Cricket South Africa on Tuesday confirmed that AB de Villiers’ decision to retire from international cricket “will remain final” and the swashbuckling batsman will not be coming out of retirement. The development comes after CSA announced the squad for the upcoming West Indies tour. <o:p></o:p>

With the ICC T20 World Cup approaching, there were talks between CSA and de Villiers about coming out of retirement and donning the Proteas colours once again. Even AB de Villiers was keen on making a comeback, according to his previous statements, but an agreement couldn’t be struck. <o:p></o:p>

CSA has now said that de Villiers has “once and for all” decided that his retirement will remain final.<o:p></o:p>

"Discussions with AB de Villiers have concluded with the batsman deciding once and for all, that his retirement will remain final,” Cricket South Africa said in a statement.

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🍀 Tour squad to <a href="https://twitter.com/cricketireland?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@cricketireland</a> 
2️⃣0️⃣ players 
3️⃣ ODIs 
3️⃣ T20Is<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IREvSA?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IREvSA</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ThatsOurGame?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ThatsOurGame</a> <a href="https://t.co/xo2cSUB73L">pic.twitter.com/xo2cSUB73L</a>
— Cricket South Africa (@OfficialCSA) <a href="https://twitter.com/OfficialCSA/status/1394608791954595842?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 18, 2021</a></blockquote>
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🌴 Test and T20I squads to <a href="https://twitter.com/windiescricket?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@windiescricket</a> 
1️⃣ Maiden <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Proteas?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Proteas</a> call up for Prenelan Subrayen 
1️⃣ Maiden Test nod for Lizaad Williams 
🇿🇦 Your thoughts on both Test and T20 squads?<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WIvSA?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WIvSA</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ThatsOurGame?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ThatsOurGame</a> <a href="https://t.co/k08HJQJeUr">pic.twitter.com/k08HJQJeUr</a>
— Cricket South Africa (@OfficialCSA) <a href="https://twitter.com/OfficialCSA/status/1394607461814915079?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 18, 2021</a></blockquote>
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ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/england-cricket-board-advises-jofra-archer-to-undergo-elbow-surgery-report-385825" hreflang="en">England Cricket Board advises Jofra Archer to undergo elbow surgery: Report</a><o:p></o:p>

During the IPL 2021, de Villiers, who plays for Royal Challengers Bangalore, said it would be fantastic to play for South Africa again while adding he will be involved in talks with Mark Boucher during the last phase of IPL.<o:p></o:p>

“It will be fantastic to play for South Africa again, I will be speaking with Mark Boucher late end of the IPL- Last year, he asked me whether I am interested and I said ‘Absolutely'” AB de Villiers had said during a virtual press conference.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/englands-jos-buttler-names-two-indian-legend-who-inspired-him-to-play-cricket-385817" hreflang="en">England's Jos Buttler names two Indian legend who inspired him to play cricket</a>

”Coming into the IPL and looking at the form I am in and the fitness, also the situation, Boucher will looking to get the best 15 together,” he further said. “And if there is no space for me, then so be it but if I am in the squad it will be fantastic to see things fall in place. I am waiting to hear from Boucher towards the end of IPL and then I’ll plan accordingly,” the former South Africa batsman added.<o:p></o:p>

CSA further announced squads for the Ireland and West Indies series. The tour, which had to be rescheduled from 2020, will include two Test matches and five T20s, from June 10 to July 3, 2021, in St. Lucia at the Daren Sammy Cricket Ground and Grenada at the National Cricket Stadium, respectively.<o:p></o:p>

Cricket South Africa on Tuesday confirmed that AB de Villiers’ decision to retire from international cricket “will remain final” and the swashbuckling batsman will not be coming out of retirement.

Cricket South Africa on Tuesday confirmed that AB de Villiers’ decision to retire from international cricket “will remain final” and the swashbuckling batsman will not be coming out of retirement. The development comes after CSA announced the squad for the upcoming West Indies tour. With the ICC T20 World Cup approaching, there were talks between CSA and de Villiers about coming out of retirement and donning the Proteas colours once again. Even AB de Villiers was keen on making a comeback, according to his previous statements, but an agreement couldn’t be struck. CSA has now said that de Villiers has “once and for all” decided that his retirement will remain final. "Discussions with AB de Villiers have concluded with the batsman deciding once and for all, that his retirement will remain final,” Cricket South Africa said in a statement. 🍀 Tour squad to @cricketireland 2️⃣0️⃣ players 3️⃣ ODIs 3️⃣ T20Is#IREvSA #ThatsOurGame pic.twitter.com/xo2cSUB73L — Cricket South Africa (@OfficialCSA) May 18, 2021 × 🌴 Test and T20I squads to @windiescricket 1️⃣ Maiden #Proteas call up for Prenelan Subrayen 1️⃣ Maiden Test nod for Lizaad Williams 🇿🇦 Your thoughts on both Test and T20 squads?#WIvSA #ThatsOurGame pic.twitter.com/k08HJQJeUr — Cricket South Africa (@OfficialCSA) May 18, 2021 × ALSO READ: England Cricket Board advises Jofra Archer to undergo elbow surgery: Report During the IPL 2021, de Villiers, who plays for Royal Challengers Bangalore, said it would be fantastic to play for South Africa again while adding he will be involved in talks with Mark Boucher during the last phase of IPL. “It will be fantastic to play for South Africa again, I will be speaking with Mark Boucher late end of the IPL- Last year, he asked me whether I am interested and I said ‘Absolutely'” AB de Villiers had said during a virtual press conference. ALSO READ: England's Jos Buttler names two Indian legend who inspired him to play cricket ”Coming into the IPL and looking at the form I am in and the fitness, also the situation, Boucher will looking to get the best 15 together,” he further said. “And if there is no space for me, then so be it but if I am in the squad it will be fantastic to see things fall in place. I am waiting to hear from Boucher towards the end of IPL and then I’ll plan accordingly,” the former South Africa batsman added. CSA further announced squads for the Ireland and West Indies series. The tour, which had to be rescheduled from 2020, will include two Test matches and five T20s, from June 10 to July 3, 2021, in St. Lucia at the Daren Sammy Cricket Ground and Grenada at the National Cricket Stadium, respectively.

AB de Villiers retirement decision to 'remain final', confirms Cricket South Africa

Jofra Archer, who as of late got back to action subsequent to missing the IPL, has been ruled out of the Test series against New Zealand as his elbow injury has re-emerged.

The England speedster had undergone surgery in March to remove a glass fragment from a tendon on his right hand, an injury he sustained in January when an attempt to clean his fish tank went wrong.

The 26-year-old played a game for his County side Sussex against Kent however he had to pull out of the game after bowling only five overs in the second innings. Archer had declared himself fit for the Test series against New Zealand, beginning June 2 in London, however, the elbow injury has abandoned his and ECB's plan.

The cricket board is currently contemplating the correct treatment for Archer. Although, reports suggest that the England Cricket Board has advised Jofra Archer to go through surgery to mend his relentless right elbow injury.

In the event that Jofra Archer chooses to go through surgery, the 26-year-old is probably going to be out of action for 10 weeks and could return during the second half of The Hundred. The competition starts off on July 21. A solid course of events for Jofra Archer's recuperation and recovery must be concluded once the pacer goes through pre-operation checks.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/englands-jos-buttler-names-two-indian-legend-who-inspired-him-to-play-cricket-385817" hreflang="en">England's Jos Buttler names two Indian legend who inspired him to play cricket</a>

Jofra Archer got the injury in mid-2020, with the quick bowler determined to have a stress fracture in his elbow during the South Africa visit. He has since dealt with the injury with rest and agony pain infusions, yet the busy schedule has erupted the injury again.

England are intensely mindful of the worth of a man whose diminutive form ability saw him named the Indian Premier League's MVP in 2020 and one whose pace offers an additional measurement to the Test group's assault on the Australian pitches for the Ashes.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-cannot-ignore-him-now-aakash-chopra-names-a-player-indian-selectors-cant-look-past-385813" hreflang="en">Cricket: 'Cannot ignore him now': Aakash Chopra names a player Indian selectors can't look past</a>

England trusts the surgery will permit Jofra Archer to completely recuperate from the issue, guaranteeing his readiness for the T20 World Cup and the Ashes in the not-so-distant future. As per reports, Jofra Archer will soon take a call on the surgery.

Jofra Archer, who as of late got back to action subsequent to missing the IPL, has been ruled out of the Test series against New Zealand as his elbow injury has re-emerged.

Jofra Archer, who as of late got back to action subsequent to missing the IPL, has been ruled out of the Test series against New Zealand as his elbow injury has re-emerged. The England speedster had undergone surgery in March to remove a glass fragment from a tendon on his right hand, an injury he sustained in January when an attempt to clean his fish tank went wrong. The 26-year-old played a game for his County side Sussex against Kent however he had to pull out of the game after bowling only five overs in the second innings. Archer had declared himself fit for the Test series against New Zealand, beginning June 2 in London, however, the elbow injury has abandoned his and ECB's plan. The cricket board is currently contemplating the correct treatment for Archer. Although, reports suggest that the England Cricket Board has advised Jofra Archer to go through surgery to mend his relentless right elbow injury. In the event that Jofra Archer chooses to go through surgery, the 26-year-old is probably going to be out of action for 10 weeks and could return during the second half of The Hundred. The competition starts off on July 21. A solid course of events for Jofra Archer's recuperation and recovery must be concluded once the pacer goes through pre-operation checks. ALSO READ: England's Jos Buttler names two Indian legend who inspired him to play cricket Jofra Archer got the injury in mid-2020, with the quick bowler determined to have a stress fracture in his elbow during the South Africa visit. He has since dealt with the injury with rest and agony pain infusions, yet the busy schedule has erupted the injury again. England are intensely mindful of the worth of a man whose diminutive form ability saw him named the Indian Premier League's MVP in 2020 and one whose pace offers an additional measurement to the Test group's assault on the Australian pitches for the Ashes. ALSO READ: Cricket: 'Cannot ignore him now': Aakash Chopra names a player Indian selectors can't look past England trusts the surgery will permit Jofra Archer to completely recuperate from the issue, guaranteeing his readiness for the T20 World Cup and the Ashes in the not-so-distant future. As per reports, Jofra Archer will soon take a call on the surgery.

England Cricket Board advises Jofra Archer to undergo elbow surgery: Report

Nitish Rana has created a space for himself in both the domestic circuit and the Indian Premier League for Delhi and Kolkata Knight Riders respectfully and the southpaw feels he is ready for international cricket as he waits to get his “reward” when the Indian team is selected for July’s tour of Sri Lanka.<o:p></o:p>

India will be without their first-team players as most of them will be engaged in the three-and-a-half-month-long tour of England. <o:p></o:p>

Rana said that he has a strong feeling that his name would be called up for the Sri Lanka tour while adding he has performed well in last three years in the limited-overs circuit.<o:p></o:p>

"It is there at the back of my mind that my name should come (in the squad) and I am prepared for that because I feel my name would come," Nitish told PTI in an interview when asked whether he is hoping for a call-up.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/englands-jos-buttler-names-two-indian-legend-who-inspired-him-to-play-cricket-385817" hreflang="en">England's Jos Buttler names two Indian legend who inspired him to play cricket</a><o:p></o:p>

"If you pick and see my record for the last three years in white-ball – be it domestic or the IPL, I have performed well and I feel that I will get the reward for it today or tomorrow.<o:p></o:p>

"And I feel I am ready for international cricket and I am waiting for that… like they say one call away...I am waiting for that call...," added the 27-year-old left-handed batsman, who also bowls off-break.<o:p></o:p>

Rana has amassed 2,266 runs in 38 First-Class matches and averages over 40. With India set to play Sri Lanka in a limited-overs series consisting of three T20Is and as many ODIs, the Men in Blue would have their white-ball specialists travelling to the island nation.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-cannot-ignore-him-now-aakash-chopra-names-a-player-indian-selectors-cant-look-past-385813" hreflang="en">Cricket: 'Cannot ignore him now': Aakash Chopra names a player Indian selectors can't look past</a><o:p></o:p>

Rana, who scored 201 runs from seven matches in the currently-suspended IPL also reflected on the season.<o:p></o:p>

"To be very honest, from the last 3-4 years, it has been a pattern for me that I start the season well, in mid-season, I have 2-3 flop innings and then at the end of the season I play 1-2 innings well.<o:p></o:p>

"So always, the total (runs) scored are in between 330-400," he said.<o:p></o:p>

However, inconsistency has always been lined with Rana and his batting. But the left-handed batsman said that he has worked upon the aspect. <o:p></o:p>

"I added many skills mentally in my game and normal life. I felt that in the last 2-3 years, I used to become very happy that I am performing well and it should continue, but the hunger to score runs used to finish.<o:p></o:p>

"...my coaches said a hungry Nitish Rana should stay alive, it will make you consistent," he elaborated.<o:p></o:p>

"It is not guaranteed that you will score runs in every match but the ratio improves."<o:p></o:p>

Nitish Rana has created a space for himself in both the domestic circuit and the Indian Premier League for Delhi and Kolkata Knight Riders respectfully and the southpaw feels he is ready for international cricket as he waits to get his “reward” when the Indian team is selected for July’s tour of Sri Lanka.

Nitish Rana has created a space for himself in both the domestic circuit and the Indian Premier League for Delhi and Kolkata Knight Riders respectfully and the southpaw feels he is ready for international cricket as he waits to get his “reward” when the Indian team is selected for July’s tour of Sri Lanka. India will be without their first-team players as most of them will be engaged in the three-and-a-half-month-long tour of England. Rana said that he has a strong feeling that his name would be called up for the Sri Lanka tour while adding he has performed well in last three years in the limited-overs circuit. "It is there at the back of my mind that my name should come (in the squad) and I am prepared for that because I feel my name would come," Nitish told PTI in an interview when asked whether he is hoping for a call-up. ALSO READ: England's Jos Buttler names two Indian legend who inspired him to play cricket "If you pick and see my record for the last three years in white-ball – be it domestic or the IPL, I have performed well and I feel that I will get the reward for it today or tomorrow. "And I feel I am ready for international cricket and I am waiting for that… like they say one call away...I am waiting for that call...," added the 27-year-old left-handed batsman, who also bowls off-break. Rana has amassed 2,266 runs in 38 First-Class matches and averages over 40. With India set to play Sri Lanka in a limited-overs series consisting of three T20Is and as many ODIs, the Men in Blue would have their white-ball specialists travelling to the island nation. ALSO READ: Cricket: 'Cannot ignore him now': Aakash Chopra names a player Indian selectors can't look past Rana, who scored 201 runs from seven matches in the currently-suspended IPL also reflected on the season. "To be very honest, from the last 3-4 years, it has been a pattern for me that I start the season well, in mid-season, I have 2-3 flop innings and then at the end of the season I play 1-2 innings well. "So always, the total (runs) scored are in between 330-400," he said. However, inconsistency has always been lined with Rana and his batting. But the left-handed batsman said that he has worked upon the aspect. "I added many skills mentally in my game and normal life. I felt that in the last 2-3 years, I used to become very happy that I am performing well and it should continue, but the hunger to score runs used to finish. "...my coaches said a hungry Nitish Rana should stay alive, it will make you consistent," he elaborated. "It is not guaranteed that you will score runs in every match but the ratio improves."

SL vs IND: Nitish Rana awaits 'that one call', says 'ready for international cricket'

Former Australia skipper Michael Clarke has brought up that he isn't astounded to discover that more than three individuals may have been involved in the ball-tampering plot and the previous Australia wicketkeeper-batsman Adam Gilchrist has said Cricket Australia needed to do a more thorough investigation into sandpaper gate scandal when it happened and it is due to this reason that the issue will keep on lingering forever.

Michael Clarke said it's certain that three players knew about the incident. The former Australian skipper supported Cameron Bancroft's comments, saying that at the most elevated level of cricket, it is inconceivable for bowlers to not think about the state of their apparatus.

In a conversation with Fox Cricket Michael Clarke said:

“They’ve got to hold the ball to bowl with it. I can tell you now if you went and grabbed a pen, just a pen and put a little ‘1’ somewhere on my cricket bat; on top of the handle, on the edge of the bat, on the toe of the bat, on the face, under the grip, anywhere, just a little number one, I would have noticed. If you are playing sport at the highest level you know your tools that good it’s not funny. Can you imagine that ball being thrown back to the bowler and the bowler not knowing about it? Please” – he said.

Adam Gilchrist thinks the scandalous ball-altering adventure will canine Australian cricket for quite a long time to come, with new names surfacing sometimes. Responding to Cameron Bancroft's disclosure, Adam Gilchrist said more individuals like him have information on the plot and are trusting that the correct time will 'pull the trigger'.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/have-played-extraordinary-cricket-in-recent-times-says-pace-maestro-mohammed-shami-385426" hreflang="en">'Have played extraordinary cricket in recent times', says pace maestro Mohammed Shami</a>

Cameron Bancroft, who was caught with the sandpaper hinted in an interview that it was 'obvious' that more players were aware of the plot. This has put the focus on the bowling department - Pat Cummins, Mitchell Starc, Josh Hazlewood, and Nathan Lyon - who asserted in any case at the hour of the incident.

