Former Pakistan all-rounder Abdul Razzaq has triggered the Virat Kohli versus Babar Azam debate once again by heaping praise on the Pakistani batsman&nbsp;while adding that "you can't compare Indian players with Pakistan players because Pakistan has more talent.”&nbsp;

The latest statement from Razzaq adds to the list of his bizarre takes on cricketing affairs given the longevity of Kohli as compared to Babar.&nbsp;&nbsp;

According to Razzaq, Pakistan has produced more talented players over the years and it would be wrong to compare the two&nbsp;neighbouring&nbsp;countries when it comes to showing the way to top cricketers.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Razzaq was asked about&nbsp;comparisons&nbsp;between Babar and Kohli in an interview with Cricket Pakistan, to which the former Pakistan all-rounder responded:&nbsp;“Firstly, we should not say such a thing [compare Virat Kohli with Babar Azam]. You can’t compare Indian players with Pakistan players because Pakistan has more talent.”&nbsp;

“If you look at our history, we have so many great players with who we can draw comparisons like Mohammad Yousaf, Inzamam-ul Haq, Saeed Anwar, Javed Miandad, Zaheer Abbas and Ijaz Ahmed,” said Razzaq.&nbsp;

“Virat Kohli and Babar Azam are completely different players. If we want to compare the two, then it’s important to hold matches between Pakistan and India and then judge who is a better player,” he added.&nbsp;

Razzaq further said that he backed Babar when he played under him for five to six years at ZTBL and never dropped him from the team. He predicted that Babar will go on to break all the records if backed properly.&nbsp;

“Virat Kohli is a good player and he has performed well against Pakistan. I have nothing against him but if Indians don’t compare their players with Pakistan, then we shouldn’t do that as well.”&nbsp;

“He [Babar Azam] played under me for five to six years at ZTBL and I never dropped him as captain. He was very talented and a very decent batsman. He proved himself [on the world stage] and is now the number one batsman,” he said. “If we look after him properly, he will go on to break all the records.”&nbsp;

Former Pakistan all-rounder Abdul Razzaq has triggered the Virat Kohli versus Babar Azam debate once again by heaping praise on the Pakistani batsman while adding that "you can't compare Indian players with Pakistan players because Pakistan has more talent.

Former Pakistan all-rounder Abdul Razzaq has triggered the Virat Kohli versus Babar Azam debate once again by heaping praise on the Pakistani batsman while adding that "you can't compare Indian players with Pakistan players because Pakistan has more talent.” The latest statement from Razzaq adds to the list of his bizarre takes on cricketing affairs given the longevity of Kohli as compared to Babar. According to Razzaq, Pakistan has produced more talented players over the years and it would be wrong to compare the two neighbouring countries when it comes to showing the way to top cricketers. Razzaq was asked about comparisons between Babar and Kohli in an interview with Cricket Pakistan, to which the former Pakistan all-rounder responded: “Firstly, we should not say such a thing [compare Virat Kohli with Babar Azam]. You can’t compare Indian players with Pakistan players because Pakistan has more talent.” “If you look at our history, we have so many great players with who we can draw comparisons like Mohammad Yousaf, Inzamam-ul Haq, Saeed Anwar, Javed Miandad, Zaheer Abbas and Ijaz Ahmed,” said Razzaq. “Virat Kohli and Babar Azam are completely different players. If we want to compare the two, then it’s important to hold matches between Pakistan and India and then judge who is a better player,” he added. Razzaq further said that he backed Babar when he played under him for five to six years at ZTBL and never dropped him from the team. He predicted that Babar will go on to break all the records if backed properly. “Virat Kohli is a good player and he has performed well against Pakistan. I have nothing against him but if Indians don’t compare their players with Pakistan, then we shouldn’t do that as well.” “He [Babar Azam] played under me for five to six years at ZTBL and I never dropped him as captain. He was very talented and a very decent batsman. He proved himself [on the world stage] and is now the number one batsman,” he said. “If we look after him properly, he will go on to break all the records.”

'Pakistan has more talent, can't compare with Indian players,' opines Abdul Razzaq

The International Cricket Council`s (ICC) Chief Executive Manu Sawhney has not been having the best of times lately. After his much-favoured idea of asking boards to bid for hosting rights of world events was met with a dead bat by the likes of BCCI, ECB, and CA, it has now come to the fore that his conduct has come under the scanner and he has been sent on `leave`.

Speaking to ANI, an official in the know of developments in the ICC said his conduct came under the scanner as audit firm PricewaterhouseCoopers was conducting an internal investigation and the best way forward was to keep him away.

"Yes, he has been asked to go on leave as there have been allegations that his behaviour hasn`t been that great over the last 12 months and is in conflict with the way the international body likes to function. ICC staff have also testified and it is a situation that warranted him being asked to go on leave," the official said.

While Sawhney has had difference of opinion with some of the board members in the past as well, especially when it came to the election process last year, the ICC`s keenness to introduce the new bidding process for world events seemed like it made things even more difficult.

Not to forget the problem which surfaced with the ICC looking to have at least one flagship event every year in the next cycle from 2023-2031. In fact, new Chairman Greg Barclay had to explain that the ICC would look at an inclusive approach and take every board member into confidence while trying to create a balance between ICC events and bilateral ties.

"I see bilateral cricket and world events as being very complimentary and needs each other. Bilateral cricket is the lifeline of cricket. Each country has to have both the ability and the obligation to play bilateral cricket. Countries will only get better and continue to be competitive if they get the opportunity to play against other countries, lesser countries to play against better countries. Better countries have the obligation to help those who perhaps don`t have the experience or exposure," said Barclay.

"The ICC events are without a doubt a showcase of cricket and I think ICC runs very good at events and all countries do get an opportunity to enter the events. From the ICC`s point of view as well as showcasing events, they obviously generate a reasonable amount of most country`s income. So, there is a careful complementary balancing act that is needed. I am a fan of ensuring ICC events continue to be world-class as they are and maintaining the abilities of all countries to continue to play bilateral cricket," he explained.&nbsp;

The International Cricket Council`s (ICC) Chief Executive Manu Sawhney has not been having the best of times lately. After his much-favoured idea of asking boards to bid for hosting rights of world events was met with a dead bat by the likes of BCCI, ECB, and CA, it has now come to the fore that his conduct has come under the scanner and he has been sent on `leave`.

The International Cricket Council`s (ICC) Chief Executive Manu Sawhney has not been having the best of times lately. After his much-favoured idea of asking boards to bid for hosting rights of world events was met with a dead bat by the likes of BCCI, ECB, and CA, it has now come to the fore that his conduct has come under the scanner and he has been sent on `leave`. Speaking to ANI, an official in the know of developments in the ICC said his conduct came under the scanner as audit firm PricewaterhouseCoopers was conducting an internal investigation and the best way forward was to keep him away. "Yes, he has been asked to go on leave as there have been allegations that his behaviour hasn`t been that great over the last 12 months and is in conflict with the way the international body likes to function. ICC staff have also testified and it is a situation that warranted him being asked to go on leave," the official said. While Sawhney has had difference of opinion with some of the board members in the past as well, especially when it came to the election process last year, the ICC`s keenness to introduce the new bidding process for world events seemed like it made things even more difficult. Not to forget the problem which surfaced with the ICC looking to have at least one flagship event every year in the next cycle from 2023-2031. In fact, new Chairman Greg Barclay had to explain that the ICC would look at an inclusive approach and take every board member into confidence while trying to create a balance between ICC events and bilateral ties. "I see bilateral cricket and world events as being very complimentary and needs each other. Bilateral cricket is the lifeline of cricket. Each country has to have both the ability and the obligation to play bilateral cricket. Countries will only get better and continue to be competitive if they get the opportunity to play against other countries, lesser countries to play against better countries. Better countries have the obligation to help those who perhaps don`t have the experience or exposure," said Barclay. "The ICC events are without a doubt a showcase of cricket and I think ICC runs very good at events and all countries do get an opportunity to enter the events. From the ICC`s point of view as well as showcasing events, they obviously generate a reasonable amount of most country`s income. So, there is a careful complementary balancing act that is needed. I am a fan of ensuring ICC events continue to be world-class as they are and maintaining the abilities of all countries to continue to play bilateral cricket," he explained.

ICC CEO Manu Sawhney sent on ''leave'' after preliminary investigation shows misconduct

Young Indian opener Shubman Gill had an underwhelming home Test series against England where he managed just a single half-century in four matches. While Gill had a superb series against Australia, England bowlers troubled the youngsters. However, former Indian cricketer Deep Dasgupta is unfazed&nbsp;by Gill's dip in form.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Dasgupta has backed Gill to figure out what areas the England bowlers targeted him while adding a youngster has to make adjustments to counter certain kinds of deliveries in international cricket.&nbsp;

The former Indian&nbsp;glovesman&nbsp;backed Gill to find his form back ahead of the much-awaited ICC World Test Championship final, scheduled to be played at the Ageas Bowl in Southampton from June 18-22.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/i-turned-to-rahul-dravid-and-asked-sam-billings-recalls-watching-rishabh-pant-for-first-time-369165" hreflang="en">'I turned to Rahul Dravid and asked...' Sam Billings recalls watching Rishabh Pant for first time</a>

"I think Shubman Gill will figure it out. In Australia, in the first series, he started getting out to Pat Cummins against away-going deliveries. He started coming across to counter the swing. In the England series, the English seamers bowled in-swing and he has been in trouble, facing inswingers. He has got out LBW, bowled to the balls coming in. As a youngster, you have made adjustments to counter certain kinds of deliveries. Those adjustments have worked against you in a different series," Dasgupta said in a Q&amp;A session on Sports Today.&nbsp;

"These are all part of the learning curve for someone as young as Shubman Gill. I am sure he has learnt his lessons. I am sure he will be back, scoring runs at the WTC final. He should be ready. There is a lot of cricket he will play before the&nbsp;WTC,&nbsp;he will play the IPL and hopefully score runs in the IPL” he added.&nbsp;

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"I am sure he will be back. These are part of a cricketer's life, ups and downs. He should be fine, he will learn from his mistakes,” concluded the 43-year-old cricketer-turned-commentator.&nbsp;

While there are no more Test matches before the WTC final, Gill will look to score runs in plenty during the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 where he will be in action for Kolkata Knight Riders.&nbsp;

Young Indian opener Shubman Gill had an underwhelming home Test series against England where he managed just a single half-century in four matches. While Gill had a superb series against Australia, England bowlers troubled the youngsters.

Young Indian opener Shubman Gill had an underwhelming home Test series against England where he managed just a single half-century in four matches. While Gill had a superb series against Australia, England bowlers troubled the youngsters. However, former Indian cricketer Deep Dasgupta is unfazed by Gill's dip in form. Dasgupta has backed Gill to figure out what areas the England bowlers targeted him while adding a youngster has to make adjustments to counter certain kinds of deliveries in international cricket. The former Indian glovesman backed Gill to find his form back ahead of the much-awaited ICC World Test Championship final, scheduled to be played at the Ageas Bowl in Southampton from June 18-22. ALSO READ: 'I turned to Rahul Dravid and asked...' Sam Billings recalls watching Rishabh Pant for first time "I think Shubman Gill will figure it out. In Australia, in the first series, he started getting out to Pat Cummins against away-going deliveries. He started coming across to counter the swing. In the England series, the English seamers bowled in-swing and he has been in trouble, facing inswingers. He has got out LBW, bowled to the balls coming in. As a youngster, you have made adjustments to counter certain kinds of deliveries. Those adjustments have worked against you in a different series," Dasgupta said in a Q&A session on Sports Today. "These are all part of the learning curve for someone as young as Shubman Gill. I am sure he has learnt his lessons. I am sure he will be back, scoring runs at the WTC final. He should be ready. There is a lot of cricket he will play before the WTC, he will play the IPL and hopefully score runs in the IPL” he added. ALSO READ: IPL 2021 venues could host ICC T20 World Cup matches: Report "I am sure he will be back. These are part of a cricketer's life, ups and downs. He should be fine, he will learn from his mistakes,” concluded the 43-year-old cricketer-turned-commentator. While there are no more Test matches before the WTC final, Gill will look to score runs in plenty during the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 where he will be in action for Kolkata Knight Riders.

