New Zealand captain Kane Williamson has said that their first Test against England at Lord's would have had a cracking&nbsp;finish had a whole day's play not been lost because of severe climate. The rain had played a spoilsport on Day 2 and the day was abandoned without a ball being bowled.

Kane Willamson attempted to make the game fascinating with a wearing assertion, however, Dominic Sibley's battling thump guaranteed the hosts rescued an agreeable draw. Pursuing 272 runs for a success, England&nbsp;finished at 170/3, with Sibley unbeaten on 60 from 207 deliveries.&nbsp;

Talking towards the end of the game, Kane Williamson said he was content with how his side had performed, particularly debutant Devon Conway and pacer Tim Southee.&nbsp;

"Obviously we had a little bit of work to do before the declaration," Kane Williamson said.

ALSO READ:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/wtc-final-virat-kohlis-exhibition-with-bat-will-be-the-key-for-india-says-parthiv-patel-389810" hreflang="en">WTC Final: Virat Kohli's exhibition with bat will be the key for India, says Parthiv Patel</a>

"The guys came out and hit hard and the weather forced the declaration a little bit. The wicket was deteriorating and had it not been for that lost day, we would've had a cracking finish" - he added.

Devon Conway scored a stupendous double hundred on debut, while Tim Southee and Kyle Jamieson demonstrated hard to contain with the new ball and consolidated for 10 wickets in the match.&nbsp;

"Scoring was reasonably slow throughout the day, and all in all, with only four days, some fantastic cricket was played. Incredibly special performance from Conway. A special player, he's come into the side and shown his class. He played within himself, he's a brilliant player and it is an incredible feat" - he said.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-yuvraj-singh-echoes-ravi-shastris-stand-says-wtc-final-should-have-been-three-match-series-389806" hreflang="en">Cricket: Yuvraj Singh echoes Ravi Shastri's stand, says WTC final should have been three-match series</a>

"Incredible contribution from Tim Southee as well. He led the attack brilliantly and the guys around him contributed as well. Both teams could have done with an additional day and pushed their case further. Boult is here and he should be bowling pretty soon" - he concluded.

New Zealand captain Kane Williamson has said that their first Test against England at Lord's would have had a cracking finish had a whole day's play not been lost because of severe climate.

New Zealand captain Kane Williamson has said that their first Test against England at Lord's would have had a cracking finish had a whole day's play not been lost because of severe climate. The rain had played a spoilsport on Day 2 and the day was abandoned without a ball being bowled. Kane Willamson attempted to make the game fascinating with a wearing assertion, however, Dominic Sibley's battling thump guaranteed the hosts rescued an agreeable draw. Pursuing 272 runs for a success, England finished at 170/3, with Sibley unbeaten on 60 from 207 deliveries. Talking towards the end of the game, Kane Williamson said he was content with how his side had performed, particularly debutant Devon Conway and pacer Tim Southee. "Obviously we had a little bit of work to do before the declaration," Kane Williamson said. ALSO READ:WTC Final: Virat Kohli's exhibition with bat will be the key for India, says Parthiv Patel "The guys came out and hit hard and the weather forced the declaration a little bit. The wicket was deteriorating and had it not been for that lost day, we would've had a cracking finish" - he added. Devon Conway scored a stupendous double hundred on debut, while Tim Southee and Kyle Jamieson demonstrated hard to contain with the new ball and consolidated for 10 wickets in the match. "Scoring was reasonably slow throughout the day, and all in all, with only four days, some fantastic cricket was played. Incredibly special performance from Conway. A special player, he's come into the side and shown his class. He played within himself, he's a brilliant player and it is an incredible feat" - he said. ALSO READ: Cricket: Yuvraj Singh echoes Ravi Shastri's stand, says WTC final should have been three-match series "Incredible contribution from Tim Southee as well. He led the attack brilliantly and the guys around him contributed as well. Both teams could have done with an additional day and pushed their case further. Boult is here and he should be bowling pretty soon" - he concluded.

Cricket: 'We would've had a cracking finish had it not been for lost day' - Kane Williamson on 1st Test vs England

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson backed comments from his culture and sports secretary on Monday that English cricket's ruling body went "over the top" by suspending paceman Ollie Robinson over historical racist and sexist tweets.

Oliver Dowden on Monday urged the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) to "think again" over the sanction for the 27-year-old.

Robinson -- who impressed with ball and bat in his debut Test against New Zealand, which finished in a draw on Sunday -- has been suspended from all international cricket pending the outcome of an investigation following tweets he posted in 2012 and 2013.

"Ollie Robinson's tweets were offensive and wrong," Dowden said. "They are also a decade old and written by a teenager.

"The teenager is now a man and has rightly apologised. The ECB has gone over the top by suspending him and should think again."

Johnson supported Dowden's position.

"As Oliver Dowden set out, these were comments made more than a decade ago written by someone as a teenager and for which they've rightly apologised," said a spokesman for the prime minister.

The paceman led England's attack with 4-75 in the first innings of the first Test at Lord's and followed up with 3-26 in the second innings while also making a useful 42 with the bat.

Robinson, in a statement issued after play on Wednesday, said he was "embarrassed" and "ashamed" by the posts.

The posts had emerged on the first day of his Test debut.&nbsp;

"I want to make it clear that I'm not racist and I'm not sexist," he added.

Former England captain David Gower also thought the penalty was harsh.

"The ECB should say 'let's learn from this' and make him do the equivalent of community service," Gower told the BBC on Monday.

"He should go out there among county cricketers and spread the word that social media shouldn't be abused."

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson backed comments from his culture and sports secretary on Monday that English cricket's ruling body went "over the top" by suspending paceman Ollie Robinson over historical racist and sexist tweets.

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson backed comments from his culture and sports secretary on Monday that English cricket's ruling body went "over the top" by suspending paceman Ollie Robinson over historical racist and sexist tweets. Oliver Dowden on Monday urged the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) to "think again" over the sanction for the 27-year-old. Robinson -- who impressed with ball and bat in his debut Test against New Zealand, which finished in a draw on Sunday -- has been suspended from all international cricket pending the outcome of an investigation following tweets he posted in 2012 and 2013. "Ollie Robinson's tweets were offensive and wrong," Dowden said. "They are also a decade old and written by a teenager. "The teenager is now a man and has rightly apologised. The ECB has gone over the top by suspending him and should think again." Johnson supported Dowden's position. "As Oliver Dowden set out, these were comments made more than a decade ago written by someone as a teenager and for which they've rightly apologised," said a spokesman for the prime minister. The paceman led England's attack with 4-75 in the first innings of the first Test at Lord's and followed up with 3-26 in the second innings while also making a useful 42 with the bat. Robinson, in a statement issued after play on Wednesday, said he was "embarrassed" and "ashamed" by the posts. The posts had emerged on the first day of his Test debut. "I want to make it clear that I'm not racist and I'm not sexist," he added. Former England captain David Gower also thought the penalty was harsh. "The ECB should say 'let's learn from this' and make him do the equivalent of community service," Gower told the BBC on Monday. "He should go out there among county cricketers and spread the word that social media shouldn't be abused."

Cricket: Boris Johnson criticises suspension of England paceman Robinson over racist tweets

The England cricket team have been fined 40 per cent of their match fee for maintaining slow over-rate against New Zealand in the first Test at Lord’s. The ICC announced the development on Monday as it penalised England for producing a slow show at the home of cricket.<o:p></o:p>

ICC match referee Chris Broad imposed the sanction after Joe Root-led England were found two overs short of the target after taking time allowances into consideration. <o:p></o:p>

"In accordance with Article 2.22 of the ICC Code of Conduct for Players and Player Support Personnel, which relates to minimum over-rate offences, players are fined 20 percent of their match fees for every over their side fails to bowl in the allotted time," an ICC release stated.<o:p></o:p>

Root pleaded guilty to the offence and accepted the proposed sanction, so there was no need for a formal hearing.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-sri-lanka-emerges-as-darkhorse-to-host-t20-world-cup-report-389993" hreflang="en">Cricket: Sri Lanka emerges as darkhorse to host T20 World Cup - Report</a><o:p></o:p>

On-field umpires Michael Gough and Richard Kettleborough, third umpire Richard Illingworth and fourth umpire Mike Burns levelled the charge against the home team.<o:p></o:p>

The first match between England and New Zealand ended up in a dull draw and both the teams would be hoping for a result when they take the field at Edgbaston in Birmingham for the second and last Test of the series.<o:p></o:p>

After the two-Test series, New Zealand will gear up for the ICC World Test Championship final against India, starting from June 18 while England will wait for the five-Test series against the Virat Kohli-led outfit in August. <o:p></o:p>

The England cricket team have been fined 40 per cent of their match fee for maintaining slow over-rate against New Zealand in the first Test at Lord’s. The ICC announced the development on Monday as it penalised England for producing a slow show at the home of cricket.

The England cricket team have been fined 40 per cent of their match fee for maintaining slow over-rate against New Zealand in the first Test at Lord’s. The ICC announced the development on Monday as it penalised England for producing a slow show at the home of cricket. ICC match referee Chris Broad imposed the sanction after Joe Root-led England were found two overs short of the target after taking time allowances into consideration. "In accordance with Article 2.22 of the ICC Code of Conduct for Players and Player Support Personnel, which relates to minimum over-rate offences, players are fined 20 percent of their match fees for every over their side fails to bowl in the allotted time," an ICC release stated. Root pleaded guilty to the offence and accepted the proposed sanction, so there was no need for a formal hearing. ALSO READ: Cricket: Sri Lanka emerges as darkhorse to host T20 World Cup - Report On-field umpires Michael Gough and Richard Kettleborough, third umpire Richard Illingworth and fourth umpire Mike Burns levelled the charge against the home team. The first match between England and New Zealand ended up in a dull draw and both the teams would be hoping for a result when they take the field at Edgbaston in Birmingham for the second and last Test of the series. After the two-Test series, New Zealand will gear up for the ICC World Test Championship final against India, starting from June 18 while England will wait for the five-Test series against the Virat Kohli-led outfit in August.

Cricket: England team fined 40 per cent match fee for slow over-rate in 1st Test vs New Zealand

Sri Lanka has emerged as the dark horse to host the ICC T20 World Cup 2021, which is scheduled to be hosted by India. Given the situation around COVID-19 in India, there have been talks between BCCI and the Emirates Cricket Board (ECB) in relation to hosting the T20 World Cup 2021. <o:p></o:p>

According to a report in ANI, BCCI officials have been in talks with Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) as well. &nbsp;<o:p></o:p>

"See, there is no denying the fact that BCCI and ECB officials have been having discussions on taking the showpiece event to UAE with an eye on the COVID-19 situation in India. But, what also needs to be kept in mind here is that hosting the IPL would mean quite a few games, not to forget other tournaments or matches that might be held in some of the venues and tired wickets by the time of the World Cup,” a source close to the development told ANI. <o:p></o:p>

"Keeping the playing conditions in mind, there have been some talks with SLC officials and just basic discussions to be honest. Too early to get into the details, but we still have some time before we need to get back to the ICC to inform them on the situation as the BCCI will continue to have the hosting rights even if it is played outside India," the source explained.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-indias-limited-overs-tour-of-sri-lanka-to-start-from-july-13-check-full-schedule-389957" hreflang="en">Cricket: India's limited-overs tour of Sri Lanka to start from July 13 - Check full schedule</a><o:p></o:p>

While UAE has just three venues in Sharjah, Dubai and Abu Dhabi; Sri Lanka will provide more options when it comes to hosting games. The city of Colombo itself has three stadiums. Notably, SLC had also made its intentions clear for hosting IPL 2021 in the September-October window. <o:p></o:p>

"See, these are tough times and with COVID-19 it is an ever-changing situation. So, don't think the host broadcasters would mind backing BCCI if they look at Sri Lanka as an option to host the showpiece event. Keeping options open is not a bad thing," the source said. <o:p></o:p>

"First and foremost, the BCCI needs to submit the tax exemption guarantee by June 15 and things will start rolling one after the other with the Indian board also needing to inform the ICC by June 28 about the position with regards to hosting the event in the country," the source pointed.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-ipl-2021-to-resume-on-september-19-in-uae-final-scheduled-on-october-15-389949" hreflang="en">Cricket: IPL 2021 to resume on September 19 in UAE, final scheduled on October 15</a><o:p></o:p>

Earlier, the ICC had confirmed that the BCCI would retain the hosting rights of T20 World Cup even if the tournament is shifted to another country.<o:p></o:p>

"A final decision on the host country will be taken later this month. The Board also confirmed that the BCCI will remain the hosts of the event regardless of where the event is played," the ICC said in an official release. <o:p></o:p>

<o:p>&nbsp;</o:p>

Sri Lanka has emerged as the dark horse to host the ICC T20 World Cup 2021, which is scheduled to be hosted by India. Given the situation around COVID-19 in India, there have been talks between BCCI and the Emirates Cricket Board (ECB) in relation to hosting the T20 World Cup 2021.

Sri Lanka has emerged as the dark horse to host the ICC T20 World Cup 2021, which is scheduled to be hosted by India. Given the situation around COVID-19 in India, there have been talks between BCCI and the Emirates Cricket Board (ECB) in relation to hosting the T20 World Cup 2021. According to a report in ANI, BCCI officials have been in talks with Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) as well. "See, there is no denying the fact that BCCI and ECB officials have been having discussions on taking the showpiece event to UAE with an eye on the COVID-19 situation in India. But, what also needs to be kept in mind here is that hosting the IPL would mean quite a few games, not to forget other tournaments or matches that might be held in some of the venues and tired wickets by the time of the World Cup,” a source close to the development told ANI. "Keeping the playing conditions in mind, there have been some talks with SLC officials and just basic discussions to be honest. Too early to get into the details, but we still have some time before we need to get back to the ICC to inform them on the situation as the BCCI will continue to have the hosting rights even if it is played outside India," the source explained. ALSO READ: Cricket: India's limited-overs tour of Sri Lanka to start from July 13 - Check full schedule While UAE has just three venues in Sharjah, Dubai and Abu Dhabi; Sri Lanka will provide more options when it comes to hosting games. The city of Colombo itself has three stadiums. Notably, SLC had also made its intentions clear for hosting IPL 2021 in the September-October window. "See, these are tough times and with COVID-19 it is an ever-changing situation. So, don't think the host broadcasters would mind backing BCCI if they look at Sri Lanka as an option to host the showpiece event. Keeping options open is not a bad thing," the source said. "First and foremost, the BCCI needs to submit the tax exemption guarantee by June 15 and things will start rolling one after the other with the Indian board also needing to inform the ICC by June 28 about the position with regards to hosting the event in the country," the source pointed. ALSO READ: Cricket: IPL 2021 to resume on September 19 in UAE, final scheduled on October 15 Earlier, the ICC had confirmed that the BCCI would retain the hosting rights of T20 World Cup even if the tournament is shifted to another country. "A final decision on the host country will be taken later this month. The Board also confirmed that the BCCI will remain the hosts of the event regardless of where the event is played," the ICC said in an official release.

Cricket: Sri Lanka emerges as darkhorse to host T20 World Cup - Report

The complete schedule for the much-awaited India’s limited-overs tour of Sri Lanka has been announced. The six-match series where the Men in Blue will take on Sri Lanka in three ODIs and as many T20Is will commence from July 13 with the final match of the tour to be played on July 25.

<o:p>Sony Sports took to social media platform Twitter to announce the schedule of India's tour of Sri Lanka in July.</o:p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Indian waves will crash against the Sri Lankan shore with <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/JeetneKiZid?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#JeetneKiZid</a> 🌊 
🇮🇳 tour of 🇱🇰, <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SirfSonyPeDikhega?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SirfSonyPeDikhega</a>! 
 
🗓️ Starting 13th July 
📺 Sony TEN 1, Sony TEN 3, Sony TEN 4, Sony SIX<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SLvIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SLvIND</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvSL?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDvSL</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SonySports?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SonySports</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Cricket?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Cricket</a> <a href="https://t.co/P3ZeGTjDXl">pic.twitter.com/P3ZeGTjDXl</a>
— Sony Sports (@SonySportsIndia) <a href="https://twitter.com/SonySportsIndia/status/1401840439875964928?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 7, 2021</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

In what promises to be a high-octane series, the Indian team will field a second-string side consisting of white-ball specialists who are not part of India’s ongoing tour of the UK, where the Virat Kohli-led side will play the World Test Championship final and five-match Test series against England. <o:p></o:p>

The Indian squads for the Sri Lanka tour are likely to be announced by the end of June. <o:p></o:p>

The likes of Suryakumar Yadav, Shikhar Dhawan, Ishan Kishan, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Deepak Chahar among others are expected to be in the Indian squad whereas a call on Shreyas Iyer will be taken depending on his recovery from shoulder surgery.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-ipl-2021-to-resume-on-september-19-in-uae-final-scheduled-on-october-15-389949" hreflang="en">Cricket: IPL 2021 to resume on September 19 in UAE, final scheduled on October 15</a><o:p></o:p>

The series will provide an opportunity for the Indian team management to get a good look at some of the fringe players in the side ahead of the T20 World Cup. <o:p></o:p>

According to reports, Rahul Dravid is likely to take charge of the Indian team with Ravi Shastri and Co busy with the tour of UK.<o:p></o:p>

<h2 class="MsoNormal">India tour of Sri Lanka in July: Full schedule<o:p></o:p></h2>

1st ODI: July 13<o:p></o:p>

2nd ODI: July 16<o:p></o:p>

3rd ODI: July 18<o:p></o:p>

1st T20I: July 21<o:p></o:p>

2nd T20I: July 23<o:p></o:p>

3rd T20I: July 25<o:p></o:p>

The complete schedule for the much-awaited India’s limited-overs tour of Sri Lanka has been announced. The six-match series where the Men in Blue will take on Sri Lanka in three ODIs and as many T20Is will commence from July 13 with the final match of the tour to be played on July 25.