“It will linger forever, whether it is someone’s book or an ad hoc interview. Eventually, I think names will be named. I think there are some people who have it stored away and are ready to pull the trigger when the time is right. I think Cricket Australia is responsible for why this will be continually asked...They went there and did this very quick review of that isolated incident and perhaps no one in the team knew" - he said.

Adam Gilchrist additionally added that it would be guileless to believe that lone Steve Smith, David Warner, and Cameron Bancroft knew about the circumstance. He added that Cricket Australia made it resemble a separate occurrence without testing if the ball-tampering was 'systematically' escorting Australian cricket.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/havent-been-a-match-fixer-michael-vaughan-hits-back-at-salman-butt-385416" hreflang="en">'Haven't been a match fixer': Michael Vaughan hits back at Salman Butt</a>

"Anyone would be naive to think people were not aware of what was going on about ball maintenance. I don’t think Cricket Australia wanted to go there. They did not want to go any deeper than that superficial example of ball-tampering. They did not investigate to see whether it was systemic had it been going on and on and on. Around the cricketing globe, it was widely accepted a lot of teams were doing it’’ - he added.

Cricket Australia has implied that it's available to reinvestigate the issue on the off chance that anybody has 'new information. It stays not yet clear what sway Adam Gilchrist and Michael Clarke's remarks will have on such a stage. 
&nbsp;

Former Australia skipper Michael Clarke has brought up that he isn't astounded to discover that more than three individuals may have been involved in the ball-tampering plot and the previous Australia wicketkeeper-batsman Adam Gilchrist has said Cricket Australia needed to do a more thorough investigation into sandpaper gate scandal when it happened and it is due to this reason that the issue will keep on lingering forever.

Former Australia skipper Michael Clarke has brought up that he isn't astounded to discover that more than three individuals may have been involved in the ball-tampering plot and the previous Australia wicketkeeper-batsman Adam Gilchrist has said Cricket Australia needed to do a more thorough investigation into sandpaper gate scandal when it happened and it is due to this reason that the issue will keep on lingering forever. Michael Clarke said it's certain that three players knew about the incident. The former Australian skipper supported Cameron Bancroft's comments, saying that at the most elevated level of cricket, it is inconceivable for bowlers to not think about the state of their apparatus. In a conversation with Fox Cricket Michael Clarke said: “They’ve got to hold the ball to bowl with it. I can tell you now if you went and grabbed a pen, just a pen and put a little ‘1’ somewhere on my cricket bat; on top of the handle, on the edge of the bat, on the toe of the bat, on the face, under the grip, anywhere, just a little number one, I would have noticed. If you are playing sport at the highest level you know your tools that good it’s not funny. Can you imagine that ball being thrown back to the bowler and the bowler not knowing about it? Please” – he said. Adam Gilchrist thinks the scandalous ball-altering adventure will canine Australian cricket for quite a long time to come, with new names surfacing sometimes. Responding to Cameron Bancroft's disclosure, Adam Gilchrist said more individuals like him have information on the plot and are trusting that the correct time will 'pull the trigger'. ALSO READ: 'Have played extraordinary cricket in recent times', says pace maestro Mohammed Shami Cameron Bancroft, who was caught with the sandpaper hinted in an interview that it was 'obvious' that more players were aware of the plot. This has put the focus on the bowling department - Pat Cummins, Mitchell Starc, Josh Hazlewood, and Nathan Lyon - who asserted in any case at the hour of the incident. “It will linger forever, whether it is someone’s book or an ad hoc interview. Eventually, I think names will be named. I think there are some people who have it stored away and are ready to pull the trigger when the time is right. I think Cricket Australia is responsible for why this will be continually asked...They went there and did this very quick review of that isolated incident and perhaps no one in the team knew" - he said. Adam Gilchrist additionally added that it would be guileless to believe that lone Steve Smith, David Warner, and Cameron Bancroft knew about the circumstance. He added that Cricket Australia made it resemble a separate occurrence without testing if the ball-tampering was 'systematically' escorting Australian cricket. ALSO READ: 'Haven't been a match fixer': Michael Vaughan hits back at Salman Butt "Anyone would be naive to think people were not aware of what was going on about ball maintenance. I don’t think Cricket Australia wanted to go there. They did not want to go any deeper than that superficial example of ball-tampering. They did not investigate to see whether it was systemic had it been going on and on and on. Around the cricketing globe, it was widely accepted a lot of teams were doing it’’ - he added. Cricket Australia has implied that it's available to reinvestigate the issue on the off chance that anybody has 'new information. It stays not yet clear what sway Adam Gilchrist and Michael Clarke's remarks will have on such a stage.

Michael Clarke, Adam Gilchrist react to Cameron Bancroft's ball-tampering remarks

Cricket Australia (CA) has reached out to batsman Cameron Bancroft following his recent statements that suggested that apart from Steve Smith, David Warner and himself, the Australian bowlers were aware of tampering with the condition of the ball during the infamous sandpaper-gate saga during the Newlands Test in 2018 versus South Africa.<o:p></o:p>

WION has learned that CA’s integrity team has got in touch with Bancroft following his statement on the ball-tampering saga which led to the suspension of Warner and Smith for 12 months and Bancroft for nine months. <o:p></o:p>

“Yes, CA’s Integrity Team has reached out to Cameron&nbsp;” a source in Cricket Australia told WION on Monday. <o:p></o:p>

Bancroft currently is in England to play County Championship for Durham and has so far not responded to Cricket Australia’s Integrity Team mainly due to the time gap between the two countries.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-australia-announces-23-man-preliminary-squad-for-the-tour-of-west-indies-385544" hreflang="en">Cricket Australia announces 23-man preliminary squad for the tour of West Indies</a>

Earlier, Bancroft said that he wanted to be accountable for his own actions and part in the controversial incident while hinting that bowlers were also aware of the incident.<o:p></o:p>

"Yeah, look, all I wanted to do was to be responsible and accountable for my own actions and part. Yeah, obviously what I did benefits bowlers and the awareness around that, probably, is self-explanatory,” Bancroft told The Guardian.<o:p></o:p>

"I guess one thing I learnt through the journey and being responsible is that's where the buck stops [with Bancroft himself]. Had I had better awareness I would have made a much better decision."

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/havent-been-a-match-fixer-michael-vaughan-hits-back-at-salman-butt-385416" hreflang="en">'Haven't been a match fixer': Michael Vaughan hits back at Salman Butt</a><o:p></o:p>

When Bancroft was asked about whether the bowlers had knowledge of the ball-tampering: "Uh... yeah, look, I think, yeah, I think it's pretty probably self-explanatory."<o:p></o:p>

On the third day of the Newlands Test, Bancroft was caught on camera trying to tamper the condition of the ball. The video clip went viral as Australian cricket witnessed one of its darkest phases.<o:p></o:p>

As the ball-tampering saga unfurled, Smith and Warner were handed a year’s ban while Bancroft was suspended for nine months by the CA. Darren Lehmann, head coach of Australia during the episode, also stepped down.<o:p></o:p>

Earlier, CA’s chief executive Kevin Roberts had said that they had set up an “integrity hotline” if anyone wants to come with more proofs besides the investigation conducted by CA’s head of integrity Iain Roy.<o:p></o:p>

Cricket Australia (CA) has reached out to batsman Cameron Bancroft following his recent statements that suggested that apart from Steve Smith, David Warner and himself, the Australian bowlers were aware of tampering with the condition of the ball during the infamous sandpaper-gate saga during the Newlands Test in 2018 versus South Africa.

Cricket Australia (CA) has reached out to batsman Cameron Bancroft following his recent statements that suggested that apart from Steve Smith, David Warner and himself, the Australian bowlers were aware of tampering with the condition of the ball during the infamous sandpaper-gate saga during the Newlands Test in 2018 versus South Africa. WION has learned that CA’s integrity team has got in touch with Bancroft following his statement on the ball-tampering saga which led to the suspension of Warner and Smith for 12 months and Bancroft for nine months. “Yes, CA’s Integrity Team has reached out to Cameron ” a source in Cricket Australia told WION on Monday. Bancroft currently is in England to play County Championship for Durham and has so far not responded to Cricket Australia’s Integrity Team mainly due to the time gap between the two countries. ALSO READ: Cricket Australia announces 23-man preliminary squad for the tour of West Indies Earlier, Bancroft said that he wanted to be accountable for his own actions and part in the controversial incident while hinting that bowlers were also aware of the incident. "Yeah, look, all I wanted to do was to be responsible and accountable for my own actions and part. Yeah, obviously what I did benefits bowlers and the awareness around that, probably, is self-explanatory,” Bancroft told The Guardian. "I guess one thing I learnt through the journey and being responsible is that's where the buck stops [with Bancroft himself]. Had I had better awareness I would have made a much better decision." ALSO READ: 'Haven't been a match fixer': Michael Vaughan hits back at Salman Butt When Bancroft was asked about whether the bowlers had knowledge of the ball-tampering: "Uh... yeah, look, I think, yeah, I think it's pretty probably self-explanatory." On the third day of the Newlands Test, Bancroft was caught on camera trying to tamper the condition of the ball. The video clip went viral as Australian cricket witnessed one of its darkest phases. As the ball-tampering saga unfurled, Smith and Warner were handed a year’s ban while Bancroft was suspended for nine months by the CA. Darren Lehmann, head coach of Australia during the episode, also stepped down. Earlier, CA’s chief executive Kevin Roberts had said that they had set up an “integrity hotline” if anyone wants to come with more proofs besides the investigation conducted by CA’s head of integrity Iain Roy.

Cricket Australia reaches out to Cameron Bancroft after revelation on ball-tampering issue

Chennai Super Kings enjoyed a terrific first half of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 before it was indefinitely postponed. CSK won five of their seven matches and the mood in the camp was upbeat during the T20 tournament. <o:p></o:p>

MS Dhoni marshalled his troops to perfection once again as CSK revived themselves after a disappointing show last season.<o:p></o:p>

Chennai Super Kings took to social media platforms to give a glimpse of Dhoni enjoying his time in IPL 2021 as the three-time IPL winners shared a video of Dhoni mimicking Ravindra Jadeja’s highly popular sword celebration.<o:p></o:p>

The clip from a practice session went viral in no time as Dhoni was seen swinging his hand in the air, emulating Jadeja’s sword celebration – that has become a massive hit in the cricket fraternity.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/battled-anxiety-for-10-12-years-had-many-sleepless-nights-before-matches-reveals-sachin-tendulkar-385563" hreflang="en">Battled anxiety for 10-12 years, had many sleepless nights before matches, reveals Sachin Tendulkar</a>

<o:p></o:p>

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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
S♾ord ⚔️ ft.Thala 🔥<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WhistlePodu?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WhistlePodu</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Yellove?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Yellove</a> 🦁💛 <a href="https://t.co/fsO7lqMYRs">pic.twitter.com/fsO7lqMYRs</a>
— Chennai Super Kings - Mask P😷du Whistle P🥳du! (@ChennaiIPL) <a href="https://twitter.com/ChennaiIPL/status/1393926917204574212?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 16, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Even Jadeja took to social media to request his CSK captain to try it with bat next time.<o:p></o:p>

"Should try with the bat," Jadeja replied in the comments section on Instagram.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohlis-confidence-energy-rub-off-on-others-abhimanyu-easwaran-to-wion-385643" hreflang="en">'Virat Kohli's confidence, energy rub off on others': Abhimanyu Easwaran to WION</a><o:p></o:p>

In IPL 2021, Dhoni walked out to bat just four times as the top-order did the majority of the scoring. The former India skipper was dismissed for a duck in his first match of IPL 2021 and managed just 37 runs in seven matches.<o:p></o:p>

Whereas, Ravindra Jadeja was at the peak of his power after recovering from a hand injury. Jadeja scored his runs at a strike rate of 161 and played a major role with the bat, ball and in the field, cementing his place as one of the finest all-rounders in world cricket.<o:p></o:p>

Chennai Super Kings enjoyed a terrific first half of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 before it was indefinitely postponed. CSK won five of their seven matches and the mood in the camp was upbeat during the T20 tournament.

Chennai Super Kings enjoyed a terrific first half of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 before it was indefinitely postponed. CSK won five of their seven matches and the mood in the camp was upbeat during the T20 tournament. MS Dhoni marshalled his troops to perfection once again as CSK revived themselves after a disappointing show last season. Chennai Super Kings took to social media platforms to give a glimpse of Dhoni enjoying his time in IPL 2021 as the three-time IPL winners shared a video of Dhoni mimicking Ravindra Jadeja’s highly popular sword celebration. The clip from a practice session went viral in no time as Dhoni was seen swinging his hand in the air, emulating Jadeja’s sword celebration – that has become a massive hit in the cricket fraternity. ALSO READ: Battled anxiety for 10-12 years, had many sleepless nights before matches, reveals Sachin Tendulkar S♾ord ⚔️ ft.Thala 🔥#WhistlePodu #Yellove 🦁💛 pic.twitter.com/fsO7lqMYRs — Chennai Super Kings - Mask P😷du Whistle P🥳du! (@ChennaiIPL) May 16, 2021 × Even Jadeja took to social media to request his CSK captain to try it with bat next time. "Should try with the bat," Jadeja replied in the comments section on Instagram. ALSO READ: 'Virat Kohli's confidence, energy rub off on others': Abhimanyu Easwaran to WION In IPL 2021, Dhoni walked out to bat just four times as the top-order did the majority of the scoring. The former India skipper was dismissed for a duck in his first match of IPL 2021 and managed just 37 runs in seven matches. Whereas, Ravindra Jadeja was at the peak of his power after recovering from a hand injury. Jadeja scored his runs at a strike rate of 161 and played a major role with the bat, ball and in the field, cementing his place as one of the finest all-rounders in world cricket.

IPL 2021: MS Dhoni imitates Ravindra Jadeja's sword celebration, CSK all-rounder responds - Watch

The ICC has concluded its investigation into the documentary programme ‘Cricket’s Match Fixers’ broadcast by Al Jazeera on May 27, 2018. No charges will be bought under the ICC Anti-Corruption Code against any of the five Participants to the Code who featured in the programme due to insufficient credible and reliable evidence.

The comprehensive investigation focused on three main areas: the claims made by the programme, the suspects who were part of it and how the programme gathered evidence.

The programme alleged that two matches were fixed: India v England in Chennai in 2016 and India v Australia in Ranchi in 2017.

To assess whether the passages of play highlighted in the programme were unusual in any way, the ICC engaged four independent betting and cricketing specialists to analyse the claims. All four concluded that the passages of play identified in the programme as being allegedly fixed were entirely predictable, and therefore implausible as a fix.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohlis-confidence-energy-rub-off-on-others-abhimanyu-easwaran-to-wion-385643" hreflang="en">'Virat Kohli's confidence, energy rub off on others': Abhimanyu Easwaran to WION</a>

All five Participants to the Code who featured in the programme have been interviewed by the ICC Integrity Unit and there is insufficient evidence based on the normal thresholds applied through the Code to lay any charges.

Alex Marshall, ICC General Manager – Integrity said: “We welcome the reporting of alleged corrupt activity within cricket as there is no place for such conduct in our sport, but we also need to be satisfied there is sufficient evidence to sustain charges against Participants. In the case of the claims aired in this programme, there are fundamental weaknesses in each of the areas we have investigated that make the claims unlikely and lacking in credibility, a viewpoint that has been corroborated by four independent experts.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/england-tests-are-not-warm-ups-for-the-world-test-championship-final-says-neil-wagner-385631" hreflang="en">England Tests are not warm-ups for the World Test Championship final, says Neil Wagner</a>

“On the basis of the programme, the Participants to the Code who were filmed appear to have behaved in a questionable manner, however, we have been unable to assess the full context of the conversations that took place beyond what was seen on screen versus what the Participants claim actually happened. This combined with the absence of any other credible evidence means there are insufficient grounds to bring charges under the ICC Anti-Corruption Code

“Should any new substantial evidence come to light I will re-examine the case. But at present, I am comfortable with the conclusion of the investigation and the thoroughness with which it was undertaken.”

The ICC has concluded its investigation into the documentary programme ‘Cricket’s Match Fixers’ broadcast by Al Jazeera on May 27, 2018. No charges will be bought under the ICC Anti-Corruption Code against any of the five Participants to the Code who featured in the programme due to insufficient credible and reliable evidence.

The ICC has concluded its investigation into the documentary programme ‘Cricket’s Match Fixers’ broadcast by Al Jazeera on May 27, 2018. No charges will be bought under the ICC Anti-Corruption Code against any of the five Participants to the Code who featured in the programme due to insufficient credible and reliable evidence. The comprehensive investigation focused on three main areas: the claims made by the programme, the suspects who were part of it and how the programme gathered evidence. The programme alleged that two matches were fixed: India v England in Chennai in 2016 and India v Australia in Ranchi in 2017. To assess whether the passages of play highlighted in the programme were unusual in any way, the ICC engaged four independent betting and cricketing specialists to analyse the claims. All four concluded that the passages of play identified in the programme as being allegedly fixed were entirely predictable, and therefore implausible as a fix. ALSO READ: 'Virat Kohli's confidence, energy rub off on others': Abhimanyu Easwaran to WION All five Participants to the Code who featured in the programme have been interviewed by the ICC Integrity Unit and there is insufficient evidence based on the normal thresholds applied through the Code to lay any charges. Alex Marshall, ICC General Manager – Integrity said: “We welcome the reporting of alleged corrupt activity within cricket as there is no place for such conduct in our sport, but we also need to be satisfied there is sufficient evidence to sustain charges against Participants. In the case of the claims aired in this programme, there are fundamental weaknesses in each of the areas we have investigated that make the claims unlikely and lacking in credibility, a viewpoint that has been corroborated by four independent experts. ALSO READ: England Tests are not warm-ups for the World Test Championship final, says Neil Wagner “On the basis of the programme, the Participants to the Code who were filmed appear to have behaved in a questionable manner, however, we have been unable to assess the full context of the conversations that took place beyond what was seen on screen versus what the Participants claim actually happened. This combined with the absence of any other credible evidence means there are insufficient grounds to bring charges under the ICC Anti-Corruption Code “Should any new substantial evidence come to light I will re-examine the case. But at present, I am comfortable with the conclusion of the investigation and the thoroughness with which it was undertaken.”