He will learn from mistakes: Deep Dasgupta backs Shubman Gill to comeback strong

Australia&nbsp;head coach Justin Langer has expressed his disappointment over the slow-over rate against India in the Boxing Day Test, which ultimately cost the Aussies a spot in the final of the ICC World Test Championship.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Four points were docked from Australia's points tally in the WTC after Tim Paine's side were two overs short of the required rate of 15 overs per hour.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The four-point deduction meant that Australia ended up third in the ICC World Test Championship table with 69.2 percentage points while India finished first with 72 percentage points and New Zealand finishing second with 70 percentage points.&nbsp;

Langer said that Australia's team manager Gavin Dovey was on leave and hence, the team was unaware of the slow-over rate in the match.&nbsp;

"This might be the silliest thing I've ever said, but our manager Gavin Dovey ... he'd been away, he'd gone home for Christmas to be with his family," Langer told SEN.&nbsp;&nbsp;

"It wasn't until after the game that we&nbsp;realised&nbsp;our over rate was down. Now, that's really slack on our behalf.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/i-turned-to-rahul-dravid-and-asked-sam-billings-recalls-watching-rishabh-pant-for-first-time-369165" hreflang="en">'I turned to Rahul Dravid and asked...' Sam Billings recalls watching Rishabh Pant for first time</a>

"I remember we were in the team room afterwards and I spoke to&nbsp;Painey&nbsp;(skipper Tim Paine) and Dene Hills, our analyst, about it. I was a bit grumpy about it and I thought 'imagine if this cost us the World Test Championship.&nbsp;

"And I mentioned it to the players afterwards that two overs down could cost us the World Test Championship. And so, we have to get better at that and make sure it doesn't happen in Sydney and Brisbane.&nbsp;

"It was relevant at the time and it certainly became incredibly significant over the weekend."&nbsp;

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Langer is of the view that Australia should be more accountable and take responsibility for the crucial slow-over rate breach at the MCG as it was something that was within their control.&nbsp;

"How often do you get docked points in Test cricket these days? Rarely," he said.&nbsp;

"And we had that in our control, that's an attitudinal thing.&nbsp;

"At the time, we probably thought it's not that big a deal the players get fined but that cost us the World Test Championship (Final) after what had been two really good years for Australian cricket where we were ranked No.1 again.&nbsp;

"It's very disappointing, but the lesson is the things that we can control, we have to control. And we can't relax for a second in Test cricket," Langer added.&nbsp;

The ICC rules state that teams are docked two points and fined 20 per cent of their match fee for every over they stay behind the rate. Australia&nbsp;were&nbsp;docked four points and fined 40 per cent of their match fee as they were behind by two overs.&nbsp;

Australia head coach Justin Langer has expressed his disappointment over the slow-over rate against India in the Boxing Day Test, which ultimately cost the Aussies a spot in the final of the ICC World Test Championship.

Australia head coach Justin Langer has expressed his disappointment over the slow-over rate against India in the Boxing Day Test, which ultimately cost the Aussies a spot in the final of the ICC World Test Championship. Four points were docked from Australia's points tally in the WTC after Tim Paine's side were two overs short of the required rate of 15 overs per hour. The four-point deduction meant that Australia ended up third in the ICC World Test Championship table with 69.2 percentage points while India finished first with 72 percentage points and New Zealand finishing second with 70 percentage points. Langer said that Australia's team manager Gavin Dovey was on leave and hence, the team was unaware of the slow-over rate in the match. "This might be the silliest thing I've ever said, but our manager Gavin Dovey ... he'd been away, he'd gone home for Christmas to be with his family," Langer told SEN. "It wasn't until after the game that we realised our over rate was down. Now, that's really slack on our behalf. ALSO READ: 'I turned to Rahul Dravid and asked...' Sam Billings recalls watching Rishabh Pant for first time "I remember we were in the team room afterwards and I spoke to Painey (skipper Tim Paine) and Dene Hills, our analyst, about it. I was a bit grumpy about it and I thought 'imagine if this cost us the World Test Championship. "And I mentioned it to the players afterwards that two overs down could cost us the World Test Championship. And so, we have to get better at that and make sure it doesn't happen in Sydney and Brisbane. "It was relevant at the time and it certainly became incredibly significant over the weekend." ALSO READ: IPL 2021 venues could host ICC T20 World Cup matches: Report Langer is of the view that Australia should be more accountable and take responsibility for the crucial slow-over rate breach at the MCG as it was something that was within their control. "How often do you get docked points in Test cricket these days? Rarely," he said. "And we had that in our control, that's an attitudinal thing. "At the time, we probably thought it's not that big a deal the players get fined but that cost us the World Test Championship (Final) after what had been two really good years for Australian cricket where we were ranked No.1 again. "It's very disappointing, but the lesson is the things that we can control, we have to control. And we can't relax for a second in Test cricket," Langer added. The ICC rules state that teams are docked two points and fined 20 per cent of their match fee for every over they stay behind the rate. Australia were docked four points and fined 40 per cent of their match fee as they were behind by two overs.

'Very disappointing': Justin Langer rues missing WTC final berth due to major error against India

England wicketkeeper-batsman Sam Billings has recalled the first time he saw Rishabh Pant in the nets&nbsp;during his time with Delhi Daredevils – now Delhi Capitals. Billings spent two seasons with the Delhi franchise before being signed up by Chennai Super Kings.&nbsp;

During the auction of Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021, Billings was roped in by Delhi Capitals for his base price of INR 2 crore.&nbsp;Ahead of IPL 2021, the England international recalled when he spotted Pant at the nets.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Billings said after watching Pant smacking the likes of Kagiso&nbsp;Rabada, Chris Morris and Nathan Coulter-Nile at the nets, he turned straight to Rahul Dravid, who was the mentor of the franchise at that time,&nbsp;to ask about the youngster while terming the southpaw as "unbelievable”.&nbsp;&nbsp;

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“With Pant, I played with him for 2 years when I was in Delhi. I turned to Rahul Dravid and asked 'who is this kid?' He was smacking Nathan Coulter-Nile, Chris Morris,&nbsp;Rabada&nbsp;everywhere in the open net. I was just thinking 'this is unbelievable!' and that year he lit up,” Billings told&nbsp;ESPNCricinfo.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Billings will be back with Delhi Capitals and the&nbsp;glovesman&nbsp;is looking forward to playing with Pant again.&nbsp;&nbsp;

“It's been great to see him evolve as a cricketer and to be in the same team as him again would be great,”&nbsp;Billings said.&nbsp;

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Meanwhile, Pant has seen a massive turnaround in his career. After warming the Team India bench for around a year, across formats, and finding him down in the pecking order, the swashbuckling southpaw&nbsp;played match-winning knocks against Australia and England.&nbsp;

While India defeated Australia 2-1 in the four-Test series, the Virat Kohli-led side hammered England 3-1 in the home series to top the ICC World Test Championship standings.&nbsp;

India will lock horns with New Zealand in the final of ICC WTC, scheduled to be played from June 18-22 at the Ageas Bowl in Southampton.&nbsp;&nbsp;

England wicketkeeper-batsman Sam Billings has recalled the first time he saw Rishabh Pant in the nets during his time with Delhi Daredevils – now Delhi Capitals.

England wicketkeeper-batsman Sam Billings has recalled the first time he saw Rishabh Pant in the nets during his time with Delhi Daredevils – now Delhi Capitals. Billings spent two seasons with the Delhi franchise before being signed up by Chennai Super Kings. During the auction of Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021, Billings was roped in by Delhi Capitals for his base price of INR 2 crore. Ahead of IPL 2021, the England international recalled when he spotted Pant at the nets. Billings said after watching Pant smacking the likes of Kagiso Rabada, Chris Morris and Nathan Coulter-Nile at the nets, he turned straight to Rahul Dravid, who was the mentor of the franchise at that time, to ask about the youngster while terming the southpaw as "unbelievable”. IN PICS | IND vs ENG: Rishabh Pant's magnificent century against Jimmy Anderson and Co. “With Pant, I played with him for 2 years when I was in Delhi. I turned to Rahul Dravid and asked 'who is this kid?' He was smacking Nathan Coulter-Nile, Chris Morris, Rabada everywhere in the open net. I was just thinking 'this is unbelievable!' and that year he lit up,” Billings told ESPNCricinfo. Billings will be back with Delhi Capitals and the glovesman is looking forward to playing with Pant again. “It's been great to see him evolve as a cricketer and to be in the same team as him again would be great,” Billings said. ALSO READ: IPL 2021 venues could host ICC T20 World Cup matches: Report Meanwhile, Pant has seen a massive turnaround in his career. After warming the Team India bench for around a year, across formats, and finding him down in the pecking order, the swashbuckling southpaw played match-winning knocks against Australia and England. While India defeated Australia 2-1 in the four-Test series, the Virat Kohli-led side hammered England 3-1 in the home series to top the ICC World Test Championship standings. India will lock horns with New Zealand in the final of ICC WTC, scheduled to be played from June 18-22 at the Ageas Bowl in Southampton.

'I turned to Rahul Dravid and asked...' Sam Billings recalls watching Rishabh Pant for first time

The venues of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 could end up hosting the ICC T20 World Cup, scheduled to be played in India in October-November.&nbsp;&nbsp;

With cities of Ahmedabad, Bengaluru, Chennai, Delhi, Mumbai and Kolkata gearing up to host the much-anticipated IPL 2021, a report in 'The New Indian Express’ has said that the six venues&nbsp;are likely to host ICC's marquee event later in the year.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The report adds that the BCCI wanted eight venues for T20 World Cup but with COVID-19 complications still in the country, the Indian board is likely to limit the venues to six.&nbsp;

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Generally, venues are revealed around six months ahead of an ICC event but given the COVID-19 pandemic, the venues for the 2021 edition of the T20 World Cup are likely to be announced late.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Both IPL and T20 World Cup are multi-team tournaments and offer logistical challenges for&nbsp;organisers. While IPL is&nbsp;an&nbsp;eight-team tournament, T20 World Cup will have as many as 16 teams.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Initially, the BCCI had the likes of&nbsp;Mumbai, Ahmedabad, Chennai, Delhi, Kolkata, Bengaluru, Mohali and&nbsp;Dharamsala.&nbsp;

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“Moving from one city to the other for one match will come with a huge risk. If the venue count is down, it will help us in delivering a smooth tournament. If need be, a similar schedule like IPL where matches are restricted to not more than two cities at a given point of time will be considered. We have to be as flexible as possible,” a BCCI official told the&nbsp;daily.&nbsp;

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The BCCI is looking to host the semi-finals of the T20 World Cup in Chennai and Bengaluru with the final likely to be hosted by Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad.&nbsp;

The venues of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 could end up hosting the ICC T20 World Cup, scheduled to be played in India in October-November. With cities of Ahmedabad, Bengaluru, Chennai, Delhi, Mumbai and Kolkata gearing up to host the much-anticipated IPL 2021, a report in 'The New Indian Express’ has said that the six venues are likely to host ICC's marquee event later in the year.

The venues of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 could end up hosting the ICC T20 World Cup, scheduled to be played in India in October-November. With cities of Ahmedabad, Bengaluru, Chennai, Delhi, Mumbai and Kolkata gearing up to host the much-anticipated IPL 2021, a report in 'The New Indian Express’ has said that the six venues are likely to host ICC's marquee event later in the year. The report adds that the BCCI wanted eight venues for T20 World Cup but with COVID-19 complications still in the country, the Indian board is likely to limit the venues to six. TRENDING: WATCH: Jhulan Goswami's 'Spirit of Cricket' moment with South Africa's Nadine de Klerk Generally, venues are revealed around six months ahead of an ICC event but given the COVID-19 pandemic, the venues for the 2021 edition of the T20 World Cup are likely to be announced late. Both IPL and T20 World Cup are multi-team tournaments and offer logistical challenges for organisers. While IPL is an eight-team tournament, T20 World Cup will have as many as 16 teams. Initially, the BCCI had the likes of Mumbai, Ahmedabad, Chennai, Delhi, Kolkata, Bengaluru, Mohali and Dharamsala. ALSO READ: IPL 2021 Schedule: Team-wise full fixture list, date, time and venues “Moving from one city to the other for one match will come with a huge risk. If the venue count is down, it will help us in delivering a smooth tournament. If need be, a similar schedule like IPL where matches are restricted to not more than two cities at a given point of time will be considered. We have to be as flexible as possible,” a BCCI official told the daily. WATCH: World's largest cricket stadium in Ahmedabad The BCCI is looking to host the semi-finals of the T20 World Cup in Chennai and Bengaluru with the final likely to be hosted by Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad.

IPL 2021 venues could host ICC T20 World Cup matches: Report

Batswoman Smriti&nbsp;Mandhana&nbsp;on Tuesday guided India Women to a thumping nine-wicket win against South Africa Women with a power-packed&nbsp;80-run unbeaten knock off 64 deliveries laced with 10 boundaries and three sixes&nbsp;in Lucknow. With another WODI half-century to her name,&nbsp;Mandhana&nbsp;became the first player (women or men) to score 50+ runs in ten consecutive ODI chases.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Interestingly,&nbsp;Mandhana&nbsp;has registered 50+ runs in every WODI chases starting from 2018&nbsp;where the swashbuckling batswoman smashed 67 runs off 53 deliveries against Australia Woman in&nbsp;Vadodara.&nbsp;

Since then,&nbsp;Mandhana&nbsp;has scored 52, 86, 53*, 73*, 105, 90*, 63, 74 and 80* to become the first player ever to&nbsp;register the iconic record to her name.&nbsp;&nbsp;

After a disappointing start to the WODI series against South Africa, where the southpaw&nbsp;departed&nbsp;for 14 off 20&nbsp;as India went on to lose&nbsp;the first match by 8 wickets. However, she was back at her best in the second match as she hammered 80 off 64&nbsp;to take India to a thumping win.&nbsp;&nbsp;

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South Africa Women, batting first, were restricted to 157 runs in 41 overs as veteran pacer&nbsp;Jhulan&nbsp;Goswami wreaked havoc with the ball by picking four wickets. Rajeshwari Gayakwad ended up with three scalps while Mansi Joshi bagged two wickets.&nbsp;&nbsp;

For the visitors, Lada Goodall scored 49 while skipper Sune Luss managed 36.&nbsp;&nbsp;

India Women lost opener Jemimah Rodrigues for 9 but&nbsp;Mandhana&nbsp;along with Punam Raut (62* off 89) took the hosts over the winning line.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/dad-will-definitely-washington-sundar-reacts-to-wasim-jaffers-tweet-on-ishant-siraj-369093" hreflang="en">'Dad will definitely...': Washington Sundar reacts to Wasim Jaffer's tweet on Ishant, Siraj</a>

Goswami revealed that there wasn't much discussion about the match after India's defeat to South Africa in the first WODI as the veteran said that they wanted to focus on the basics.&nbsp;

“We didn't discuss the defeat much. We wanted to focus on the basics and get back to shape as quickly as possible. We worked on the basics and it showed on the field,” said&nbsp;Jhulan&nbsp;Goswami&nbsp;

Batswoman Smriti Mandhana on Tuesday guided India Women to a thumping nine-wicket win against South Africa Women with a power-packed 80-run unbeaten knock off 64 deliveries laced with 10 boundaries and three sixes in Lucknow.