The complete schedule for the much-awaited India’s limited-overs tour of Sri Lanka has been announced. The six-match series where the Men in Blue will take on Sri Lanka in three ODIs and as many T20Is will commence from July 13 with the final match of the tour to be played on July 25. Sony Sports took to social media platform Twitter to announce the schedule of India's tour of Sri Lanka in July. Indian waves will crash against the Sri Lankan shore with #JeetneKiZid 🌊 🇮🇳 tour of 🇱🇰, #SirfSonyPeDikhega! 🗓️ Starting 13th July 📺 Sony TEN 1, Sony TEN 3, Sony TEN 4, Sony SIX#SLvIND #INDvSL #SonySports #Cricket pic.twitter.com/P3ZeGTjDXl — Sony Sports (@SonySportsIndia) June 7, 2021 × In what promises to be a high-octane series, the Indian team will field a second-string side consisting of white-ball specialists who are not part of India’s ongoing tour of the UK, where the Virat Kohli-led side will play the World Test Championship final and five-match Test series against England. The Indian squads for the Sri Lanka tour are likely to be announced by the end of June. The likes of Suryakumar Yadav, Shikhar Dhawan, Ishan Kishan, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Deepak Chahar among others are expected to be in the Indian squad whereas a call on Shreyas Iyer will be taken depending on his recovery from shoulder surgery. ALSO READ: Cricket: IPL 2021 to resume on September 19 in UAE, final scheduled on October 15 The series will provide an opportunity for the Indian team management to get a good look at some of the fringe players in the side ahead of the T20 World Cup. According to reports, Rahul Dravid is likely to take charge of the Indian team with Ravi Shastri and Co busy with the tour of UK. India tour of Sri Lanka in July: Full schedule 1st ODI: July 13 2nd ODI: July 16 3rd ODI: July 18 1st T20I: July 21 2nd T20I: July 23 3rd T20I: July 25

Cricket: India's limited-overs tour of Sri Lanka to start from July 13 - Check full schedule

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has locked on the date for the resumption of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021, scheduled to be held in the UAE. The first game, after the resumption, will be played on September 19 while the final will be hosted on October 10. <o:p></o:p>

According to ANI, the Indian board is confident of hosting the remainder of IPL 2021 successfully in Dubai, Sharjah and Abu Dhabi while adding that the BCCI has always been keen on a 25-day window to finish the T20 tournament.<o:p></o:p>

"The discussions went really well and with ECB already giving us the oral nod to host the event ahead of the BCCI SGM, it was about closing the deal over the last week. The first game after the season resumes will be held on September 19 while we will have the final on October 15. The BCCI was always keen on a 25-day window to finish the remaining matches," a BCCI official told ANI.<o:p></o:p>

When quizzed about the situation regarding overseas players’ availability for IPL 2021, the official said that the Indian board is hopeful of positive outcomes.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-couldnt-believe-them-joe-root-reacts-to-ollie-robinsons-racist-sexist-historical-tweets-389926" hreflang="en">Cricket: 'Couldn’t believe them' - Joe Root reacts to Ollie Robinson’s racist, sexist historical tweets</a><o:p></o:p>

"The discussions have started and we are keeping fingers crossed that the foreign players will be mostly available. If a couple of them do not manage to turn up, we shall then decide on the future course of action. But keeping fingers crossed for now and hoping to have an action-packed end to the 14th edition in UAE," the official said. <o:p></o:p>

The IPL 2021 franchises are confident that the BCCI will have fruitful discussions with foreign boards in a bid to make players available for the remaining matches. <o:p></o:p>

"What we were made aware after the BCCI SGM is that the board will be speaking to the foreign boards and check on the availability of the foreign cricketers. We are confident that the BCCI will find the best possible solution and honestly it is a matter of the BCCI officials speaking to the respective board officials, so we should wait to hear from the board on this.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-yuvraj-singh-reveals-why-india-will-have-slight-disadvantage-in-wtc-final-vs-new-zealand-389893" hreflang="en">Cricket: Yuvraj Singh reveals why India will have 'slight disadvantage' in WTC Final vs New Zealand</a><o:p></o:p>

"Yes, if we do end up missing some of the foreign stars, that is an area which would need some attention when it comes to picking replacements as the foreign players are also integral to the teams. Team balance can go for a toss, so keeping fingers crossed on that one," the franchise official said.<o:p></o:p>

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has locked on the date for the resumption of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021, scheduled to be held in the UAE.

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has locked on the date for the resumption of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021, scheduled to be held in the UAE. The first game, after the resumption, will be played on September 19 while the final will be hosted on October 10. According to ANI, the Indian board is confident of hosting the remainder of IPL 2021 successfully in Dubai, Sharjah and Abu Dhabi while adding that the BCCI has always been keen on a 25-day window to finish the T20 tournament. "The discussions went really well and with ECB already giving us the oral nod to host the event ahead of the BCCI SGM, it was about closing the deal over the last week. The first game after the season resumes will be held on September 19 while we will have the final on October 15. The BCCI was always keen on a 25-day window to finish the remaining matches," a BCCI official told ANI. When quizzed about the situation regarding overseas players’ availability for IPL 2021, the official said that the Indian board is hopeful of positive outcomes. ALSO READ: Cricket: 'Couldn’t believe them' - Joe Root reacts to Ollie Robinson’s racist, sexist historical tweets "The discussions have started and we are keeping fingers crossed that the foreign players will be mostly available. If a couple of them do not manage to turn up, we shall then decide on the future course of action. But keeping fingers crossed for now and hoping to have an action-packed end to the 14th edition in UAE," the official said. The IPL 2021 franchises are confident that the BCCI will have fruitful discussions with foreign boards in a bid to make players available for the remaining matches. "What we were made aware after the BCCI SGM is that the board will be speaking to the foreign boards and check on the availability of the foreign cricketers. We are confident that the BCCI will find the best possible solution and honestly it is a matter of the BCCI officials speaking to the respective board officials, so we should wait to hear from the board on this. ALSO READ: Cricket: Yuvraj Singh reveals why India will have 'slight disadvantage' in WTC Final vs New Zealand "Yes, if we do end up missing some of the foreign stars, that is an area which would need some attention when it comes to picking replacements as the foreign players are also integral to the teams. Team balance can go for a toss, so keeping fingers crossed on that one," the franchise official said.

Cricket: IPL 2021 to resume on September 19 in UAE, final scheduled on October 15

There has been a lot of debate around the top three or five batsmen in the world. While the names of Virat Kohli, Kane Williamson, Steve Smith continue to be central to the discussions, the rise of Pakistan batsman Babar Azam has brought him into the debate. <o:p></o:p>

Former South Africa opener and now the head coach of Pakistan Super League (PSL) outfit Karachi Kings, Herschelle Gibbs has weighed his opinion on the matter as he said that Babar has the potential to replicate what Virat Kohli has done for India and in franchise cricket.<o:p></o:p>

Gibbs opined that Babar, for him, is in the top three batsmen in the world and has the hunger to become better each day.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-couldnt-believe-them-joe-root-reacts-to-ollie-robinsons-racist-sexist-historical-tweets-389926" hreflang="en">Cricket: 'Couldn’t believe them' - Joe Root reacts to Ollie Robinson’s racist, sexist historical tweets</a>

“For me, he is in the top three batsmen in the world, across formats. He is a fantastic player, he knows his game and is hungry to score runs. It is always a sign that they want to become greater and better. If you look at Virat Kohli, Babar Azam is younger than him. There's nothing stopping Babar Azam from achieving what Kohli has achieved in the next decade or so,” Gibbs told Dawn News. <o:p></o:p>

“He has all the potential to become one of the greats in the world. He has made a fantastic start to his career and has got the technique to play in all conditions. He can become as good as Virat Kohli if not better,” the former South African cricketer added.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-yuvraj-singh-reveals-why-india-will-have-slight-disadvantage-in-wtc-final-vs-new-zealand-389893" hreflang="en">Cricket: Yuvraj Singh reveals why India will have 'slight disadvantage' in WTC Final vs New Zealand</a><o:p></o:p>

All eyes will be on Babar when Karachi Kings take the field for PSL 6 in Abu Dhabi in a bid to defend their title. <o:p></o:p>

Meanwhile, PSL 2021 is set to resume from June 9 in Abu Dhabi with the final scheduled for June 24. Earlier, the PSL was postponed amid multiple COVID-19 cases within the bio-secure bubble of the tournament. <o:p></o:p>

There has been a lot of debate around the top three or five batsmen in the world. While the names of Virat Kohli, Kane Williamson, Steve Smith continue to be central to the discussions, the rise of Pakistan batsman Babar Azam has brought him into the debate.

There has been a lot of debate around the top three or five batsmen in the world. While the names of Virat Kohli, Kane Williamson, Steve Smith continue to be central to the discussions, the rise of Pakistan batsman Babar Azam has brought him into the debate. Former South Africa opener and now the head coach of Pakistan Super League (PSL) outfit Karachi Kings, Herschelle Gibbs has weighed his opinion on the matter as he said that Babar has the potential to replicate what Virat Kohli has done for India and in franchise cricket. Gibbs opined that Babar, for him, is in the top three batsmen in the world and has the hunger to become better each day. ALSO READ: Cricket: 'Couldn’t believe them' - Joe Root reacts to Ollie Robinson’s racist, sexist historical tweets “For me, he is in the top three batsmen in the world, across formats. He is a fantastic player, he knows his game and is hungry to score runs. It is always a sign that they want to become greater and better. If you look at Virat Kohli, Babar Azam is younger than him. There's nothing stopping Babar Azam from achieving what Kohli has achieved in the next decade or so,” Gibbs told Dawn News. “He has all the potential to become one of the greats in the world. He has made a fantastic start to his career and has got the technique to play in all conditions. He can become as good as Virat Kohli if not better,” the former South African cricketer added. ALSO READ: Cricket: Yuvraj Singh reveals why India will have 'slight disadvantage' in WTC Final vs New Zealand All eyes will be on Babar when Karachi Kings take the field for PSL 6 in Abu Dhabi in a bid to defend their title. Meanwhile, PSL 2021 is set to resume from June 9 in Abu Dhabi with the final scheduled for June 24. Earlier, the PSL was postponed amid multiple COVID-19 cases within the bio-secure bubble of the tournament.

Cricket: 'Can become as good as Virat Kohli' - Herschelle Gibbs gives his take on Babar Azam ahead of PSL resumption

England Test captain Joe Root was straight on point as he labelled Ollie Robinson’s controversial tweets as “not acceptable”. Back in 2012 and 2013, Robinson had come up with a few racist and sexist tweets that went viral during his England debut at Lord’s against New Zealand. <o:p></o:p>

While Robinson came out with a heartfelt apology, the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) has now decided to suspend the pacer from international cricket, pending investigation. Due to the decision, Robinson won’t be a part of the second Test against New Zealand at the Edgbaston, starting Thursday, and it remains to be seen whether he would be included in the squad for the five-Test series against India. <o:p></o:p>

The English all-rounder will now return to his County club, Sussex. While Root lauded him for a brilliant debut, the England Test skipper added that he couldn’t believe the tweets personally.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-ollie-robinson-suspended-from-international-cricket-over-racist-tweets-389879" hreflang="en">Cricket: Ollie Robinson suspended from international cricket over racist tweets</a>

<o:p></o:p>

“He’s contributed well with the bat, his performance with the ball was excellent. He’s showed high levels of skill and he’s definitely got the game that can be successful in Test cricket,” Root was quoted as saying in the post-match press conference.<o:p></o:p>

“But in regards to the stuff that’s happened off the field, it’s not acceptable within our game. We all know that. He addressed the dressing room straight away. He obviously spoke to you guys and other media outlets straight away, fronted up to it. He showed a lot of remorse from that point onwards. You can see it’s very genuine from how he’s been around the group and the team,” he stated.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-yuvraj-singh-reveals-why-india-will-have-slight-disadvantage-in-wtc-final-vs-new-zealand-389893" hreflang="en">Cricket: Yuvraj Singh reveals why India will have 'slight disadvantage' in WTC Final vs New Zealand</a><o:p></o:p>

“I couldn’t believe them [the tweets], personally. I didn’t really know how to take it on the surface. I think the most important thing is Ollie is part of this dressing room and we had to support him,” Root added.<o:p></o:p>

Root also opined that educating each other and trying to raise awareness among fans should also be paramount.<o:p></o:p>

England Test captain Joe Root was straight on point as he labelled Ollie Robinson’s controversial tweets as “not acceptable”. Back in 2012 and 2013, Robinson had come up with a few racist and sexist tweets that went viral during his England debut at Lord’s against New Zealand.

England Test captain Joe Root was straight on point as he labelled Ollie Robinson’s controversial tweets as “not acceptable”. Back in 2012 and 2013, Robinson had come up with a few racist and sexist tweets that went viral during his England debut at Lord’s against New Zealand. While Robinson came out with a heartfelt apology, the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) has now decided to suspend the pacer from international cricket, pending investigation. Due to the decision, Robinson won’t be a part of the second Test against New Zealand at the Edgbaston, starting Thursday, and it remains to be seen whether he would be included in the squad for the five-Test series against India. The English all-rounder will now return to his County club, Sussex. While Root lauded him for a brilliant debut, the England Test skipper added that he couldn’t believe the tweets personally. ALSO READ: Cricket: Ollie Robinson suspended from international cricket over racist tweets “He’s contributed well with the bat, his performance with the ball was excellent. He’s showed high levels of skill and he’s definitely got the game that can be successful in Test cricket,” Root was quoted as saying in the post-match press conference. “But in regards to the stuff that’s happened off the field, it’s not acceptable within our game. We all know that. He addressed the dressing room straight away. He obviously spoke to you guys and other media outlets straight away, fronted up to it. He showed a lot of remorse from that point onwards. You can see it’s very genuine from how he’s been around the group and the team,” he stated. ALSO READ: Cricket: Yuvraj Singh reveals why India will have 'slight disadvantage' in WTC Final vs New Zealand “I couldn’t believe them [the tweets], personally. I didn’t really know how to take it on the surface. I think the most important thing is Ollie is part of this dressing room and we had to support him,” Root added. Root also opined that educating each other and trying to raise awareness among fans should also be paramount.

Cricket: 'Couldn’t believe them' - Joe Root reacts to Ollie Robinson’s racist, sexist historical tweets

The way to the ICC World Test Championship Final for Virat Kohli-led Team India hasn't been smooth. While New Zealand has significant match-practice with a two-match Test series against England, the Indian team hasn't had the option to hit the ground because of COVID-19 restrictions in the country. Be that as it may, for players like Umesh Yadav, it has been considerably more troublesome as he hasn't played any cricket throughout the previous five months.

Umesh Yadav last played competitive cricket during India's visit to Australia. Yet, he endured a physical issue that governed him out of the series. He was neglected for the England Test arrangement at home as he was all the while recuperating. In the IPL 2021, for Delhi Capitals, he didn't get starts&nbsp;in the seven matches in the first phase. Ahead of the ICC&nbsp;World Test Championship Final, Umesh Yadav is concerned about the absence of match practice.&nbsp;

In an interview with Times Of India, Umesh Yadav said:

“It’s difficult. I got injured after the second Test in Australia. That was a big opportunity for me when the rest of the senior bowlers were not available. If I could do well in that situation, it would have been a big boost like it has done to the young boys who played in Australia.”&nbsp;

“There was plenty of cricket after that. I didn’t get to play the Tests against England at home. I didn’t get matches in the IPL as well. It’s difficult to make a comeback after injury when you don’t play many games. But I am putting in a lot of hard work in my training and I am feeling much better. I don’t feel that I was injured. I am bowling well in the nets. I try to not think that I have not got many matches. I don’t feel I have missed much” - he added.