Cricket: ICC says 'insufficient evidence' in match-fixing claims by a documentary

Bengal batsman Abhimanyu Easwaran is set to embark on a three-and-a-half-month journey to the UK after being named in the standby for the ICC World Test Championship final against New Zealand and a five-match Test series against England. <o:p></o:p>

The 25-year-old has been knocking on the doors of the senior national team for a few seasons now. Having scored an impressive 861 runs in the 2018-19 Ranji Trophy season, Easwaran caught the eyes of the national selectors and has been a constant part of the India ‘A’ side. The elegant right-handed batter was also among the standbys when England played a four-Test series in India earlier this year. <o:p></o:p>

In an interaction with WION, Abhimanyu Easwaran shared his experience of rubbing shoulders with the likes of Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma, the upcoming tour of England, Abhimanyu Cricket Academy, his experience in Red Bull Campus Cricket and much more.

<o:p></o:p>

“It was an amazing experience. I was able to learn so much from the senior members of the side, sharing the nets, having practice sessions together. It was an education for me. The intensity with which Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma or other senior members of the team train, is unbelievable. You learn a lot by simply watching them go about their business in nets. I feel it is about learning as much as possible and become a better version of yourself,” Easwaran told WION in an interview.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/england-tests-are-not-warm-ups-for-the-world-test-championship-final-says-neil-wagner-385631" hreflang="en">England Tests are not warm-ups for the World Test Championship final, says Neil Wagner</a>

<img alt="AE-1" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="1fe0a2e9-be78-4ccb-9be4-fea9699d7282" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/navbharat-times_0.jpg" />

When asked whether he had any one-on-on discussion with Kohli or other senior members of the squad, Easwaran said: “Yes, I did have a conversation with Virat Kohli. It was more personal as in how he approaches a practice session or a match, how he adjusts to different match scenarios and other mental aspects of the game. His confidence rubs off on others and I could feel it.”

<o:p></o:p>

“I had a good chat with R Sridhar (India’s fielding coach) and attended his training sessions with utmost focus. I learned a lot by watching Ajinkya Rahane, who focuses with the same intensity on fielding as much as he does on batting, so it was brilliant learning for me,” Easwaran, the skipper of the Bengal Ranji Trophy team, added.<o:p></o:p>

The 25-year-old has a cricket academy named after him in Dehradun. Easwaran gets his love for cricket from his father - RP Easwaran – who took the charge even before the talented batsman was born. Manoj Rawat and Nirmalya Sengupta were hired as personal coaches for Abhimanyu, traveling with him to matches to observe and monitor his growth. Even the great Ramakant Achrekar, Roger Binny and Arshad Ayub have worked with Easwaran in small capacities.

<img alt="AE-2" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="ee094c3f-1c73-463c-8017-5b141d591c3d" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/AE-4_0.jpg" />

<o:p></o:p>

Ahead of the gruelling tour of England, and a time, when parts of India are reeling under complete or partial lockdowns, Easwaran is spending his time in Dehradun while gearing up for the much-awaited series. &nbsp;<o:p></o:p>

“Credit to my father, he is really passionate about cricket and built the academy even before I was born. The facilities are good and I can completely focus on my game here. In normal days, I hardly get time to be there but now, I am practicing on different aspects of my game and using the facilities as much as I can,” Easwaran quipped.

<o:p></o:p>

A major part of Easwaran’s rise was featuring for his college, Umes Chandra College in Red Bull Campus Cricket. Easwaran added that playing Red Bull Campus Cricket provided him a major confidence boost while giving him access to competitive, well-organised&nbsp;cricket tournaments.

<o:p></o:p>

“It was a delightful experience. To have a well-organised tournament at such a young age was crucial to my development. It was great to rub shoulders with players from across the country. I feel, such tournaments are important in a youngster’s development and Red Bull has done a great job in providing that platform to all,” Easwaran said.

<o:p><img alt="AE-1" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="94c21b7b-f25d-4837-a613-c6c8ebfa7874" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Easwaran_0.JPG" /></o:p>

Indian players will assemble in Mumbai on May 19 for a 14-day quarantine before departing for the UK on June 2.&nbsp;Apart from the WTC final against New Zealand from June 18, India will play five Tests against England in August-September.<o:p></o:p>

Bengal batsman Abhimanyu Easwaran is set to embark on a three-and-a-half-month journey to the UK after being named in the standby for the ICC World Test Championship final against New Zealand and a five-match Test series against England.

Bengal batsman Abhimanyu Easwaran is set to embark on a three-and-a-half-month journey to the UK after being named in the standby for the ICC World Test Championship final against New Zealand and a five-match Test series against England. The 25-year-old has been knocking on the doors of the senior national team for a few seasons now. Having scored an impressive 861 runs in the 2018-19 Ranji Trophy season, Easwaran caught the eyes of the national selectors and has been a constant part of the India ‘A’ side. The elegant right-handed batter was also among the standbys when England played a four-Test series in India earlier this year. In an interaction with WION, Abhimanyu Easwaran shared his experience of rubbing shoulders with the likes of Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma, the upcoming tour of England, Abhimanyu Cricket Academy, his experience in Red Bull Campus Cricket and much more. “It was an amazing experience. I was able to learn so much from the senior members of the side, sharing the nets, having practice sessions together. It was an education for me. The intensity with which Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma or other senior members of the team train, is unbelievable. You learn a lot by simply watching them go about their business in nets. I feel it is about learning as much as possible and become a better version of yourself,” Easwaran told WION in an interview. ALSO READ: England Tests are not warm-ups for the World Test Championship final, says Neil Wagner When asked whether he had any one-on-on discussion with Kohli or other senior members of the squad, Easwaran said: “Yes, I did have a conversation with Virat Kohli. It was more personal as in how he approaches a practice session or a match, how he adjusts to different match scenarios and other mental aspects of the game. His confidence rubs off on others and I could feel it.” “I had a good chat with R Sridhar (India’s fielding coach) and attended his training sessions with utmost focus. I learned a lot by watching Ajinkya Rahane, who focuses with the same intensity on fielding as much as he does on batting, so it was brilliant learning for me,” Easwaran, the skipper of the Bengal Ranji Trophy team, added. The 25-year-old has a cricket academy named after him in Dehradun. Easwaran gets his love for cricket from his father - RP Easwaran – who took the charge even before the talented batsman was born. Manoj Rawat and Nirmalya Sengupta were hired as personal coaches for Abhimanyu, traveling with him to matches to observe and monitor his growth. Even the great Ramakant Achrekar, Roger Binny and Arshad Ayub have worked with Easwaran in small capacities. Ahead of the gruelling tour of England, and a time, when parts of India are reeling under complete or partial lockdowns, Easwaran is spending his time in Dehradun while gearing up for the much-awaited series. “Credit to my father, he is really passionate about cricket and built the academy even before I was born. The facilities are good and I can completely focus on my game here. In normal days, I hardly get time to be there but now, I am practicing on different aspects of my game and using the facilities as much as I can,” Easwaran quipped. A major part of Easwaran’s rise was featuring for his college, Umes Chandra College in Red Bull Campus Cricket. Easwaran added that playing Red Bull Campus Cricket provided him a major confidence boost while giving him access to competitive, well-organised cricket tournaments. “It was a delightful experience. To have a well-organised tournament at such a young age was crucial to my development. It was great to rub shoulders with players from across the country. I feel, such tournaments are important in a youngster’s development and Red Bull has done a great job in providing that platform to all,” Easwaran said. Indian players will assemble in Mumbai on May 19 for a 14-day quarantine before departing for the UK on June 2. Apart from the WTC final against New Zealand from June 18, India will play five Tests against England in August-September.

'Virat Kohli's confidence, energy rub off on others': Abhimanyu Easwaran to WION

Neil Wagner has expressed that New Zealand will take the forthcoming two-match Test series against England as seriously as serious as any other series.&nbsp;

He added that it wouldn't simply be a warm-up for the World Test Championship finale against India that is set to happen from 18 June-22nd June.&nbsp;

Addressing journalists at the air terminal, he said: "We're not going to treat these two Test matches against England just as warm-ups for the WTC final. I know for a fact we're going to get out there and pride ourselves the way we've been playing Test cricket and we want to win Test matches for New Zealand."

Neil Wagner referenced that getting the squad together well ahead of time and preparing with the Dukes ball would help a lot in England.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/englands-jofra-archer-ruled-out-of-test-series-against-new-zealand-385572" hreflang="en">England's Jofra Archer ruled out of Test series against New Zealand</a>

"It's been quite nice, it's obviously got different characteristics to the Kookaburra. The way we've been training for the last while is something we didn't always have in the past, having the facilities and having a marquee up and getting a number of training sessions in before going to England. On tours, in the past, you rock up there and you've only got a couple of training and maybe one head out with the Dukes ball before the first Test and with that, you can find yourself a little bit behind,"&nbsp;he said.

He additionally accepts that the involvement with the squad will help them manage the conditions better.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/battled-anxiety-for-10-12-years-had-many-sleepless-nights-before-matches-reveals-sachin-tendulkar-385563" hreflang="en">Battled anxiety for 10-12 years, had many sleepless nights before matches, reveals Sachin Tendulkar</a>

"But having had those little bits of training leading into it has been quite beneficial, just because it's a little bit different, and obviously adapting to it. It's been really good preparation and everybody is excited about bowling with it. Sometimes you have to control all that because there's a high expectation of the ball doing a lot and moving around but sometimes you can get there and it can be quite flat and slow as well. The nice thing about it is we've got a wealth of experience and the guys have been there before so we can feed off each other and bounce ideas off each other as well," he added.&nbsp;

The New Zealand squad would need to go through a 10-day quarantine upon their appearance in England. The BlackCaps will start off their series against the hosts on June 2 at Lord's. 
&nbsp;

Neil Wagner has expressed that New Zealand will take the forthcoming two-match Test series against England as seriously as serious as any other series. He added that it wouldn't simply be a warm-up for the World Test Championship finale against India that is set to happen from 18 June-22nd June.

Neil Wagner has expressed that New Zealand will take the forthcoming two-match Test series against England as seriously as serious as any other series. He added that it wouldn't simply be a warm-up for the World Test Championship finale against India that is set to happen from 18 June-22nd June. Addressing journalists at the air terminal, he said: "We're not going to treat these two Test matches against England just as warm-ups for the WTC final. I know for a fact we're going to get out there and pride ourselves the way we've been playing Test cricket and we want to win Test matches for New Zealand." Neil Wagner referenced that getting the squad together well ahead of time and preparing with the Dukes ball would help a lot in England. ALSO READ: England's Jofra Archer ruled out of Test series against New Zealand "It's been quite nice, it's obviously got different characteristics to the Kookaburra. The way we've been training for the last while is something we didn't always have in the past, having the facilities and having a marquee up and getting a number of training sessions in before going to England. On tours, in the past, you rock up there and you've only got a couple of training and maybe one head out with the Dukes ball before the first Test and with that, you can find yourself a little bit behind," he said. He additionally accepts that the involvement with the squad will help them manage the conditions better. ALSO READ: Battled anxiety for 10-12 years, had many sleepless nights before matches, reveals Sachin Tendulkar "But having had those little bits of training leading into it has been quite beneficial, just because it's a little bit different, and obviously adapting to it. It's been really good preparation and everybody is excited about bowling with it. Sometimes you have to control all that because there's a high expectation of the ball doing a lot and moving around but sometimes you can get there and it can be quite flat and slow as well. The nice thing about it is we've got a wealth of experience and the guys have been there before so we can feed off each other and bounce ideas off each other as well," he added. The New Zealand squad would need to go through a 10-day quarantine upon their appearance in England. The BlackCaps will start off their series against the hosts on June 2 at Lord's.

England Tests are not warm-ups for the World Test Championship final, says Neil Wagner

The infamous Sandpaper Gate has again become the talk of the cricketing world since the fresh revelations by Australian batsman Cameron Bancroft who suggested that bowlers were aware of the ball-tampering episode. Now, David Warner’s manager James Erskine has opened up on the investigation process while slamming Cricket Australia for handling the matter badly.<o:p></o:p>

Erskine has revealed that the investigation was completed without even interrogating all the players while saying that the whole truth will come out while claiming he knows everything about the episode. &nbsp;<o:p></o:p>

"The report that was done, they didn't interview all the players. The whole thing was so badly handled, it was a joke. But eventually, the whole truth, and nothing but the truth, will come out and I know the whole truth. But it doesn't serve any purpose because the Australian public over a period of time got to dislike the Australian team because they didn't behave particularly well," Erskine told Sydney Morning Herald. <o:p></o:p>

Erskine accepted that what Steve Smith, David Warner and Bancroft did was wrong but the punishment didn’t fit the crime, hinting that the 12-month ban for Smith and Warner, and nine-month suspension of Bancroft was harsh.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/michael-clarke-adam-gilchrist-react-to-cameron-bancrofts-ball-tampering-remarks-385550" hreflang="en">Michael Clarke, Adam Gilchrist react to Cameron Bancroft's ball-tampering remarks</a><o:p></o:p>

"There is absolutely no doubt that Smith, Warner and Bancroft were treated despicably. The fact of the matter is they did the wrong thing but the punishment didn't fit the crime. I think if one or two of those players had taken legal action they would have won because of what the truth was," he added.<o:p></o:p>

During the Newlands Test against South Africa in March 2018, Bancroft was caught on the camera trying to alter the condition of the ball using a sandpaper gate. He was spotted slipping the sandpaper inside his trousers when made aware by one of his teammates. The whole episode is regarded as one of the lowest points of Australian cricket.<o:p></o:p>

Bancroft, who is playing county cricket in Durham, said it was 'probably self-explanatory' whether the bowlers were aware that the ball was being tampered with.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-australia-reaches-out-to-cameron-bancroft-after-revelation-on-ball-tampering-issue-385562" hreflang="en">Cricket Australia reaches out to Cameron Bancroft after revelation on ball-tampering issue</a>

"Yeah, look, all I wanted to do was to be responsible and accountable for my own actions and part. Yeah, obviously what I did benefits bowlers and the awareness around that, probably, is self-explanatory," Bancroft said to the Guardian interviewer Donald McRae as reported by ESPNcricinfo. <o:p></o:p>

"I guess one thing I learned through the journey and being responsible is that's where the buck stops [with Bancroft himself]. Had I had better awareness I would have made a much better decision," he added. <o:p></o:p>

When he was further stressed, Bancroft replied: "Uh... yeah, look, I think, yeah, I think it's pretty probably self-explanatory." On the third day of the match, Bancroft was caught on camera trying to alter the condition of the ball. As soon as the clip was shown on television, it went viral on social media and the entire cricketing fraternity condemned the act. <o:p></o:p>

On Monday, WION learned that Cricket Australia’s Integrity Team has reached out to Bancroft following his latest statement on the ball-tampering scandal. However, the Aussie batter is yet to respond given the time-gap between the two countries. <o:p></o:p>

The infamous Sandpaper Gate has again become the talk of the cricketing world since the fresh revelations by Australian batsman Cameron Bancroft who suggested that bowlers were aware of the ball-tampering episode.

The infamous Sandpaper Gate has again become the talk of the cricketing world since the fresh revelations by Australian batsman Cameron Bancroft who suggested that bowlers were aware of the ball-tampering episode. Now, David Warner’s manager James Erskine has opened up on the investigation process while slamming Cricket Australia for handling the matter badly. Erskine has revealed that the investigation was completed without even interrogating all the players while saying that the whole truth will come out while claiming he knows everything about the episode. "The report that was done, they didn't interview all the players. The whole thing was so badly handled, it was a joke. But eventually, the whole truth, and nothing but the truth, will come out and I know the whole truth. But it doesn't serve any purpose because the Australian public over a period of time got to dislike the Australian team because they didn't behave particularly well," Erskine told Sydney Morning Herald. Erskine accepted that what Steve Smith, David Warner and Bancroft did was wrong but the punishment didn’t fit the crime, hinting that the 12-month ban for Smith and Warner, and nine-month suspension of Bancroft was harsh. ALSO READ: Michael Clarke, Adam Gilchrist react to Cameron Bancroft's ball-tampering remarks "There is absolutely no doubt that Smith, Warner and Bancroft were treated despicably. The fact of the matter is they did the wrong thing but the punishment didn't fit the crime. I think if one or two of those players had taken legal action they would have won because of what the truth was," he added. During the Newlands Test against South Africa in March 2018, Bancroft was caught on the camera trying to alter the condition of the ball using a sandpaper gate. He was spotted slipping the sandpaper inside his trousers when made aware by one of his teammates. The whole episode is regarded as one of the lowest points of Australian cricket. Bancroft, who is playing county cricket in Durham, said it was 'probably self-explanatory' whether the bowlers were aware that the ball was being tampered with. ALSO READ: Cricket Australia reaches out to Cameron Bancroft after revelation on ball-tampering issue "Yeah, look, all I wanted to do was to be responsible and accountable for my own actions and part. Yeah, obviously what I did benefits bowlers and the awareness around that, probably, is self-explanatory," Bancroft said to the Guardian interviewer Donald McRae as reported by ESPNcricinfo. "I guess one thing I learned through the journey and being responsible is that's where the buck stops [with Bancroft himself]. Had I had better awareness I would have made a much better decision," he added. When he was further stressed, Bancroft replied: "Uh... yeah, look, I think, yeah, I think it's pretty probably self-explanatory." On the third day of the match, Bancroft was caught on camera trying to alter the condition of the ball. As soon as the clip was shown on television, it went viral on social media and the entire cricketing fraternity condemned the act. On Monday, WION learned that Cricket Australia’s Integrity Team has reached out to Bancroft following his latest statement on the ball-tampering scandal. However, the Aussie batter is yet to respond given the time-gap between the two countries.