Batswoman Smriti Mandhana on Tuesday guided India Women to a thumping nine-wicket win against South Africa Women with a power-packed 80-run unbeaten knock off 64 deliveries laced with 10 boundaries and three sixes in Lucknow. With another WODI half-century to her name, Mandhana became the first player (women or men) to score 50+ runs in ten consecutive ODI chases. Interestingly, Mandhana has registered 50+ runs in every WODI chases starting from 2018 where the swashbuckling batswoman smashed 67 runs off 53 deliveries against Australia Woman in Vadodara. Since then, Mandhana has scored 52, 86, 53*, 73*, 105, 90*, 63, 74 and 80* to become the first player ever to register the iconic record to her name. After a disappointing start to the WODI series against South Africa, where the southpaw departed for 14 off 20 as India went on to lose the first match by 8 wickets. However, she was back at her best in the second match as she hammered 80 off 64 to take India to a thumping win. TRENDING: WATCH: Jhulan Goswami's 'Spirit of Cricket' moment with South Africa's Nadine de Klerk South Africa Women, batting first, were restricted to 157 runs in 41 overs as veteran pacer Jhulan Goswami wreaked havoc with the ball by picking four wickets. Rajeshwari Gayakwad ended up with three scalps while Mansi Joshi bagged two wickets. For the visitors, Lada Goodall scored 49 while skipper Sune Luss managed 36. India Women lost opener Jemimah Rodrigues for 9 but Mandhana along with Punam Raut (62* off 89) took the hosts over the winning line. ALSO READ: 'Dad will definitely...': Washington Sundar reacts to Wasim Jaffer's tweet on Ishant, Siraj Goswami revealed that there wasn't much discussion about the match after India's defeat to South Africa in the first WODI as the veteran said that they wanted to focus on the basics. “We didn't discuss the defeat much. We wanted to focus on the basics and get back to shape as quickly as possible. We worked on the basics and it showed on the field,” said Jhulan Goswami

Smriti Mandhana becomes first-ever player to score 50+ in 10 consecutive ODI chases

Ace England all-rounder Ben Stokes has revealed that he along with some of his teammates suffered sudden weight loss during the fourth Test against India in Ahmedabad after stomach bug hit the visitors just before the match.&nbsp;

England suffered a crushing defeat by an innings and 25 runs in the final Test to concede the series 1-3. Stokes further revealed that he lost 5 kgs in a week while Dom Sibley lost four and James Anderson lost 3 among others.&nbsp;&nbsp;

"Players are totally committed to England and I think that was&nbsp;emphasised&nbsp;last week when a few of us went down with illness that made operating in 41-degree heat particularly taxing," Stokes told UK's 'Daily Mirror'.&nbsp;

"I lost 5kg in a week, Dom Sibley 4kg and Jimmy Anderson 3kg among others. Jack Leach was ducking off the field in between bowling spells and spending more time than is ideal in the toilet."&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ravichandran-ashwin-tammy-beaumont-named-icc-player-of-the-month-for-february-369099" hreflang="en">Ravichandran Ashwin, Tammy Beaumont named ICC Player of the Month for February</a>

Powered by Rishabh Pant and Washington Sundar's knock of 101 and 96 respectively, India posted 365 runs in the first innings before dismissing England for 135 to win the match.&nbsp;

"This is in no way an excuse, because everyone was ready to play, and India and Rishabh Pant especially produced a terrific performance, but I take off my hat to the effort that was put in by players who gave everything they had to try and win for England," Stokes said.&nbsp;

The Joe Root-led outfit were subjected to widespread criticism following the thrashing in the Test series. Stokes is of the view that only the opinions of the captain, coaches and your team-mates should matter as they try to make the team&nbsp;and player as good&nbsp;as possible.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/dont-forget-joe-root-scored-a-double-hundred-kevin-pietersen-defends-england-skipper-369053" hreflang="en">'Don’t forget, Joe Root scored a double hundred': Kevin Pietersen defends England skipper</a>

"Pundits have a job to do and that's fine. But their responsibility isn't to make us better players and a better team. That is our job and that is what we have to focus on," said Stokes.&nbsp;

"The opinions that really matter are those of your captain, your coaches and your team-mates who are trying to make the team and you as a player as good as you can be."&nbsp;

"For a lot of guys this was their first tour of India and it has been a steep learning curve, but that is part and parcel of being a cricketer at this level. The next test is how you react to those moments.&nbsp;I wouldn't want any player, especially a young lad like Ollie Pope, Zak Crawley or Dom Sibley, leaving this tour and thinking they are not good enough to be here. They most definitely are."&nbsp;

"I have been through times like this in my career and your confidence can take a knock from a tour like this ...you have to use the disappointment in the best way you can to motivate you to improve."&nbsp;

England and India will next lock horns in a five-T20I series starting from March 12 in Ahmedabad before playing a three-ODI series to conclude the&nbsp;gruelling&nbsp;tour of India.&nbsp;

Ace England all-rounder Ben Stokes has revealed that he along with some of his teammates suffered sudden weight loss during the fourth Test against India in Ahmedabad after stomach bug hit the visitors just before the match.

Ace England all-rounder Ben Stokes has revealed that he along with some of his teammates suffered sudden weight loss during the fourth Test against India in Ahmedabad after stomach bug hit the visitors just before the match. England suffered a crushing defeat by an innings and 25 runs in the final Test to concede the series 1-3. Stokes further revealed that he lost 5 kgs in a week while Dom Sibley lost four and James Anderson lost 3 among others. "Players are totally committed to England and I think that was emphasised last week when a few of us went down with illness that made operating in 41-degree heat particularly taxing," Stokes told UK's 'Daily Mirror'. "I lost 5kg in a week, Dom Sibley 4kg and Jimmy Anderson 3kg among others. Jack Leach was ducking off the field in between bowling spells and spending more time than is ideal in the toilet." ALSO READ: Ravichandran Ashwin, Tammy Beaumont named ICC Player of the Month for February Powered by Rishabh Pant and Washington Sundar's knock of 101 and 96 respectively, India posted 365 runs in the first innings before dismissing England for 135 to win the match. "This is in no way an excuse, because everyone was ready to play, and India and Rishabh Pant especially produced a terrific performance, but I take off my hat to the effort that was put in by players who gave everything they had to try and win for England," Stokes said. The Joe Root-led outfit were subjected to widespread criticism following the thrashing in the Test series. Stokes is of the view that only the opinions of the captain, coaches and your team-mates should matter as they try to make the team and player as good as possible. ALSO READ: 'Don’t forget, Joe Root scored a double hundred': Kevin Pietersen defends England skipper "Pundits have a job to do and that's fine. But their responsibility isn't to make us better players and a better team. That is our job and that is what we have to focus on," said Stokes. "The opinions that really matter are those of your captain, your coaches and your team-mates who are trying to make the team and you as a player as good as you can be." "For a lot of guys this was their first tour of India and it has been a steep learning curve, but that is part and parcel of being a cricketer at this level. The next test is how you react to those moments. I wouldn't want any player, especially a young lad like Ollie Pope, Zak Crawley or Dom Sibley, leaving this tour and thinking they are not good enough to be here. They most definitely are." "I have been through times like this in my career and your confidence can take a knock from a tour like this ...you have to use the disappointment in the best way you can to motivate you to improve." England and India will next lock horns in a five-T20I series starting from March 12 in Ahmedabad before playing a three-ODI series to conclude the gruelling tour of India.

I lost 5 kg in a week, James Anderson lost 3 kg: Ben Stokes reveals 'dramatic weight loss' during India Tests

The International Cricket Council (ICC) on Tuesday announced the winners of the ICC Player of the Month Awards for February which recognise and celebrate the best performances from both male and female cricketers across all forms of international cricket each month.

India’s&nbsp;Ravichandran Ashwin&nbsp;won the&nbsp;ICC Men’s Player of the Month for February 2021, for his impressive performance against England as part of India’s successful Test series victory. In the 3 Tests he played, he scored a 106 in the second innings of India’s second Test victory over England at Chennai and took his 400th Test wicket in the third Test victory at Ahmedabad. Scoring a total of 176 runs across these games and taking 24 wickets, Ashwin was the unanimous choice to win in the men’s category for February and garnered the most votes in the fan vote.

England’s&nbsp;Tammy Beaumont&nbsp;played 3 ODIs in February against New Zealand where she passed fifty in each of these, totalling 231 runs. Beaumont was overwhelmingly named the&nbsp;ICC Women’s Player of the Month for February 2021.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/sourav-ganguly-hails-rishabh-pant-as-game-changer-like-ms-dhoni-yuvraj-singh-369020" hreflang="en">Sourav Ganguly hails Rishabh Pant as game-changer like MS Dhoni, Yuvraj Singh</a>

Commenting on Ashwin’s performance in February,&nbsp;Ian Bishop representing the ICC Voting Academy&nbsp;said:&nbsp;“Ashwin’s consistent wicket-taking, even in helpful conditions have helped to put his team ahead in a very important series. His century in the second Test was as critical as it came when England were trying to claw their way back into the match. That knock ensured that India shut the door on the opposition.”

Commenting on Beaumont’s performance in February,&nbsp;Ian Bishop&nbsp;added:&nbsp;“Three half centuries of which two were in helping her team win the match was outstanding from Beaumont. Particular emphasis on the fact that two of the knocks were unbeaten innings, and coming inevitably, on two occasions whilst having lost her opening partner early on, she had to see things through for her team, which was incredible.”&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/dad-will-definitely-washington-sundar-reacts-to-wasim-jaffers-tweet-369093" hreflang="en">'Dad will definitely...': Washington Sundar reacts to Wasim Jaffer's tweet</a>

Fans can continue to vote every month for their favourite male and female cricketers across all formats of international cricket as part of the ICC Player of the Month initiative by registering their vote on the ICC&nbsp;website.

The International Cricket Council (ICC) on Tuesday announced the winners of the ICC Player of the Month Awards for February which recognise and celebrate the best performances from both male and female cricketers across all forms of international cricket each month.

The International Cricket Council (ICC) on Tuesday announced the winners of the ICC Player of the Month Awards for February which recognise and celebrate the best performances from both male and female cricketers across all forms of international cricket each month. India’s Ravichandran Ashwin won the ICC Men’s Player of the Month for February 2021, for his impressive performance against England as part of India’s successful Test series victory. In the 3 Tests he played, he scored a 106 in the second innings of India’s second Test victory over England at Chennai and took his 400th Test wicket in the third Test victory at Ahmedabad. Scoring a total of 176 runs across these games and taking 24 wickets, Ashwin was the unanimous choice to win in the men’s category for February and garnered the most votes in the fan vote. England’s Tammy Beaumont played 3 ODIs in February against New Zealand where she passed fifty in each of these, totalling 231 runs. Beaumont was overwhelmingly named the ICC Women’s Player of the Month for February 2021. ALSO READ: Sourav Ganguly hails Rishabh Pant as game-changer like MS Dhoni, Yuvraj Singh Commenting on Ashwin’s performance in February, Ian Bishop representing the ICC Voting Academy said: “Ashwin’s consistent wicket-taking, even in helpful conditions have helped to put his team ahead in a very important series. His century in the second Test was as critical as it came when England were trying to claw their way back into the match. That knock ensured that India shut the door on the opposition.” Commenting on Beaumont’s performance in February, Ian Bishop added: “Three half centuries of which two were in helping her team win the match was outstanding from Beaumont. Particular emphasis on the fact that two of the knocks were unbeaten innings, and coming inevitably, on two occasions whilst having lost her opening partner early on, she had to see things through for her team, which was incredible.” ALSO READ: 'Dad will definitely...': Washington Sundar reacts to Wasim Jaffer's tweet Fans can continue to vote every month for their favourite male and female cricketers across all formats of international cricket as part of the ICC Player of the Month initiative by registering their vote on the ICC website.