Be that as it may, the absence of match practice and consistent fight for a spot in India's playing XI in Tests hasn't hindered him. All things considered, he is spurred to return. The injuries also haven't transformed anything for Umesh Yadav as he actually expects to utilize the very speed that he used to bowl with before the injury.&nbsp;

“I was raw when I made my debut. I didn’t understand the wear and tear that my body was going through. As you keep playing, you understand when the body is enduring load and the muscles are tiring. In the last 10 years, I realized that the body will go through wear and tear if you play all formats. We have learned to understand and take care of our bodies. And when you play a lot of cricket it takes a toll both physically and mentally. That’s why workload management is important to relax your mind. It’s important to rest a fast bowler at the right time” - he said.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/you-have-to-be-careful-dilip-vengsarkars-piece-of-advice-to-virat-and-co-ahead-of-wtc-final-389643" hreflang="en">'You have to be careful': Dilip Vengsarkar's piece of advice to Virat and Co. ahead of WTC final</a>

At very nearly 34, Umesh isn't just battling against his body yet additionally against youthful pacers who are coming up the positions. He is consistently up for an extreme battle as he accepts sound rivalry is acceptable.&nbsp;

“I know a lot of fast bowlers are coming through the ranks. I have been playing for 10 years. I don’t see it as pressure. I see it as healthy competition. When you play with youngsters, they are motivated to perform better than the seniors. We must also ensure we match their standards when it comes to fitness and skills. The seniors and youngsters learn from each other. You need to have good thoughts” - he added.

“In sports, you can’t crib about how many chances you have got. When you represent your country, the team and selectors expect you to keep performing. There was a period of three-four years when I played all formats. Then I got sporadic chances. There will be new people coming in. There will be new bowlers who will get in with better performances” -&nbsp;he added.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-still-dont-understand-pcbs-selection-of-players-says-ramiz-raja-389657" hreflang="en">Cricket: Still don't understand PCB's selection of players, says Ramiz Raja</a>

Considering the ICC WTC Final, it will resemble a World Cup final for him and other red-ball trained professionals, who might not get an opportunity to play in the ICC T20 World Cup or 50-over World Cup.&nbsp;

“This is indeed like a World Cup for us who have not played white-ball cricket for India for a long time. We are now playing more Test matches these days. The ICC should keep coming up with such initiatives so that more people get interested in Test cricket and the format’s popularity keeps growing” - &nbsp;he concluded. 
&nbsp;

The way to the ICC World Test Championship Final for Virat Kohli-led Team India hasn't been smooth. While New Zealand has significant match-practice with a two-match Test series against England, the Indian team hasn't had the option to hit the ground because of COVID-19 restrictions in the country.

The way to the ICC World Test Championship Final for Virat Kohli-led Team India hasn't been smooth. While New Zealand has significant match-practice with a two-match Test series against England, the Indian team hasn't had the option to hit the ground because of COVID-19 restrictions in the country. Be that as it may, for players like Umesh Yadav, it has been considerably more troublesome as he hasn't played any cricket throughout the previous five months. Umesh Yadav last played competitive cricket during India's visit to Australia. Yet, he endured a physical issue that governed him out of the series. He was neglected for the England Test arrangement at home as he was all the while recuperating. In the IPL 2021, for Delhi Capitals, he didn't get starts in the seven matches in the first phase. Ahead of the ICC World Test Championship Final, Umesh Yadav is concerned about the absence of match practice. In an interview with Times Of India, Umesh Yadav said: “It’s difficult. I got injured after the second Test in Australia. That was a big opportunity for me when the rest of the senior bowlers were not available. If I could do well in that situation, it would have been a big boost like it has done to the young boys who played in Australia.” “There was plenty of cricket after that. I didn’t get to play the Tests against England at home. I didn’t get matches in the IPL as well. It’s difficult to make a comeback after injury when you don’t play many games. But I am putting in a lot of hard work in my training and I am feeling much better. I don’t feel that I was injured. I am bowling well in the nets. I try to not think that I have not got many matches. I don’t feel I have missed much” - he added. Be that as it may, the absence of match practice and consistent fight for a spot in India's playing XI in Tests hasn't hindered him. All things considered, he is spurred to return. The injuries also haven't transformed anything for Umesh Yadav as he actually expects to utilize the very speed that he used to bowl with before the injury. “I was raw when I made my debut. I didn’t understand the wear and tear that my body was going through. As you keep playing, you understand when the body is enduring load and the muscles are tiring. In the last 10 years, I realized that the body will go through wear and tear if you play all formats. We have learned to understand and take care of our bodies. And when you play a lot of cricket it takes a toll both physically and mentally. That’s why workload management is important to relax your mind. It’s important to rest a fast bowler at the right time” - he said. ALSO READ: 'You have to be careful': Dilip Vengsarkar's piece of advice to Virat and Co. ahead of WTC final At very nearly 34, Umesh isn't just battling against his body yet additionally against youthful pacers who are coming up the positions. He is consistently up for an extreme battle as he accepts sound rivalry is acceptable. “I know a lot of fast bowlers are coming through the ranks. I have been playing for 10 years. I don’t see it as pressure. I see it as healthy competition. When you play with youngsters, they are motivated to perform better than the seniors. We must also ensure we match their standards when it comes to fitness and skills. The seniors and youngsters learn from each other. You need to have good thoughts” - he added. “In sports, you can’t crib about how many chances you have got. When you represent your country, the team and selectors expect you to keep performing. There was a period of three-four years when I played all formats. Then I got sporadic chances. There will be new people coming in. There will be new bowlers who will get in with better performances” - he added. ALSO READ: Cricket: Still don't understand PCB's selection of players, says Ramiz Raja Considering the ICC WTC Final, it will resemble a World Cup final for him and other red-ball trained professionals, who might not get an opportunity to play in the ICC T20 World Cup or 50-over World Cup. “This is indeed like a World Cup for us who have not played white-ball cricket for India for a long time. We are now playing more Test matches these days. The ICC should keep coming up with such initiatives so that more people get interested in Test cricket and the format’s popularity keeps growing” - he concluded.

Cricket: Umesh Yadav gives insights into senior-junior bond in Team India

Ian Chappell is impervious with Joe Root's captaincy and marked him as a dull skipper who vacillates a ton while coming to a conclusion to make a decision.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-ian-chappell-disagrees-with-manjrekar-explains-why-ashwin-is-among-best-389732" hreflang="en">Cricket: Ian Chappell disagrees with Manjrekar, explains why Ashwin is among best</a>

England will play six additional Tests before they bring on Australia in December, yet Ian Chappell has effectively discovered a few openings in the English camp.&nbsp;

Writing in his column for ESPNCricinfo, Chappell thinks that England has the fast bowlers to make inconvenience for Australia, however, it's their batting and Joe Root's captaincy that is a reason for concern.&nbsp;

"England possesses a potential series-winning group of fast bowlers. It is the top-order batting and Joe Root's captaincy that should be cause for concern. Joe Root’s captaincy often lacks imagination and reason. His tendency to have long discussions with senior players is reminiscent of Alastair Cook at his worst."

Adding further, Ian Chappell composed:&nbsp;“There’s a difference between a captain who consults and one who is uncertain; dithering is a bad look for a captain. There are times in Australia when a captain has to be imaginative in order to force the issue and this is not one of Root’s strengths.”

Joe Root has driven England multiple times in the longest format of the game, winning 26 and losing 18, while six matches finished in a draw. He has his Test win rate at 50.98 as a skipper.&nbsp;

Knocking down the England group further, Ian Chappell trusts the initial opening combination of Rory Burns and Dominic Sibley is unconvincing, and any semblance of Josh Hazlewood and Pat Cummins will lick their lips while facing them.&nbsp;

"The opening combination of Dominic Sibley and Rory Burns is both ungainly and unconvincing. Pat Cummins, Mitchell Starc, and Josh Hazlewood should rejoice if both names appear in the top slots on the team sheet at the Gabba. Given the skill of Australia's pace trio, poor starts could be a death sentence for England."

Rory Burns as of late stood tall in the midst of remnants in the proceeding Test against New Zealand. The batsman scored 132&nbsp;runs against the Kiwis. Dom Sibley, in the interim, was excused for a duck at Lord's, and his helpless pursue of structure proceeds with his bat.

Ian Chappell is impervious with Joe Root's captaincy and marked him as a dull skipper who vacillates a ton while coming to a conclusion to make a decision. ALSO READ: Cricket: Ian Chappell disagrees with Manjrekar, explains why Ashwin is among best England will play six additional Tests before they bring on Australia in December, yet Ian Chappell has effectively discovered a few openings in the English camp.

Ian Chappell is impervious with Joe Root's captaincy and marked him as a dull skipper who vacillates a ton while coming to a conclusion to make a decision. ALSO READ: Cricket: Ian Chappell disagrees with Manjrekar, explains why Ashwin is among best England will play six additional Tests before they bring on Australia in December, yet Ian Chappell has effectively discovered a few openings in the English camp. Writing in his column for ESPNCricinfo, Chappell thinks that England has the fast bowlers to make inconvenience for Australia, however, it's their batting and Joe Root's captaincy that is a reason for concern. "England possesses a potential series-winning group of fast bowlers. It is the top-order batting and Joe Root's captaincy that should be cause for concern. Joe Root’s captaincy often lacks imagination and reason. His tendency to have long discussions with senior players is reminiscent of Alastair Cook at his worst." Adding further, Ian Chappell composed: “There’s a difference between a captain who consults and one who is uncertain; dithering is a bad look for a captain. There are times in Australia when a captain has to be imaginative in order to force the issue and this is not one of Root’s strengths.” Joe Root has driven England multiple times in the longest format of the game, winning 26 and losing 18, while six matches finished in a draw. He has his Test win rate at 50.98 as a skipper. Knocking down the England group further, Ian Chappell trusts the initial opening combination of Rory Burns and Dominic Sibley is unconvincing, and any semblance of Josh Hazlewood and Pat Cummins will lick their lips while facing them. "The opening combination of Dominic Sibley and Rory Burns is both ungainly and unconvincing. Pat Cummins, Mitchell Starc, and Josh Hazlewood should rejoice if both names appear in the top slots on the team sheet at the Gabba. Given the skill of Australia's pace trio, poor starts could be a death sentence for England." Rory Burns as of late stood tall in the midst of remnants in the proceeding Test against New Zealand. The batsman scored 132 runs against the Kiwis. Dom Sibley, in the interim, was excused for a duck at Lord's, and his helpless pursue of structure proceeds with his bat.

Cricket- Joe Root's captaincy that should be cause for concern: Ian Chappell

Virat Kohli is now the most successful Indian Test skipper yet an ICC trophy actually keeps on escaping him. Virat Kohli has driven India in the 2017 Champions Trophy where Team India ended up as runners-up and in the 2019 World Cup Team India was knocked out in the semi-finals yet in spite of playing some quality cricket India didn't figure out how to arise as victors. Along these lines, Parthiv Patel believes the forthcoming World Test Championship finale against New Zealand will be Virat Kohli's opportunity to get his hands on an ICC trophy as the skipper of India.&nbsp;

"Now there is a chance for Virat Kohli - who has been eluded from the ICC trophy. He has led India in a couple of ICC tournaments, but this is big, winning the Test championship would be a big feather in his cap," Parthiv Parthiv told Star Sports.

Parthiv Patel believes that Virat Kohli's exhibition with the willow will hold the way into India's possibilities in the impending World Test Championship finale.&nbsp;

Team India is set to play New Zealand in the marquee occasion in Southampton beginning June 18.&nbsp;

Virat Kohli will be anxious to win an ICC Trophy for Team India under his administration. He will likewise want to be at the highest point of his game with the bat close by and make a match-characterizing commitment.&nbsp;

"I don't think Virat Kohli would be worried about his own performance" - Parthiv Patel said.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-jamieson-dismisses-skipper-root-on-the-very-first-ball-of-the-day-watch-389752" hreflang="en">Cricket: Jamieson dismisses skipper Root on the very first ball of the day - WATCH</a>

Virat Kohli delighted in incredible accomplishment with the bat on India's 2018 visit through England&nbsp;

Parthiv Patel saw that the teams' advantage will be first on Virat Kohli's psyche and that he won't be worried about his own individual presentation.&nbsp;

"Knowing Virat Kohli, I don't think he would be worried about his own performance at this point in time. He would be only thinking about how he can contribute so that India goes on to win this Test match."

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-mike-hesson-compares-virat-kohli-and-kane-williamsons-captaincy-styles-ahead-of-wtc-final-389774" hreflang="en">Cricket: Mike Hesson compares Virat Kohli and Kane Williamson's captaincy styles ahead of WTC Final</a>

Parthiv Patel concluded&nbsp;by expressing that Kohli will need to draw on his encounters from India's last visit through England, where he had made something happen in the wake of going through a sweltering time in 2014.&nbsp;

"He will go back to his drawing board and see what kind of adjustment he had made after the 2014 series and he came back brilliantly. There was a question mark over his technique and how he would play against Jimmy Anderson but he came back strongly. He definitely holds the key as far as India's batting is concerned."

There were question marks raised about Virat Kohli's strategy against the swinging ball after he averaged only 13.40 in five Tests in India's 2014 visit through England.&nbsp;

Be that as it may, he addressed every one of his faultfinders on India's last visit in 2018, as he amassed 593 runs at a phenomenal average of 59.30 and appeared to be untroubled by the moving ball.

Virat Kohli is now the most successful Indian Test skipper yet an ICC trophy actually keeps on escaping him. Virat Kohli has driven India in the 2017 Champions Trophy where Team India ended up as runners-up and in the 2019 World Cup Team India was knocked out in the semi-finals yet in spite of playing some quality cricket India didn't figure out how to arise as victors.

Virat Kohli is now the most successful Indian Test skipper yet an ICC trophy actually keeps on escaping him. Virat Kohli has driven India in the 2017 Champions Trophy where Team India ended up as runners-up and in the 2019 World Cup Team India was knocked out in the semi-finals yet in spite of playing some quality cricket India didn't figure out how to arise as victors. Along these lines, Parthiv Patel believes the forthcoming World Test Championship finale against New Zealand will be Virat Kohli's opportunity to get his hands on an ICC trophy as the skipper of India. "Now there is a chance for Virat Kohli - who has been eluded from the ICC trophy. He has led India in a couple of ICC tournaments, but this is big, winning the Test championship would be a big feather in his cap," Parthiv Parthiv told Star Sports. Parthiv Patel believes that Virat Kohli's exhibition with the willow will hold the way into India's possibilities in the impending World Test Championship finale. Team India is set to play New Zealand in the marquee occasion in Southampton beginning June 18. Virat Kohli will be anxious to win an ICC Trophy for Team India under his administration. He will likewise want to be at the highest point of his game with the bat close by and make a match-characterizing commitment. "I don't think Virat Kohli would be worried about his own performance" - Parthiv Patel said. ALSO READ: Cricket: Jamieson dismisses skipper Root on the very first ball of the day - WATCH Virat Kohli delighted in incredible accomplishment with the bat on India's 2018 visit through England Parthiv Patel saw that the teams' advantage will be first on Virat Kohli's psyche and that he won't be worried about his own individual presentation. "Knowing Virat Kohli, I don't think he would be worried about his own performance at this point in time. He would be only thinking about how he can contribute so that India goes on to win this Test match." ALSO READ: Cricket: Mike Hesson compares Virat Kohli and Kane Williamson's captaincy styles ahead of WTC Final Parthiv Patel concluded by expressing that Kohli will need to draw on his encounters from India's last visit through England, where he had made something happen in the wake of going through a sweltering time in 2014. "He will go back to his drawing board and see what kind of adjustment he had made after the 2014 series and he came back brilliantly. There was a question mark over his technique and how he would play against Jimmy Anderson but he came back strongly. He definitely holds the key as far as India's batting is concerned." There were question marks raised about Virat Kohli's strategy against the swinging ball after he averaged only 13.40 in five Tests in India's 2014 visit through England. Be that as it may, he addressed every one of his faultfinders on India's last visit in 2018, as he amassed 593 runs at a phenomenal average of 59.30 and appeared to be untroubled by the moving ball.