Sandpaper Gate was badly handled, it was a joke: David Warner's manager opens up on ball-tampering scandal

Marnus Labuschagne missed out on the 23-member squad while Steve Smith, David Warner, and Pat Cummins returned as Cricket Australia named a 23-man primer squad for the impending visit through the West Indies. &nbsp;

National selector Trevor Hohns has revealed insight into Marnus Labuschagne's unexpected exclusion from Australia's white-ball squad. The selector said Labuschagne was 'upset' after not being selected.&nbsp;

Trevor Hohns disclosed the administration's choice to leave out Labuschagne, expressing how "logistic complexities" lead to his exclusion.

"Any individual who realizes Marnus comprehends he would give totally anything to play for Australia and he is profoundly disturbed to pass up a great opportunity because of conditions outside anybody's ability to control. We worked through various alternatives in discussions with Marnus to track down a serviceable arrangement at the end of the day arrived at the resolution it was more functional for him to stay in the UK" - he said.&nbsp;

Labuschagne is presently in England showing up for Glamorgan and the batsman will proceed with his area stretch in the coming months. He will presently keep on playing for the province in the Vitality T20 Blast too, while Australia plays West Indies.&nbsp;

Trevor Hohns believes&nbsp;Marnus Labuschagne would have strolled into the ODI squad had the conditions been normal.&nbsp;

"Had we not been in a worldwide pandemic, Marnus would be on this visit as a grounded part and significant piece of the one-day side. It's a tragic situation of the numerous difficulties the world is confronting at this moment. The way things are, Marnus has the chance to proceed in district cricket and T20 games with Glamorgan as we head into the World Cup and home summer" - he signed off.&nbsp;

Marnus Labuschagne has had a stiff beginning to his county stretch this year, neglecting to go past 12 runs out of four innings this season. The batsman has overseen only 33 runs in five matches at a baffling average of 8.25.&nbsp;

With Marnus Labuschagne set to play county cricket in the coming months, the Australian will hope to get back to frame at the earliest opportunity to help Glamorgan climb the table. They are as of now third in Group three with 69 points from six games. 
&nbsp;

Marnus Labuschagne missed out on the 23-member squad while Steve Smith, David Warner, and Pat Cummins returned as Cricket Australia named a 23-man primer squad for the impending visit through the West Indies.

Marnus Labuschagne missed out on the 23-member squad while Steve Smith, David Warner, and Pat Cummins returned as Cricket Australia named a 23-man primer squad for the impending visit through the West Indies. National selector Trevor Hohns has revealed insight into Marnus Labuschagne's unexpected exclusion from Australia's white-ball squad. The selector said Labuschagne was 'upset' after not being selected. Trevor Hohns disclosed the administration's choice to leave out Labuschagne, expressing how "logistic complexities" lead to his exclusion. "Any individual who realizes Marnus comprehends he would give totally anything to play for Australia and he is profoundly disturbed to pass up a great opportunity because of conditions outside anybody's ability to control. We worked through various alternatives in discussions with Marnus to track down a serviceable arrangement at the end of the day arrived at the resolution it was more functional for him to stay in the UK" - he said. Labuschagne is presently in England showing up for Glamorgan and the batsman will proceed with his area stretch in the coming months. He will presently keep on playing for the province in the Vitality T20 Blast too, while Australia plays West Indies. Trevor Hohns believes Marnus Labuschagne would have strolled into the ODI squad had the conditions been normal. "Had we not been in a worldwide pandemic, Marnus would be on this visit as a grounded part and significant piece of the one-day side. It's a tragic situation of the numerous difficulties the world is confronting at this moment. The way things are, Marnus has the chance to proceed in district cricket and T20 games with Glamorgan as we head into the World Cup and home summer" - he signed off. Marnus Labuschagne has had a stiff beginning to his county stretch this year, neglecting to go past 12 runs out of four innings this season. The batsman has overseen only 33 runs in five matches at a baffling average of 8.25. With Marnus Labuschagne set to play county cricket in the coming months, the Australian will hope to get back to frame at the earliest opportunity to help Glamorgan climb the table. They are as of now third in Group three with 69 points from six games.

Marnus Labuschagne 'deeply upset' over his exclusion from limited-overs squad

In what comes as a huge blow to England, pacer Jofra Archer has been ruled out of the upcoming two-match Test series against New Zealand starting in June. <o:p></o:p>

Archer recently returned to action in the County Championship for Sussex against Kent but could manage just five overs in the second innings. The England speedster felt pain in his right elbow when bowling and missed the action in the final two days of the match.<o:p></o:p>

The England and Sussex medical staff will now seek guidance on Archer’s elbow situation. The pacer will see a medical consultant later this week to determine the next course of action.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/battled-anxiety-for-10-12-years-had-many-sleepless-nights-before-matches-reveals-sachin-tendulkar-385563" hreflang="en">B</a><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/battled-anxiety-for-10-12-years-had-many-sleepless-nights-before-matches-reveals-sachin-tendulkar-385563" hreflang="en">attled anxiety for 10-12 years, had many sleepless nights before matches, reveals Sachin Tendulkar</a>

Archer’s elbow issue has been troubling him for many months now. The pacer missed action in India’s home Test series against England. The Barbadian-born express pacer went on to miss the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 for Rajasthan Royals before the T20 tournament was postponed indefinitely. <o:p></o:p>

He further underwent surgery on his finger but that is not related to the current injury concerns around Archer. <o:p></o:p>

Archer has been one of the mainstays of the England pace bowling department and has been seen pairing up with the likes of Stuart Broad, James Anderson, Mark Wood among others as England continue to adhere to its rotation policy keeping the hectic cricket schedule in mind. England, besides playing a bunch of bilateral series, are scheduled to play the T20 World Cup later this year before shifting the focus to the much-awaited Ashes.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-australia-reaches-out-to-cameron-bancroft-after-revelation-on-ball-tampering-issue-385562" hreflang="en">Cricket Australia reaches out to Cameron Bancroft after revelation on ball-tampering issue</a><o:p></o:p>

However, for England to be successful, they would need Archer fully fit. <o:p></o:p>

In what comes as a huge blow to England, pacer Jofra Archer has been ruled out of the upcoming two-match Test series against New Zealand starting in June. Archer recently returned to action in the County Championship for Sussex against Kent but could manage just five overs in the second innings.

In what comes as a huge blow to England, pacer Jofra Archer has been ruled out of the upcoming two-match Test series against New Zealand starting in June. Archer recently returned to action in the County Championship for Sussex against Kent but could manage just five overs in the second innings. The England speedster felt pain in his right elbow when bowling and missed the action in the final two days of the match. The England and Sussex medical staff will now seek guidance on Archer’s elbow situation. The pacer will see a medical consultant later this week to determine the next course of action. ALSO READ: Battled anxiety for 10-12 years, had many sleepless nights before matches, reveals Sachin Tendulkar Archer’s elbow issue has been troubling him for many months now. The pacer missed action in India’s home Test series against England. The Barbadian-born express pacer went on to miss the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 for Rajasthan Royals before the T20 tournament was postponed indefinitely. He further underwent surgery on his finger but that is not related to the current injury concerns around Archer. Archer has been one of the mainstays of the England pace bowling department and has been seen pairing up with the likes of Stuart Broad, James Anderson, Mark Wood among others as England continue to adhere to its rotation policy keeping the hectic cricket schedule in mind. England, besides playing a bunch of bilateral series, are scheduled to play the T20 World Cup later this year before shifting the focus to the much-awaited Ashes. ALSO READ: Cricket Australia reaches out to Cameron Bancroft after revelation on ball-tampering issue However, for England to be successful, they would need Archer fully fit.

England's Jofra Archer ruled out of Test series against New Zealand

Ian Chappell isn't too excited about seeing Steve Smith return as Australia captain. The former cricketer feels getting Steve Smith back would be a step in reverse for the national side.&nbsp;

Tim Paine as of late upheld Steve Smith to get back to the leadership role. The wicket-keeper batsman embraced Steve Smith's captaincy, asserting he will completely uphold the choice if the batsman returns as commander.&nbsp;

Ian Chappell has now shed his assessment on Steve Smith as skipper. In an interview with the Wide World Of Sports, Ian Chappell advised the administration to shun making Smith skipper.

"I think it's time to move on. To me, if you go back to Smith, you're going backward. It's time to look ahead, not in the rear-vision mirror,” Chappell explained. 
Ian Chappell likewise spoke about Cameron Bancroft's new remarks, where he indicated the Australian bowlers knew about the ball-tampering embarrassment in South Africa. Alluding to Bancroft's assertion, Ian Chappell felt it was unavoidable before new subtleties on the Sandpaper-Gate outrage came out.&nbsp;

"It's probably something that's been on Bancroft's chest for a while, and he's tried to get it off his chest as diplomatically as he possibly could. I'm not surprised, because Bancroft's one of only three that got pinged for what happened, and most people would realize that there were more than three people involved,” Chappell said.

Ian Chappell feels Pat Cummins should in any case be the following pick for Australia captain, regardless of whether he knew about the ball-tampering scandal. He feels the weight of obligation eventually tumbles to Steve Smith.&nbsp;

"If people start jumping up and down about Pat Cummins captaining Australia if he knew, well the answer is pretty clear because it falls back on Smith. He's the bloke who should have stopped it. The captain's got the overall say and power to stop it, and he didn't. I don't think it should count against Pat Cummins, even if they decide the bowlers did know. Smith is the bloke who should have made sure the whole thing never started” - he concluded. 
&nbsp;

Ian Chappell isn't too excited about seeing Steve Smith return as Australia captain. The former cricketer feels getting Steve Smith back would be a step in reverse for the national side.

Ian Chappell isn't too excited about seeing Steve Smith return as Australia captain. The former cricketer feels getting Steve Smith back would be a step in reverse for the national side. Tim Paine as of late upheld Steve Smith to get back to the leadership role. The wicket-keeper batsman embraced Steve Smith's captaincy, asserting he will completely uphold the choice if the batsman returns as commander. Ian Chappell has now shed his assessment on Steve Smith as skipper. In an interview with the Wide World Of Sports, Ian Chappell advised the administration to shun making Smith skipper. "I think it's time to move on. To me, if you go back to Smith, you're going backward. It's time to look ahead, not in the rear-vision mirror,” Chappell explained. Ian Chappell likewise spoke about Cameron Bancroft's new remarks, where he indicated the Australian bowlers knew about the ball-tampering embarrassment in South Africa. Alluding to Bancroft's assertion, Ian Chappell felt it was unavoidable before new subtleties on the Sandpaper-Gate outrage came out. "It's probably something that's been on Bancroft's chest for a while, and he's tried to get it off his chest as diplomatically as he possibly could. I'm not surprised, because Bancroft's one of only three that got pinged for what happened, and most people would realize that there were more than three people involved,” Chappell said. Ian Chappell feels Pat Cummins should in any case be the following pick for Australia captain, regardless of whether he knew about the ball-tampering scandal. He feels the weight of obligation eventually tumbles to Steve Smith. "If people start jumping up and down about Pat Cummins captaining Australia if he knew, well the answer is pretty clear because it falls back on Smith. He's the bloke who should have stopped it. The captain's got the overall say and power to stop it, and he didn't. I don't think it should count against Pat Cummins, even if they decide the bowlers did know. Smith is the bloke who should have made sure the whole thing never started” - he concluded.

'It's time to look ahead, not in the rear-vision mirror': Ian Chappell isn't too excited about seeing Steve Smith return as Australia captain

Sachin Tendulkar has revealed that he battled nervousness for 10-12 years of his career. The right-hander said&nbsp;a player needs to get ready mentally too for the game separated from the physical angles. The 48-year-old, who played international cricket from 1989 to 2013, further uncovered he has had sleepless nights before a few matches, and expected to do different errands to remove his psyche.&nbsp;

In an interaction with Unacademy, Sachin Tendulkar opened up on how he managed uneasiness for a significant part of his profession.

"I felt the anxiety for 10-12 years, had many sleepless nights before a game. Later on, I started accepting that it was part of my preparation. Then I made peace with times I was not able to sleep in the night. I would start doing something to keep my mind comfortable," Tendulkar said.

"Making tea, ironing my clothes also helped me prepare for the game. I would pack my bag the day before the game, my brother taught me all of it and it became a habit. I followed the same drill even in the last match I played for India,"&nbsp;he added.

"Over a period of time I realized that besides preparing physically for a game, you have to prepare yourself mentally also. In my mind, the match started long before I entered the ground,"&nbsp;the Master Blaster further said.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-australia-reaches-out-to-cameron-bancroft-after-revelation-on-ball-tampering-issue-385562" hreflang="en">Cricket Australia reaches out to Cameron Bancroft after revelation on ball-tampering issue</a>

The psychological well-being of players has been in the more prominent focal point of late, with players secured steady bio-bubbles attributable to the progressing fight with COVID-19.

Tendulkar expressed that any player will undoubtedly go through high points and low points. At such critical times, imperative to have the correct individuals around you.

"When there is an injury, physios and doctors examine you and diagnose what is wrong with you. The same is the case with mental health. It is normal for anyone to go through ups and downs and when you hit those lows you need people around. Acceptability is the key here. Not just for the player, for people around him also. Once you have accepted you start looking for solutions,"&nbsp;he added.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/have-played-extraordinary-cricket-in-recent-times-says-pace-maestro-mohammed-shami-385426" hreflang="en">'Have played extraordinary cricket in recent times', says pace maestro Mohammed Shami</a>

"That person got me dosa in the room and after keeping it on the table, he offered advice. He pointed out that my elbow guard was restricting my bat swing, which was actually the case. He helped me address that issue.” – he signed off. 
&nbsp;

Sachin Tendulkar has revealed that he battled nervousness for 10-12 years of his career. The right-hander said a player needs to get ready mentally too for the game separated from the physical angles.

Sachin Tendulkar has revealed that he battled nervousness for 10-12 years of his career. The right-hander said a player needs to get ready mentally too for the game separated from the physical angles. The 48-year-old, who played international cricket from 1989 to 2013, further uncovered he has had sleepless nights before a few matches, and expected to do different errands to remove his psyche. In an interaction with Unacademy, Sachin Tendulkar opened up on how he managed uneasiness for a significant part of his profession. "I felt the anxiety for 10-12 years, had many sleepless nights before a game. Later on, I started accepting that it was part of my preparation. Then I made peace with times I was not able to sleep in the night. I would start doing something to keep my mind comfortable," Tendulkar said. "Making tea, ironing my clothes also helped me prepare for the game. I would pack my bag the day before the game, my brother taught me all of it and it became a habit. I followed the same drill even in the last match I played for India," he added. "Over a period of time I realized that besides preparing physically for a game, you have to prepare yourself mentally also. In my mind, the match started long before I entered the ground," the Master Blaster further said. ALSO READ: Cricket Australia reaches out to Cameron Bancroft after revelation on ball-tampering issue The psychological well-being of players has been in the more prominent focal point of late, with players secured steady bio-bubbles attributable to the progressing fight with COVID-19. Tendulkar expressed that any player will undoubtedly go through high points and low points. At such critical times, imperative to have the correct individuals around you. "When there is an injury, physios and doctors examine you and diagnose what is wrong with you. The same is the case with mental health. It is normal for anyone to go through ups and downs and when you hit those lows you need people around. Acceptability is the key here. Not just for the player, for people around him also. Once you have accepted you start looking for solutions," he added. ALSO READ: 'Have played extraordinary cricket in recent times', says pace maestro Mohammed Shami "That person got me dosa in the room and after keeping it on the table, he offered advice. He pointed out that my elbow guard was restricting my bat swing, which was actually the case. He helped me address that issue.” – he signed off.