Ravichandran Ashwin, Tammy Beaumont named ICC Player of the Month for February

In what comes as a huge boost for Indian Premier League (IPL) franchises, England players are set to skip the first Test&nbsp;against New Zealand to participate in the 14th&nbsp;edition of the lucrative T20 tournament, which will be held in India from April 9 to May 30.&nbsp;&nbsp;

With T20 World Cups and ODI World Cups approaching, the ECB has given the option of picking between the Test series and IPL. The England players, if their team go till the final of IPL 2021, will at least miss the first Test match against New Zealand, scheduled to start from June 2.&nbsp;&nbsp;

England head coach Chris Silverwood confirmed the development as he said the players will be staying for the entire IPL 2021.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2021-schedule-team-wise-full-fixture-list-date-time-and-venues-368637" hreflang="en">IPL 2021 Schedule: Team-wise full fixture list, date, time and venues</a>

"We haven't looked at selection or anything like that for the Tests yet, but, for me, playing for your country is a big thing. It's difficult to change anything so they'll be staying for the whole IPL as it stands, yes. Listen, we'll be looking at the Test series and working our way back to see what sort of preparation we need and we haven't done that at this time. It's something we will be doing,” Silverwood said during a virtual press conference.&nbsp;

The round-robin phase of IPL 2021 will end on May 23 with the playoffs and final taking place from May 25 to 30.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/had-to-dig-deep-to-find-water-ravi-shastri-on-road-to-world-test-championship-final-368614" hreflang="en">Had to dig deep to find water: Ravi Shastri on road to World Test Championship final</a>

England's players in IPL (List includes players who aren't part of the Test team): Ben Stokes, Jos Buttler, Jofra Archer, Liam Livingstone (all Rajasthan Royals), Sam Curran, Moeen Ali (both Chennai Super Kings), Chris Jordan, Dawid Malan (both Punjab Kings), Chris&nbsp;Woakes, Sam Billings, Tom Curran (all Delhi Capitals), Eoin Morgan (Kolkata Knight Riders), Jonny Bairstow (Sunrisers Hyderabad).&nbsp;

In what comes as a huge boost for Indian Premier League (IPL) franchises, England players are set to skip the first Test against New Zealand to participate in the 14th edition of the lucrative T20 tournament, which will be held in India from April 9 to May 30.

In what comes as a huge boost for Indian Premier League (IPL) franchises, England players are set to skip the first Test against New Zealand to participate in the 14th edition of the lucrative T20 tournament, which will be held in India from April 9 to May 30. With T20 World Cups and ODI World Cups approaching, the ECB has given the option of picking between the Test series and IPL. The England players, if their team go till the final of IPL 2021, will at least miss the first Test match against New Zealand, scheduled to start from June 2. England head coach Chris Silverwood confirmed the development as he said the players will be staying for the entire IPL 2021. ALSO READ: IPL 2021 Schedule: Team-wise full fixture list, date, time and venues "We haven't looked at selection or anything like that for the Tests yet, but, for me, playing for your country is a big thing. It's difficult to change anything so they'll be staying for the whole IPL as it stands, yes. Listen, we'll be looking at the Test series and working our way back to see what sort of preparation we need and we haven't done that at this time. It's something we will be doing,” Silverwood said during a virtual press conference. The round-robin phase of IPL 2021 will end on May 23 with the playoffs and final taking place from May 25 to 30. ALSO READ: Had to dig deep to find water: Ravi Shastri on road to World Test Championship final England's players in IPL (List includes players who aren't part of the Test team): Ben Stokes, Jos Buttler, Jofra Archer, Liam Livingstone (all Rajasthan Royals), Sam Curran, Moeen Ali (both Chennai Super Kings), Chris Jordan, Dawid Malan (both Punjab Kings), Chris Woakes, Sam Billings, Tom Curran (all Delhi Capitals), Eoin Morgan (Kolkata Knight Riders), Jonny Bairstow (Sunrisers Hyderabad).

Huge boost for IPL 2021 franchises as England players set to skip New Zealand Test

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) president on Monday heaped praise on Rahul Dravid for nurturing young talents and looking after second-string players who have performed brilliantly for Team India&nbsp;after coming through the ranks.&nbsp;&nbsp;

After leading Team India during their respective playing careers, both Ganguly and Dravid have now become the face of Indian cricket but in different roles. While Ganguly is the president of the Indian cricket board, Dravid is in charge of the National Cricket Academy (NCA) in Bengaluru.&nbsp;Dravid has taken the role of grooming young talents with the likes of Shubman Gill, Rishabh Pant, Mohammed Siraj, Washington Sundar, Prithvi Shaw among many others representing Team India.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Talking about Dravid's contribution to Indian cricket, the BCCI chief lauded ‘the wall’ for nurturing young talents.&nbsp;&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/wtc-final-how-do-india-and-new-zealand-fare-at-ageas-bowl-in-southampton-a-look-at-key-stats-368918" hreflang="en">WTC Final: How do India and New Zealand fare at Ageas Bowl in Southampton? A look at key stats</a>

“I always say that Rahul Dravid has done a great job at the NCA (in Bangalore) as he looks after the&nbsp;second-string&nbsp;players. Mohammed Siraj, you know I see a lot of talent in him, Shardul Thakur every time they have got opportunities they have just stood up," Ganguly told India Today.&nbsp;

India's bench strength was tested during their Test series against Australia and England when many of the key players picked up injuries. While senior players were down and out due to injuries,&nbsp;players&nbsp;like Siraj, Washington, Pant, Natarajan and&nbsp;Shardul Thakur stood up in their absence. India won the four-Test series against Australia 2-1, the Virat Kohli-led side dominated England to bag the series 3-1.&nbsp;&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-nz-southampton-to-host-icc-world-test-championship-final-confirms-sourav-ganguly-368899" hreflang="en">IND vs NZ: Southampton to host ICC World Test Championship final, confirms Sourav Ganguly</a>

“We spoke about&nbsp;Bumrah&nbsp;for all of last year, but India wins without him as well. In Australia, the last Test match, Shardul Thakur, Mohammed Siraj, no Ishant Sharma in the squad, and you beat Australia in Australia. That's remarkable,” Ganguly added.&nbsp;

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) president on Monday heaped praise on Rahul Dravid for nurturing young talents and looking after second-string players who have performed brilliantly for Team India after coming through the ranks.

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) president on Monday heaped praise on Rahul Dravid for nurturing young talents and looking after second-string players who have performed brilliantly for Team India after coming through the ranks. After leading Team India during their respective playing careers, both Ganguly and Dravid have now become the face of Indian cricket but in different roles. While Ganguly is the president of the Indian cricket board, Dravid is in charge of the National Cricket Academy (NCA) in Bengaluru. Dravid has taken the role of grooming young talents with the likes of Shubman Gill, Rishabh Pant, Mohammed Siraj, Washington Sundar, Prithvi Shaw among many others representing Team India. Talking about Dravid's contribution to Indian cricket, the BCCI chief lauded ‘the wall’ for nurturing young talents. ALSO READ: WTC Final: How do India and New Zealand fare at Ageas Bowl in Southampton? A look at key stats “I always say that Rahul Dravid has done a great job at the NCA (in Bangalore) as he looks after the second-string players. Mohammed Siraj, you know I see a lot of talent in him, Shardul Thakur every time they have got opportunities they have just stood up," Ganguly told India Today. India's bench strength was tested during their Test series against Australia and England when many of the key players picked up injuries. While senior players were down and out due to injuries, players like Siraj, Washington, Pant, Natarajan and Shardul Thakur stood up in their absence. India won the four-Test series against Australia 2-1, the Virat Kohli-led side dominated England to bag the series 3-1. ALSO READ: IND vs NZ: Southampton to host ICC World Test Championship final, confirms Sourav Ganguly “We spoke about Bumrah for all of last year, but India wins without him as well. In Australia, the last Test match, Shardul Thakur, Mohammed Siraj, no Ishant Sharma in the squad, and you beat Australia in Australia. That's remarkable,” Ganguly added.

'I always say...': Sourav Ganguly lauds Rahul Dravid for doing 'great job' at National Cricket Academy

The BCCI president on Monday confirmed that the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) final between India and New Zealand will be hosted by the Ageas Bowl in Southampton. The summit clash is scheduled to be held between June 18-22.&nbsp;&nbsp;

"I'm looking forward to attending the World Test Championship final between India and New Zealand in Southampton," Ganguly said on India Today.&nbsp;&nbsp;

"Yeah, it is in Southampton. It was decided long time ago. Due to COVID and they [in Southampton] have the hotel absolutely close. When England resumed play after COVID, they had a lot of matches in Southampton due to the same reason."&nbsp;

The Ageas Bowl in Southampton boasts a five-star hotel attached to the stadium and provides plenty of logistical and operational convenience in times of bio-secure bubbles. Southampton had hosted matches between England and West Indies, and Pakistan.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

<h2 lang="EN-US" paraeid="{1d9237ff-db60-45cd-a64d-d45b7e8af72b}{99}" paraid="1731037771" >How do India and New Zealand fare at the Ageas Bowl in Southampton: A look at key stats</h2>

So how do India and New Zealand fare at the Ageas Bowl in Southampton? With the venue of the ICC World Test Championship all but officially confirmed, let us take a look at some of the key stats from both India and New Zealand at the&nbsp;Ageas&nbsp;Bowl.&nbsp;

<h2 lang="EN-US" paraeid="{c3a5f360-ebf4-450f-b4a0-7a53adf28872}{144}" paraid="91912517" >Only 6 Tests hosted by Ageas Bowl</h2>

The Ageas Bowl has hosted just six Test matches thus far with India playing two of them. However, India don't have a great record at the venue with MS-Dhoni led India suffering a 266-run hammering back in 2014. The match was dominated by the likes of Gary Ballance and Ian Bell who registered centuries. whereas James Anderson ended with seven wickets in the match including a five-for.&nbsp;

<h2 lang="EN-US" paraeid="{1d9237ff-db60-45cd-a64d-d45b7e8af72b}{153}" paraid="1862149208" >Virat Kohli leads run-scoring charts for India at the Ageas Bowl</h2>

In 2018, when Virat Kohli-led India played in Southampton, the visitors suffered a 60-run defeat. While India started the match on the front foot, even taking a first-innings lead, poor performance with the bat in the second innings helped England win the Test match. Cheteshwar Pujara had registered a gritty century in the first innings but no one apart from Virat Kohli and Ajinkya Rahane managed to tackle the English bowlers in the second innings. Moeen Ali was the standout bowler for England as he ended up with a total of nine wickets in the match.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-nz-southampton-to-host-icc-world-test-championship-final-confirms-sourav-ganguly-368899" hreflang="en">IND vs NZ: Southampton to host ICC World Test Championship final, confirms Sourav Ganguly</a>

Talking about individual performances,&nbsp;the matches at Ageas Bowl have been dominated by both batsmen and bowlers. While pacers enjoy early assistance, spinners have come into play in the third and fourth innings of the matches played in Southampton.&nbsp;

England's Zak Crawley has scored the most&nbsp;number of runs at the Ageas Bowl with 406 runs (in 4 innings) under his belt. For India, Virat Kohli has registered&nbsp;most&nbsp;number of runs at the venue with 171 runs in 4 innings at an average of 42.75. Ajinkya Rahane is next on the list with 168 runs in 4 innings at an average of 56 followed by Cheteshwar Pujara with 163 runs at an average of 54.33.&nbsp;

<h2 lang="EN-US" paraeid="{835b1c6d-31dd-4c84-8710-1f8f13dfa93c}{83}" paraid="730857699" >Mohammed Shami leads wicket-taking charts for India at the Ageas Bowl</h2>

In terms of bowling performances, James Anderson is the leading wicket-taker at the&nbsp;venue&nbsp;with 26 scalps in just six matches. For India, Mohammed Shami leads the list with 7 wickets in 2 matches followed by Ravindra Jadeja (5), Ishant Sharma (4), Jasprit&nbsp;Bumrah&nbsp;(4) and Bhuvneshwar Kumar (4).&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/bcci-likely-to-send-second-string-india-squad-for-asia-cup-2021-report-368887" hreflang="en">BCCI likely to send second-string India squad for Asia Cup 2021: Report</a>

<h2 lang="EN-US" paraeid="{835b1c6d-31dd-4c84-8710-1f8f13dfa93c}{95}" paraid="1047667743" >New Zealand yet to play a Test in Southampton</h2>

New Zealand haven't played at the Ageas Bowl in Southampton when it comes to the longest format of the game but the Black Caps have been in action in limited-overs cricket.&nbsp;

In ODIs, New Zealand have played three matches at the venue with two wins and a no-result. In 2013, New Zealand defeated England by 86 runs and three wickets respectively to bag their twin wins in Southampton.&nbsp;

The ICC World Test Championship final between India and New Zealand at the Ageas Bowl in Southampton on June 18-22 promises to be a cracker of a contest.&nbsp;

The BCCI president on Monday confirmed that the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) final between India and New Zealand will be hosted by the Ageas Bowl in Southampton.