WTC Final: Virat Kohli's exhibition with bat will be the key for India, says Parthiv Patel

Former India all-rounder Yuvraj Singh has echoed Ravi Shastri’s comments that the final of the World Test Championship should have been a three-match affair rather than being a one-off Test to decide the winner in the longest format of the game. India take on New Zealand in the summit clash of WTC in Southampton, starting from June 18.<o:p></o:p>

Further highlighting the strengths and weaknesses of the Indian team, Yuvraj said the openers will have to step up to the challenges of playing in English conditions against the Dukes&nbsp;ball. <o:p></o:p>

"Rohit Sharma is very experienced now in Test matches. He has almost 7 hundreds, 4 hundreds as opener. But both Rohit and Shubman Gill have not opened in England ever," Yuvraj told Sports Tak.<o:p></o:p>

"They know the challenge, the Dukes Ball swings early. They have to get used to the conditions quickly. In England, it's important to take it one session at a time. In the morning, the ball swings and seams, in the afternoon you can score runs, after Tea, it swings again. As a batsman, if you can adapt to these things, you can be successful.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-i-wanted-to-perform-and-contribute-to-the-teams-win-kuldeep-yadav-389760" hreflang="en">Cricket: 'I wanted to perform and contribute to the team's win': Kuldeep Yadav</a><o:p></o:p>

"On the other hand, Shubman is a very young guy, still inexperienced but he should feel confident about his success in Australia. So, if he has the belief, he can do well anywhere else in the world."<o:p></o:p>

Meanwhile, India are currently undergoing quarantine in Southampton while New Zealand lock horns with England in a two-Test series. Yuvraj opined that India will have a slight disadvantage going into the WTC side as New Zealand are already playing Test cricket against England.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-jamieson-dismisses-skipper-root-on-the-very-first-ball-of-the-day-watch-389752" hreflang="en">Cricket: Jamieson dismisses skipper Root on the very first ball of the day - WATCH</a><o:p></o:p>

"I feel in a situation like this, there should be a best of 3 Tests, because if you lose the first one then you can come back in the next two. India will have a slight disadvantage because New Zealand are already playing Test cricket in England.<o:p></o:p>

"There are 8-10 practice sessions but there's no substitute for match-practice. It will be an even contest but New Zealand will have an edge," Yuvraj added.<o:p></o:p>

Former India all-rounder Yuvraj Singh has echoed Ravi Shastri’s comments that the final of the World Test Championship should have been a three-match affair rather than being a one-off Test to decide the winner in the longest format of the game.

Former India all-rounder Yuvraj Singh has echoed Ravi Shastri’s comments that the final of the World Test Championship should have been a three-match affair rather than being a one-off Test to decide the winner in the longest format of the game. India take on New Zealand in the summit clash of WTC in Southampton, starting from June 18. Further highlighting the strengths and weaknesses of the Indian team, Yuvraj said the openers will have to step up to the challenges of playing in English conditions against the Dukes ball. "Rohit Sharma is very experienced now in Test matches. He has almost 7 hundreds, 4 hundreds as opener. But both Rohit and Shubman Gill have not opened in England ever," Yuvraj told Sports Tak. "They know the challenge, the Dukes Ball swings early. They have to get used to the conditions quickly. In England, it's important to take it one session at a time. In the morning, the ball swings and seams, in the afternoon you can score runs, after Tea, it swings again. As a batsman, if you can adapt to these things, you can be successful. ALSO READ: Cricket: 'I wanted to perform and contribute to the team's win': Kuldeep Yadav "On the other hand, Shubman is a very young guy, still inexperienced but he should feel confident about his success in Australia. So, if he has the belief, he can do well anywhere else in the world." Meanwhile, India are currently undergoing quarantine in Southampton while New Zealand lock horns with England in a two-Test series. Yuvraj opined that India will have a slight disadvantage going into the WTC side as New Zealand are already playing Test cricket against England. ALSO READ: Cricket: Jamieson dismisses skipper Root on the very first ball of the day - WATCH "I feel in a situation like this, there should be a best of 3 Tests, because if you lose the first one then you can come back in the next two. India will have a slight disadvantage because New Zealand are already playing Test cricket in England. "There are 8-10 practice sessions but there's no substitute for match-practice. It will be an even contest but New Zealand will have an edge," Yuvraj added.

Cricket: Yuvraj Singh echoes Ravi Shastri's stand, says WTC final should have been three-match series

Former Indian cricketer Sanjay Manjrekar has disagreed with Ian Chappell’s comments where he termed Ravichandran Ashwin as an “all-time great”. Opining on the matter, Manjrekar said he has a problem with people terming Ashwin as an all-time great while adding that the veteran Indian spinner doesn’t have a five-wicket haul at SENA countries.<o:p></o:p>

Ian Chappell, on ESPNCricinfo show Runorder, said that Ashwin is one of the best Test bowlers but Manjrekar clearly isn’t in agreement with the former Australian cricketer.<o:p></o:p>

Manjrekar, while citing Ashwin’s overseas record, said that even the likes of Ravindra Jadeja and Axar Patel have performed well in Indian conditions.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-i-wanted-to-perform-and-contribute-to-the-teams-win-kuldeep-yadav-389760" hreflang="en">Cricket: 'I wanted to perform and contribute to the team's win': Kuldeep Yadav</a><o:p></o:p>

“One basic problem I have with Ashwin is that when you look at SENA countries, Ashwin doesn’t have a single five-wicket haul there. And the other thing when you talk about him running through sides on Indian pitches that are suited to his kind of bowling is that in the last four years, Jadeja has matched him with wicket-taking abilities. Then, interestingly, in the last series against England, Axar Patel got more wickets than Ashwin on similar pitches. So that is my problem with accepting Ashwin as a real all-time great,” Manjrekar said<o:p></o:p>

However, Chappell added that it is like being Joel Garner whose “wickets are shared around” while being surrounded by great bowlers. But Manjrekar’s comments did attract a lot of criticism on social media.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-jamieson-dismisses-skipper-root-on-the-very-first-ball-of-the-day-watch-389752" hreflang="en">Cricket: Jamieson dismisses skipper Root on the very first ball of the day - WATCH</a><o:p></o:p>

Meanwhile, Ashwin will be seen in action during the World Test Championship final between India and New Zealand and five-Test series against England.<o:p></o:p>

Former Indian cricketer Sanjay Manjrekar has disagreed with Ian Chappell’s comments where he termed Ravichandran Ashwin as an “all-time great”. Opining on the matter, Manjrekar said he has a problem with people terming Ashwin as an all-time great while adding that the veteran Indian spinner doesn’t have a five-wicket haul at SENA countries.

Former Indian cricketer Sanjay Manjrekar has disagreed with Ian Chappell’s comments where he termed Ravichandran Ashwin as an “all-time great”. Opining on the matter, Manjrekar said he has a problem with people terming Ashwin as an all-time great while adding that the veteran Indian spinner doesn’t have a five-wicket haul at SENA countries. Ian Chappell, on ESPNCricinfo show Runorder, said that Ashwin is one of the best Test bowlers but Manjrekar clearly isn’t in agreement with the former Australian cricketer. Manjrekar, while citing Ashwin’s overseas record, said that even the likes of Ravindra Jadeja and Axar Patel have performed well in Indian conditions. ALSO READ: Cricket: 'I wanted to perform and contribute to the team's win': Kuldeep Yadav “One basic problem I have with Ashwin is that when you look at SENA countries, Ashwin doesn’t have a single five-wicket haul there. And the other thing when you talk about him running through sides on Indian pitches that are suited to his kind of bowling is that in the last four years, Jadeja has matched him with wicket-taking abilities. Then, interestingly, in the last series against England, Axar Patel got more wickets than Ashwin on similar pitches. So that is my problem with accepting Ashwin as a real all-time great,” Manjrekar said However, Chappell added that it is like being Joel Garner whose “wickets are shared around” while being surrounded by great bowlers. But Manjrekar’s comments did attract a lot of criticism on social media. ALSO READ: Cricket: Jamieson dismisses skipper Root on the very first ball of the day - WATCH Meanwhile, Ashwin will be seen in action during the World Test Championship final between India and New Zealand and five-Test series against England.

Cricket: ‘Have few problems with Ashwin being called an all-time great’ – Sanjay Manjrekar disagrees with Ian Chappell

Former India chief selector MSK Prasad has named Suryakumar Yadav as the player to watch out for in the upcoming limited-overs series against Sri Lanka. With the likes of Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma, KL Rahul among other busy with the longest format of the game in England with World Test Championship final versus New Zealand and five-Test assignment against England.<o:p></o:p>

The Indian selectors will pick a squad of limited-overs specialists for the Sri Lanka tour wherein the Men in Blue will play three T20Is and as many ODIs. Prasad reckons that the Mumbai Indians star will be the go-to man in the tour of Sri Lanka.<o:p></o:p>

&nbsp;“Suryakumar Yadav is the guy to watch out for. Ishan and Sanju also have a great opportunity at hand. I would have also loved to see Avesh Khan (named standby for the UK tour). He has been excellent in the IPL, and it would be unfortunate to see him miss out on playing in either series,” Prasad told Sportstar.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-lack-of-match-practice-may-hurt-virat-kohli-rohit-sharma-in-wtc-final-opines-dilip-vengsarkar-389786" hreflang="en">Cricket: Lack of match practice may hurt Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma in WTC Final, opines Dilip Vengsarkar</a><o:p></o:p>

Prasad highlighted how the confidence level of the current crop of players has more confidence as compared to the players of the 90s. <o:p></o:p>

“The skill level back then was similar to what we have now. But the confidence levels of the boys today are five times more than what we had then. Simple example: first ball, Suryakumar Yadav, gets an opportunity to play in a T20I game, smashes one of the best bowlers in the world for a six. Or Ishan Kishan, the way he blasted the opposition (England) on debut,” Prasad added.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/terrible-watcher-of-cricket-sunil-gavaskar-explains-the-reason-behind-not-coaching-team-india-389783" hreflang="en">'Terrible watcher of cricket': Sunil Gavaskar explains the reason behind not coaching Team India</a><o:p></o:p>

The former Indian chief selector added that it won’t be a surprise if India’s second-string side manages to beat Sri Lanka on their home soil. <o:p></o:p>

Former India chief selector MSK Prasad has named Suryakumar Yadav as the player to watch out for in the upcoming limited-overs series against Sri Lanka. With the likes of Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma, KL Rahul among other busy with the longest format of the game in England with World Test Championship final versus New Zealand and five-Test assignment against England.

Former India chief selector MSK Prasad has named Suryakumar Yadav as the player to watch out for in the upcoming limited-overs series against Sri Lanka. With the likes of Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma, KL Rahul among other busy with the longest format of the game in England with World Test Championship final versus New Zealand and five-Test assignment against England. The Indian selectors will pick a squad of limited-overs specialists for the Sri Lanka tour wherein the Men in Blue will play three T20Is and as many ODIs. Prasad reckons that the Mumbai Indians star will be the go-to man in the tour of Sri Lanka. “Suryakumar Yadav is the guy to watch out for. Ishan and Sanju also have a great opportunity at hand. I would have also loved to see Avesh Khan (named standby for the UK tour). He has been excellent in the IPL, and it would be unfortunate to see him miss out on playing in either series,” Prasad told Sportstar. ALSO READ: Cricket: Lack of match practice may hurt Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma in WTC Final, opines Dilip Vengsarkar Prasad highlighted how the confidence level of the current crop of players has more confidence as compared to the players of the 90s. “The skill level back then was similar to what we have now. But the confidence levels of the boys today are five times more than what we had then. Simple example: first ball, Suryakumar Yadav, gets an opportunity to play in a T20I game, smashes one of the best bowlers in the world for a six. Or Ishan Kishan, the way he blasted the opposition (England) on debut,” Prasad added. ALSO READ: 'Terrible watcher of cricket': Sunil Gavaskar explains the reason behind not coaching Team India The former Indian chief selector added that it won’t be a surprise if India’s second-string side manages to beat Sri Lanka on their home soil.

Cricket: Former India chief selector MSK Prasad names player to watch out for in Sri Lanka tour

Legendary former Indian cricketer Dilip Vengsarkar reckons that the lack of preparation heading into the ICC World Test Championship final “may hurt” the Indian cricket team. Vengsarkar’s comments come after Kohli, in the pre-departure press conference, said that lack of practice is not a big worry for the team. <o:p></o:p>

While India are undergoing quarantine in Southampton, New Zealand are taking on England in a two-Test series before the World Test Championship final. Opining on the matter, Vengsarkar said that despite Kohli and Rohit being world-class players, the lack of matches in the build-up to the event could hamper their performance in the WTC final. <o:p></o:p>

"Well he (Kohli) has been around for a long time. He (Kohli) is one of the best batsmen in world cricket at the moment. Players like Virat or Rohit Sharma, they are world-class players, they take a lot of pride in their performance and pride in winning matches for India," Vengsarkar, the former chairman of selectors, told PTI on Sunday. <o:p></o:p>

"It is a good thing and both are in very good form. But having said that, I think lack of match practice may hurt them in the first Test match that is what I feel," Vengsarkar said.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-mike-hesson-compares-virat-kohli-and-kane-williamsons-captaincy-styles-ahead-of-wtc-final-389774" hreflang="en">Cricket: Mike Hesson compares Virat Kohli and Kane Williamson's captaincy styles ahead of WTC Final</a>

Vengsarkar further said that the two-Test series against England will give a perfect opportunity for the Black Caps to gear up for the much-awaited WTC final. <o:p></o:p>

"India is a better team and in great form. The advantage with New Zealand, it is a low profile team, the thing is that they are getting to play two Test matches before the Test match (World Test Championship final)," Vengsarkar said.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-sri-lankan-players-refuse-to-sign-new-contracts-but-ready-to-feature-in-england-tour-389763" hreflang="en">Cricket: Sri Lankan players refuse to sign new contracts but ready to feature in England tour</a><o:p></o:p>

"So it is important... it is a slight advantage to New Zealand... because they have already played two Test matches before they start (of the WTC final), they are acclimatised to the conditions," reckoned Vengsarkar.<o:p></o:p>

"What I feel is that India should have played games, you know matches, at least two-three games before the Test match (WTC), to get acclimatised to the conditions."<o:p></o:p>

Legendary former Indian cricketer Dilip Vengsarkar reckons that the lack of preparation heading into the ICC World Test Championship final “may hurt” the Indian cricket team.

Legendary former Indian cricketer Dilip Vengsarkar reckons that the lack of preparation heading into the ICC World Test Championship final “may hurt” the Indian cricket team. Vengsarkar’s comments come after Kohli, in the pre-departure press conference, said that lack of practice is not a big worry for the team. While India are undergoing quarantine in Southampton, New Zealand are taking on England in a two-Test series before the World Test Championship final. Opining on the matter, Vengsarkar said that despite Kohli and Rohit being world-class players, the lack of matches in the build-up to the event could hamper their performance in the WTC final. "Well he (Kohli) has been around for a long time. He (Kohli) is one of the best batsmen in world cricket at the moment. Players like Virat or Rohit Sharma, they are world-class players, they take a lot of pride in their performance and pride in winning matches for India," Vengsarkar, the former chairman of selectors, told PTI on Sunday. "It is a good thing and both are in very good form. But having said that, I think lack of match practice may hurt them in the first Test match that is what I feel," Vengsarkar said. ALSO READ: Cricket: Mike Hesson compares Virat Kohli and Kane Williamson's captaincy styles ahead of WTC Final Vengsarkar further said that the two-Test series against England will give a perfect opportunity for the Black Caps to gear up for the much-awaited WTC final. "India is a better team and in great form. The advantage with New Zealand, it is a low profile team, the thing is that they are getting to play two Test matches before the Test match (World Test Championship final)," Vengsarkar said. ALSO READ: Cricket: Sri Lankan players refuse to sign new contracts but ready to feature in England tour "So it is important... it is a slight advantage to New Zealand... because they have already played two Test matches before they start (of the WTC final), they are acclimatised to the conditions," reckoned Vengsarkar. "What I feel is that India should have played games, you know matches, at least two-three games before the Test match (WTC), to get acclimatised to the conditions."

Cricket: Lack of match practice may hurt Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma in WTC Final, opines Dilip Vengsarkar

Former New Zealand head coach Mike Hesson is expecting the upcoming World Test Championship final between India and New Zealand to be an equal contest. India take on New Zealand in a high-octane final of the World Test Championship at the Rose Bowl in Southampton, starting from June 18.<o:p></o:p>

Hesson reckons that it will be an exciting game between the two top sides in the longest format of the game while adding no injury concerns for both the teams will make it a worthwhile watch for the fans.<o:p></o:p>

"They are even. The fact that it’s being played at a neutral venue also makes the WTC final an even contest. I think both sides are going to be at their strongest, which is great. Assuming there are no injuries in the next couple of weeks, both sides will be at full strength and we are in for an exciting Test," the former New Zealand coach told TimesofIndia.com.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-i-wanted-to-perform-and-contribute-to-the-teams-win-kuldeep-yadav-389760" hreflang="en">Cricket: 'I wanted to perform and contribute to the team's win': Kuldeep Yadav</a><o:p></o:p>

Hesson has worked with both New Zealand captain Kane Williamson and Indian skipper Virat Kohli. While Hesson was the head coach of New Zealand in past, he is currently the Director of Cricket at RCB with Kohli leading the franchise.<o:p></o:p>

Comparing the two, Hesson said that Williamson is a slow-burn, who will seek a perfect time to put pressure on the opponent while Kohli wants to attack from the word go. <o:p></o:p>

"Both are very good leaders and yes, both are different in their style of captaincy. Kane is more of a slow-burn in the sense that he likes to put pressure over a period of time. Virat, on the other hand, is constantly looking for ways to put his side in the driver’s seat. The WTC final will be a test of captaincy for both Kane and Virat. As the wicket changes from day to day, it will be interesting to see how both Kane and Virat make those little tweaks in their strategies to stay ahead," Hesson said.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-jamieson-dismisses-skipper-root-on-the-very-first-ball-of-the-day-watch-389752" hreflang="en">Cricket: Jamieson dismisses skipper Root on the very first ball of the day - WATCH</a><o:p></o:p>

New Zealand are currently playing a two-Test series against England whereas India are undergoing quarantine in Southampton.<o:p></o:p>

Former New Zealand head coach Mike Hesson is expecting the upcoming World Test Championship final between India and New Zealand to be an equal contest. India take on New Zealand in a high-octane final of the World Test Championship at the Rose Bowl in Southampton, starting from June 18.