Battled anxiety for 10-12 years, had many sleepless nights before matches, reveals Sachin Tendulkar

Former Pakistan captain Shahid Afridi has made a shocking revelation that he almost quit international cricket in 2009 due to the internal politics in the team. Afridi, who was regarded as one of the best all-rounders, had a prolific career and played a crucial role for the Men in Green for several years.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/havent-been-a-match-fixer-michael-vaughan-hits-back-at-salman-butt-385416" hreflang="en">'Haven't been a match fixer': Michael Vaughan hits back at Salman Butt</a>

However, Afridi recalled an incident in 2009 when he decided to retire from international cricket. He said that there was a lot of politics in the Pakistan team when Shoaib Malik was appointed captain in 2009. Despite winning the 2009 T20 World Cup, Afridi wanted to end his career.&nbsp;

“I decided not to play cricket anymore,” Afridi told Samaa TV in an interview.

“Shoaib Malik had become the captain and there was a lot of politics going on within the team," he added.

He said that an old man's wise advice forced him to reconsider his decision to put an end to his international career.&nbsp;

“He said you’re so worried about your own performance and worldly matters. Just compare your hardships to those of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), and you will realise that yours are nothing," said Afridi&nbsp;

Shahid Afridi retired from the international circuit in 2017. The all-rounder played 27 Tests, 398 ODIs, and 99 T20Is. He scored 11,196 runs across all formats and scalped 541 wickets.&nbsp;

Former Pakistan captain Shahid Afridi has made a shocking revelation that he almost quit international cricket in 2009 due to the internal politics in the team. Afridi, who was regarded as one of the best all-rounders, had a prolific career and played a crucial role for the Men in Green for several years.

Former Pakistan captain Shahid Afridi has made a shocking revelation that he almost quit international cricket in 2009 due to the internal politics in the team. Afridi, who was regarded as one of the best all-rounders, had a prolific career and played a crucial role for the Men in Green for several years. ALSO READ: 'Haven't been a match fixer': Michael Vaughan hits back at Salman Butt However, Afridi recalled an incident in 2009 when he decided to retire from international cricket. He said that there was a lot of politics in the Pakistan team when Shoaib Malik was appointed captain in 2009. Despite winning the 2009 T20 World Cup, Afridi wanted to end his career. “I decided not to play cricket anymore,” Afridi told Samaa TV in an interview. “Shoaib Malik had become the captain and there was a lot of politics going on within the team," he added. He said that an old man's wise advice forced him to reconsider his decision to put an end to his international career. “He said you’re so worried about your own performance and worldly matters. Just compare your hardships to those of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), and you will realise that yours are nothing," said Afridi Shahid Afridi retired from the international circuit in 2017. The all-rounder played 27 Tests, 398 ODIs, and 99 T20Is. He scored 11,196 runs across all formats and scalped 541 wickets.

'There was lot of politics going on within team': Shahid Afridi on almost quitting cricket in 2009

It has not been a simple excursion for Mohammed Shami, one of the key bowlers of India's pace bowling department across all formats, to arrive at the space where he is today. From the battle of early cricketing years, injuries to a significant disturbance in close to home life a couple of years back - he has endured everything.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/havent-been-a-match-fixer-michael-vaughan-hits-back-at-salman-butt-385416" hreflang="en">'Haven't been a match fixer': Michael Vaughan hits back at Salman Butt</a>

The experience has hardened him up such a lot that he favors an accept it-as-it-comes mentality throughout everyday life - and it's the same with regards to significant tasks like the World Test Championship finale against New Zealand one month from now or the five-Test arrangement against England which follows. Team India have additionally picked 3 backup seamers-Prasidh Krishna, Avesh Khan, and Arzan Nagwaswalla.&nbsp;

Mohammed Shami said as a senior individual from the squad, the sensation of duty comes naturally to him.

The line-up of quick bowlers in the kind-sized Indian squad is very stunning with Mohammed Shami, Ishant Sharma, Jasprit Bumrah, Umesh Yadav, Mohammed Siraj, Shardul Thakur while there are three promising tyros as stand byes.

‘‘We have played some extraordinary cricket in recent times as a unit and naturally, the confidence level is high on the eve of our departure for England. If we can reproduce some&nbsp;form which we did see over the last six months, I am confident it will be a great summer for us,’’ – he added.

Lamentably, however, Shami couldn't be a part of the purple fix as he was struck on the elbow by a Pat Cummins while batting during the day-night first Test in Adelaide Oval - which governed him out of the remainder of the series just as the England series which followed. In any case, regardless of arranging a rebound to serious cricket after almost four months, Shami showed no corrosion as he dove head-first into the IPL crusade for his team Punjab Kings.

‘‘The experience over the years has helped me to learn to look after my body. I know how much training is needed, how to keep myself hydrated etc - all these factors must have also helped’’ – he said&nbsp;

Looking forward at what might be his way to deal with bowling in England, where his strong reverse swing could be at a higher cost than normal, Shami felt it would rely upon the conditions.

‘‘I do not believe in overthinking about what my approach will be. I found my rhythm back in the IPL and the rest, of course, depends on the conditions,’’ he said.

Mohammed Shami is just 20 wickets short of turning into the fifth Indian pacer to achieve 200 wickets in Tests. The fast bowler will be eager to accomplish the milestone on the impending visit through England. 
&nbsp;

It has not been a simple excursion for Mohammed Shami, one of the key bowlers of India's pace bowling department across all formats, to arrive at the space where he is today.

It has not been a simple excursion for Mohammed Shami, one of the key bowlers of India's pace bowling department across all formats, to arrive at the space where he is today. From the battle of early cricketing years, injuries to a significant disturbance in close to home life a couple of years back - he has endured everything. ALSO READ: 'Haven't been a match fixer': Michael Vaughan hits back at Salman Butt The experience has hardened him up such a lot that he favors an accept it-as-it-comes mentality throughout everyday life - and it's the same with regards to significant tasks like the World Test Championship finale against New Zealand one month from now or the five-Test arrangement against England which follows. Team India have additionally picked 3 backup seamers-Prasidh Krishna, Avesh Khan, and Arzan Nagwaswalla. Mohammed Shami said as a senior individual from the squad, the sensation of duty comes naturally to him. The line-up of quick bowlers in the kind-sized Indian squad is very stunning with Mohammed Shami, Ishant Sharma, Jasprit Bumrah, Umesh Yadav, Mohammed Siraj, Shardul Thakur while there are three promising tyros as stand byes. ‘‘We have played some extraordinary cricket in recent times as a unit and naturally, the confidence level is high on the eve of our departure for England. If we can reproduce some form which we did see over the last six months, I am confident it will be a great summer for us,’’ – he added. Lamentably, however, Shami couldn't be a part of the purple fix as he was struck on the elbow by a Pat Cummins while batting during the day-night first Test in Adelaide Oval - which governed him out of the remainder of the series just as the England series which followed. In any case, regardless of arranging a rebound to serious cricket after almost four months, Shami showed no corrosion as he dove head-first into the IPL crusade for his team Punjab Kings. ‘‘The experience over the years has helped me to learn to look after my body. I know how much training is needed, how to keep myself hydrated etc - all these factors must have also helped’’ – he said Looking forward at what might be his way to deal with bowling in England, where his strong reverse swing could be at a higher cost than normal, Shami felt it would rely upon the conditions. ‘‘I do not believe in overthinking about what my approach will be. I found my rhythm back in the IPL and the rest, of course, depends on the conditions,’’ he said. Mohammed Shami is just 20 wickets short of turning into the fifth Indian pacer to achieve 200 wickets in Tests. The fast bowler will be eager to accomplish the milestone on the impending visit through England.

'Have played extraordinary cricket in recent times', says pace maestro Mohammed Shami

Tim Southee disclosed that he cherishes Test cricket more contrasted with different formats, adding that it gets the best out of him as it gets his 'blood boiling'. He additionally spoke about the possibility of confronting India in the first-ever World Test Championship finale.&nbsp;

New Zealand have departed for England, and they will begin their quarantine soon in anticipation of the forthcoming two-match test series against England. In any case, everyone's eyes will be on Southampton at the Rose Bowl when the Blackcaps go head to head against India in the World Test Championship finale on June 18.

In an interview with stuff.co.nz&nbsp;- he said: "I love test cricket. For me, it's my most treasured format. I love all three, but test cricket is something that really gets the blood boiling. Being the first [World Test Championship final] it will be pretty special as well. India in England is unusual on its own, but it's great to test yourself against one of the best sides and they have been for a long period of time. It should be a great match”.

"Ross Taylor and I quite often laugh about it because it took so long to have those wins. Guys are coming in and Kyle Jamieson has won six test matches already and hasn’t lost a test match," - he said.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/australian-test-skipper-tim-paine-calls-virat-kohli-best-batsman-in-the-world-385243" hreflang="en">Australian Test skipper Tim Paine calls Virat Kohli 'best batsman in the world'</a>

The 32-year-old also feels as long as he can keep up with the fitness guidelines, age is only a number and he can keep playing global cricket at the highest level. Tim Southee likewise discussed how players care more for their fitness in the presenters, which is without a doubt assisting them with stretching their vocations.

"As long as you’re still able to perform and reach those high standards it takes to represent your country then I think age is only a number. You look at the likes of&nbsp;James Anderson who is 38. He’s still arguably bowling as well as he ever has. Think cricketers in general look after themselves a lot better. We're a lot fitter as a group; we train a lot on the strength and conditioning side of things. I think you’ll see players play for longer" – he added.

Tim Southee is as yet continuing forward in Test cricket and Southee has the fourth-most wickets in the longest format of the game since 2019 with 65 wickets from 14 matches. 
&nbsp;

Tim Southee disclosed that he cherishes Test cricket more contrasted with different formats, adding that it gets the best out of him as it gets his 'blood boiling'.

Tim Southee disclosed that he cherishes Test cricket more contrasted with different formats, adding that it gets the best out of him as it gets his 'blood boiling'. He additionally spoke about the possibility of confronting India in the first-ever World Test Championship finale. New Zealand have departed for England, and they will begin their quarantine soon in anticipation of the forthcoming two-match test series against England. In any case, everyone's eyes will be on Southampton at the Rose Bowl when the Blackcaps go head to head against India in the World Test Championship finale on June 18. In an interview with stuff.co.nz - he said: "I love test cricket. For me, it's my most treasured format. I love all three, but test cricket is something that really gets the blood boiling. Being the first [World Test Championship final] it will be pretty special as well. India in England is unusual on its own, but it's great to test yourself against one of the best sides and they have been for a long period of time. It should be a great match”. "Ross Taylor and I quite often laugh about it because it took so long to have those wins. Guys are coming in and Kyle Jamieson has won six test matches already and hasn’t lost a test match," - he said. ALSO READ: Australian Test skipper Tim Paine calls Virat Kohli 'best batsman in the world' The 32-year-old also feels as long as he can keep up with the fitness guidelines, age is only a number and he can keep playing global cricket at the highest level. Tim Southee likewise discussed how players care more for their fitness in the presenters, which is without a doubt assisting them with stretching their vocations. "As long as you’re still able to perform and reach those high standards it takes to represent your country then I think age is only a number. You look at the likes of James Anderson who is 38. He’s still arguably bowling as well as he ever has. Think cricketers in general look after themselves a lot better. We're a lot fitter as a group; we train a lot on the strength and conditioning side of things. I think you’ll see players play for longer" – he added. Tim Southee is as yet continuing forward in Test cricket and Southee has the fourth-most wickets in the longest format of the game since 2019 with 65 wickets from 14 matches.

WTC Final: New Zealand's Tim Southee expresses love for Test format

Jofra Archer's elbow injury is back to get him. In the wake of getting back to first-class cricket with Sussex, Jofra Archer could bowl just five overs in the second innings against Kent in the wake of griping a sensitive elbow.&nbsp;

Ahead of the ODI series against England Eoin Morgan said: "Jofra Archer clearly has a progressive injury which has become worse and does need attention".

Jofra Archer missed the ODI series against India and IPL 2021 because of the same injury. He went through surgery in March followed by half a month of recuperation. The first-class match was his pass to England's Test series against New Zealand at home. In any case, presently, it places his incorporation in question. A similar elbow injury made him rule out of IPL 2021.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/aakash-chopra-says-ab-de-villiers-is-a-genius-385343" hreflang="en">Aakash Chopra says, 'AB de Villiers is a genius'</a>

He began a positive note with two wickets in his initial spell in the first innings, reviving any expectations of an awakening international comeback. Nonetheless, he conveyed only 5 overs in the subsequent burrow and invested the greater part of the energy handling regardless of an evident solicitation from Sussex captain Ben Brown.

After the match continued on Day 3 when Sussex skipper Ben Brown asked Jofra Archer to open the bowling, Jofra Archer rejected. Following a short conversation, George Garton was brought in to open the bowling. It was subsequently uncovered that Archer had griped about a sore elbow.

In a conversation with DailyMail - Ian Salisbury revealed:&nbsp;

"I think there was some confusion about the state of Jofra’s elbow. Ben thought he was going to bowl but his elbow was sore and there was confusion over that and he couldn’t bowl”

"If you saw today, he’s not going to bowl tomorrow. You’ll have to ask the ECB. Any time that Jofra can’t bowl you’re going to be frustrated as a leader, or as a team. But it happens. In sport, people get injured. That’s life. That’s a sport. He’s still willing to be out there because he wants Sussex to win. The ECB had to give him permission to play this game. He’s not our player so they had to give permission" - he added.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/players-who-babar-wanted-to-pick-werent-selected-shoaib-malik-slams-pakistan-cricket-board-385341" hreflang="en">'Players who Babar wanted to pick, weren't selected': Shoaib Malik slams Pakistan Cricket Board</a>

Prior media reports have effectively affirmed that a portion of the key Test players like Jos Buttler, Chris Woakes, Sam Curran, Jonny Bairstow and Moeen Ali are probably not going to highlight in the two-test series against New Zealand which will start on June 2nd. ECB may take a comparative course with Jofra Archer giving the World Cup-winning pacer some additional opportunity to recuperate before the five-test series against India in August.

Earlier, Steve Waugh in a podcast with Road to the Ashes said: "For me, he really is a trump card for England’s chances in Australia. I think the key player is Jofra Archer”

Jofra Archer said he might want to return for the remaining matches of IPL 2021 when it resumes. Yet, thinking about his wellness, ECB may not permit him to play in IPL 2021 preceding the Ashes 2021.

Jofra Archer's elbow has been a longstanding issue in his international vocation. He missed three Tests of England's visit through South Africa in mid-2020 and the T20 series that followed with the issue.

&nbsp;

Jofra Archer's elbow injury is back to get him. In the wake of getting back to first-class cricket with Sussex, Jofra Archer could bowl just five overs in the second innings against Kent in the wake of griping a sensitive elbow.

Jofra Archer's elbow injury is back to get him. In the wake of getting back to first-class cricket with Sussex, Jofra Archer could bowl just five overs in the second innings against Kent in the wake of griping a sensitive elbow. Ahead of the ODI series against England Eoin Morgan said: "Jofra Archer clearly has a progressive injury which has become worse and does need attention". Jofra Archer missed the ODI series against India and IPL 2021 because of the same injury. He went through surgery in March followed by half a month of recuperation. The first-class match was his pass to England's Test series against New Zealand at home. In any case, presently, it places his incorporation in question. A similar elbow injury made him rule out of IPL 2021. ALSO READ: Aakash Chopra says, 'AB de Villiers is a genius' He began a positive note with two wickets in his initial spell in the first innings, reviving any expectations of an awakening international comeback. Nonetheless, he conveyed only 5 overs in the subsequent burrow and invested the greater part of the energy handling regardless of an evident solicitation from Sussex captain Ben Brown. After the match continued on Day 3 when Sussex skipper Ben Brown asked Jofra Archer to open the bowling, Jofra Archer rejected. Following a short conversation, George Garton was brought in to open the bowling. It was subsequently uncovered that Archer had griped about a sore elbow. In a conversation with DailyMail - Ian Salisbury revealed: "I think there was some confusion about the state of Jofra’s elbow. Ben thought he was going to bowl but his elbow was sore and there was confusion over that and he couldn’t bowl” "If you saw today, he’s not going to bowl tomorrow. You’ll have to ask the ECB. Any time that Jofra can’t bowl you’re going to be frustrated as a leader, or as a team. But it happens. In sport, people get injured. That’s life. That’s a sport. He’s still willing to be out there because he wants Sussex to win. The ECB had to give him permission to play this game. He’s not our player so they had to give permission" - he added. ALSO READ: 'Players who Babar wanted to pick, weren't selected': Shoaib Malik slams Pakistan Cricket Board Prior media reports have effectively affirmed that a portion of the key Test players like Jos Buttler, Chris Woakes, Sam Curran, Jonny Bairstow and Moeen Ali are probably not going to highlight in the two-test series against New Zealand which will start on June 2nd. ECB may take a comparative course with Jofra Archer giving the World Cup-winning pacer some additional opportunity to recuperate before the five-test series against India in August. Earlier, Steve Waugh in a podcast with Road to the Ashes said: "For me, he really is a trump card for England’s chances in Australia. I think the key player is Jofra Archer” Jofra Archer said he might want to return for the remaining matches of IPL 2021 when it resumes. Yet, thinking about his wellness, ECB may not permit him to play in IPL 2021 preceding the Ashes 2021. Jofra Archer's elbow has been a longstanding issue in his international vocation. He missed three Tests of England's visit through South Africa in mid-2020 and the T20 series that followed with the issue.