The BCCI president on Monday confirmed that the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) final between India and New Zealand will be hosted by the Ageas Bowl in Southampton. The summit clash is scheduled to be held between June 18-22. "I'm looking forward to attending the World Test Championship final between India and New Zealand in Southampton," Ganguly said on India Today. "Yeah, it is in Southampton. It was decided long time ago. Due to COVID and they [in Southampton] have the hotel absolutely close. When England resumed play after COVID, they had a lot of matches in Southampton due to the same reason." The Ageas Bowl in Southampton boasts a five-star hotel attached to the stadium and provides plenty of logistical and operational convenience in times of bio-secure bubbles. Southampton had hosted matches between England and West Indies, and Pakistan. How do India and New Zealand fare at the Ageas Bowl in Southampton: A look at key stats So how do India and New Zealand fare at the Ageas Bowl in Southampton? With the venue of the ICC World Test Championship all but officially confirmed, let us take a look at some of the key stats from both India and New Zealand at the Ageas Bowl. Only 6 Tests hosted by Ageas Bowl The Ageas Bowl has hosted just six Test matches thus far with India playing two of them. However, India don't have a great record at the venue with MS-Dhoni led India suffering a 266-run hammering back in 2014. The match was dominated by the likes of Gary Ballance and Ian Bell who registered centuries. whereas James Anderson ended with seven wickets in the match including a five-for. Virat Kohli leads run-scoring charts for India at the Ageas Bowl In 2018, when Virat Kohli-led India played in Southampton, the visitors suffered a 60-run defeat. While India started the match on the front foot, even taking a first-innings lead, poor performance with the bat in the second innings helped England win the Test match. Cheteshwar Pujara had registered a gritty century in the first innings but no one apart from Virat Kohli and Ajinkya Rahane managed to tackle the English bowlers in the second innings. Moeen Ali was the standout bowler for England as he ended up with a total of nine wickets in the match. ALSO READ: IND vs NZ: Southampton to host ICC World Test Championship final, confirms Sourav Ganguly Talking about individual performances, the matches at Ageas Bowl have been dominated by both batsmen and bowlers. While pacers enjoy early assistance, spinners have come into play in the third and fourth innings of the matches played in Southampton. England's Zak Crawley has scored the most number of runs at the Ageas Bowl with 406 runs (in 4 innings) under his belt. For India, Virat Kohli has registered most number of runs at the venue with 171 runs in 4 innings at an average of 42.75. Ajinkya Rahane is next on the list with 168 runs in 4 innings at an average of 56 followed by Cheteshwar Pujara with 163 runs at an average of 54.33. Mohammed Shami leads wicket-taking charts for India at the Ageas Bowl In terms of bowling performances, James Anderson is the leading wicket-taker at the venue with 26 scalps in just six matches. For India, Mohammed Shami leads the list with 7 wickets in 2 matches followed by Ravindra Jadeja (5), Ishant Sharma (4), Jasprit Bumrah (4) and Bhuvneshwar Kumar (4). ALSO READ: BCCI likely to send second-string India squad for Asia Cup 2021: Report New Zealand yet to play a Test in Southampton New Zealand haven't played at the Ageas Bowl in Southampton when it comes to the longest format of the game but the Black Caps have been in action in limited-overs cricket. In ODIs, New Zealand have played three matches at the venue with two wins and a no-result. In 2013, New Zealand defeated England by 86 runs and three wickets respectively to bag their twin wins in Southampton. The ICC World Test Championship final between India and New Zealand at the Ageas Bowl in Southampton on June 18-22 promises to be a cracker of a contest.

WTC Final: How do India and New Zealand fare at Ageas Bowl in Southampton? A look at key stats

The ICC World Test Championship (WTC) final between India and New Zealand is all set to be hosted by the Ageas Bowl in Southampton from June 18-22, confirmed the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) president Sourav Ganguly.&nbsp;

There were reports that the final of the World Test Championship was shifted from the iconic Lord's as originally planned with Ganguly now revealing Southampton will be hosting the inaugural final of WTC between India and New Zealand. However, there has been no confirmation in regards to the venue by the ICC.&nbsp;

"I'm looking forward to attending the World Test Championship final between India and New Zealand in Southampton," Ganguly said on India Today.&nbsp;&nbsp;

"Yeah, it is in Southampton. It was decided a long time ago. Due to COVID and they [in Southampton] have the hotel absolutely close. When England resumed play after COVID, they had a lot of matches in Southampton due to the same reason."&nbsp;

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India and New Zealand qualified for the summit clash after coming first and second in the WTC standings respectively. While India ended with the maximum percentage points, New Zealand came second to set-up the mouth-watering clash.&nbsp;The Ageas Bowl in Southampton boasts a five-star hotel attached to the stadium and provides plenty of logistical and operational convenience in times of bio-secure bubbles. Southampton had hosted matches between England and West Indies, and Pakistan.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Ganguly lauded the players for their mental strength given they had to spend around six months in bio-secure bubbles starting from the IPL 2020. The former Indian skipper hoped that India defeat New Zealand in the final while congratulating Virat Kohli, Ajinkya Rahane and everyone involved in the squad.&nbsp;

Ganguly was asked about whether the World Test Championship comes together with the 50-over World Cup to which the BCCI president said:&nbsp;“Every trophy has its own value. The 50-over World Cup is an amazing spectacle. It (WTC) was a bit complicated this time because of the pandemic. We will see when every team has played an equal number of games.”&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/on-international-womens-day-icc-announces-expansion-of-womens-game-368867" hreflang="en">On International Women's Day, ICC announces expansion of women's game</a>

“Massive achievements given what the players have gone through. Right from the IPL in September to early March and they are not finished yet. A good 6 months in bio-bubbles and what they have achieved is fantastic,” Ganguly said.&nbsp;

“Looking forward to the WTC final and I hope we get past New Zealand. Congratulate Rahane, Kohli, everyone involved. The way Pant won India the Brisbane game was excellent,” he added.&nbsp;

The ICC World Test Championship (WTC) final between India and New Zealand is all set to be hosted by the Ageas Bowl in Southampton from June 18-22, confirmed the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) president Sourav Ganguly.

The ICC World Test Championship (WTC) final between India and New Zealand is all set to be hosted by the Ageas Bowl in Southampton from June 18-22, confirmed the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) president Sourav Ganguly. There were reports that the final of the World Test Championship was shifted from the iconic Lord's as originally planned with Ganguly now revealing Southampton will be hosting the inaugural final of WTC between India and New Zealand. However, there has been no confirmation in regards to the venue by the ICC. "I'm looking forward to attending the World Test Championship final between India and New Zealand in Southampton," Ganguly said on India Today. "Yeah, it is in Southampton. It was decided a long time ago. Due to COVID and they [in Southampton] have the hotel absolutely close. When England resumed play after COVID, they had a lot of matches in Southampton due to the same reason." ALSO READ: BCCI likely to send second-string India squad for Asia Cup 2021: Report India and New Zealand qualified for the summit clash after coming first and second in the WTC standings respectively. While India ended with the maximum percentage points, New Zealand came second to set-up the mouth-watering clash. The Ageas Bowl in Southampton boasts a five-star hotel attached to the stadium and provides plenty of logistical and operational convenience in times of bio-secure bubbles. Southampton had hosted matches between England and West Indies, and Pakistan. Ganguly lauded the players for their mental strength given they had to spend around six months in bio-secure bubbles starting from the IPL 2020. The former Indian skipper hoped that India defeat New Zealand in the final while congratulating Virat Kohli, Ajinkya Rahane and everyone involved in the squad. Ganguly was asked about whether the World Test Championship comes together with the 50-over World Cup to which the BCCI president said: “Every trophy has its own value. The 50-over World Cup is an amazing spectacle. It (WTC) was a bit complicated this time because of the pandemic. We will see when every team has played an equal number of games.” ALSO READ: On International Women's Day, ICC announces expansion of women's game “Massive achievements given what the players have gone through. Right from the IPL in September to early March and they are not finished yet. A good 6 months in bio-bubbles and what they have achieved is fantastic,” Ganguly said. “Looking forward to the WTC final and I hope we get past New Zealand. Congratulate Rahane, Kohli, everyone involved. The way Pant won India the Brisbane game was excellent,” he added.

IND vs NZ: Southampton to host ICC World Test Championship final, confirms Sourav Ganguly

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is set to send a second-string team to Sri Lanka if Asia Cup 2021 takes place as per the schedule. With India participating in the final of the ICC World Test Championship scheduled for June 18-22, the first-team players will be engaged&nbsp;in preparations for the summit clash against New Zealand.

According to a report in TOI,&nbsp;the Indian team is set to send a second-string side to participate in the Asia Cup 2021 due to the hectic schedule.&nbsp;Furthermore, India&nbsp;are&nbsp;scheduled to tour England for a five-match Test series and the players are likely to stay back in the United Kingdom to continue their preparations for the much-awaited series after the WTC final.&nbsp;

India and New Zealand&nbsp;are set to lock horns in&nbsp;the final from June 18 to 22 while Asia Cup&nbsp;2021&nbsp;is likely to begin in the last week of the same month.&nbsp;&nbsp;

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“There’s no other choice. We can’t risk the preparation for the series in England. And cricketers can’t twice undergo quarantine. If the Asia Cup happens, India will have no option but to send a second-string squad,” sources told&nbsp;TOI.&nbsp;

A second-string Indian side suggests that the Men in Blue will be without the likes of Virat Kohli, Jasprit&nbsp;Bumrah, Mohammed Shami, Rohit Sharma, Rishabh Pant among others.&nbsp;&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/psl-6-botch-franchise-owners-set-to-submit-list-of-grievances-to-pcb-chairman-368856" hreflang="en">PSL 6 botch: Franchise owners set to submit list of grievances to PCB chairman</a>

India would be eyeing a hat-trick of Asia Cup wins having won the last two editions of the tournament.&nbsp;Also,&nbsp;India&nbsp;are the most successful team in the history of&nbsp;Asia Cup&nbsp;with seven titles to their name.&nbsp;

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is set to send a second-string team to Sri Lanka if Asia Cup 2021 takes place as per the schedule. With India participating in the final of the ICC World Test Championship scheduled for June 18-22, the first-team players will be engaged in preparations for the summit clash against New Zealand.

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is set to send a second-string team to Sri Lanka if Asia Cup 2021 takes place as per the schedule. With India participating in the final of the ICC World Test Championship scheduled for June 18-22, the first-team players will be engaged in preparations for the summit clash against New Zealand. According to a report in TOI, the Indian team is set to send a second-string side to participate in the Asia Cup 2021 due to the hectic schedule. Furthermore, India are scheduled to tour England for a five-match Test series and the players are likely to stay back in the United Kingdom to continue their preparations for the much-awaited series after the WTC final. India and New Zealand are set to lock horns in the final from June 18 to 22 while Asia Cup 2021 is likely to begin in the last week of the same month. ALSO READ: On International Women's Day, ICC announces expansion of women's game “There’s no other choice. We can’t risk the preparation for the series in England. And cricketers can’t twice undergo quarantine. If the Asia Cup happens, India will have no option but to send a second-string squad,” sources told TOI. A second-string Indian side suggests that the Men in Blue will be without the likes of Virat Kohli, Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Shami, Rohit Sharma, Rishabh Pant among others. ALSO READ: PSL 6 botch: Franchise owners set to submit list of grievances to PCB chairman India would be eyeing a hat-trick of Asia Cup wins having won the last two editions of the tournament. Also, India are the most successful team in the history of Asia Cup with seven titles to their name.

BCCI likely to send second-string India squad for Asia Cup 2021: Report

On International Women’s Day, a year after the resounding success of the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2020, the International Cricket Council (ICC) announced the expansion of women’s cricket events post the 2023 cycle.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

More teams will compete in both the ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup and the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup from 2026 onwards as part of the ICC’s long-term commitment to growing the game globally and in a sustainable fashion.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

The revised formats will give more teams the chance to compete on the global stage and importantly provides Members with a window to grow the game domestically and to challenge internationally as the changes take place.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/denying-ms-dhoni-to-play-his-potential-last-ipl-in-chennai-franchises-left-unhappy-over-scheduling-368834" hreflang="en">Denying MS Dhoni to play his potential last IPL in Chennai: Franchises left unhappy over scheduling</a>

<h2 lang="EN-US" paraeid="{e6611ecf-52c7-4386-aed1-8c0cef1db2b3}{34}" paraid="312895998" >The revised structure will be as follows:&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</h2>

<ul>
	<li>ICC Women's World Cup 2025 - 8 teams, 31 matches</li>
	<li>ICC Women's World Cup 2029 - 10 teams, 48 matches</li>
	<li>ICC Women's T20 World Cup 2024 - 10 teams, 23 matches</li>
	<li>ICC Women's T20 World Cup 2026 - 12 teams, 33 matches</li>
	<li>ICC Women's T20 World Cup 2028 - 12 teams, 33 matches</li>
	<li>ICC Women's T20 World Cup 2030 - 12 teams, 33 matches</li>
	<li>ICC Women's T20 Champions Cup 2027 - 6 teams, 16 matches</li>
	<li>ICC Women's T20 Champions Cup 2031 - 6 teams, 16 matches</li>
</ul>

Manu Sawhney, ICC Chief Executive said, “We have a clear focus and commitment to an ambitious long-term growth plan for the women’s game. We have been building momentum around the women’s game for the last four years investing in global broadcast coverage and marketing to drive fan engagement.&nbsp;&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/havent-come-across-player-like-him-in-cricket-inzamam-ul-haq-lauds-rishabh-pant-368744" hreflang="en">'Haven't come across player like him in cricket': Inzamam-Ul-Haq lauds Rishabh Pant</a>

“The results speak for themselves with the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2020 attracting record numbers, 1.1 billion video views, making it the most watched women’s cricket event of all time and having 86,174 fans attending the final at the MCG, a record attendance for a women’s cricket event.&nbsp;&nbsp;

“This decision to expand our women’s events builds on these foundations and allows us to give more member countries greater opportunities to compete on a global stage. This means that more teams will also get the opportunity to compete in the qualification pathways for the respective ICC events over the coming years. I am sure these initiatives will go a long way in helping us achieve our strategic goal of continuing to build strength and depth in the women’s game.”&nbsp;&nbsp;

&nbsp;

&nbsp;

On International Women’s Day, a year after the resounding success of the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2020, the International Cricket Council (ICC) announced the expansion of women’s cricket events post the 2023 cycle.