Former New Zealand head coach Mike Hesson is expecting the upcoming World Test Championship final between India and New Zealand to be an equal contest. India take on New Zealand in a high-octane final of the World Test Championship at the Rose Bowl in Southampton, starting from June 18. Hesson reckons that it will be an exciting game between the two top sides in the longest format of the game while adding no injury concerns for both the teams will make it a worthwhile watch for the fans. "They are even. The fact that it’s being played at a neutral venue also makes the WTC final an even contest. I think both sides are going to be at their strongest, which is great. Assuming there are no injuries in the next couple of weeks, both sides will be at full strength and we are in for an exciting Test," the former New Zealand coach told TimesofIndia.com. ALSO READ: Cricket: 'I wanted to perform and contribute to the team's win': Kuldeep Yadav Hesson has worked with both New Zealand captain Kane Williamson and Indian skipper Virat Kohli. While Hesson was the head coach of New Zealand in past, he is currently the Director of Cricket at RCB with Kohli leading the franchise. Comparing the two, Hesson said that Williamson is a slow-burn, who will seek a perfect time to put pressure on the opponent while Kohli wants to attack from the word go. "Both are very good leaders and yes, both are different in their style of captaincy. Kane is more of a slow-burn in the sense that he likes to put pressure over a period of time. Virat, on the other hand, is constantly looking for ways to put his side in the driver’s seat. The WTC final will be a test of captaincy for both Kane and Virat. As the wicket changes from day to day, it will be interesting to see how both Kane and Virat make those little tweaks in their strategies to stay ahead," Hesson said. ALSO READ: Cricket: Jamieson dismisses skipper Root on the very first ball of the day - WATCH New Zealand are currently playing a two-Test series against England whereas India are undergoing quarantine in Southampton.

Cricket: Mike Hesson compares Virat Kohli and Kane Williamson's captaincy styles ahead of WTC Final

Kuldeep Yadav has expressed his disappointment at not being part for the Indian squad for the World Test Championship final and the resulting five-match series against England.&nbsp;

A 24-part Indian crew, including four reserve players, have headed out to England for the World Test Championship finale against New Zealand and the Test series against England. Kuldeep Yadav, who was essential for the Indian squad for most of the WTC cycle despite the fact that he had the opportunity to play only one Test, isn't important for this unforeseen.&nbsp;

In an interview with India News, Kuldeep Yadav said: "I am disappointed not to be part of the Indian team because I wanted to go and perform and contribute to the team's win. These things happen, yes you are sad, but at the same time you are ready to perform in the next opportunity," said Yadav.

The left-arm wrist-spinner is hopeful about being a part of the Indian limited-overs crew for the visit through Sri Lanka.&nbsp;

"I didn't go there, so hopefully I will go to Sri Lanka and get the chance to perform there. Cricket should continue happening, every player is sad when he is not in the team, everyone wants to remain in the team but sometimes the situation is such that you are not part of the team," added Kuldeep Yadav.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-sri-lankan-players-refuse-to-sign-new-contracts-but-ready-to-feature-in-england-tour-389763" hreflang="en">Cricket: Sri Lankan players refuse to sign new contracts but ready to feature in England tour</a>

Team India will play three ODIs and as a huge number on their limited-overs visit through Sri Lanka in July. Kuldeep Yadav is probably going to get firm rivalry from any semblance of Yuzvendra Chahal and Rahul Chahar for a spot in the playing XI regardless of whether he will be picked.&nbsp;

Kuldeep Yadav additionally communicated idealism about the Indian group winning in the WTC final, thinking about their brilliant exhibitions in a few series.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-jamieson-dismisses-skipper-root-on-the-very-first-ball-of-the-day-watch-389752" hreflang="en">Cricket: Jamieson dismisses skipper Root on the very first ball of the day - WATCH</a>

"The sort of cricket we are playing for the last three-four years and the positive atmosphere in the team, even when we play away we treat it as a home series, the way the team played in Australia and then against England, I feel we should and we will win," said Yadav.

Team India will be on a high after their dig out from a deficit wins against both Australia and England. Be that as it may, the seamer-accommodating English conditions may represent an alternate test to them and they would need to be at the highest point of their game right from the beginning, with it being a one-off experience.

Kuldeep Yadav has expressed his disappointment at not being part for the Indian squad for the World Test Championship final and the resulting five-match series against England.

Kuldeep Yadav has expressed his disappointment at not being part for the Indian squad for the World Test Championship final and the resulting five-match series against England. A 24-part Indian crew, including four reserve players, have headed out to England for the World Test Championship finale against New Zealand and the Test series against England. Kuldeep Yadav, who was essential for the Indian squad for most of the WTC cycle despite the fact that he had the opportunity to play only one Test, isn't important for this unforeseen. In an interview with India News, Kuldeep Yadav said: "I am disappointed not to be part of the Indian team because I wanted to go and perform and contribute to the team's win. These things happen, yes you are sad, but at the same time you are ready to perform in the next opportunity," said Yadav. The left-arm wrist-spinner is hopeful about being a part of the Indian limited-overs crew for the visit through Sri Lanka. "I didn't go there, so hopefully I will go to Sri Lanka and get the chance to perform there. Cricket should continue happening, every player is sad when he is not in the team, everyone wants to remain in the team but sometimes the situation is such that you are not part of the team," added Kuldeep Yadav. ALSO READ: Cricket: Sri Lankan players refuse to sign new contracts but ready to feature in England tour Team India will play three ODIs and as a huge number on their limited-overs visit through Sri Lanka in July. Kuldeep Yadav is probably going to get firm rivalry from any semblance of Yuzvendra Chahal and Rahul Chahar for a spot in the playing XI regardless of whether he will be picked. Kuldeep Yadav additionally communicated idealism about the Indian group winning in the WTC final, thinking about their brilliant exhibitions in a few series. ALSO READ: Cricket: Jamieson dismisses skipper Root on the very first ball of the day - WATCH "The sort of cricket we are playing for the last three-four years and the positive atmosphere in the team, even when we play away we treat it as a home series, the way the team played in Australia and then against England, I feel we should and we will win," said Yadav. Team India will be on a high after their dig out from a deficit wins against both Australia and England. Be that as it may, the seamer-accommodating English conditions may represent an alternate test to them and they would need to be at the highest point of their game right from the beginning, with it being a one-off experience.

Cricket: 'I wanted to perform and contribute to the team's win': Kuldeep Yadav

Deep Dasgupta expressed his opinion on the Ollie Robinson contention, proposing ways on how such outrages could stay away from later on. He wants boards to step in and sharpen players at the grassroots level.&nbsp;

Ollie Robinson's tweets reemerged on the day the bowler made his first appearance. A similar set-off shock on the web, with the bowler saying 'sorry' for his activities after Day 1 of England versus New Zealand Test.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-he-lends-flexibility-dinesh-karthik-on-rishabh-pant-ahead-of-wtc-finals-389602" hreflang="en">Cricket: 'He lends flexibility': Dinesh Karthik on Rishabh Pant ahead of WTC finals</a>

Deep Dasgupta tended to the contention on his YouTube channel, addressing whether cricket is finding a way any substantial ways to handle prejudice and other social indecencies at the grassroots level.

“We have been hearing about zero tolerance against racism, in football you see players taking a knee. All this is great for optics, but is anything happening at the ground level? That is more important" - he said.&nbsp;

"This is where associations who act as the safe-keepers of the sport, like the ECB, BCCI, and ICC, come into play. They will have to get involved at a very grassroots level. Optics and saying things like zero tolerance to racism is very easy. But working at the ground level is the most important thing” - he added&nbsp;

In the wake of conversations on how the circumstance could be improved, Deep Dasgupta, on his YouTube channel, submitted a practical idea to make cricket and players more comprehensive.&nbsp;

"For example, they are grassroots academies where kids are taught how to play the game. But along with that other things need to be taught to them as well because as sportspersons, they are ambassadors of the sport and the nation. It is very important to educate these kids and increase their awareness about racism, sexism, body-shaming, etc" - he said&nbsp;

Deep Dasgupta feels the current contention holds a fundamental exercise for youthful cricketers hoping to break into the senior groups.&nbsp;

“Another thing the upcoming generation needs to understand is that whatever they put up on social media, it is there for perpetuity. You can’t remove that. Please be mindful of what you do on social media. Be very responsible because whatever you put up right now can come back to bite you 5-8 years down the line” - he added.&nbsp;

Ollie Robinson is set to bear a major discipline for his activities. Notwithstanding intriguing in the initial Test against the Kiwis, different reports recommend he will be dropped for the subsequent Test. 
&nbsp;

Deep Dasgupta expressed his opinion on the Ollie Robinson contention, proposing ways on how such outrages could stay away from later on. He wants boards to step in and sharpen players at the grassroots level.

Deep Dasgupta expressed his opinion on the Ollie Robinson contention, proposing ways on how such outrages could stay away from later on. He wants boards to step in and sharpen players at the grassroots level. Ollie Robinson's tweets reemerged on the day the bowler made his first appearance. A similar set-off shock on the web, with the bowler saying 'sorry' for his activities after Day 1 of England versus New Zealand Test. ALSO READ: Cricket: 'He lends flexibility': Dinesh Karthik on Rishabh Pant ahead of WTC finals Deep Dasgupta tended to the contention on his YouTube channel, addressing whether cricket is finding a way any substantial ways to handle prejudice and other social indecencies at the grassroots level. “We have been hearing about zero tolerance against racism, in football you see players taking a knee. All this is great for optics, but is anything happening at the ground level? That is more important" - he said. "This is where associations who act as the safe-keepers of the sport, like the ECB, BCCI, and ICC, come into play. They will have to get involved at a very grassroots level. Optics and saying things like zero tolerance to racism is very easy. But working at the ground level is the most important thing” - he added In the wake of conversations on how the circumstance could be improved, Deep Dasgupta, on his YouTube channel, submitted a practical idea to make cricket and players more comprehensive. "For example, they are grassroots academies where kids are taught how to play the game. But along with that other things need to be taught to them as well because as sportspersons, they are ambassadors of the sport and the nation. It is very important to educate these kids and increase their awareness about racism, sexism, body-shaming, etc" - he said Deep Dasgupta feels the current contention holds a fundamental exercise for youthful cricketers hoping to break into the senior groups. “Another thing the upcoming generation needs to understand is that whatever they put up on social media, it is there for perpetuity. You can’t remove that. Please be mindful of what you do on social media. Be very responsible because whatever you put up right now can come back to bite you 5-8 years down the line” - he added. Ollie Robinson is set to bear a major discipline for his activities. Notwithstanding intriguing in the initial Test against the Kiwis, different reports recommend he will be dropped for the subsequent Test.

Cricket- 'Be mindful of what you do on social media': Deep Dasgupta on Ollie Robinson misconduct

Brendon McCullum has praised both Virat Kohli and Kane Williamson for driving their separate teams splendidly in the World Test Championship. As indicated by Brendon McCullum, the two India and New Zealand are meriting finalists of the WTC.&nbsp;

Team India and the Kiwis will meet in the World Test Championship finale in Southampton from June 18-22. While New Zealand are as of now confronting England at Lord's in the initial Test of the two-match arrangement, the Indian unforeseen arrived at the UK on Thursday.&nbsp;

Addressing Sports Today, Brendon McCullum showered acclaims on both Virat Kohli and Kane Williamson in the development to the final. He said:

“Both Virat and Kane have led their sides brilliantly. Their own forms have been superb. To be able to qualify for the WTC final is a massive achievement. To reach the final of WTC, the results they needed for a long period. You have to force the situations in Test cricket to garner success in the longest format of the game. Both captains have pushed their teams to excel, and I believe they rightfully deserve the opportunity to play in the final.”

He likewise analyzed the different styles of the two skippers. As per McCullum, while their techniques might be unique, both Kohli and Williamson realize how to get the best out of their team. He explained:&nbsp;

“They are inspirational leaders but lead their teams indifferently. Kohli is out and out aggressive, while Williamson is a dominant leader but is not as expressive as his counterpart. They are true ambassadors of the game and are the must-watch talents of the present time.”

“Apart from being great leaders, they are two giants of the International game at his point of time. One of the amazing qualities they both have is to get the best out of those around them. It has helped them to achieve some special things for their countries,” McCullum went on to add.

“One of them will lift the trophy, or there is a possibility that both of them can share it because the rules have changed” - on who is the top choice to secure the WTC trophy. 
The International Cricket Council as of late reported that the two India and New Zealand will be proclaimed joint champions in the event that the WTC final closes in a draw or tie. 
&nbsp;

Brendon McCullum has praised both Virat Kohli and Kane Williamson for driving their separate teams splendidly in the World Test Championship. As indicated by Brendon McCullum, the two India and New Zealand are meriting finalists of the WTC.

Brendon McCullum has praised both Virat Kohli and Kane Williamson for driving their separate teams splendidly in the World Test Championship. As indicated by Brendon McCullum, the two India and New Zealand are meriting finalists of the WTC. Team India and the Kiwis will meet in the World Test Championship finale in Southampton from June 18-22. While New Zealand are as of now confronting England at Lord's in the initial Test of the two-match arrangement, the Indian unforeseen arrived at the UK on Thursday. Addressing Sports Today, Brendon McCullum showered acclaims on both Virat Kohli and Kane Williamson in the development to the final. He said: “Both Virat and Kane have led their sides brilliantly. Their own forms have been superb. To be able to qualify for the WTC final is a massive achievement. To reach the final of WTC, the results they needed for a long period. You have to force the situations in Test cricket to garner success in the longest format of the game. Both captains have pushed their teams to excel, and I believe they rightfully deserve the opportunity to play in the final.” He likewise analyzed the different styles of the two skippers. As per McCullum, while their techniques might be unique, both Kohli and Williamson realize how to get the best out of their team. He explained: “They are inspirational leaders but lead their teams indifferently. Kohli is out and out aggressive, while Williamson is a dominant leader but is not as expressive as his counterpart. They are true ambassadors of the game and are the must-watch talents of the present time.” “Apart from being great leaders, they are two giants of the International game at his point of time. One of the amazing qualities they both have is to get the best out of those around them. It has helped them to achieve some special things for their countries,” McCullum went on to add. “One of them will lift the trophy, or there is a possibility that both of them can share it because the rules have changed” - on who is the top choice to secure the WTC trophy. The International Cricket Council as of late reported that the two India and New Zealand will be proclaimed joint champions in the event that the WTC final closes in a draw or tie.

WTC Final: Brendon McCullum analyses Virat Kohli and Kane Williamson's captaincy styles

Vikram Rathour - Team India's batting coach was all commendation for Virat Kohli, considering him the best batsman in global cricket. He featured Virat Kohli's greatest quality, hailing the Indian captain's capacity to adjust to circumstances.&nbsp;

In an interaction with The Times of India, Vikram Rathour opened up on what separates the unique batsman from others.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/wtc-final-brendon-mccullum-analyses-virat-kohli-and-kane-williamsons-captaincy-styles-389377" hreflang="en">WTC Final: Brendon McCullum analyses Virat Kohli and Kane Williamson's captaincy styles</a>

"Virat is, obviously, the awesome the world. His records represent him. The sort of ability and consistency he's shown is there for us all to see. His hard-working attitudes are best in class. Be that as it may, as far as I might be concerned, the greatest quality I've seen in Virat, and I've said it before as well, is his versatility. Around there, he's interesting. He is somebody who can easily change gears and change his game contingent upon the circumstance and that is his greatest quality" - he said.