Jofra Archer suffers an elbow injury again as injury woes resurface

Lisa Sthalekar has pummeled the Board of Control for Cricket in India for not communicating with Veda Krishnamurthy over her exclusion from the Indian women's squad for the tour of England.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ekta-bisht-shikha-pandey-set-to-return-as-bcci-announces-womens-squad-for-england-tour-385170" hreflang="en">Shafali Verma receives maiden call as BCCI announces squad for England tour</a>

Veda Krishnamurthy, who lamentably lost her mom and sister to COVID-19 as of late, was obvious by her nonappearance from the squads for every one of the three formats. The flamboyant middle-order batsman, Veda Krishnamurthy has been a necessary individual from the Indian team and was also a part of the squad that arrived at the T20 World Cup last a year ago.&nbsp;

Lisa Sthalekar is the first player to accomplish the twofold of 1000 runs and 100 wickets in One-Day Internationals, felt the opportunity has arrived for a player's relationship for the Indian women’s team.&nbsp;Lisa reprimanded the BCCI for not trying to speak to Veda at this dismal hour. She additionally censured the board for 'focusing solely on just the game'.

"Whilst not selecting Veda for the upcoming series may be justified from their point of view, what angers me the most is that as a contracted player she has not received any communication from BCCI, just to even check how she is coping. A true association should deeply care about the players that play the game not focus solely on just the game at any cost. So disappointed," said Lisa Sthalekar.

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There is still time to fix this!! <a href="https://t.co/LT3hApMioJ">pic.twitter.com/LT3hApMioJ</a>
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Veda Krishnamurthy has played 48 ODIs and 76 T20Is for Team India, scoring 829 and 875 runs in the two formats. The 28-year-old has pursued gigantic acclaim as of late for assisting others during the pandemic notwithstanding her own loss.

"As a past player, the ACA has reached out daily to see how we are and provided all kinds of services. If there was ever&nbsp;a need for a Players Association in India&nbsp;surely it is now. The stress, anxiety, fear, and grief that many players have experienced through this pandemic will take its toll on them as individuals and inadvertently affect the game" -&nbsp;concluded Lisa Sthalekar.

India is reeling under a second influx of the pandemic with cases ascending by more than three lakh regular and the emergency has been compounded by a deficiency of some vital medicines and oxygen supplies.

&nbsp;

Lisa Sthalekar has pummeled the Board of Control for Cricket in India for not communicating with Veda Krishnamurthy over her exclusion from the Indian women's squad for the tour of England.

Lisa Sthalekar has pummeled the Board of Control for Cricket in India for not communicating with Veda Krishnamurthy over her exclusion from the Indian women's squad for the tour of England. ALSO READ: Shafali Verma receives maiden call as BCCI announces squad for England tour Veda Krishnamurthy, who lamentably lost her mom and sister to COVID-19 as of late, was obvious by her nonappearance from the squads for every one of the three formats. The flamboyant middle-order batsman, Veda Krishnamurthy has been a necessary individual from the Indian team and was also a part of the squad that arrived at the T20 World Cup last a year ago. Lisa Sthalekar is the first player to accomplish the twofold of 1000 runs and 100 wickets in One-Day Internationals, felt the opportunity has arrived for a player's relationship for the Indian women’s team. Lisa reprimanded the BCCI for not trying to speak to Veda at this dismal hour. She additionally censured the board for 'focusing solely on just the game'. "Whilst not selecting Veda for the upcoming series may be justified from their point of view, what angers me the most is that as a contracted player she has not received any communication from BCCI, just to even check how she is coping. A true association should deeply care about the players that play the game not focus solely on just the game at any cost. So disappointed," said Lisa Sthalekar. There is still time to fix this!! pic.twitter.com/LT3hApMioJ — Lisa Sthalekar (@sthalekar93) May 15, 2021 × Veda Krishnamurthy has played 48 ODIs and 76 T20Is for Team India, scoring 829 and 875 runs in the two formats. The 28-year-old has pursued gigantic acclaim as of late for assisting others during the pandemic notwithstanding her own loss. "As a past player, the ACA has reached out daily to see how we are and provided all kinds of services. If there was ever a need for a Players Association in India surely it is now. The stress, anxiety, fear, and grief that many players have experienced through this pandemic will take its toll on them as individuals and inadvertently affect the game" - concluded Lisa Sthalekar. India is reeling under a second influx of the pandemic with cases ascending by more than three lakh regular and the emergency has been compounded by a deficiency of some vital medicines and oxygen supplies.

'A true association should deeply care about the players': Lisa Sthalekar slams BCCI on Veda Krishnamurthy

Kusal Perera accepts an aggressive methodology will help Sri Lankan cricket to perform better in the 50-over format.&nbsp; 
Ahead of the ICC Cricket World Cup Super League against Bangladesh, new commander Kusal Perera talked about the significance of playing with a brave mentality and fearless attitude. He thought that if the players were pondering saving their position in the group, they could always be unable to give their best.&nbsp;

Sri Lanka Cricket terminated Dimuth Karunaratne and other senior players on account of the squad's dull exhibitions lately. The board likewise chose Kusal Perera as the new ODI captain, with Kusal Mendis filling in as his representative.&nbsp;

A day in the wake of turning out to be Sri Lanka's new ODI captain, Kusal Perera in a conversation with ESPNCricinfo said:

"We have to play fearless cricket to win matches. You can't be fearful about losing. If you're worried about your place, you aren't going to give 100%. What I'm going to tell the players is to go and give it everything. If we play fearlessly even when we are practicing, then you will be able to play the same way in a match."

Kusal Perera expressed that he had effectively addressed his teammates about playing valiantly. He added he would attempt to fabricate a confident unit of players.&nbsp;

Kusal Perera has played 101 ODI matches for Sri Lanka, enlisting five centuries and 14 fifties. He has a nice batting average of 31.04. All things considered, the Sri Lankan determination advisory group anticipates that he should improve his scores.&nbsp;

Unveiling what the selectors advised him in the wake of naming him chief, Kusal Perera added:

"What the selectors told me when they appointed me was that I often get a 50 or a 60 and get out without getting to a 100. I accept that. If I score a hundred, the chances of winning the match go up."- he said&nbsp;

"You can't get a 100 every game, but when you get a start, you need to make sure you convert. They expect me to take that responsibility," – he concluded. 
&nbsp;

Kusal Perera accepts an aggressive methodology will help Sri Lankan cricket to perform better in the 50-over format. Ahead of the ICC Cricket World Cup Super League against Bangladesh, new commander Kusal Perera talked about the significance of playing with a brave mentality and fearless attitude.

Kusal Perera accepts an aggressive methodology will help Sri Lankan cricket to perform better in the 50-over format. Ahead of the ICC Cricket World Cup Super League against Bangladesh, new commander Kusal Perera talked about the significance of playing with a brave mentality and fearless attitude. He thought that if the players were pondering saving their position in the group, they could always be unable to give their best. Sri Lanka Cricket terminated Dimuth Karunaratne and other senior players on account of the squad's dull exhibitions lately. The board likewise chose Kusal Perera as the new ODI captain, with Kusal Mendis filling in as his representative. A day in the wake of turning out to be Sri Lanka's new ODI captain, Kusal Perera in a conversation with ESPNCricinfo said: "We have to play fearless cricket to win matches. You can't be fearful about losing. If you're worried about your place, you aren't going to give 100%. What I'm going to tell the players is to go and give it everything. If we play fearlessly even when we are practicing, then you will be able to play the same way in a match." Kusal Perera expressed that he had effectively addressed his teammates about playing valiantly. He added he would attempt to fabricate a confident unit of players. Kusal Perera has played 101 ODI matches for Sri Lanka, enlisting five centuries and 14 fifties. He has a nice batting average of 31.04. All things considered, the Sri Lankan determination advisory group anticipates that he should improve his scores. Unveiling what the selectors advised him in the wake of naming him chief, Kusal Perera added: "What the selectors told me when they appointed me was that I often get a 50 or a 60 and get out without getting to a 100. I accept that. If I score a hundred, the chances of winning the match go up."- he said "You can't get a 100 every game, but when you get a start, you need to make sure you convert. They expect me to take that responsibility," – he concluded.

'Can't be fearful about losing, we have to play fearless cricket': Kusal Perera

ICC World Test Championship finalists India and New Zealand remain the top two teams in the ICC Men’s Test Team Rankings after the annual update carried out on Thursday. With the latest update, India end&nbsp;as the number 1 Test side in the annual ranking for the 5th consecutive year: 2017, 2018, 2019, 2020 and 2021.

India have gained one rating point for an aggregate of 121 and New Zealand are only one point behind after gaining two points in Thursday’s update, which eliminates results from 2017-18.

India’s 2-1 win over Australia and 3-1 win over England over the past year and New Zealand’s 2-0 series wins over the West Indies and Pakistan have helped them keep ahead of the pack.

The latest update, which rates all matches played since May 2020 at 100 per cent and those of the previous two years at 50 per cent, sees England overtake Australia to third position as England’s 4-0 defeat to Australia in 2017-18 has dropped from the rankings.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rahul-dravid-picked-australian-brains-to-build-indias-solid-domestic-structure-greg-chappell-384565" hreflang="en">Rahul Dravid picked 'Australian brains' to build India's solid domestic structure: Greg Chappell</a>

Pakistan have gained three points but remain in fifth position while the West Indies, who beat Bangladesh 2-0 and drew 0-0 with Sri Lanka in series played this year, have moved from eighth to sixth, their best position since 2013.

South Africa are in seventh position, equaling their lowest in Test ranking history, while Sri Lanka are next on the list. Bangladesh have lost five points but remain in ninth position while Zimbabwe have gained eight points but are still nine points behind Bangladesh.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/look-at-ishan-suryakumar-and-krunal-mohammad-amir-hits-out-at-pcb-selectors-384559" hreflang="en">'Look at Ishan, Suryakumar and Krunal': Mohammad Amir hits out at PCB selectors</a>

<h2>ICC Test Team Rankings (as of May 13, 2021, following the annual update):</h2>

Rank &nbsp; &nbsp;Team &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; Points

1 &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;India &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 121 (+1)

2 &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;New Zealand &nbsp; &nbsp; 120 (+2)

3 &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;England &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 109 (+3) &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

4 &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;Australia &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 108 (-5)

5 &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;Pakistan &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 94 (+3)

6 &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;West Indies &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 84 (+3)

7 &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;South Africa &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 80 (-9)

8 &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;Sri Lanka &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 78 (-5)

9 &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;Bangladesh &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 46 (-5)

10 &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; Zimbabwe &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;35 (+8)

ICC World Test Championship finalists India and New Zealand remain the top two teams in the ICC Men’s Test Team Rankings after the annual update carried out on Thursday.

ICC World Test Championship finalists India and New Zealand remain the top two teams in the ICC Men’s Test Team Rankings after the annual update carried out on Thursday. With the latest update, India end as the number 1 Test side in the annual ranking for the 5th consecutive year: 2017, 2018, 2019, 2020 and 2021. India have gained one rating point for an aggregate of 121 and New Zealand are only one point behind after gaining two points in Thursday’s update, which eliminates results from 2017-18. India’s 2-1 win over Australia and 3-1 win over England over the past year and New Zealand’s 2-0 series wins over the West Indies and Pakistan have helped them keep ahead of the pack. The latest update, which rates all matches played since May 2020 at 100 per cent and those of the previous two years at 50 per cent, sees England overtake Australia to third position as England’s 4-0 defeat to Australia in 2017-18 has dropped from the rankings. ALSO READ: Rahul Dravid picked 'Australian brains' to build India's solid domestic structure: Greg Chappell Pakistan have gained three points but remain in fifth position while the West Indies, who beat Bangladesh 2-0 and drew 0-0 with Sri Lanka in series played this year, have moved from eighth to sixth, their best position since 2013. South Africa are in seventh position, equaling their lowest in Test ranking history, while Sri Lanka are next on the list. Bangladesh have lost five points but remain in ninth position while Zimbabwe have gained eight points but are still nine points behind Bangladesh. ALSO READ: 'Look at Ishan, Suryakumar and Krunal': Mohammad Amir hits out at PCB selectors ICC Test Team Rankings (as of May 13, 2021, following the annual update): Rank Team Points 1 India 121 (+1) 2 New Zealand 120 (+2) 3 England 109 (+3) 4 Australia 108 (-5) 5 Pakistan 94 (+3) 6 West Indies 84 (+3) 7 South Africa 80 (-9) 8 Sri Lanka 78 (-5) 9 Bangladesh 46 (-5) 10 Zimbabwe 35 (+8)

Domination continues! India remain atop of ICC Men’s Test team rankings

Ahead of the much-awaited England tour, where Team India will not only play the final of the ICC World Test Championship but also a five-match Test series against England, the Indian players have been asked to enter the bio-secure bubble on May 19 in Mumbai. <o:p></o:p>

The Indian players, part of the three-and-a-half-month-long tour to the UK, have been asked to regroup in Mumbai on May 19 and enter a 10-day quarantine period. <o:p></o:p>

“Yes, those travelling to England are entering the bio-bubble on May 19 after regrouping in Mumbai. After completing the hard quarantine (confined to hotel rooms) in Mumbai, the team will depart for the UK on June 2,” a source close to the Indian team told WION. <o:p></o:p>

The BCCI wanted to complete a quarantine period to avoid any positive COVID-19 cases in the United Kingdom. The Indian board is also in talks with the England Cricket Board (ECB) to reduce the 10-day soft quarantine (training allowed) as it will be a bubble-to-bubble movement. However, it remains to be seen whether there will be any concession in this regard for the Indian contingent.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/official-ramesh-powar-appointed-head-coach-of-indian-womens-cricket-team-384783" hreflang="en">Official: Ramesh Powar appointed head coach of Indian women’s cricket team</a><o:p></o:p>

Earlier, the BCCI had announced a 24-member squad including four standby players for the long season in the UK, which is scheduled to conclude on September 14 following the grueling five-match Test series against Joe Root-led England.<o:p></o:p>

Out of those 24, KL Rahul and Wriddhiman Saha would have to undergo a fitness test while Prasidh Krishna, who tested positive for COVID-19 a few days back, will have to return negative to be eligible to travel.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/they-werent-going-to-gabba-australia-skipper-tim-paine-says-team-india-good-at-creating-sideshows-384723" hreflang="en">'They weren't going to Gabba': Australia skipper Tim Paine says Team India good at 'creating sideshows'</a>

Whereas the squad for the Indian women's team is likely to be announced on Friday. India women play three WODIs as many T20Is and one-off Test against England starting June 16.

<h2 class="MsoNormal">India Squad for WTC final vs New Zealand, and five-match Test Series vs England<o:p></o:p></h2>

India’s squad: Rohit Sharma, Shubman Gill, Mayank Agarwal, Cheteshwar Pujara, Virat Kohli (Captain), Ajinkya Rahane (vice-captain), Hanuma Vihari, Rishabh Pant (wicket-keeper), R. Ashwin, Ravindra Jadeja, Axar Patel, Washington Sundar, Jasprit Bumrah, Ishant Sharma, Mohd. Shami, Md. Siraj, Shardul Thakur, Umesh Yadav, KL Rahul (subject to fitness clearance), Wriddhiman Saha (wicket-keeper; subject to fitness clearance).<o:p></o:p>

Standby players: Abhimanyu Easwaran, Prasidh Krishna, Avesh Khan, Arzan Nagwaswalla<o:p></o:p>

Ahead of the much-awaited England tour, where Team India will not only play the final of the ICC World Test Championship but also a five-match Test series against England, the Indian players have been asked to enter the bio-secure bubble on May 19 in Mumbai.