On International Women’s Day, a year after the resounding success of the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2020, the International Cricket Council (ICC) announced the expansion of women’s cricket events post the 2023 cycle. More teams will compete in both the ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup and the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup from 2026 onwards as part of the ICC’s long-term commitment to growing the game globally and in a sustainable fashion. The revised formats will give more teams the chance to compete on the global stage and importantly provides Members with a window to grow the game domestically and to challenge internationally as the changes take place. ALSO READ: Denying MS Dhoni to play his potential last IPL in Chennai: Franchises left unhappy over scheduling The revised structure will be as follows: ICC Women's World Cup 2025 - 8 teams, 31 matches ICC Women's World Cup 2029 - 10 teams, 48 matches ICC Women's T20 World Cup 2024 - 10 teams, 23 matches ICC Women's T20 World Cup 2026 - 12 teams, 33 matches ICC Women's T20 World Cup 2028 - 12 teams, 33 matches ICC Women's T20 World Cup 2030 - 12 teams, 33 matches ICC Women's T20 Champions Cup 2027 - 6 teams, 16 matches ICC Women's T20 Champions Cup 2031 - 6 teams, 16 matches Manu Sawhney, ICC Chief Executive said, “We have a clear focus and commitment to an ambitious long-term growth plan for the women’s game. We have been building momentum around the women’s game for the last four years investing in global broadcast coverage and marketing to drive fan engagement. ALSO READ: 'Haven't come across player like him in cricket': Inzamam-Ul-Haq lauds Rishabh Pant “The results speak for themselves with the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2020 attracting record numbers, 1.1 billion video views, making it the most watched women’s cricket event of all time and having 86,174 fans attending the final at the MCG, a record attendance for a women’s cricket event. “This decision to expand our women’s events builds on these foundations and allows us to give more member countries greater opportunities to compete on a global stage. This means that more teams will also get the opportunity to compete in the qualification pathways for the respective ICC events over the coming years. I am sure these initiatives will go a long way in helping us achieve our strategic goal of continuing to build strength and depth in the women’s game.”

On International Women's Day, ICC announces expansion of women's game

After the postponement of Pakistan Super League (PSL) 6, franchise owners are set to present a list of&nbsp;grievances to Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) Chairman Ehsan Mani on Monday during a virtual meeting.&nbsp;

According to reports, PSL 6 franchise owners are expected to seek a refund&nbsp;of their submitted fees if the tournament cannot be completed in future. While PCB has assured that they will look to find&nbsp;time to complete the postponed PSL 6, the packed calendar makes things tricky for the&nbsp;organisers.&nbsp;

The PSL franchise owners have been left upset and disappointed by the approach of PCB CEO Wasim Khan, who reportedly was pushed on the back foot during a meeting as he shared the responsibility of mismanagement&nbsp;with a wide range of shareholders during the tournament.&nbsp;&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/denying-ms-dhoni-to-play-his-potential-last-ipl-in-chennai-franchises-left-unhappy-over-scheduling-368834" hreflang="en">Denying MS Dhoni to play his potential last IPL in Chennai: Franchises left unhappy over scheduling</a>

Whereas, the PCB has also formed a two-member fact-finding committee panel that has also left the owners unhappy. While the panel has been asked to&nbsp;investigate&nbsp;the breaches in the Standard Operating&nbsp;Protocol&nbsp;(SOPs)&nbsp;following the postponement of PSL 6, the owners have been left fuming as they were not taken into consideration while&nbsp;finalising&nbsp;the move.&nbsp;

The franchise owners are also&nbsp;extremely&nbsp;concerned about financial losses. Notably, most foreign players have been paid 70 per cent of their fees despite featuring in four or five matches. Meanwhile, it is not yet clear whether any amount will be&nbsp;retrieved&nbsp;from the&nbsp;players who are not willing to participate in the tournament further.&nbsp;

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Earlier, former Pakistan pacer Shoaib Akhtar had slammed the PCB for its “incompetence” as he said the latest incident has destroyed the PSL brand.&nbsp;

"PSL brand got destroyed again just because of the incompetence. And the&nbsp;one's&nbsp;who do not even know how to write a prescription or see X-rays are PCB's doctors. I have witnessed this when I used to play, they (PCB doctors) did not know how to see X-rays. Nothing has changed so far," Akhtar said in his YouTube channel.

After the postponement of Pakistan Super League (PSL) 6, franchise owners are set to present a list of grievances to Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) Chairman Ehsan Mani on Monday during a virtual meeting.

After the postponement of Pakistan Super League (PSL) 6, franchise owners are set to present a list of grievances to Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) Chairman Ehsan Mani on Monday during a virtual meeting. According to reports, PSL 6 franchise owners are expected to seek a refund of their submitted fees if the tournament cannot be completed in future. While PCB has assured that they will look to find time to complete the postponed PSL 6, the packed calendar makes things tricky for the organisers. The PSL franchise owners have been left upset and disappointed by the approach of PCB CEO Wasim Khan, who reportedly was pushed on the back foot during a meeting as he shared the responsibility of mismanagement with a wide range of shareholders during the tournament. ALSO READ: Denying MS Dhoni to play his potential last IPL in Chennai: Franchises left unhappy over scheduling Whereas, the PCB has also formed a two-member fact-finding committee panel that has also left the owners unhappy. While the panel has been asked to investigate the breaches in the Standard Operating Protocol (SOPs) following the postponement of PSL 6, the owners have been left fuming as they were not taken into consideration while finalising the move. The franchise owners are also extremely concerned about financial losses. Notably, most foreign players have been paid 70 per cent of their fees despite featuring in four or five matches. Meanwhile, it is not yet clear whether any amount will be retrieved from the players who are not willing to participate in the tournament further. ALSO READ: Shahid Afridi's daughter to get engaged with this Pakistan pacer: Reports Earlier, former Pakistan pacer Shoaib Akhtar had slammed the PCB for its “incompetence” as he said the latest incident has destroyed the PSL brand. "PSL brand got destroyed again just because of the incompetence. And the one's who do not even know how to write a prescription or see X-rays are PCB's doctors. I have witnessed this when I used to play, they (PCB doctors) did not know how to see X-rays. Nothing has changed so far," Akhtar said in his YouTube channel.

PSL 6 botch: Franchise owners set to submit list of grievances to PCB chairman

The schedule and fixture list of the much-awaited Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 was released on Sunday. Spread over six cities, IPL 2021 is set to commence from April 9. However, no franchise will have home advantage this term with matches to be held&nbsp;in neutral venues only. The schedule of IPL 2021 and the introduction of neutral venue have left a few franchises unhappy with some of them raising question on why they are being barred from playing in their home venues.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The cities of Ahmedabad, Bengaluru, Chennai, Delhi, Mumbai and Kolkata&nbsp;will host&nbsp;IPL 2021 matches. The reason behind keeping neutral venues was to ensure parity on the field for every franchise while also ensuring no one gets added advantage of brand activation.&nbsp;

It was reported that three franchises were discontent when&nbsp;their&nbsp;venues weren't considered for IPL 2021 and according to a report in&nbsp;Cricbuzz, by addressing the concerns of three teams, who had earlier opposed the six-venue proposal,&nbsp;five other franchises could be less than satisfied with the final&nbsp;schedule.&nbsp;

"You are denying MS Dhoni to play his potential last IPL in Chennai. If there are to be no crowds, what stops CSK to play in Chennai and Mumbai Indians to play in Mumbai," asks one of the franchise officials&nbsp;as quoted by&nbsp;Cricbuzz.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2021-schedule-team-wise-full-fixture-list-date-time-and-venues-368637" hreflang="en">IPL 2021 Schedule: Team-wise full fixture list, date, time and venues</a>

"Delhi have players like Prithvi Shaw, Ajinkya Rahane and skipper Shreyas Iyer who are from Mumbai and the team plays its first three games at the Wankhede. They will have advantage just as Punjab Kings who have players like KL Rahul and Mayank Agarwal, and coach Anil Kumble, and they play five games in Bangalore? Don't they have the advantage of being familiar with the conditions at the&nbsp;Chinnaswamy&nbsp;Stadium? The plan can be counter-productive."&nbsp;

The other&nbsp;concerns&nbsp;raised over the schedule have been on safety standards and logistical hazards. A team will have to fly out at least four times and according to some franchises, that could expose those participating&nbsp;to outsiders.&nbsp;&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/its-banter-ravi-shastri-reacts-to-viral-memes-around-him-on-social-media-368581" hreflang="en">It's banter!: Ravi Shastri reacts to viral memes around him on social media</a>

"Those inside the team bubble are not allowed to meet the owners of their franchise and here by having to fly four times, change hotels and buses, the players will get exposed to outsiders," cautioned a franchise official, adding, "No doubt, we will engage charter flights and private airports but there will always be questions over the sanctity of the bio bubbles."&nbsp;

The report adds that the reason for&nbsp;finalising&nbsp;six venues was to spread out the risk factor amid the COVID-19 pandemic.&nbsp;

"It is a safer approach. What if the pandemic situation worsens in Maharashtra? Where do we go then? If now the situation worsens in Mumbai, or any of the other cities, we're prepared to host the tournament elsewhere," says one of those involved with the scheduling of the tournament.&nbsp;

The schedule and fixture list of the much-awaited Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 was released on Sunday. Spread over six cities, IPL 2021 is set to commence from April 9.

The schedule and fixture list of the much-awaited Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 was released on Sunday. Spread over six cities, IPL 2021 is set to commence from April 9. However, no franchise will have home advantage this term with matches to be held in neutral venues only. The schedule of IPL 2021 and the introduction of neutral venue have left a few franchises unhappy with some of them raising question on why they are being barred from playing in their home venues. The cities of Ahmedabad, Bengaluru, Chennai, Delhi, Mumbai and Kolkata will host IPL 2021 matches. The reason behind keeping neutral venues was to ensure parity on the field for every franchise while also ensuring no one gets added advantage of brand activation. It was reported that three franchises were discontent when their venues weren't considered for IPL 2021 and according to a report in Cricbuzz, by addressing the concerns of three teams, who had earlier opposed the six-venue proposal, five other franchises could be less than satisfied with the final schedule. "You are denying MS Dhoni to play his potential last IPL in Chennai. If there are to be no crowds, what stops CSK to play in Chennai and Mumbai Indians to play in Mumbai," asks one of the franchise officials as quoted by Cricbuzz. ALSO READ: IPL 2021 Schedule: Team-wise full fixture list, date, time and venues "Delhi have players like Prithvi Shaw, Ajinkya Rahane and skipper Shreyas Iyer who are from Mumbai and the team plays its first three games at the Wankhede. They will have advantage just as Punjab Kings who have players like KL Rahul and Mayank Agarwal, and coach Anil Kumble, and they play five games in Bangalore? Don't they have the advantage of being familiar with the conditions at the Chinnaswamy Stadium? The plan can be counter-productive." The other concerns raised over the schedule have been on safety standards and logistical hazards. A team will have to fly out at least four times and according to some franchises, that could expose those participating to outsiders. ALSO READ: It's banter!: Ravi Shastri reacts to viral memes around him on social media "Those inside the team bubble are not allowed to meet the owners of their franchise and here by having to fly four times, change hotels and buses, the players will get exposed to outsiders," cautioned a franchise official, adding, "No doubt, we will engage charter flights and private airports but there will always be questions over the sanctity of the bio bubbles." The report adds that the reason for finalising six venues was to spread out the risk factor amid the COVID-19 pandemic. "It is a safer approach. What if the pandemic situation worsens in Maharashtra? Where do we go then? If now the situation worsens in Mumbai, or any of the other cities, we're prepared to host the tournament elsewhere," says one of those involved with the scheduling of the tournament.

Denying MS Dhoni to play his potential last IPL in Chennai: Franchises left unhappy over scheduling

Former Pakistan fast bowler Shoaib Akhtar has lavished high praise on Team India following Virat Kohli and Co's 3-1 series win against England as the 'Rawalpindi Express' termed&nbsp;visitors’&nbsp;loss&nbsp;as “embarrassing”.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Akhtar said it would have been better had England focused on their batting and crib less about the pitch. While none of the England members&nbsp;criticised&nbsp;the pitch in public, former England captains such as Michael Vaughan, Andrew Strauss and Alastair Cook were critical of the pitch produced in Chennai and Ahmedabad.&nbsp;

“All in all, it was an embarrassing defeat for the England team, and they have got a reality check in India. But they need to now learn the art of playing spin in the sub-continent well. Not sure, how are they going to lift themselves up from this humiliating defeat and motivate themselves to play better,” Shoaib Akhtar said on his&nbsp;Youtube&nbsp;channel.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-vs-new-zealand-southampton-leads-race-to-host-icc-world-test-championship-final-368557" hreflang="en">India vs New Zealand: Southampton leads race to host ICC World Test Championship final</a>

Akhtar defended the pitches in Ahmedabad as the former Pakistan speedster asked while the visitors struggled, how come India managed to post big totals like 365 on the scoreboard?&nbsp;&nbsp;

“While many might talk about the wickets in the series, but look how India scored 365. They also played on the same wickets, where the England batsmen struggled. If Rishabh Pant and Washington Sundar can score runs, why can’t the English? With utmost ease, India has beaten England in the series, and sealed a spot in the final of the World Test Championship final,” Akhtar added.&nbsp;

IN PICS |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/ind-vs-eng-rishabh-pants-magnificent-century-against-jimmy-anderson-and-co-368226" hreflang="en">IND vs ENG: Rishabh Pant's magnificent century against Jimmy Anderson and Co.</a>

Akthar praised&nbsp;Axar&nbsp;Patel highly following his heroics with the ball against England as he said that the 27-year-old might go on to become the quickest to 100 Test wickets.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

“Not only did he get a suitable wicket to bowl on, but he is an intelligent bowler too. He wouldn’t have given a chance to the English players when the control was in his hands, and that is what he did. If he keeps getting a few series like this, he might just become fastest bowler to 100 wickets. Having said that, England should have played him better,” he added.&nbsp;

India and England will next play five T20Is starting from March 12 before locking horns in a three-match ODI series.&nbsp;

Former Pakistan fast bowler Shoaib Akhtar has lavished high praise on Team India following Virat Kohli and Co's 3-1 series win against England as the 'Rawalpindi Express' termed visitors’ loss as “embarrassing”.