He sponsored his take with a wise model from 2016, uncovering how Virat Kohli adjusted his game surprisingly fast. Vikram Rathour talked about how Virat Kohli consistently changed his game to suit the arrangement he was playing in 2016.&nbsp;

“In 2016, when he scored those four centuries in the IPL, he hit some 40-odd sixes and had a strike rate of 150-plus. I joined the team, as a selector, after that IPL and we were playing the West Indies in Tests. Now this guy, who'd just come from the IPL having scored 900-plus runs, goes into the first Test and scored a double hundred without hitting a single ball in the air” - he added&nbsp;

Generally viewed as the best batsmen in the game, Virat Kohli is the simply one to be in the best 5 ICC rankings across each of the three configurations.&nbsp;

Growing further on what makes Virat Kohli a one-of-a-kind element in world cricket, Vikram Rathour feels his capacity to be an overall batsman is the thing that separates him from others.&nbsp;

“We have so many players today, internationally, who have strengths and certain areas in which they're at the top of their game. Some take stress well, some have a good defense, some can be explosive at will. Virat is a combination of all these elements and that, I think, is his biggest strength. He's a complete package” - he said.&nbsp;

Known for being an astonishing chaser, Virat Kohli has adjusted his game to suit his group's necessities as of late.&nbsp;

From relinquishing his number three spot to obliging others to put team targets above close-to-home brilliance, Vikram Rathour hailed Virat Kohli's match mindfulness.

“It's not about whether he can hit a six, of course, he can hit a six. But does the team or the situation require that now, or does it require him to stay out there in the middle and man the ship? Virat's the kind of guy who can change those gears better than anyone else in the game today. That's what makes him who he is. I haven't seen anybody who can do it the way Virat does it" - he signed off.

Vikram Rathour - Team India's batting coach was all commendation for Virat Kohli, considering him the best batsman in global cricket. He featured Virat Kohli's greatest quality, hailing the Indian captain's capacity to adjust to circumstances.

Vikram Rathour - Team India's batting coach was all commendation for Virat Kohli, considering him the best batsman in global cricket. He featured Virat Kohli's greatest quality, hailing the Indian captain's capacity to adjust to circumstances. In an interaction with The Times of India, Vikram Rathour opened up on what separates the unique batsman from others. ALSO READ: WTC Final: Brendon McCullum analyses Virat Kohli and Kane Williamson's captaincy styles "Virat is, obviously, the awesome the world. His records represent him. The sort of ability and consistency he's shown is there for us all to see. His hard-working attitudes are best in class. Be that as it may, as far as I might be concerned, the greatest quality I've seen in Virat, and I've said it before as well, is his versatility. Around there, he's interesting. He is somebody who can easily change gears and change his game contingent upon the circumstance and that is his greatest quality" - he said. He sponsored his take with a wise model from 2016, uncovering how Virat Kohli adjusted his game surprisingly fast. Vikram Rathour talked about how Virat Kohli consistently changed his game to suit the arrangement he was playing in 2016. “In 2016, when he scored those four centuries in the IPL, he hit some 40-odd sixes and had a strike rate of 150-plus. I joined the team, as a selector, after that IPL and we were playing the West Indies in Tests. Now this guy, who'd just come from the IPL having scored 900-plus runs, goes into the first Test and scored a double hundred without hitting a single ball in the air” - he added Generally viewed as the best batsmen in the game, Virat Kohli is the simply one to be in the best 5 ICC rankings across each of the three configurations. Growing further on what makes Virat Kohli a one-of-a-kind element in world cricket, Vikram Rathour feels his capacity to be an overall batsman is the thing that separates him from others. “We have so many players today, internationally, who have strengths and certain areas in which they're at the top of their game. Some take stress well, some have a good defense, some can be explosive at will. Virat is a combination of all these elements and that, I think, is his biggest strength. He's a complete package” - he said. Known for being an astonishing chaser, Virat Kohli has adjusted his game to suit his group's necessities as of late. From relinquishing his number three spot to obliging others to put team targets above close-to-home brilliance, Vikram Rathour hailed Virat Kohli's match mindfulness. “It's not about whether he can hit a six, of course, he can hit a six. But does the team or the situation require that now, or does it require him to stay out there in the middle and man the ship? Virat's the kind of guy who can change those gears better than anyone else in the game today. That's what makes him who he is. I haven't seen anybody who can do it the way Virat does it" - he signed off.

Cricket: Batting coach Vikram Rathour reveals Virat Kohli's 'biggest quality' as batsman

New Zealand's Devon Conway joined a select group of cricketers on Wednesday by marking his Test debut with a hundred at Lord's.

The South Africa-born opener found himself thrust into the action straight away after New Zealand captain Kane Williamson won the toss and batted in the first of a two-match series against England.

But while star batsman Williamson and the experienced Ross Taylor both fell cheaply, the 29-year-old Conway pressed on to a 163-ball century, reaching the landmark with a flamboyant whipped legside four, his 11th boundary, off England debutant fast bowler Ollie Robinson.

At stumps, Conway had made an unbeaten 136 in a total of 246-3, having shared an unbroken partnership of 132 with fellow left-hander Henry Nicholls (46 not out).

Only five other batsmen had previously scored a Test debut hundred at Lord's, with Conway the first New Zealand international to achieve the feat.

Batsmen to have scored Test debut hundred at Lord's (player, total, team, opposition, year):

Harry Graham &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; 107 &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;AUS v ENG &nbsp;1893

John Hampshire &nbsp; 107 &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;ENG v WIS &nbsp;1969

Sourav Ganguly &nbsp; 131 &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;IND v ENG &nbsp;1996

Andrew Strauss &nbsp; 112 &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;ENG v NZL &nbsp;2004

Matt Prior &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; 126 no &nbsp;&nbsp;ENG v WIS &nbsp;2007

Devon Conway &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; 136 no&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;NZL v ENG &nbsp;2021

Note: Conway's innings still in progress

New Zealand's Devon Conway joined a select group of cricketers on Wednesday by marking his Test debut with a hundred at Lord's. The South Africa-born opener found himself thrust into the action straight away after New Zealand captain Kane Williamson won the toss and batted in the first of a two-match series against England.

New Zealand's Devon Conway joined a select group of cricketers on Wednesday by marking his Test debut with a hundred at Lord's. The South Africa-born opener found himself thrust into the action straight away after New Zealand captain Kane Williamson won the toss and batted in the first of a two-match series against England. But while star batsman Williamson and the experienced Ross Taylor both fell cheaply, the 29-year-old Conway pressed on to a 163-ball century, reaching the landmark with a flamboyant whipped legside four, his 11th boundary, off England debutant fast bowler Ollie Robinson. At stumps, Conway had made an unbeaten 136 in a total of 246-3, having shared an unbroken partnership of 132 with fellow left-hander Henry Nicholls (46 not out). Only five other batsmen had previously scored a Test debut hundred at Lord's, with Conway the first New Zealand international to achieve the feat. Batsmen to have scored Test debut hundred at Lord's (player, total, team, opposition, year): Harry Graham 107 AUS v ENG 1893 John Hampshire 107 ENG v WIS 1969 Sourav Ganguly 131 IND v ENG 1996 Andrew Strauss 112 ENG v NZL 2004 Matt Prior 126 no ENG v WIS 2007 Devon Conway 136 no NZL v ENG 2021 Note: Conway's innings still in progress

Cricket: New Zealand's Conway marks Test debut with Lord's hundred

New Zealand opener Devon Conway made exactly 200 on Test debut before England slumped to 25-2 on the second day of the series opener at Lord's on Thursday.

Conway was last man out in a first-innings total of 378 on the second day of this two-match series.

The South Africa-born left-hander was in sight of becoming the very first batsman in the 144-year history of Test cricket to carry their bat -- bat throughout the entire innings -- in their first knock in the format when he was run out to end a stay of more than nine-and-a-half hours.

Nevertheless, it needed a review of a close call before it was confirmed that England captain Joe Root had taken the bails off in time.

Even so, Conway was only the seventh batsman to make a double hundred on Test debut.

He faced 347 balls, with 22 fours and went to 200 in style when he hooked fast bowler Mark Wood for the only six of his innings.

New Zealand No 11 Neil Wagner, also born in South Africa, made 25 not out off 21 balls that included a superb straight six off Stuart Broad during an entertaining last-wicket stand of 40.&nbsp;

Sussex paceman Ollie Robinson, like Conway making his Test debut, led England's attack with four wickets for 75 runs in 28 overs.

But New Zealand, who face India in the inaugural World Test Championship final at Southampton later this month, then struck twice with the ball themselves.

Towering paceman Kyle Jamieson had Dom Sibley lbw for a duck with a ball that straightened to hit the opener on the back pad, the decision upheld on 'umpire's call' after a review.

But there was no room for doubt when Zak Crawley was caught behind off Tim Southee for two.

At tea, Rory Burns was 15 not out and star batsman Root unbeaten on seven, with England 353 runs behind.

New Zealand resumed on 246-3, with Conway 136 not out after Black Caps skipper Kane Williamson had won the toss.

But they lost four wickets for just six runs as they slumped from 288-3 to 294-7.

Conway shared a fourth-wicket stand of 174 with Henry Nicholls before his fellow left-hander was caught holed out to long leg off Wood for 61 by England debutant Ollie Robinson to spark the collapse

It was a welcome moment for Robinson, who found himself having to apologise after play on Wednesday when racist and sexist tweets he had first posted as a teenager were published again.

Wood then removed BJ Watling for just one, with the aid of a sharp slip catch by Sibley.

Fellow seamer Robinson, who took two wickets on Wednesday, then had Colin de Grandhomme lbw for nought on review, with Mitchell Santner also out for a duck when he chipped Wood to mid-off.

Robinson, however, was deprived of a place on the Lord's honours board when Broad dropped Southee at mid-off to deny him a fifth wicket.

New Zealand opener Devon Conway made exactly 200 on Test debut before England slumped to 25-2 on the second day of the series opener at Lord's on Thursday. Conway was last man out in a first-innings total of 378 on the second day of this two-match series.

New Zealand opener Devon Conway made exactly 200 on Test debut before England slumped to 25-2 on the second day of the series opener at Lord's on Thursday. Conway was last man out in a first-innings total of 378 on the second day of this two-match series. The South Africa-born left-hander was in sight of becoming the very first batsman in the 144-year history of Test cricket to carry their bat -- bat throughout the entire innings -- in their first knock in the format when he was run out to end a stay of more than nine-and-a-half hours. Nevertheless, it needed a review of a close call before it was confirmed that England captain Joe Root had taken the bails off in time. Even so, Conway was only the seventh batsman to make a double hundred on Test debut. He faced 347 balls, with 22 fours and went to 200 in style when he hooked fast bowler Mark Wood for the only six of his innings. New Zealand No 11 Neil Wagner, also born in South Africa, made 25 not out off 21 balls that included a superb straight six off Stuart Broad during an entertaining last-wicket stand of 40. Sussex paceman Ollie Robinson, like Conway making his Test debut, led England's attack with four wickets for 75 runs in 28 overs. But New Zealand, who face India in the inaugural World Test Championship final at Southampton later this month, then struck twice with the ball themselves. Towering paceman Kyle Jamieson had Dom Sibley lbw for a duck with a ball that straightened to hit the opener on the back pad, the decision upheld on 'umpire's call' after a review. But there was no room for doubt when Zak Crawley was caught behind off Tim Southee for two. At tea, Rory Burns was 15 not out and star batsman Root unbeaten on seven, with England 353 runs behind. New Zealand resumed on 246-3, with Conway 136 not out after Black Caps skipper Kane Williamson had won the toss. But they lost four wickets for just six runs as they slumped from 288-3 to 294-7. Conway shared a fourth-wicket stand of 174 with Henry Nicholls before his fellow left-hander was caught holed out to long leg off Wood for 61 by England debutant Ollie Robinson to spark the collapse It was a welcome moment for Robinson, who found himself having to apologise after play on Wednesday when racist and sexist tweets he had first posted as a teenager were published again. Wood then removed BJ Watling for just one, with the aid of a sharp slip catch by Sibley. Fellow seamer Robinson, who took two wickets on Wednesday, then had Colin de Grandhomme lbw for nought on review, with Mitchell Santner also out for a duck when he chipped Wood to mid-off. Robinson, however, was deprived of a place on the Lord's honours board when Broad dropped Southee at mid-off to deny him a fifth wicket.

Cricket: New Zealand's Conway makes debut double century before England collapse

There have been many debates around the participation of overseas players in the second phase of Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021, set to commence in September in the United Arab Emirates. While the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) and Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) have already said that it is unlikely that their players will participate in IPL 2021, there are question marks on the participation of Australian players as well. <o:p></o:p>

Kolkata Knight Riders will be hit hard if England and Australia players don’t return for IPL 2021 with two crucial players in captain Eoin Morgan and key bowler Pat Cummins. In case Morgan doesn’t return for IPL 2021, former KKR captain Dinesh Karthik has said that he is ready to take the charge if the management asks him to do so.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tokyo-2020-pm-narendra-modi-directs-officials-to-vaccinate-athletes-on-top-priority-389249" hreflang="en">Tokyo 2020: PM Narendra Modi directs officials to vaccinate athletes 'on top priority'</a>

Speaking to The Times of India, Karthik said: "Pat Cummins has himself said that he will not come. But when it comes to Eoin Morgan, there are still three months to go. A lot can change from now till September. But if I am asked to lead, I will be ready for it.”<o:p></o:p>

KKR struggled during Karthik’s captaincy and the India international decided to step down from captaincy to focus on his batting. However, the two-time IPL winners have continued to disappoint under the leadership of World Cup-winning captain Eoin Morgan as well.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/test-match-is-like-a-dream-indias-harmanpreet-kaur-excited-for-red-ball-cricket-against-england-389240" hreflang="en">'Test match is like a dream': India's Harmanpreet Kaur excited for red-ball cricket against England</a>

<o:p></o:p>

In IPL 2019 and 2020, KKR lost out on playoff spot due to net run-rate but will look to turn things around when the 14th edition resumes in the UAE. <o:p></o:p>

There have been many debates around the participation of overseas players in the second phase of Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021, set to commence in September in the United Arab Emirates.

There have been many debates around the participation of overseas players in the second phase of Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021, set to commence in September in the United Arab Emirates. While the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) and Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) have already said that it is unlikely that their players will participate in IPL 2021, there are question marks on the participation of Australian players as well. Kolkata Knight Riders will be hit hard if England and Australia players don’t return for IPL 2021 with two crucial players in captain Eoin Morgan and key bowler Pat Cummins. In case Morgan doesn’t return for IPL 2021, former KKR captain Dinesh Karthik has said that he is ready to take the charge if the management asks him to do so. ALSO READ: Tokyo 2020: PM Narendra Modi directs officials to vaccinate athletes 'on top priority' Speaking to The Times of India, Karthik said: "Pat Cummins has himself said that he will not come. But when it comes to Eoin Morgan, there are still three months to go. A lot can change from now till September. But if I am asked to lead, I will be ready for it.” KKR struggled during Karthik’s captaincy and the India international decided to step down from captaincy to focus on his batting. However, the two-time IPL winners have continued to disappoint under the leadership of World Cup-winning captain Eoin Morgan as well. ALSO READ: 'Test match is like a dream': India's Harmanpreet Kaur excited for red-ball cricket against England In IPL 2019 and 2020, KKR lost out on playoff spot due to net run-rate but will look to turn things around when the 14th edition resumes in the UAE.

Cricket: Dinesh Karthik open to captaining KKR again in IPL 2021

After a long break of seven years, India women are set to play their first Test against England on June 16 in Bristol in what promises to be a cracker of a tour.&nbsp; <o:p></o:p>

The last time India women participated in Test match was in 2014 where they faced South Africa. India women will further take on Australia in their first-ever pink-ball Test later in the year at the Adelaide Oval in what will be a historic moment in women’s cricket.<o:p></o:p>

In a video posted by the BCCI, India Test vice-captain Harmanpreet Kaur expressed her excitement on the prospect of playing Test match for India after a long time. <o:p></o:p>

"Test match is like a dream, I actually want to play many Test matches in my life and I hope we will continue this. Playing in England with the red ball is challenging and we all are excited about it," Kaur said.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-australia-should-make-sandpaper-gate-investigation-public-david-saker-389228" hreflang="en">Cricket Australia should make sandpaper gate investigation public: David Saker</a><o:p></o:p>

Even Smriti Mandhana expressed her excitement as she gears up to take the field. “It's quite exciting as we are touring with the Indian team after a long time. We have had tours individually for KSL but really excited to go out there with a bunch of girls," Smriti said. <o:p></o:p>

Earlier last week, the BCCI unveiled the Test jersey that India women will don in the one-off Test against England. <o:p></o:p>

“We got to know a lot about the history of women's cricket and also Mithali di spoke about the importance of Test cricket for them. It was quite motivational," Smriti said about the ceremony.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-psl-2021-to-resume-on-june-9-final-on-june-24-check-full-schedule-389220" hreflang="en">Cricket: PSL 2021 to resume on June 9, final on June 24 - Check full schedule</a><o:p></o:p>

Whereas Harmanpreet said it was great to meet the team members after completing the quarantine period. <o:p></o:p>

“It was a great feeling as we are in quarantine and it was a chance to meet everyone present there. We exchanged the jersey, it was a great feeling, ” she added. <o:p></o:p>

India Women have arrived in England, where they will face England in a one-off Test, three ODIs, and three T20Is. &nbsp;<o:p></o:p>

<h2 class="MsoNormal">India Women Tour of England: Full schedule</h2>

• One-off Test: June 16th – 19th at Bristol County Ground<o:p></o:p>

• ODI series<o:p></o:p>

1st ODI: June 27th at Bristol County Ground <o:p></o:p>

2nd ODI: June 30th at The County Ground<o:p></o:p>

3rd ODI: July 3rd at New Road<o:p></o:p>

• T20I series<o:p></o:p>

1st T20I: July 9th at The County Ground<o:p></o:p>

2nd T20I: July 11th at 1st Central Country Ground<o:p></o:p>

3rd T20I: July 15th at The Cloudfm County Ground<o:p></o:p>

After a long break of seven years, India women are set to play their first Test against England on June 16 in Bristol in what promises to be a cracker of a tour.