Ahead of the much-awaited England tour, where Team India will not only play the final of the ICC World Test Championship but also a five-match Test series against England, the Indian players have been asked to enter the bio-secure bubble on May 19 in Mumbai. The Indian players, part of the three-and-a-half-month-long tour to the UK, have been asked to regroup in Mumbai on May 19 and enter a 10-day quarantine period. “Yes, those travelling to England are entering the bio-bubble on May 19 after regrouping in Mumbai. After completing the hard quarantine (confined to hotel rooms) in Mumbai, the team will depart for the UK on June 2,” a source close to the Indian team told WION. The BCCI wanted to complete a quarantine period to avoid any positive COVID-19 cases in the United Kingdom. The Indian board is also in talks with the England Cricket Board (ECB) to reduce the 10-day soft quarantine (training allowed) as it will be a bubble-to-bubble movement. However, it remains to be seen whether there will be any concession in this regard for the Indian contingent. ALSO READ: Official: Ramesh Powar appointed head coach of Indian women’s cricket team Earlier, the BCCI had announced a 24-member squad including four standby players for the long season in the UK, which is scheduled to conclude on September 14 following the grueling five-match Test series against Joe Root-led England. Out of those 24, KL Rahul and Wriddhiman Saha would have to undergo a fitness test while Prasidh Krishna, who tested positive for COVID-19 a few days back, will have to return negative to be eligible to travel. ALSO READ: 'They weren't going to Gabba': Australia skipper Tim Paine says Team India good at 'creating sideshows' Whereas the squad for the Indian women's team is likely to be announced on Friday. India women play three WODIs as many T20Is and one-off Test against England starting June 16. India Squad for WTC final vs New Zealand, and five-match Test Series vs England India’s squad: Rohit Sharma, Shubman Gill, Mayank Agarwal, Cheteshwar Pujara, Virat Kohli (Captain), Ajinkya Rahane (vice-captain), Hanuma Vihari, Rishabh Pant (wicket-keeper), R. Ashwin, Ravindra Jadeja, Axar Patel, Washington Sundar, Jasprit Bumrah, Ishant Sharma, Mohd. Shami, Md. Siraj, Shardul Thakur, Umesh Yadav, KL Rahul (subject to fitness clearance), Wriddhiman Saha (wicket-keeper; subject to fitness clearance). Standby players: Abhimanyu Easwaran, Prasidh Krishna, Avesh Khan, Arzan Nagwaswalla

Team India to enter bio-bubble on May 19 in Mumbai ahead of England tour

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) on Thursday announced the appointment of Ramesh Powar as the head coach of the Indian women’s cricket team. The BCCI had advertised for the post and received over 35 applications.<o:p></o:p>

The three-member Cricket Advisory Committee comprising Sulakshana Naik, Madan Lal and Rudra Pratap Singh interviewed the applicants and unanimously agreed on Powar’s candidature.<o:p></o:p>

A former international, Powar played 2 Tests and 31 ODIs for India. Post his playing career, he took up cricket coaching and is an ECB Level 2 certified coach and has also attended BCCI-NCA Level 2 coaching course. <o:p></o:p>

A former coach of the Indian Women’s Team from July-November 2018, it was under him that India qualified for the semi-final of the ICC T20 Women’s World Cup in 2018 and also won 14 T20 matches in a row.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/they-werent-going-to-gabba-australia-skipper-tim-paine-says-team-india-good-at-creating-sideshows-384723" hreflang="en">'They weren't going to Gabba': Australia skipper Tim Paine says Team India good at 'creating sideshows'</a><o:p></o:p>

He recently coached the Mumbai senior team that won the Vijay Hazare Trophy and has worked at the National Cricket Academy as a Bowling Coach.<o:p></o:p>

Powar’s last term as the head coach of the Indian women’s team was cut short after a spat with ODI skipper Mithali Raj. However, it would be interesting to see how both Powar and Mithali continue in the 50-over circuit.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/domination-continues-india-remain-atop-of-icc-mens-test-team-rankings-384711" hreflang="en">Domination continues! India remain atop of ICC Men’s Test team rankings</a><o:p></o:p>

Powar succeeds WV Raman, who guided the team to the final of ICC Women’s T20 World Cup in 2020. <o:p></o:p>

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) on Thursday announced the appointment of Ramesh Powar as the head coach of the Indian women’s cricket team. The BCCI had advertised for the post and received over 35 applications.

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) on Thursday announced the appointment of Ramesh Powar as the head coach of the Indian women’s cricket team. The BCCI had advertised for the post and received over 35 applications. The three-member Cricket Advisory Committee comprising Sulakshana Naik, Madan Lal and Rudra Pratap Singh interviewed the applicants and unanimously agreed on Powar’s candidature. A former international, Powar played 2 Tests and 31 ODIs for India. Post his playing career, he took up cricket coaching and is an ECB Level 2 certified coach and has also attended BCCI-NCA Level 2 coaching course. A former coach of the Indian Women’s Team from July-November 2018, it was under him that India qualified for the semi-final of the ICC T20 Women’s World Cup in 2018 and also won 14 T20 matches in a row. ALSO READ: 'They weren't going to Gabba': Australia skipper Tim Paine says Team India good at 'creating sideshows' He recently coached the Mumbai senior team that won the Vijay Hazare Trophy and has worked at the National Cricket Academy as a Bowling Coach. Powar’s last term as the head coach of the Indian women’s team was cut short after a spat with ODI skipper Mithali Raj. However, it would be interesting to see how both Powar and Mithali continue in the 50-over circuit. ALSO READ: Domination continues! India remain atop of ICC Men’s Test team rankings Powar succeeds WV Raman, who guided the team to the final of ICC Women’s T20 World Cup in 2020.

Official: Ramesh Powar appointed head coach of Indian women’s cricket team

Ace all-rounder Ben Stokes has admitted that it will be difficult for him and his fellow England teammates to participate in the remainder of Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 if and when it resumes while citing the international calendar.<o:p></o:p>

IPL 2021 was indefinitely postponed last week after COVID-19 cases emerged in the bio-bubble of multiple franchises. <o:p></o:p>

Stokes suffered a fractured finger during Rajasthan Royals’ opening match against Punjab Kings and was ruled out of the tournament. But fans hoped the premier England all-rounder will return if the postponed T20 tournament resumes later in the year. <o:p></o:p>

"We don't know if or when the tournament will be rearranged, but as the ECB have said it could be difficult for the England boys to have a free gap," Stokes wrote in his column for 'Daily Mirror'.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/took-it-with-class-srh-assistant-coach-brad-haddin-opens-up-on-david-warner-captaincy-snub-384742" hreflang="en">'Took it with class': SRH assistant coach Brad Haddin opens up on David Warner captaincy snub</a><o:p></o:p>

"After this year though, I do look forward to playing a full part again at some point in the future," Stokes wrote.<o:p></o:p>

Stokes sustained a setback after fracturing his finger and opted to undergo surgery after initial skepticism. Without giving a particular date on his return, Stokes said he should be back playing in seven to nine weeks. <o:p></o:p>

"I can't put a date on when I'll be back playing again, but as long as things progress as well as they have then I should hope it will be well before the three months that was first feared and more like seven, eight, or nine weeks.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/they-werent-going-to-gabba-australia-skipper-tim-paine-says-team-india-good-at-creating-sideshows-384723" hreflang="en">'They weren't going to Gabba': Australia skipper Tim Paine says Team India good at 'creating sideshows'</a><o:p></o:p>

"You can never know for sure how long these things will take because it is not just about the technical side of healing and getting the bone strong, there is the big issue of having confidence in it to play professional sport."<o:p></o:p>

"It was tough to say goodbye to the guys at the Rajasthan Royals earlier than I wanted, but the subsequent suspension of the tournament means that everyone is now back early with their families as India tries to get through such a difficult time."<o:p></o:p>

Stokes is touted to play a major role for England in the upcoming T20 World Cup after starring in the ICC World Cup 2019 where he was awarded the player of the tournament. <o:p></o:p>

Ace all-rounder Ben Stokes has admitted that it will be difficult for him and his fellow England teammates to participate in the remainder of Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 if and when it resumes while citing the international calendar.

Ace all-rounder Ben Stokes has admitted that it will be difficult for him and his fellow England teammates to participate in the remainder of Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 if and when it resumes while citing the international calendar. IPL 2021 was indefinitely postponed last week after COVID-19 cases emerged in the bio-bubble of multiple franchises. Stokes suffered a fractured finger during Rajasthan Royals’ opening match against Punjab Kings and was ruled out of the tournament. But fans hoped the premier England all-rounder will return if the postponed T20 tournament resumes later in the year. "We don't know if or when the tournament will be rearranged, but as the ECB have said it could be difficult for the England boys to have a free gap," Stokes wrote in his column for 'Daily Mirror'. ALSO READ: 'Took it with class': SRH assistant coach Brad Haddin opens up on David Warner captaincy snub "After this year though, I do look forward to playing a full part again at some point in the future," Stokes wrote. Stokes sustained a setback after fracturing his finger and opted to undergo surgery after initial skepticism. Without giving a particular date on his return, Stokes said he should be back playing in seven to nine weeks. "I can't put a date on when I'll be back playing again, but as long as things progress as well as they have then I should hope it will be well before the three months that was first feared and more like seven, eight, or nine weeks. ALSO READ: 'They weren't going to Gabba': Australia skipper Tim Paine says Team India good at 'creating sideshows' "You can never know for sure how long these things will take because it is not just about the technical side of healing and getting the bone strong, there is the big issue of having confidence in it to play professional sport." "It was tough to say goodbye to the guys at the Rajasthan Royals earlier than I wanted, but the subsequent suspension of the tournament means that everyone is now back early with their families as India tries to get through such a difficult time." Stokes is touted to play a major role for England in the upcoming T20 World Cup after starring in the ICC World Cup 2019 where he was awarded the player of the tournament.

'It could be difficult': Rajasthan Royals' Ben Stokes on playing in remainder of IPL 2021

Sunrisers Hyderabad assistant coach Brad Haddin has opened up about the management’s decision to replace David Warner as the captain of the team during the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021. Haddin revealed that Warner responded to the demotion with ‘class’ and just got back with his job as nothing happened.<o:p></o:p>

Warner was not only removed from the captaincy role but was even dropped from the playing XI, a move that shocked the cricket fraternity considering Warner has been among the most consistent players in the history of IPL. <o:p></o:p>

Haddin said the way Warner would have come back in contention to start in the next few days while adding the southpaw is one of the best in the world in the shortest format of the game. <o:p></o:p>

While SRH was lying at the bottom of the IPL 2021 table, the SRH management decided to shake things up in a bid to get back to winning run.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/they-werent-going-to-gabba-australia-skipper-tim-paine-says-team-india-good-at-creating-sideshows-384723" hreflang="en">'They weren't going to Gabba': Australia skipper Tim Paine says Team India good at 'creating sideshows'</a><o:p></o:p>

“He took it with class. It was a bit of a shock to everyone. Management decided to go in a different direction to try to spark something within the team. We weren’t playing to the standard we needed to. With Davey, the way he handled it was all class. He just got on back with the job,” Haddin (while being asked about Warner’s reaction) was quoted as saying by Fox Cricket.<o:p></o:p>

“I dare say he would have come back in contention in the next few games. He is one of the best in the world in that form of the game. You only had to look at the way he reacted when he came onto the bench. He was around everyone, running the drinks out. He was still really vocal in the meetings. He handled a difficult situation with a lot of class,” Haddin added.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/domination-continues-india-remain-atop-of-icc-mens-test-team-rankings-384711" hreflang="en">Domination continues! India remain atop of ICC Men’s Test team rankings</a>

<o:p></o:p>

While it is unclear whether Warner would return back to SRH if and when the IPL 2021 resumes later this year, the Hyderabad franchise would be itching to clinch a few wins to keep their playoff hopes alive.<o:p></o:p>

Sunrisers Hyderabad assistant coach Brad Haddin has opened up about the management’s decision to replace David Warner as the captain of the team during the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021.

Sunrisers Hyderabad assistant coach Brad Haddin has opened up about the management’s decision to replace David Warner as the captain of the team during the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021. Haddin revealed that Warner responded to the demotion with ‘class’ and just got back with his job as nothing happened. Warner was not only removed from the captaincy role but was even dropped from the playing XI, a move that shocked the cricket fraternity considering Warner has been among the most consistent players in the history of IPL. Haddin said the way Warner would have come back in contention to start in the next few days while adding the southpaw is one of the best in the world in the shortest format of the game. While SRH was lying at the bottom of the IPL 2021 table, the SRH management decided to shake things up in a bid to get back to winning run. ALSO READ: 'They weren't going to Gabba': Australia skipper Tim Paine says Team India good at 'creating sideshows' “He took it with class. It was a bit of a shock to everyone. Management decided to go in a different direction to try to spark something within the team. We weren’t playing to the standard we needed to. With Davey, the way he handled it was all class. He just got on back with the job,” Haddin (while being asked about Warner’s reaction) was quoted as saying by Fox Cricket. “I dare say he would have come back in contention in the next few games. He is one of the best in the world in that form of the game. You only had to look at the way he reacted when he came onto the bench. He was around everyone, running the drinks out. He was still really vocal in the meetings. He handled a difficult situation with a lot of class,” Haddin added. ALSO READ: Domination continues! India remain atop of ICC Men’s Test team rankings While it is unclear whether Warner would return back to SRH if and when the IPL 2021 resumes later this year, the Hyderabad franchise would be itching to clinch a few wins to keep their playoff hopes alive.

'Took it with class': SRH assistant coach Brad Haddin opens up on David Warner captaincy snub

Australia Test captain Tim Paine has taken a sly dig at India as he said that the Men in Blue are good at distracting opponents with things that “do not matter”. Paine’s comments come in the backdrop of India’s historic Test series win against Australia as they became the first team to defeat Australia in Australia on a back-to-back occasion in the longest format of the game.<o:p></o:p>

Ahead of the final Test of the series, reports emerged that the Indian team was unwilling to travel to Brisbane in relation to the COVID-19 situation in the city and bio-secure bubble protocols and reportedly insisted the final Test to be played in Sydney – the host of the third Test. <o:p></o:p>

However, India went to Brisbane and went on to win the Test and the series. Paine said the distractions created by the Indian team played a role in Australia losing focus ahead of the series decider.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/domination-continues-india-remain-atop-of-icc-mens-test-team-rankings-384711" hreflang="en">Domination continues! India remain atop of ICC Men’s Test team rankings</a><o:p></o:p>

"Part of the challenge of playing against India is they're very good at niggling you and trying to distract you with stuff that doesn't really matter and there were times in that series where we fell for that," Paine told news.com.au.<o:p></o:p>

"The classic example was when they said they weren't going to the Gabba so we didn't know where we were going. They're very good at creating these sideshows and we took our eye off the ball."

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rahul-dravid-picked-australian-brains-to-build-indias-solid-domestic-structure-greg-chappell-384565" hreflang="en">ahul Dravid picked 'Australian brains' to build India's solid domestic structure: Greg Chappell</a>

While India’s previous tour of Australia was epic in many ways, the 2020-21 Border-Gavaskar trophy win was sweeter for the players and fans given the number of injuries in the first-team. With the likes of Virat Kohli unavailable and many key players like Mohammed Shami, Ravindra Jadeja, Jasprit Bumrah among others injured, India put a commendable show to seal a Test series for ages.<o:p></o:p>

Australia Test captain Tim Paine has taken a sly dig at India as he said that the Men in Blue are good at distracting opponents with things that “do not matter”.

Australia Test captain Tim Paine has taken a sly dig at India as he said that the Men in Blue are good at distracting opponents with things that “do not matter”. Paine’s comments come in the backdrop of India’s historic Test series win against Australia as they became the first team to defeat Australia in Australia on a back-to-back occasion in the longest format of the game. Ahead of the final Test of the series, reports emerged that the Indian team was unwilling to travel to Brisbane in relation to the COVID-19 situation in the city and bio-secure bubble protocols and reportedly insisted the final Test to be played in Sydney – the host of the third Test. However, India went to Brisbane and went on to win the Test and the series. Paine said the distractions created by the Indian team played a role in Australia losing focus ahead of the series decider. ALSO READ: Domination continues! India remain atop of ICC Men’s Test team rankings "Part of the challenge of playing against India is they're very good at niggling you and trying to distract you with stuff that doesn't really matter and there were times in that series where we fell for that," Paine told news.com.au. "The classic example was when they said they weren't going to the Gabba so we didn't know where we were going. They're very good at creating these sideshows and we took our eye off the ball." ALSO READ: ahul Dravid picked 'Australian brains' to build India's solid domestic structure: Greg Chappell While India’s previous tour of Australia was epic in many ways, the 2020-21 Border-Gavaskar trophy win was sweeter for the players and fans given the number of injuries in the first-team. With the likes of Virat Kohli unavailable and many key players like Mohammed Shami, Ravindra Jadeja, Jasprit Bumrah among others injured, India put a commendable show to seal a Test series for ages.

'They weren't going to Gabba': Australia skipper Tim Paine says Team India good at 'creating sideshows'

Former Australia captain Greg Chappell has said that Rahul Dravid picked the Aussie brains to build a solid domestic structure in India while recognising how India and England have surpassed Australia in terms of providing a platform for young talent.<o:p></o:p>

Chappell further said that Australia have now lost their position as the best in identifying talent and nurturing them for the biggest of stages. &nbsp;<o:p></o:p>

"I am seeing a bunch of young players with great potential who are in limbo. That's unacceptable. We cannot afford to lose one player. India have got their act together and that's largely because (India's academy chief and former Test captain) Rahul Dravid has picked our brains, seen what we're doing and replicated it in India and with their much larger population base," cricket.com.au quoted Chappell as saying.<o:p></o:p>

"I think we've already lost our position as the best at identifying talent and bringing it through. I think England are doing it better than us now and India are doing it better than us," he added.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/look-at-ishan-suryakumar-and-krunal-mohammad-amir-hits-out-at-pcb-selectors-384559" hreflang="en">'Look at Ishan, Suryakumar and Krunal': Mohammad Amir hits out at PCB selectors</a><o:p></o:p>

Chappell further cited how India defeated Australia earlier in the year despite having numerous first-team players injured. The former Aussie skipper, who also coached the Indian team in the mid-2000s, further said that the players coming from India A set-up are hardened international cricketers who have played in all sorts of conditions. <o:p></o:p>

"When you look at the Indian team that played in the Brisbane Test that had three or four fresh players, and everyone said, 'This is India's second XI' - those guys had played (extensively) for India A," said Chappell.<o:p></o:p>

"And in all sorts of different conditions, not just in India. So when they get picked, they're not tyros at all, they're quite hardened international cricketers. We picked Will Pucovski out of Shield cricket. Will has hardly had a game outside Australia. That's the difference," he added.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/siraj-has-overtaken-all-these-guys-msk-prasad-impressed-by-indian-pacer-384531" hreflang="en">'Siraj has overtaken all these guys': MSK Prasad impressed by Indian pacer</a><o:p></o:p>

Chappell further said a draft system could be a way of ensuring young players continue to get regular games.<o:p></o:p>

"We can't afford for the bigger states to warehouse kids just because they might need them at some stage. I think that's dangerous. If we were designing a structure from scratch now, we wouldn't design it the way we have got it. I think New South Wales could possibly have a second team," said Chappell.<o:p></o:p>

"We need to disperse the talent a little bit more evenly, rather than having good talent sitting on the sidelines in Victoria and New South Wales when they could be playing really well," he added.<o:p></o:p>

Former Australia captain Greg Chappell has said that Rahul Dravid picked the Aussie brains to build a solid domestic structure in India while recognising how India and England have surpassed Australia in terms of providing a platform for young talent.