Former Pakistan fast bowler Shoaib Akhtar has lavished high praise on Team India following Virat Kohli and Co's 3-1 series win against England as the 'Rawalpindi Express' termed visitors’ loss as “embarrassing”. Akhtar said it would have been better had England focused on their batting and crib less about the pitch. While none of the England members criticised the pitch in public, former England captains such as Michael Vaughan, Andrew Strauss and Alastair Cook were critical of the pitch produced in Chennai and Ahmedabad. “All in all, it was an embarrassing defeat for the England team, and they have got a reality check in India. But they need to now learn the art of playing spin in the sub-continent well. Not sure, how are they going to lift themselves up from this humiliating defeat and motivate themselves to play better,” Shoaib Akhtar said on his Youtube channel. ALSO READ: India vs New Zealand: Southampton leads race to host ICC World Test Championship final Akhtar defended the pitches in Ahmedabad as the former Pakistan speedster asked while the visitors struggled, how come India managed to post big totals like 365 on the scoreboard? “While many might talk about the wickets in the series, but look how India scored 365. They also played on the same wickets, where the England batsmen struggled. If Rishabh Pant and Washington Sundar can score runs, why can’t the English? With utmost ease, India has beaten England in the series, and sealed a spot in the final of the World Test Championship final,” Akhtar added. IN PICS | IND vs ENG: Rishabh Pant's magnificent century against Jimmy Anderson and Co. Akthar praised Axar Patel highly following his heroics with the ball against England as he said that the 27-year-old might go on to become the quickest to 100 Test wickets. “Not only did he get a suitable wicket to bowl on, but he is an intelligent bowler too. He wouldn’t have given a chance to the English players when the control was in his hands, and that is what he did. If he keeps getting a few series like this, he might just become fastest bowler to 100 wickets. Having said that, England should have played him better,” he added. India and England will next play five T20Is starting from March 12 before locking horns in a three-match ODI series.

'Embarrassing': Shoaib Akhtar gives his verdict on England's 3-1 series defeat against India

With the finalists of the much-awaited ICC World Test Championship&nbsp;(WTC)&nbsp;decided after India's thumping 3-1 series win over England, the&nbsp;Virat Kohli-led outfit will be facing New Zealand in the summit clash, scheduled to be played from June 18 to 22.&nbsp;&nbsp;

While the International Cricket Council (ICC) on Saturday said that India and New Zealand will be locking horns in the final of the ICC World Test Championship, the venue of the match is yet to be decided. The Lord's was slated to host the WTC final but the iconic ground is reportedly out of the race with Ageas Bowl in Southampton,&nbsp;Edgbaston&nbsp;in Birmingham and&nbsp;Old Trafford in Manchester three&nbsp;grounds battling to host the grand finale, a report in&nbsp;Cricbuzz&nbsp;said that the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) has checked the readiness of the Ageas Bowl in Southampton with the stadium&nbsp;front-runner to host the final of ICC World Test Championship.&nbsp;

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The <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WTC21?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WTC21</a> finalists 🙌 <a href="https://t.co/OWBBifgbvx">pic.twitter.com/OWBBifgbvx</a>
— ICC (@ICC) <a href="https://twitter.com/ICC/status/1368161982189305856?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 6, 2021</a></blockquote>
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The Ageas Bowl in Southampton boasts a five-star hotel attached to the stadium and provides plenty of logistical and operational convenience in times of bio-secure bubbles. Southampton had hosted matches between England and West Indies, and Pakistan.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

"I can't give much information apart from the fact that there has been discussion about it," confirmed Southampton cricket boss Rod&nbsp;Bransgrove&nbsp;to&nbsp;Cricbuzz&nbsp;about an approach to stage the final at the Ageas Bowl. "I am the chairman of Southampton and I can say we have been asked to stage it and also inquired if Southampton is available. I don't know if anything has been finally decided as yet,"&nbsp;Bransgrove said.&nbsp;

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India 🤜🤛 New Zealand 
 
The inaugural ICC World Test Championship finalists! 
 
The wait will be unbearable. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WTC21?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WTC21</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvENG?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDvENG</a> <a href="https://t.co/X3KcNrUTJ1">pic.twitter.com/X3KcNrUTJ1</a>
— ICC (@ICC) <a href="https://twitter.com/ICC/status/1368148470649876480?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 6, 2021</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

However, the spokesman for the Marylebone Cricket Club, which runs the Lord's ground, remained non-committal.&nbsp;

"The MCC has been working with the ICC and the ECB in relation to planning for the World Test Championship Final. As yet, no definitive decision has been taken in relation to the location of the final. This will be announced by the ICC in due course," the spokesman for the MCC told&nbsp;Cricbuzz.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The ICC is expected to announce the venue soon and the world body is also expected to reveal playing conditions for the inaugural final of WTC along with a reserve day.&nbsp;

With the finalists of the much-awaited ICC World Test Championship (WTC) decided after India's thumping 3-1 series win over England, the Virat Kohli-led outfit will be facing New Zealand in the summit clash, scheduled to be played from June 18 to 22.

With the finalists of the much-awaited ICC World Test Championship (WTC) decided after India's thumping 3-1 series win over England, the Virat Kohli-led outfit will be facing New Zealand in the summit clash, scheduled to be played from June 18 to 22. While the International Cricket Council (ICC) on Saturday said that India and New Zealand will be locking horns in the final of the ICC World Test Championship, the venue of the match is yet to be decided. The Lord's was slated to host the WTC final but the iconic ground is reportedly out of the race with Ageas Bowl in Southampton, Edgbaston in Birmingham and Old Trafford in Manchester three grounds battling to host the grand finale, a report in Cricbuzz said that the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) has checked the readiness of the Ageas Bowl in Southampton with the stadium front-runner to host the final of ICC World Test Championship. The #WTC21 finalists 🙌 pic.twitter.com/OWBBifgbvx — ICC (@ICC) March 6, 2021 × The Ageas Bowl in Southampton boasts a five-star hotel attached to the stadium and provides plenty of logistical and operational convenience in times of bio-secure bubbles. Southampton had hosted matches between England and West Indies, and Pakistan. "I can't give much information apart from the fact that there has been discussion about it," confirmed Southampton cricket boss Rod Bransgrove to Cricbuzz about an approach to stage the final at the Ageas Bowl. "I am the chairman of Southampton and I can say we have been asked to stage it and also inquired if Southampton is available. I don't know if anything has been finally decided as yet," Bransgrove said. India 🤜🤛 New Zealand The inaugural ICC World Test Championship finalists! The wait will be unbearable. #WTC21 | #INDvENG pic.twitter.com/X3KcNrUTJ1 — ICC (@ICC) March 6, 2021 × However, the spokesman for the Marylebone Cricket Club, which runs the Lord's ground, remained non-committal. "The MCC has been working with the ICC and the ECB in relation to planning for the World Test Championship Final. As yet, no definitive decision has been taken in relation to the location of the final. This will be announced by the ICC in due course," the spokesman for the MCC told Cricbuzz. The ICC is expected to announce the venue soon and the world body is also expected to reveal playing conditions for the inaugural final of WTC along with a reserve day.

India vs New Zealand: Southampton leads race to host ICC World Test Championship final

A century opening stand by Martin Guptill and Devon Conway saw New Zealand clinch their Twenty20 series against Australia in Wellington on Sunday after the tourists faltered in the face of an experimental spin attack.

Set a target of 143 for victory in the fifth and final match, New Zealand claimed victory by seven wickets and took the series 3-2 with an emphatic 27 balls to spare.

After being comprehensively outplayed in games three and four when batting second, New Zealand captain Kane Williamson knew he had to be innovative to win the series after he lost the toss and was told to bowl first.

He put an emphasis on spin with his slow bowlers sending down 12 overs, the most for New Zealand in a Twenty20 match, and they took four of the eight wickets.

"We just wanted to put out a much-improved performance from the last two and it was great that we could show some signs of improvement," Williamson said.

"Clearly, the slower bowlers on that wicket were a little bit trickier."

Of the spin brigade, Ish Sodhi finished with 3-24 off his four overs, Hong Kong-born Mark Chapman, bowling for the first time for New Zealand, took 1-9 off two and Mitchell Santner conceded only 21 runs from his four.

Guptill, who had been out of form going into the series, silenced his critics with a masterful 71, including seven fours and four sixes, while Conway contributed 36 with the pair putting on 106 for the first wicket.

New Zealand stumbled slightly when Kane Williamson went first ball but a Guptill single denied Riley Meredith the hat-trick.

Glenn Phillips blasted New Zealand home with five fours and two sixes to be unbeaten on 34.

Although a Covid-19 outbreak in Auckland forced the last three matches to be played on the same wicket in Wellington in the space of five days, Australian captain Aaron Finch said it was his side's batting and not a worn pitch that cost the tourists.

"We probably weren't aggressive enough with the bat, myself led that at the top," he said.

"We didnt get enough runs, we kept losing wickets at regular intervals. I thought (the pitch) played pretty well and Mitch Santner bowled beautifully with the new ball and didn't allow us to get away to a flyer."

Matthew Wade&nbsp;top scored for the tourists with 44 while Finch contributed 36 and Marcus Stoinis made 24.

A century opening stand by Martin Guptill and Devon Conway saw New Zealand clinch their Twenty20 series against Australia in Wellington on Sunday after the tourists faltered in the face of an experimental spin attack.

A century opening stand by Martin Guptill and Devon Conway saw New Zealand clinch their Twenty20 series against Australia in Wellington on Sunday after the tourists faltered in the face of an experimental spin attack. Set a target of 143 for victory in the fifth and final match, New Zealand claimed victory by seven wickets and took the series 3-2 with an emphatic 27 balls to spare. After being comprehensively outplayed in games three and four when batting second, New Zealand captain Kane Williamson knew he had to be innovative to win the series after he lost the toss and was told to bowl first. He put an emphasis on spin with his slow bowlers sending down 12 overs, the most for New Zealand in a Twenty20 match, and they took four of the eight wickets. "We just wanted to put out a much-improved performance from the last two and it was great that we could show some signs of improvement," Williamson said. "Clearly, the slower bowlers on that wicket were a little bit trickier." Of the spin brigade, Ish Sodhi finished with 3-24 off his four overs, Hong Kong-born Mark Chapman, bowling for the first time for New Zealand, took 1-9 off two and Mitchell Santner conceded only 21 runs from his four. Guptill, who had been out of form going into the series, silenced his critics with a masterful 71, including seven fours and four sixes, while Conway contributed 36 with the pair putting on 106 for the first wicket. New Zealand stumbled slightly when Kane Williamson went first ball but a Guptill single denied Riley Meredith the hat-trick. Glenn Phillips blasted New Zealand home with five fours and two sixes to be unbeaten on 34. Although a Covid-19 outbreak in Auckland forced the last three matches to be played on the same wicket in Wellington in the space of five days, Australian captain Aaron Finch said it was his side's batting and not a worn pitch that cost the tourists. "We probably weren't aggressive enough with the bat, myself led that at the top," he said. "We didnt get enough runs, we kept losing wickets at regular intervals. I thought (the pitch) played pretty well and Mitch Santner bowled beautifully with the new ball and didn't allow us to get away to a flyer." Matthew Wade top scored for the tourists with 44 while Finch contributed 36 and Marcus Stoinis made 24.