After a long break of seven years, India women are set to play their first Test against England on June 16 in Bristol in what promises to be a cracker of a tour. The last time India women participated in Test match was in 2014 where they faced South Africa. India women will further take on Australia in their first-ever pink-ball Test later in the year at the Adelaide Oval in what will be a historic moment in women’s cricket. In a video posted by the BCCI, India Test vice-captain Harmanpreet Kaur expressed her excitement on the prospect of playing Test match for India after a long time. "Test match is like a dream, I actually want to play many Test matches in my life and I hope we will continue this. Playing in England with the red ball is challenging and we all are excited about it," Kaur said. ALSO READ: Cricket Australia should make sandpaper gate investigation public: David Saker Even Smriti Mandhana expressed her excitement as she gears up to take the field. “It's quite exciting as we are touring with the Indian team after a long time. We have had tours individually for KSL but really excited to go out there with a bunch of girls," Smriti said. Earlier last week, the BCCI unveiled the Test jersey that India women will don in the one-off Test against England. “We got to know a lot about the history of women's cricket and also Mithali di spoke about the importance of Test cricket for them. It was quite motivational," Smriti said about the ceremony. ALSO READ: Cricket: PSL 2021 to resume on June 9, final on June 24 - Check full schedule Whereas Harmanpreet said it was great to meet the team members after completing the quarantine period. “It was a great feeling as we are in quarantine and it was a chance to meet everyone present there. We exchanged the jersey, it was a great feeling, ” she added. India Women have arrived in England, where they will face England in a one-off Test, three ODIs, and three T20Is. India Women Tour of England: Full schedule • One-off Test: June 16th – 19th at Bristol County Ground • ODI series 1st ODI: June 27th at Bristol County Ground 2nd ODI: June 30th at The County Ground 3rd ODI: July 3rd at New Road • T20I series 1st T20I: July 9th at The County Ground 2nd T20I: July 11th at 1st Central Country Ground 3rd T20I: July 15th at The Cloudfm County Ground

'Test match is like a dream': India's Harmanpreet Kaur excited for red-ball cricket against England

The remainder of Pakistan Super League (PSL) 2021 is set to be played in Abu Dhabi from June 9 with the final scheduled for June 24. There will be six double-headers – five of them during the preliminary round and the sixth on 21 June, when Qualifier and Eliminator 1 matches will be played. <o:p></o:p>

On June 9, Lahore Qalandars will take on Islamabad United in what will be the 15th match of the tournament. The delayed start due to logistical and operational challenges. <o:p></o:p>

PCB Chief Executive Wasim Khan said: “Since its inception in 2016, the HBL PSL has embraced and overcome numerous challenges, only to emerge as a stronger and competitive league year on year.<o:p></o:p>

“The enhancement and credibility of the PSL brand remains critical to the PCB and I am pleased that we have continued to take decisive actions in the face of ongoing pressures and major challenges outside of our control over the last 10 days.&nbsp; Everyone has worked tirelessly to find solutions and way forward, and I am delighted that we are now in a position to announce the complete schedule.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-bubble-life-taken-a-toll-on-me-mentally-andre-russell-389182" hreflang="en">Cricket: Bubble life 'taken a toll on me mentally' - Andre Russell</a>

<o:p></o:p>

<h2 class="MsoNormal">The remainder of Pakistan Super League (PSL) 2021 – Full schedule and fixture:<o:p></o:p></h2>

<ul>
	<li class="MsoNormal">3-8 June - Practice<o:p></o:p></li>
	<li class="MsoNormal">9 June - Lahore Qalandars v Islamabad United<o:p></o:p></li>
	<li class="MsoNormal">10 June - Multan Sultans v Karachi Kings; Peshawar Zalmi v Lahore Qalandars<o:p></o:p></li>
	<li class="MsoNormal">11 June - Islamabad United v Quetta Gladiators<o:p></o:p></li>
	<li class="MsoNormal">12 June - Quetta Gladiators v Peshawar Zalmi<o:p></o:p></li>
	<li class="MsoNormal">13 June - Islamabad United v Lahore Qalandars; Multan Sultans v Peshawar Zalmi<o:p></o:p></li>
	<li class="MsoNormal">14 June - Islamabad United v Karachi Kings<o:p></o:p></li>
	<li class="MsoNormal">15 June - Quetta Gladiators v Lahore Qalandars; Peshawar Zalmi v Karachi Kings<o:p></o:p></li>
	<li class="MsoNormal">16 June - Multan Sultans v Quetta Gladiators<o:p></o:p></li>
	<li class="MsoNormal">17 June - Islamabad United v Peshawar Zalmi; Karachi Kings v Lahore Qalandars<o:p></o:p></li>
	<li class="MsoNormal">18 June - Multan Sultans v Lahore Qalandars<o:p></o:p></li>
	<li class="MsoNormal">19 June - Quetta Gladiators v Karachi Kings; Multan Sultans v Islamabad United<o:p></o:p></li>
	<li class="MsoNormal">20 June - Practice&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; <o:p></o:p></li>
	<li class="MsoNormal">21 Jun - Qualifier (1 v 2); Eliminator 1 (3 v 4)<o:p></o:p></li>
	<li class="MsoNormal">22 Jun - Eliminator 2 (loser Qualifier v winner Eliminator 1)<o:p></o:p></li>
	<li class="MsoNormal">23 June – Rest/practice<o:p></o:p></li>
	<li class="MsoNormal">24 Jun – Final<o:p></o:p></li>
</ul>

The remainder of Pakistan Super League (PSL) 2021 is set to be played in Abu Dhabi from June 9 with the final scheduled for June 24. There will be six double-headers – five of them during the preliminary round and the sixth on 21 June, when Qualifier and Eliminator 1 matches will be played.

The remainder of Pakistan Super League (PSL) 2021 is set to be played in Abu Dhabi from June 9 with the final scheduled for June 24. There will be six double-headers – five of them during the preliminary round and the sixth on 21 June, when Qualifier and Eliminator 1 matches will be played. On June 9, Lahore Qalandars will take on Islamabad United in what will be the 15th match of the tournament. The delayed start due to logistical and operational challenges. PCB Chief Executive Wasim Khan said: “Since its inception in 2016, the HBL PSL has embraced and overcome numerous challenges, only to emerge as a stronger and competitive league year on year. “The enhancement and credibility of the PSL brand remains critical to the PCB and I am pleased that we have continued to take decisive actions in the face of ongoing pressures and major challenges outside of our control over the last 10 days. Everyone has worked tirelessly to find solutions and way forward, and I am delighted that we are now in a position to announce the complete schedule. ALSO READ: Cricket: Bubble life 'taken a toll on me mentally' - Andre Russell The remainder of Pakistan Super League (PSL) 2021 – Full schedule and fixture: 3-8 June - Practice 9 June - Lahore Qalandars v Islamabad United 10 June - Multan Sultans v Karachi Kings; Peshawar Zalmi v Lahore Qalandars 11 June - Islamabad United v Quetta Gladiators 12 June - Quetta Gladiators v Peshawar Zalmi 13 June - Islamabad United v Lahore Qalandars; Multan Sultans v Peshawar Zalmi 14 June - Islamabad United v Karachi Kings 15 June - Quetta Gladiators v Lahore Qalandars; Peshawar Zalmi v Karachi Kings 16 June - Multan Sultans v Quetta Gladiators 17 June - Islamabad United v Peshawar Zalmi; Karachi Kings v Lahore Qalandars 18 June - Multan Sultans v Lahore Qalandars 19 June - Quetta Gladiators v Karachi Kings; Multan Sultans v Islamabad United 20 June - Practice 21 Jun - Qualifier (1 v 2); Eliminator 1 (3 v 4) 22 Jun - Eliminator 2 (loser Qualifier v winner Eliminator 1) 23 June – Rest/practice 24 Jun – Final

Cricket: PSL 2021 to resume on June 9, final on June 24 - Check full schedule

England pacer Ollie Robinson witnessed the clock going back by eight years during his Test debut against New Zealand at the Lord’s on Wednesday. A few tweets, sexist and racist in nature, dating back as many as eight years surfaced on social media platforms&nbsp;during his Test debut on Day 1, grabbing the limelight for all wrong reasons. <o:p></o:p>

Robinson produced a superb bowling performance on his debut as he got the wickets of Ross Taylor and Tom Latham on Day 1. However, after being marred with controversy for his racial and sexist tweets from 2012, Robinson put out a heartfelt apology for the distress caused.<o:p></o:p>

Former England captain Nasser Hussain reckons that the controversy should be a lesson for all the cricketers and youngsters.<o:p></o:p>

Speaking on Sky Sports Hussain said, “It is a lesson really that if you’re in and around the team treat anything you do on social media as if you’re doing a press conference.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-wont-be-surprising-if-england-prepare-grassy-pitches-but-expect-indian-summer-sunil-gavaskar-on-indias-tour-of-england-389197" hreflang="en">Cricket: 'Won't be surprising if England prepare grassy pitches but expect 'Indian summer' - Sunil Gavaskar on India's tour of England</a><o:p></o:p>

“If you’re going to wear t-shirts about online hate and abuse, anti-sexism and anti-racism you just can’t be doing this. It is just not good enough and it is just not on. It is a good lesson for anyone out there with social media. When you do this sort of stuff and you put it out there whether it be after a few beers after 4 am in the morning, it is out there for good,” he added. <o:p></o:p>

“He is an 18-year-old lad who has made mistakes and we’ve all made mistakes and it has ruined his biggest day as a professional cricketer. If anything good can come from this it is that some young lad or girl thinking ‘online abuse is not good enough’. He has learned the harshest and biggest lesson.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-bubble-life-taken-a-toll-on-me-mentally-andre-russell-389182" hreflang="en">Cricket: Bubble life 'taken a toll on me mentally' - Andre Russell</a>

<o:p></o:p>

“I always remember my debut fondly, I will always remember my first day. He will always remember this day for something he did as an 18-year-old and that is very sad,” Nasser Hussain signed off.<o:p></o:p>

England pacer Ollie Robinson witnessed the clock going back by eight years during his Test debut against New Zealand at the Lord’s on Wednesday. A few tweets, sexist and racist in nature, dating back as many as eight years surfaced on social media platforms during his Test debut on Day 1, grabbing the limelight for all wrong reasons.

England pacer Ollie Robinson witnessed the clock going back by eight years during his Test debut against New Zealand at the Lord’s on Wednesday. A few tweets, sexist and racist in nature, dating back as many as eight years surfaced on social media platforms during his Test debut on Day 1, grabbing the limelight for all wrong reasons. Robinson produced a superb bowling performance on his debut as he got the wickets of Ross Taylor and Tom Latham on Day 1. However, after being marred with controversy for his racial and sexist tweets from 2012, Robinson put out a heartfelt apology for the distress caused. Former England captain Nasser Hussain reckons that the controversy should be a lesson for all the cricketers and youngsters. Speaking on Sky Sports Hussain said, “It is a lesson really that if you’re in and around the team treat anything you do on social media as if you’re doing a press conference. ALSO READ: Cricket: 'Won't be surprising if England prepare grassy pitches but expect 'Indian summer' - Sunil Gavaskar on India's tour of England “If you’re going to wear t-shirts about online hate and abuse, anti-sexism and anti-racism you just can’t be doing this. It is just not good enough and it is just not on. It is a good lesson for anyone out there with social media. When you do this sort of stuff and you put it out there whether it be after a few beers after 4 am in the morning, it is out there for good,” he added. “He is an 18-year-old lad who has made mistakes and we’ve all made mistakes and it has ruined his biggest day as a professional cricketer. If anything good can come from this it is that some young lad or girl thinking ‘online abuse is not good enough’. He has learned the harshest and biggest lesson. ALSO READ: Cricket: Bubble life 'taken a toll on me mentally' - Andre Russell “I always remember my debut fondly, I will always remember my first day. He will always remember this day for something he did as an 18-year-old and that is very sad,” Nasser Hussain signed off.

Cricket: ‘A good lesson for anyone there on social media’ – Nasser Hussain on Ollie Robinson’s racial, sexist tweets

Former India captain Sunil Gavaskar has said that it won’t be surprising if England prepare green tracks for India in the upcoming five-Test series against India, scheduled to commence from August 4, after the conclusion of the ICC World Test Championship final. <o:p></o:p>

Gavaskar, while recalling the criticism of Indian pitches when England visited India earlier in the year, said there was a lot of “moaning” about the tracks during the four-Test series, played in Chennai and Ahmedabad. <o:p></o:p>

"Having moaned about the pitches in India earlier this year, it won't be a surprise if the groundsman in England leaves a little grass on the surface,” Gavaskar wrote in his column for The Telegraph.<o:p></o:p>

However, the legendary Indian cricketer added that grassy pitches will no longer bother Virat Kohli and Co due to the quality of pace bowlers in the set-up while further saying that India have the bowling attack to give “problems” to the hosts. <o:p></o:p>

“That is no longer a worry as India have an attack that will also thrive on it and cause problems for the England batsmen too," Gavaskar added.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-bubble-life-taken-a-toll-on-me-mentally-andre-russell-389182" hreflang="en">Cricket: Bubble life 'taken a toll on me mentally' - Andre Russell</a><o:p></o:p>

Gavaskar further opined that the gap of 40 days between the WTC final and England Test series will allow India to prepare enough for the five-match rubber by playing some practice matches. <o:p></o:p>

"The summer in England promises to be the golden summer of Indian cricket. After the WTC finals, there is a gap of about six weeks before the Test series starts against England and that should be enough for the team to play some practice games and tune-up for what England can hurl at them,” he wrote.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-world-test-championship-final-will-be-challenging-but-its-time-to-enjoy-virat-kohli-389017" hreflang="en">Cricket: World Test Championship Final will be challenging but it's time to enjoy - Virat Kohli</a><o:p></o:p>

The iconic former Indian opener went on to say that the chances are high that it will be an “Indian summer” hinting that the visitors can pull off a series win on English conditions.<o:p></o:p>

“It is foolish to try and predict the score but it looks like it will be an Indian summer in England," he added.<o:p></o:p>

Former India captain Sunil Gavaskar has said that it won’t be surprising if England prepare green tracks for India in the upcoming five-Test series against India, scheduled to commence from August 4, after the conclusion of the ICC World Test Championship final.

Former India captain Sunil Gavaskar has said that it won’t be surprising if England prepare green tracks for India in the upcoming five-Test series against India, scheduled to commence from August 4, after the conclusion of the ICC World Test Championship final. Gavaskar, while recalling the criticism of Indian pitches when England visited India earlier in the year, said there was a lot of “moaning” about the tracks during the four-Test series, played in Chennai and Ahmedabad. "Having moaned about the pitches in India earlier this year, it won't be a surprise if the groundsman in England leaves a little grass on the surface,” Gavaskar wrote in his column for The Telegraph. However, the legendary Indian cricketer added that grassy pitches will no longer bother Virat Kohli and Co due to the quality of pace bowlers in the set-up while further saying that India have the bowling attack to give “problems” to the hosts. “That is no longer a worry as India have an attack that will also thrive on it and cause problems for the England batsmen too," Gavaskar added. ALSO READ: Cricket: Bubble life 'taken a toll on me mentally' - Andre Russell Gavaskar further opined that the gap of 40 days between the WTC final and England Test series will allow India to prepare enough for the five-match rubber by playing some practice matches. "The summer in England promises to be the golden summer of Indian cricket. After the WTC finals, there is a gap of about six weeks before the Test series starts against England and that should be enough for the team to play some practice games and tune-up for what England can hurl at them,” he wrote. ALSO READ: Cricket: World Test Championship Final will be challenging but it's time to enjoy - Virat Kohli The iconic former Indian opener went on to say that the chances are high that it will be an “Indian summer” hinting that the visitors can pull off a series win on English conditions. “It is foolish to try and predict the score but it looks like it will be an Indian summer in England," he added.