Former Australia captain Greg Chappell has said that Rahul Dravid picked the Aussie brains to build a solid domestic structure in India while recognising how India and England have surpassed Australia in terms of providing a platform for young talent. Chappell further said that Australia have now lost their position as the best in identifying talent and nurturing them for the biggest of stages. "I am seeing a bunch of young players with great potential who are in limbo. That's unacceptable. We cannot afford to lose one player. India have got their act together and that's largely because (India's academy chief and former Test captain) Rahul Dravid has picked our brains, seen what we're doing and replicated it in India and with their much larger population base," cricket.com.au quoted Chappell as saying. "I think we've already lost our position as the best at identifying talent and bringing it through. I think England are doing it better than us now and India are doing it better than us," he added. ALSO READ: 'Look at Ishan, Suryakumar and Krunal': Mohammad Amir hits out at PCB selectors Chappell further cited how India defeated Australia earlier in the year despite having numerous first-team players injured. The former Aussie skipper, who also coached the Indian team in the mid-2000s, further said that the players coming from India A set-up are hardened international cricketers who have played in all sorts of conditions. "When you look at the Indian team that played in the Brisbane Test that had three or four fresh players, and everyone said, 'This is India's second XI' - those guys had played (extensively) for India A," said Chappell. "And in all sorts of different conditions, not just in India. So when they get picked, they're not tyros at all, they're quite hardened international cricketers. We picked Will Pucovski out of Shield cricket. Will has hardly had a game outside Australia. That's the difference," he added. ALSO READ: 'Siraj has overtaken all these guys': MSK Prasad impressed by Indian pacer Chappell further said a draft system could be a way of ensuring young players continue to get regular games. "We can't afford for the bigger states to warehouse kids just because they might need them at some stage. I think that's dangerous. If we were designing a structure from scratch now, we wouldn't design it the way we have got it. I think New South Wales could possibly have a second team," said Chappell. "We need to disperse the talent a little bit more evenly, rather than having good talent sitting on the sidelines in Victoria and New South Wales when they could be playing really well," he added.

Rahul Dravid picked 'Australian brains' to build India's solid domestic structure: Greg Chappell

Sunrisers Hyderabad and India wicket-keeper Wriddhiman Saha has opened up on his fight against COVID-19 after getting infected with the dreaded virus during the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021. Saha tested positive for COVID-19 after two Kolkata Knight Riders returned positive – the same day IPL 2021 was postponed indefinitely.<o:p></o:p>

Saha said that he was tested twice after feeling tired and complaining of cold but both the reports came negative. He underwent another test after getting a fever and the report returned positive. <o:p></o:p>

“I felt tired after finishing the practice on the first day of May. I felt cold. Cold &amp; mild cough. I informed the team doctor that day. Arrangements were made for me to stay in seclusion without any risk,” Saha told Anandbazar Patrika.<o:p></o:p>

“Covid test was taken on the same day. The next day the report came negative. The second day I was also tested. The result was negative. Yet I was not allowed to leave the seclusion. Because by then fever had started coming. After the test on the third day, the result was positive,” Saha added.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/if-england-players-stand-together-they-will-play-in-ipl-2021-kevin-pietersen-384497" hreflang="en">If England players stand together, they will play in IPL 2021: Kevin Pietersen</a><o:p></o:p>

The veteran cricketer further revealed that he felt scared along with his family given the present situation surrounding the virus in India.<o:p></o:p>

“I was certainly scared,” Saha said. “A virus that has brought the Earth to a standstill, after being infected by it, I was bound to feel scared. Everyone in the family was very worried. We reassured them through video calls that there is no reason to be afraid. I am being taken care of enough.”

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/revealed-how-much-australian-players-will-earn-if-they-dont-return-for-ipl-2021-384487" hreflang="en">Revealed: How much Australian players will earn if they don't return for IPL 2021</a>

Saha further revealed that he is on the road to recovery and is improving with each passing day.<o:p></o:p>

“There is no more discomfort in the body. The fever is not coming. Colds and coughs have also decreased. It goes without saying that there is no pain in the body. I don’t understand if there is fatigue at all. As long as I don’t start practicing, it is not possible to understand. I want to tell the supporters, don’t worry. I’m almost healthy,” Saha said.<o:p></o:p>

Saha has been named in the India squad for the World Test Championship final and England series pending a fitness test.<o:p></o:p>

Sunrisers Hyderabad and India wicket-keeper Wriddhiman Saha has opened up on his fight against COVID-19 after getting infected with the dreaded virus during the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021.

Sunrisers Hyderabad and India wicket-keeper Wriddhiman Saha has opened up on his fight against COVID-19 after getting infected with the dreaded virus during the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021. Saha tested positive for COVID-19 after two Kolkata Knight Riders returned positive – the same day IPL 2021 was postponed indefinitely. Saha said that he was tested twice after feeling tired and complaining of cold but both the reports came negative. He underwent another test after getting a fever and the report returned positive. “I felt tired after finishing the practice on the first day of May. I felt cold. Cold & mild cough. I informed the team doctor that day. Arrangements were made for me to stay in seclusion without any risk,” Saha told Anandbazar Patrika. “Covid test was taken on the same day. The next day the report came negative. The second day I was also tested. The result was negative. Yet I was not allowed to leave the seclusion. Because by then fever had started coming. After the test on the third day, the result was positive,” Saha added. ALSO READ: If England players stand together, they will play in IPL 2021: Kevin Pietersen The veteran cricketer further revealed that he felt scared along with his family given the present situation surrounding the virus in India. “I was certainly scared,” Saha said. “A virus that has brought the Earth to a standstill, after being infected by it, I was bound to feel scared. Everyone in the family was very worried. We reassured them through video calls that there is no reason to be afraid. I am being taken care of enough.” ALSO READ: Revealed: How much Australian players will earn if they don't return for IPL 2021 Saha further revealed that he is on the road to recovery and is improving with each passing day. “There is no more discomfort in the body. The fever is not coming. Colds and coughs have also decreased. It goes without saying that there is no pain in the body. I don’t understand if there is fatigue at all. As long as I don’t start practicing, it is not possible to understand. I want to tell the supporters, don’t worry. I’m almost healthy,” Saha said. Saha has been named in the India squad for the World Test Championship final and England series pending a fitness test.

'Was certainly scared': Wriddhiman Saha openes up on his battle with COVID-19

There are plenty of talks surrounding the postponed Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 when it comes to the availability of overseas players if the T20 tournament resumes later in the year. While managing director of England men’s team, Ashley Giles had hinted that English players might not be available for the remainder of IPL 2021, former skipper Kevin Pietersen feels England players can play in IPL 2021 if they stand together.<o:p></o:p>

The BCCI and IPL Governing Council in an emergency meeting had unanimously decided to postpone IPL 2021 last week and is now working on finding a window for the remainder of the tournament. While BCCI president Sourav Ganguly has already said that it won’t be possible to conduct IPL 2021 in India this year considering the COVID-19 situation in the country, the likes of Sri Lanka, UAE and England have emerged as potential venues.<o:p></o:p>

Taking to social media platform Kevin Pietersen said that it would be interesting to see how the ECB handle the issue and not allow its best players for IPL 2021 while adding if the players stand together, they will go on to play in the remainder of the tournament.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/revealed-how-much-australian-players-will-earn-if-they-dont-return-for-ipl-2021-384487" hreflang="en">Revealed: How much Australian players will earn if they don't return for IPL 2021</a><o:p></o:p>

"It's going to be v interesting to watch how the ECB handle this issue around not allowing its best players to play IPL if it's rescheduled. When I went up against ENG, I was alone. This time, it's all their best-branded players! If they stand together, they'll play IPL," Pietersen tweeted.

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It’s going to be v interesting to watch how the ECB handle this issue around not allowing it’s best players to play IPL, if it’s rescheduled. 
When I went up against ENG, I was alone. 
This time, it’s all their best branded players! 
If they stand together, they’ll play IPL!
— Kevin Pietersen🦏 (@KP24) <a href="https://twitter.com/KP24/status/1392395680853991427?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 12, 2021</a></blockquote>
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ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/what-is-going-on-kuldeep-yadav-talks-about-his-thoughts-after-being-benched-384481" hreflang="en">'What is going on?': Kuldeep Yadav talks about his thoughts after being benched</a>

IPL 2021 was indefinitely postponed after multiple cases of COVID-19 emerged inside the bio-secure bubble. While there has been no reports of breach of the bubble, reports have pointed towards travelling to be one of the potential reasons for players and staff contracting the dreaded virus.<o:p></o:p>

There are plenty of talks surrounding the postponed Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 when it comes to the availability of overseas players if the T20 tournament resumes later in the year.

There are plenty of talks surrounding the postponed Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 when it comes to the availability of overseas players if the T20 tournament resumes later in the year. While managing director of England men’s team, Ashley Giles had hinted that English players might not be available for the remainder of IPL 2021, former skipper Kevin Pietersen feels England players can play in IPL 2021 if they stand together. The BCCI and IPL Governing Council in an emergency meeting had unanimously decided to postpone IPL 2021 last week and is now working on finding a window for the remainder of the tournament. While BCCI president Sourav Ganguly has already said that it won’t be possible to conduct IPL 2021 in India this year considering the COVID-19 situation in the country, the likes of Sri Lanka, UAE and England have emerged as potential venues. Taking to social media platform Kevin Pietersen said that it would be interesting to see how the ECB handle the issue and not allow its best players for IPL 2021 while adding if the players stand together, they will go on to play in the remainder of the tournament. ALSO READ: Revealed: How much Australian players will earn if they don't return for IPL 2021 "It's going to be v interesting to watch how the ECB handle this issue around not allowing its best players to play IPL if it's rescheduled. When I went up against ENG, I was alone. This time, it's all their best-branded players! If they stand together, they'll play IPL," Pietersen tweeted. It’s going to be v interesting to watch how the ECB handle this issue around not allowing it’s best players to play IPL, if it’s rescheduled. When I went up against ENG, I was alone. This time, it’s all their best branded players! If they stand together, they’ll play IPL! — Kevin Pietersen🦏 (@KP24) May 12, 2021 × ALSO READ: 'What is going on?': Kuldeep Yadav talks about his thoughts after being benched IPL 2021 was indefinitely postponed after multiple cases of COVID-19 emerged inside the bio-secure bubble. While there has been no reports of breach of the bubble, reports have pointed towards travelling to be one of the potential reasons for players and staff contracting the dreaded virus.

If England players stand together, they will play in IPL 2021: Kevin Pietersen

There are many doubts on how much the Australian players will earn should they decide to not participate in the postponed Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 when it resumes. While the international calendar doesn’t really permit a window for IPL 2021 to resume, the BCCI is working on finding a slot to finish the suspended T20 tournament. <o:p></o:p>

Many big-name players such as David Warner, Pat Cummins, Glenn Maxwell among many others participated in IPL 2021 but it is still not clear whether they would be returning to play the IPL 2021 when it resumes. <o:p></o:p>

According to Fox Sports, Insurance policies taken out by the IPL 2021 should ensure Australian players get close to $18 million in payments with many set to be unavailable if the postponed T20 tournament resumes later in the year.<o:p></o:p>

While the UAE, Sri Lanka and even England have been pipped as potential venues to resume the IPL 2021, there is only one small window – a six-week period before the T20 World Cup – to play the tournament.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/he-showed-guts-and-character-bcci-chief-sourav-ganguly-lauds-rishabh-pant-384459" hreflang="en">'He showed guts and character': BCCI chief Sourav Ganguly lauds Rishabh Pant</a><o:p></o:p>

England have already announced that they will ask players to prioritise country over IPL and the same is expected from Australia. <o:p></o:p>

Australia are scheduled to tour the West Indies in June and July before locking horns with Sri Lanka at home in the build-up to the T20 World Cup. However, some players like Chris Lynn and Nathan Coulter-Nile could return to play the IPL 2021.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-and-rohits-intensity-in-training-execution-perfect-lesson-abhimanyu-easwaran-384338" hreflang="en">Virat and Rohit's intensity in training, execution perfect lesson: Abhimanyu Easwaran</a>

Andrew Tye, Adam Zampa and Kane Richardson all left the IPL 2021 bubble, foregoing any owed payments.<o:p></o:p>

There are many doubts on how much the Australian players will earn should they decide to not participate in the postponed Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 when it resumes.

There are many doubts on how much the Australian players will earn should they decide to not participate in the postponed Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 when it resumes. While the international calendar doesn’t really permit a window for IPL 2021 to resume, the BCCI is working on finding a slot to finish the suspended T20 tournament. Many big-name players such as David Warner, Pat Cummins, Glenn Maxwell among many others participated in IPL 2021 but it is still not clear whether they would be returning to play the IPL 2021 when it resumes. According to Fox Sports, Insurance policies taken out by the IPL 2021 should ensure Australian players get close to $18 million in payments with many set to be unavailable if the postponed T20 tournament resumes later in the year. While the UAE, Sri Lanka and even England have been pipped as potential venues to resume the IPL 2021, there is only one small window – a six-week period before the T20 World Cup – to play the tournament. ALSO READ: 'He showed guts and character': BCCI chief Sourav Ganguly lauds Rishabh Pant England have already announced that they will ask players to prioritise country over IPL and the same is expected from Australia. Australia are scheduled to tour the West Indies in June and July before locking horns with Sri Lanka at home in the build-up to the T20 World Cup. However, some players like Chris Lynn and Nathan Coulter-Nile could return to play the IPL 2021. ALSO READ: Virat and Rohit's intensity in training, execution perfect lesson: Abhimanyu Easwaran Andrew Tye, Adam Zampa and Kane Richardson all left the IPL 2021 bubble, foregoing any owed payments.

Revealed: How much Australian players will earn if they don't return for IPL 2021

New Zealand wicketkeeper BJ Watling has announced he will retire from all cricket following next month's World Test Championship final against India in England.

The 35-year-old will call time on a career of 73 Tests and 28 one-day internationals following a two-match Test series against England and the inaugural WTC final at Hampshire's Southampton headquarters.

"The time is right," said Watling in a New Zealand cricket statement issued Wednesday.

"It's been a huge honour to represent New Zealand and in particular wear the Test baggy."

South Africa-born Watling, who moved to New Zealand as a 10-year-old, has taken 259 catches and completed eight stumpings in Tests, as well as being an effective batsman with 3,773 runs at an average of over 38, including eight hundreds, in the five-day game.

But Watling, who recently became a father for the second time, said bowing out next month was the correct decision.

"It's the right time," he said. "It's been a huge honour to represent New Zealand and in particular wear the Test baggy (cap).&nbsp;

"Test cricket really is the pinnacle of the game and I've loved every minute of being out there in the whites with the boys.

He added: "Sitting in the changing rooms having a beer with the team after five days' toil is what I'll miss the most."

Watling, looking ahead to the Blackcaps trip to Britain, said: "Although I've had to make this announcement ahead of the tour to England, my focus is very much on the three Tests ahead and preparing to perform in them.

"This tour will be a challenge on a few levels and we know as a team we will need to be at the very top of our game if we want to succeed."

New Zealand wicketkeeper BJ Watling has announced he will retire from all cricket following next month's World Test Championship final against India in England. The 35-year-old will call time on a career of 73 Tests and 28 one-day internationals following a two-match Test series against England and the inaugural WTC final at Hampshire's Southampton headquarters.

New Zealand wicketkeeper BJ Watling has announced he will retire from all cricket following next month's World Test Championship final against India in England. The 35-year-old will call time on a career of 73 Tests and 28 one-day internationals following a two-match Test series against England and the inaugural WTC final at Hampshire's Southampton headquarters. "The time is right," said Watling in a New Zealand cricket statement issued Wednesday. "It's been a huge honour to represent New Zealand and in particular wear the Test baggy." South Africa-born Watling, who moved to New Zealand as a 10-year-old, has taken 259 catches and completed eight stumpings in Tests, as well as being an effective batsman with 3,773 runs at an average of over 38, including eight hundreds, in the five-day game. But Watling, who recently became a father for the second time, said bowing out next month was the correct decision. "It's the right time," he said. "It's been a huge honour to represent New Zealand and in particular wear the Test baggy (cap). "Test cricket really is the pinnacle of the game and I've loved every minute of being out there in the whites with the boys. He added: "Sitting in the changing rooms having a beer with the team after five days' toil is what I'll miss the most." Watling, looking ahead to the Blackcaps trip to Britain, said: "Although I've had to make this announcement ahead of the tour to England, my focus is very much on the three Tests ahead and preparing to perform in them. "This tour will be a challenge on a few levels and we know as a team we will need to be at the very top of our game if we want to succeed."

New Zealand's Watling to retire after India final

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