A clarifier on this from CA read: "The graphic was an automatic feed from a data provider which had not been used previously for a Pakistan game. This was obviously regrettable, and the error we corrected manually as soon as it came to light." A clarifier on this from CA: “The graphic was an automatic feed from a data provider which had not been used previously for a Pakistan game. This was obviously regrettable, and the error we corrected manually as soon as it came to light.” https://t.co/7FttR2iZTR — Daany Saeed (@daanysaeed) December 6, 2023 × Also read: WI great Brian Lara calls Shubman Gill 'most talented batter in this generation', makes BOLD claim Talking about the opening day's proceedings, Shan Masood-led Pakistan opted to bat first. While Jordan Buckingham was the pick of the bowlers for the PM's XI, with 5 for 81, Masood made a bright start to his Test captaincy tenure with a fine 298-ball 201. Babar Azam (40), Sarfaraz Ahmed (41) and Abdullah Shafique (38) were the other contributors as Pakistan declared at 391 for 9. On Day Two, on Friday (Dec 7), the PM's XI have started off on a positive note being well-placed at 100-1 at the time of publishing this report. After the conclusion of the four-day warm-up Test, Pakistan will face Pat Cummins-led Australia in the three-match series opener at Perth Stadium, Perth on Dec 14.

CA apologises after racist term used in scorecard during Pakistan's warm-up Test vs PM's XI

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