Cricket: 'Won't be surprising if England prepare grassy pitches but expect 'Indian summer' - Sunil Gavaskar on India's tour of England

West Indies all-rounder Andre Russell has said that the bio-bubble life has “definitely taken a toll” on him because of the strict restrictions and quarantine rules imposed on participating players and staff in T20 tournaments and international series. <o:p></o:p>

Russell, who was last seen playing for Kolkata Knight Riders in IPL 2021, is gearing up for the Pakistan Super League (PSL) in the UAE, which is likely to resume on June 7. However, moving from one bubble to another has taken a mental toll on Russell as he said that players not being able to go out for a walk and being locked inside a room doesn’t help. <o:p></o:p>

"I think it's taking a toll on myself," Russell told Geo News.<o:p></o:p>

"I can't talk for any other player, or coaches or anyone that goes through this whole quarantine stuff. But it's definitely taken a toll on me mentally because from bubble to bubble, in a room locked in, you can't go out for a walk, you can't go certain places, you can't socialise, it's different.<o:p></o:p>

"But at the end of the day, I'm not being ungrateful, I'm grateful that we're still playing, we're still doing our job. So it's tough for us. But even though we prepared for it, it still takes a toll."

ALSO READ:&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-dilip-vengsarkar-picks-team-indias-game-changers-for-wtc-final-vs-new-zealand-389171" hreflang="en">Cricket: Dilip Vengsarkar picks Team India's game-changers for WTC final vs New Zealand</a>

<o:p></o:p>

The West Indies brute said that he tries to kill time by using the bike in his room or trying other exercises during the tournaments, where players have to follow strict protocols due to the COVID-19 pandemic.<o:p></o:p>

"So for me, I like to have a bike or something in my room so that I can get my heart rate up," he said. "I would utilise the space that I have, go on the floor, do some of some push-ups. For some exercise, I use stuff in the room to just get something done."

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/very-difficult-to-stay-motivated-skipper-virat-kohli-on-mental-wellbeing-of-players-ahead-of-wtc-finals-389022" hreflang="en">'Very difficult to stay motivated': Skipper Virat Kohli on mental-wellbeing of players ahead of WTC finals</a><o:p></o:p>

Meanwhile, the PSL is set to resume from June 7 and the remaining 20 matches of the tournament will be played in Abu Dhabi where the players and other participants are undergoing quarantine ahead of the T20 tournament.<o:p></o:p>

West Indies all-rounder Andre Russell has said that the bio-bubble life has “definitely taken a toll” on him because of the strict restrictions and quarantine rules imposed on participating players and staff in T20 tournaments and international series.

West Indies all-rounder Andre Russell has said that the bio-bubble life has “definitely taken a toll” on him because of the strict restrictions and quarantine rules imposed on participating players and staff in T20 tournaments and international series. Russell, who was last seen playing for Kolkata Knight Riders in IPL 2021, is gearing up for the Pakistan Super League (PSL) in the UAE, which is likely to resume on June 7. However, moving from one bubble to another has taken a mental toll on Russell as he said that players not being able to go out for a walk and being locked inside a room doesn’t help. "I think it's taking a toll on myself," Russell told Geo News. "I can't talk for any other player, or coaches or anyone that goes through this whole quarantine stuff. But it's definitely taken a toll on me mentally because from bubble to bubble, in a room locked in, you can't go out for a walk, you can't go certain places, you can't socialise, it's different. "But at the end of the day, I'm not being ungrateful, I'm grateful that we're still playing, we're still doing our job. So it's tough for us. But even though we prepared for it, it still takes a toll." ALSO READ: Cricket: Dilip Vengsarkar picks Team India's game-changers for WTC final vs New Zealand The West Indies brute said that he tries to kill time by using the bike in his room or trying other exercises during the tournaments, where players have to follow strict protocols due to the COVID-19 pandemic. "So for me, I like to have a bike or something in my room so that I can get my heart rate up," he said. "I would utilise the space that I have, go on the floor, do some of some push-ups. For some exercise, I use stuff in the room to just get something done." ALSO READ: 'Very difficult to stay motivated': Skipper Virat Kohli on mental-wellbeing of players ahead of WTC finals Meanwhile, the PSL is set to resume from June 7 and the remaining 20 matches of the tournament will be played in Abu Dhabi where the players and other participants are undergoing quarantine ahead of the T20 tournament.

Cricket: Bubble life 'taken a toll on me mentally' - Andre Russell

The rise of Indian talents in the international circuit has been immense in the last couple of years. The Indian cricket team has produced many exciting talents that have won matches for India, at home and away. As Team India gears up for a gruelling tour of the UK, wherein they will play the final of ICC World Test Championship and five-Test series against England. <o:p></o:p>

As India gear up for the intense matches in the longest format of the game, former Indian cricketer Dilip Vengsarkar has given his take on who could be the game-changer for the visitors in the WTC final and series against England. <o:p></o:p>

While the Indian team has quite a few young match-winners at its helm with Mohammed Siraj, Shubman Gill, Rishabh Pant, Washington Sundar, Axar Patel, Shardul Thakur in the touring team, Vengsarkar said that the role of wicketkeeper-batsman Pant could be game-changing for India.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-deeply-regret-my-actions-ollie-robinson-apologises-for-sexist-and-racist-tweets-389154" hreflang="en">Cricket: 'Deeply regret my actions': Ollie Robinson apologises for sexist and racist tweets</a><o:p></o:p>

“You cannot have a fixed idea about certain things. The wicketkeeper is in a very important position in the team. Besides effecting stumpings and run-outs, if he is batting well, why not? If you have someone like Rishabh Pant, who can change the complexion of the match with his batting also, that is a huge advantage for the Indian team,” Vengsarkar told CricketNext. <o:p></o:p>

“You cannot have a fixed mind and say wicket-keeping comes first. If you are improving as a wicketkeeper, why not? The same thing happened with Mahendra Singh Dhoni. He kept improving,” Vengsarkar added.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-joe-root-eyes-clean-sweep-against-new-zealand-and-india-before-ashes-389059" hreflang="en">Cricket: Joe Root eyes clean-sweep against New Zealand and India before Ashes</a><o:p></o:p>

While the WTC final is scheduled to be played from June 18 in Southampton, the five-match Test series against England commence from August 4. India will play a few intra-squad friendly matches in England to get accustomed to the conditions. <o:p></o:p>

The rise of Indian talents in the international circuit has been immense in the last couple of years. The Indian cricket team has produced many exciting talents that have won matches for India, at home and away.

The rise of Indian talents in the international circuit has been immense in the last couple of years. The Indian cricket team has produced many exciting talents that have won matches for India, at home and away. As Team India gears up for a gruelling tour of the UK, wherein they will play the final of ICC World Test Championship and five-Test series against England. As India gear up for the intense matches in the longest format of the game, former Indian cricketer Dilip Vengsarkar has given his take on who could be the game-changer for the visitors in the WTC final and series against England. While the Indian team has quite a few young match-winners at its helm with Mohammed Siraj, Shubman Gill, Rishabh Pant, Washington Sundar, Axar Patel, Shardul Thakur in the touring team, Vengsarkar said that the role of wicketkeeper-batsman Pant could be game-changing for India. ALSO READ: Cricket: 'Deeply regret my actions': Ollie Robinson apologises for sexist and racist tweets “You cannot have a fixed idea about certain things. The wicketkeeper is in a very important position in the team. Besides effecting stumpings and run-outs, if he is batting well, why not? If you have someone like Rishabh Pant, who can change the complexion of the match with his batting also, that is a huge advantage for the Indian team,” Vengsarkar told CricketNext. “You cannot have a fixed mind and say wicket-keeping comes first. If you are improving as a wicketkeeper, why not? The same thing happened with Mahendra Singh Dhoni. He kept improving,” Vengsarkar added. ALSO READ: Cricket: Joe Root eyes clean-sweep against New Zealand and India before Ashes While the WTC final is scheduled to be played from June 18 in Southampton, the five-match Test series against England commence from August 4. India will play a few intra-squad friendly matches in England to get accustomed to the conditions.

Cricket: Dilip Vengsarkar picks Team India's game-changers for WTC final vs New Zealand

England captain Joe Root is eyeing a clean-sweep of victories against New Zealand and India as the English Test summer kickstarted on Wednesday. England are currently locked in a two-Test series against New Zealand after which they will lock horns against India in a five-Test series. <o:p></o:p>

Ahead of the first Test against New Zealand, Root on Tuesday had said that before the Ashes, the England side is looking to win all the seven Tests against New Zealand and India while saying that it is the best way to prepare for a gruelling Ashes tour. <o:p></o:p>

“It is of utmost importance, absolutely. But the way we are best going to prepare ourselves is by performing well in these seven Tests, by winning seven Test matches against the best two sides in the world,” Root said.<o:p></o:p>

Meanwhile, England have had a tricky start against New Zealand in the first Test with Black Caps debutant Devon Conway scoring a hundred.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-two-indian-team-playing-different-formats-the-way-forward-opines-ravi-shastri-389040" hreflang="en">Cricket: Two Indian team playing different formats the way forward, opines Ravi Shastri</a>

<h2 class="MsoNormal">England vs New Zealand<o:p></o:p></h2>

<ul>
	<li class="MsoNormal">Test 1: June 2 to June 6, Lord’s Cricket Ground, London<o:p></o:p></li>
	<li class="MsoNormal">Test 2: June 10 to June 14, Edgbaston, Birmingham<o:p></o:p></li>
</ul>

<h2 class="MsoNormal">England vs India<o:p></o:p></h2>

<ul>
	<li class="MsoNormal">First Test: August 4-8, Trent Bridge, Nottingham<o:p></o:p></li>
	<li class="MsoNormal">Second Test: August 12-16, Lord’s, London<o:p></o:p></li>
	<li class="MsoNormal">Third Test: August 25-29, Headingley, Leeds<o:p></o:p></li>
	<li class="MsoNormal">Fourth Test: September 2 to September 6, Kennington Oval, London<o:p></o:p></li>
	<li class="MsoNormal">Fifth Test: September 10-14, Emirates Old Trafford, Manchester<o:p></o:p></li>
</ul>

<h2 class="MsoNormal">Ashes Series 2021-22 Schedule:<o:p></o:p></h2>

<ul>
	<li class="MsoNormal">First Test – Gabba, Brisbane (December 8-12, 2021)<o:p></o:p></li>
	<li class="MsoNormal">Second Test – Adelaide Oval, Day-Night (December 16-20, 2021)<o:p></o:p></li>
	<li class="MsoNormal">Third Test – Melbourne Cricket Stadium (26 to 30 December 2021)<o:p></o:p></li>
	<li class="MsoNormal">Fourth Test- Sydney Cricket Stadium (January 5 to 9, 2022)</li>
	<li class="MsoNormal">Fifth Test – Perth Cricket Stadium (January 14 to 18, 2022)<o:p></o:p></li>
</ul>

England captain Joe Root is eyeing a clean-sweep of victories against New Zealand and India as the English Test summer kickstarted on Wednesday. England are currently locked in a two-Test series against New Zealand after which they will lock horns against India in a five-Test series.

England captain Joe Root is eyeing a clean-sweep of victories against New Zealand and India as the English Test summer kickstarted on Wednesday. England are currently locked in a two-Test series against New Zealand after which they will lock horns against India in a five-Test series. Ahead of the first Test against New Zealand, Root on Tuesday had said that before the Ashes, the England side is looking to win all the seven Tests against New Zealand and India while saying that it is the best way to prepare for a gruelling Ashes tour. “It is of utmost importance, absolutely. But the way we are best going to prepare ourselves is by performing well in these seven Tests, by winning seven Test matches against the best two sides in the world,” Root said. Meanwhile, England have had a tricky start against New Zealand in the first Test with Black Caps debutant Devon Conway scoring a hundred. ALSO READ: Cricket: Two Indian team playing different formats the way forward, opines Ravi Shastri England vs New Zealand Test 1: June 2 to June 6, Lord’s Cricket Ground, London Test 2: June 10 to June 14, Edgbaston, Birmingham England vs India First Test: August 4-8, Trent Bridge, Nottingham Second Test: August 12-16, Lord’s, London Third Test: August 25-29, Headingley, Leeds Fourth Test: September 2 to September 6, Kennington Oval, London Fifth Test: September 10-14, Emirates Old Trafford, Manchester Ashes Series 2021-22 Schedule: First Test – Gabba, Brisbane (December 8-12, 2021) Second Test – Adelaide Oval, Day-Night (December 16-20, 2021) Third Test – Melbourne Cricket Stadium (26 to 30 December 2021) Fourth Test- Sydney Cricket Stadium (January 5 to 9, 2022) Fifth Test – Perth Cricket Stadium (January 14 to 18, 2022)

Cricket: Joe Root eyes clean-sweep against New Zealand and India before Ashes

Indian head coach Ravi Shastri on Wednesday said that two Indian squads travelling to different venues at the same time for two different series could become a norm in the draining world of bio-secure bubbles wherein the cricketers are forced to live amid COVID-19 pandemic.<o:p></o:p>

“Playing with two squads in different locations regularly is a possibility in the long run,” Shastri said in the pre-departure press conference.<o:p></o:p>

The Virat Kohli-led Indian team is set to depart for their tour of the UK where they will play the ICC World Test Championship final before locking horns with England for a five-Test series. At the same time, the second-string Indian team will play Sri Lanka in a limited-overs series in July. <o:p></o:p>

However, Shastri said that playing two different teams could also help T20 cricket to spread across the globe.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/very-difficult-to-stay-motivated-skipper-virat-kohli-on-mental-wellbeing-of-players-ahead-of-wtc-finals-389022" hreflang="en">'Very difficult to stay motivated': Skipper Virat Kohli on mental-wellbeing of players ahead of WTC finals</a>

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"Well you never know. At the moment it's happening because of the current situation and restriction in travel and things of that sort. But you never know. In the future if you want to expand the game, especially in the shorter of formats, then it could be the way to go,” said Shastri.<o:p></o:p>

"You know, why not, when you have that much volume of cricketers and if you want to spread the T20 game, across the globe, then that could be the way ahead because if you're talking of Olympics in four years or eight years'' time, you need more countries to play the game. So that could be a way forward," he added.<o:p></o:p>

Furthermore, captain Virat Kohli also echoed Shastri’s opinion as he said that playing regular cricket with quarantine and bio-bubble restriction in place, is a tough ask on players as it is difficult for them to stay motivated and find the right kind of mental space.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-world-test-championship-final-will-be-challenging-but-its-time-to-enjoy-virat-kohli-389017" hreflang="en">Cricket: World Test Championship Final will be challenging but it's time to enjoy - Virat Kohli</a><o:p></o:p>

"With the current structure and the kind of structure that you're competing inside for a long period of time, it's very difficult for the players to stay motivated and find the right kind of mental space," said Kohli.<o:p></o:p>

"You know just confined in one area and just doing the stuff, day in day out when you're dealing with high pressure situations. So, this (two squads) will definitely become a norm for the future," he added.<o:p></o:p>

The final of World Test Championship between India and New Zealand is set to be played in Southampton from June 18.<o:p></o:p>

Indian head coach Ravi Shastri on Wednesday said that two Indian squads travelling to different venues at the same time for two different series could become a norm in the draining world of bio-secure bubbles wherein the cricketers are forced to live amid COVID-19 pandemic.

Indian head coach Ravi Shastri on Wednesday said that two Indian squads travelling to different venues at the same time for two different series could become a norm in the draining world of bio-secure bubbles wherein the cricketers are forced to live amid COVID-19 pandemic. “Playing with two squads in different locations regularly is a possibility in the long run,” Shastri said in the pre-departure press conference. The Virat Kohli-led Indian team is set to depart for their tour of the UK where they will play the ICC World Test Championship final before locking horns with England for a five-Test series. At the same time, the second-string Indian team will play Sri Lanka in a limited-overs series in July. However, Shastri said that playing two different teams could also help T20 cricket to spread across the globe. ALSO READ: 'Very difficult to stay motivated': Skipper Virat Kohli on mental-wellbeing of players ahead of WTC finals "Well you never know. At the moment it's happening because of the current situation and restriction in travel and things of that sort. But you never know. In the future if you want to expand the game, especially in the shorter of formats, then it could be the way to go,” said Shastri. "You know, why not, when you have that much volume of cricketers and if you want to spread the T20 game, across the globe, then that could be the way ahead because if you're talking of Olympics in four years or eight years'' time, you need more countries to play the game. So that could be a way forward," he added. Furthermore, captain Virat Kohli also echoed Shastri’s opinion as he said that playing regular cricket with quarantine and bio-bubble restriction in place, is a tough ask on players as it is difficult for them to stay motivated and find the right kind of mental space. ALSO READ: Cricket: World Test Championship Final will be challenging but it's time to enjoy - Virat Kohli "With the current structure and the kind of structure that you're competing inside for a long period of time, it's very difficult for the players to stay motivated and find the right kind of mental space," said Kohli. "You know just confined in one area and just doing the stuff, day in day out when you're dealing with high pressure situations. So, this (two squads) will definitely become a norm for the future," he added. The final of World Test Championship between India and New Zealand is set to be played in Southampton from June 18.

Cricket: Two Indian team playing different formats the way forward, opines Ravi Shastri

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