Hot Guptill leads New Zealand to T20 series win against Australia

Former England captain Michael Vaughan has lauded India as the "best team in the world” following Virat Kohli and Co's emphatic 3-1 Test series win over England. India defeated England by an innings and 25 runs in the fourth and final Test in Ahmedabad to seal the series win as they qualify for the final of ICC World Test Championship.&nbsp;

Vaughan, who had&nbsp;criticised&nbsp;the pitches on offer in the four-Test series, richly praised India for their showing in the series as he said if India can beat England in England, they will be hailed as the team of this era.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

“India, for me, are pound for pound the best team in the world. If you look at 2021, they won in Australia, they've beaten England 3-1... there's a T20 World Cup in India and they will be the&nbsp;favourites&nbsp;to win that as well,” Vaughan said on radio for BBC 5 Live Sport.&nbsp;&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2021-schedule-team-wise-full-fixture-list-date-time-and-venues-368637" hreflang="en">IPL 2021 Schedule: Team-wise full fixture list, date, time and venues</a>

“They've also got the challenge to come to England in a few months’ time for 5 Test matches. If they beat England, who are tough to beat in home conditions with the ball moving around... if India come here and beat England, and I wouldn't bet against them with that they've got on the talent.&nbsp;

“If they beat England in England then I think they are the team of this era. They've got enough. They've got the pace, the skill, the spinners and they've obviously got Virat Kohli. They are a tremendous team,” he added.&nbsp;

India&nbsp;are&nbsp;scheduled to tour England for a five-Test series later in the year and will hope to start the second cycle of ICC WTC with a statement.&nbsp;&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/had-to-dig-deep-to-find-water-ravi-shastri-on-road-to-world-test-championship-final-368614" hreflang="en">Had to dig deep to find water: Ravi Shastri on road to World Test Championship final</a>

Meanwhile, India, after defeating England, completed their 13th&nbsp;Test win under Kohli's captaincy at home after spinners Ravichandran Ashwin and&nbsp;Axar&nbsp;Patel spun a web to bundle England for 135 runs. Ashwin and&nbsp;Axar&nbsp;ended the series with combined 59 wickets with Ashwin scalping 32 and&nbsp;Axar&nbsp;27.&nbsp;

India will face New Zealand in the final of WTC, scheduled for June 18-22 in England.&nbsp;

Former England captain Michael Vaughan has lauded India as the "best team in the world” following Virat Kohli and Co's emphatic 3-1 Test series win over England.

Former England captain Michael Vaughan has lauded India as the "best team in the world” following Virat Kohli and Co's emphatic 3-1 Test series win over England. India defeated England by an innings and 25 runs in the fourth and final Test in Ahmedabad to seal the series win as they qualify for the final of ICC World Test Championship. Vaughan, who had criticised the pitches on offer in the four-Test series, richly praised India for their showing in the series as he said if India can beat England in England, they will be hailed as the team of this era. “India, for me, are pound for pound the best team in the world. If you look at 2021, they won in Australia, they've beaten England 3-1... there's a T20 World Cup in India and they will be the favourites to win that as well,” Vaughan said on radio for BBC 5 Live Sport. ALSO READ: IPL 2021 Schedule: Team-wise full fixture list, date, time and venues “They've also got the challenge to come to England in a few months’ time for 5 Test matches. If they beat England, who are tough to beat in home conditions with the ball moving around... if India come here and beat England, and I wouldn't bet against them with that they've got on the talent. “If they beat England in England then I think they are the team of this era. They've got enough. They've got the pace, the skill, the spinners and they've obviously got Virat Kohli. They are a tremendous team,” he added. India are scheduled to tour England for a five-Test series later in the year and will hope to start the second cycle of ICC WTC with a statement. ALSO READ: Had to dig deep to find water: Ravi Shastri on road to World Test Championship final Meanwhile, India, after defeating England, completed their 13th Test win under Kohli's captaincy at home after spinners Ravichandran Ashwin and Axar Patel spun a web to bundle England for 135 runs. Ashwin and Axar ended the series with combined 59 wickets with Ashwin scalping 32 and Axar 27. India will face New Zealand in the final of WTC, scheduled for June 18-22 in England.

India the best team in the world, says former England captain Michael Vaughan

Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) chief and former BCCI president Sharad Pawar on Sunday revealed how&nbsp;Sachin&nbsp;Tendulkar's suggestion led to Mahendra Singh Dhoni become the captain of the Indian cricket team.&nbsp;&nbsp;

While addressing a public meeting, Pawar revealed how Rahul Dravid wanted to quit captaincy in 2007 but for that, a new candidate was needed. Pawar asked Tendulkar to take the charge from Dravid but the Master Blaster refused before suggesting MS Dhoni's name for captaincy.&nbsp;Pawar served as the BCCI president for a period of three years from 2005 to 2008.&nbsp;

"I remember India had gone to England in 2007. At that time, Rahul Dravid was the captain. I was there in England then and Dravid came to meet me. He told me how he no longer wanted to lead India. He told me how the captaincy was affecting his batting. He told me that he should be relieved from the captaincy. I then asked&nbsp;Sachin&nbsp;Tendulkar to lead the side, but he refused the role," said Pawar during a public meeting.&nbsp;&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2021-schedule-team-wise-full-fixture-list-date-time-and-venues-368637" hreflang="en">IPL 2021 Schedule: Team-wise full fixture list, date, time and venues</a>

"I told&nbsp;Sachin&nbsp;that if both of you and Dravid do not want to lead the side, how will we go about things? Then&nbsp;Sachin&nbsp;told me that we have one more player in the country who could lead the side and his name is none other than MS Dhoni. After that, we gave the leadership to Dhoni," he added.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Under Dravid's captaincy in 2007, India&nbsp;were&nbsp;knocked out from the World Cup in the group stage. In the same year, Dhoni was named the captain of India's T20 side that went on to lift the T20 World Cup. Dhoni went on to lead the country in both ODIs and Tests, winning all the major ICC Trophies&nbsp;and becoming the only captain to date to have won all ICC trophies.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/its-banter-ravi-shastri-reacts-to-viral-memes-around-him-on-social-media-368581" hreflang="en">It's banter!: Ravi Shastri reacts to viral memes around him on social media</a>

In 2014, Dhoni announced his retirement from Test cricket after playing 90 Test matches. In 2020, Dhoni called it quits from international cricket marking an end to a trophy-laden 16-year-long career. He continues to play in the IPL.&nbsp;

Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) chief and former BCCI president Sharad Pawar on Sunday revealed how Sachin Tendulkar's suggestion led to Mahendra Singh Dhoni become the captain of the Indian cricket team.

Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) chief and former BCCI president Sharad Pawar on Sunday revealed how Sachin Tendulkar's suggestion led to Mahendra Singh Dhoni become the captain of the Indian cricket team. While addressing a public meeting, Pawar revealed how Rahul Dravid wanted to quit captaincy in 2007 but for that, a new candidate was needed. Pawar asked Tendulkar to take the charge from Dravid but the Master Blaster refused before suggesting MS Dhoni's name for captaincy. Pawar served as the BCCI president for a period of three years from 2005 to 2008. "I remember India had gone to England in 2007. At that time, Rahul Dravid was the captain. I was there in England then and Dravid came to meet me. He told me how he no longer wanted to lead India. He told me how the captaincy was affecting his batting. He told me that he should be relieved from the captaincy. I then asked Sachin Tendulkar to lead the side, but he refused the role," said Pawar during a public meeting. ALSO READ: IPL 2021 Schedule: Team-wise full fixture list, date, time and venues "I told Sachin that if both of you and Dravid do not want to lead the side, how will we go about things? Then Sachin told me that we have one more player in the country who could lead the side and his name is none other than MS Dhoni. After that, we gave the leadership to Dhoni," he added. Under Dravid's captaincy in 2007, India were knocked out from the World Cup in the group stage. In the same year, Dhoni was named the captain of India's T20 side that went on to lift the T20 World Cup. Dhoni went on to lead the country in both ODIs and Tests, winning all the major ICC Trophies and becoming the only captain to date to have won all ICC trophies. ALSO READ: It's banter!: Ravi Shastri reacts to viral memes around him on social media In 2014, Dhoni announced his retirement from Test cricket after playing 90 Test matches. In 2020, Dhoni called it quits from international cricket marking an end to a trophy-laden 16-year-long career. He continues to play in the IPL.

Ex-BCCI president reveals how Sachin Tendulkar suggested MS Dhoni's name to lead Team India

Indian head coach Ravi Shastri on Sunday said that his team had to dig deep in a bid to qualify for the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) final due to the rules getting changed between into the tournament due to the COVID-19 pandemic.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Owing to the COVID-19 disruption, the qualification scenario in ICC WTC was changed midway. The change stated that teams with better percentage points in the WTC points table will qualify and not the teams with the most&nbsp;number of points. India finished atop the WTC standings with 72.2 percentage points followed by New Zealand who have 70 percentage points as the two&nbsp;teams&nbsp;set-up a mouthwatering clash in the final of WTC.&nbsp;

"I am not worried about the next WTC&nbsp;cycle,&nbsp;I am thinking of the first cycle. If you ask me about the problems in the first cycle, please do not shift the goalpost. I am sitting at home during Covid-19, right in the month of October-November. You have got more points than any other team in the world. 360 at that time, suddenly, a week later without playing any cricket, there is a rule that comes stating that the points would be decided on the percentage system and go from number one to three. Fine, that's because of countries not wanting to travel, all acceptable and fine,” said Shastri during a virtual press conference on Sunday.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/its-banter-ravi-shastri-reacts-to-viral-memes-around-him-on-social-media-368581" hreflang="en">It's banter!: Ravi Shastri reacts to viral memes around him on social media</a>

"I want to understand the logic behind this, what is the way forward for me? I have to go to Australia, sitting comfortably at the top spot, leading by 60-70 points. They say you have to go to&nbsp;Australia,&nbsp;you have to beat Australia. How many teams in the last ten years can say with guarantee that we will beat Australia? The reason I am saying this, you are sitting at the top of the table, percentage system, you have to go to Australia and beat Australia. If you do not beat Australia, you come back home and beat England 4-0, you get close to 500 points and you still do not qualify. We have had to dig&nbsp;deep,&nbsp;we have had to go down every hole that is needed to find water. Do not ask me about the next cycle, first, let's finish this cycle," he added.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Plenty of youngsters got their hands on the Indian Test cap with the likes of Washington Sundar, T Natarajan,&nbsp;Axar&nbsp;Patel bagging their debuts in the longest format of the game, starting from the series against&nbsp;Australia.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2021-schedule-announced-narendra-modi-stadium-to-host-playoffs-and-final-check-full-fixtures-368587" hreflang="en">IPL 2021 schedule announced: Narendra Modi Stadium to host playoffs and final - check full fixtures</a>

Speaking about the big squads that were picked because of Covid-19 and quarantine protocols, Shastri said: "This is the most positive thing to come out of this bubble because of the bubble, you had to go with large squads. Because of the bubbles and quarantine rules, you had to go with 25-30 players. As a result, you had to dig deep and pick your best 30 players and as luck would have it, we had no choice to play every member. You found out who is good and who is not. It is a good headache to have and it is something that has worked well. If you said Natarajan would play a Test match, you would have said no way. Even Washington Sundar, you would have said no way. These are things you would not imagine but circumstances make it happen. I am glad the youngsters who got the opportunity cracked it open."&nbsp;

The final of ICC WTC is slated to be held on June 18-22 in England.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Indian head coach Ravi Shastri on Sunday said that his team had to dig deep in a bid to qualify for the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) final due to the rules getting changed between into the tournament due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Indian head coach Ravi Shastri on Sunday said that his team had to dig deep in a bid to qualify for the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) final due to the rules getting changed between into the tournament due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Owing to the COVID-19 disruption, the qualification scenario in ICC WTC was changed midway. The change stated that teams with better percentage points in the WTC points table will qualify and not the teams with the most number of points. India finished atop the WTC standings with 72.2 percentage points followed by New Zealand who have 70 percentage points as the two teams set-up a mouthwatering clash in the final of WTC. "I am not worried about the next WTC cycle, I am thinking of the first cycle. If you ask me about the problems in the first cycle, please do not shift the goalpost. I am sitting at home during Covid-19, right in the month of October-November. You have got more points than any other team in the world. 360 at that time, suddenly, a week later without playing any cricket, there is a rule that comes stating that the points would be decided on the percentage system and go from number one to three. Fine, that's because of countries not wanting to travel, all acceptable and fine,” said Shastri during a virtual press conference on Sunday. ALSO READ: It's banter!: Ravi Shastri reacts to viral memes around him on social media "I want to understand the logic behind this, what is the way forward for me? I have to go to Australia, sitting comfortably at the top spot, leading by 60-70 points. They say you have to go to Australia, you have to beat Australia. How many teams in the last ten years can say with guarantee that we will beat Australia? The reason I am saying this, you are sitting at the top of the table, percentage system, you have to go to Australia and beat Australia. If you do not beat Australia, you come back home and beat England 4-0, you get close to 500 points and you still do not qualify. We have had to dig deep, we have had to go down every hole that is needed to find water. Do not ask me about the next cycle, first, let's finish this cycle," he added. Plenty of youngsters got their hands on the Indian Test cap with the likes of Washington Sundar, T Natarajan, Axar Patel bagging their debuts in the longest format of the game, starting from the series against Australia. ALSO READ: IPL 2021 schedule announced: Narendra Modi Stadium to host playoffs and final - check full fixtures Speaking about the big squads that were picked because of Covid-19 and quarantine protocols, Shastri said: "This is the most positive thing to come out of this bubble because of the bubble, you had to go with large squads. Because of the bubbles and quarantine rules, you had to go with 25-30 players. As a result, you had to dig deep and pick your best 30 players and as luck would have it, we had no choice to play every member. You found out who is good and who is not. It is a good headache to have and it is something that has worked well. If you said Natarajan would play a Test match, you would have said no way. Even Washington Sundar, you would have said no way. These are things you would not imagine but circumstances make it happen. I am glad the youngsters who got the opportunity cracked it open." The final of ICC WTC is slated to be held on June 18-22 in England.

Had to dig deep to find water: Ravi Shastri on road to World Test Championship final

Ravi Shastri on Sunday addressed a press conference following India's 3-1 Test series win over England as Virat Kohli and Co qualify for the final of ICC World Test Championship.&nbsp;The head coach of the Indian cricket team was asked how he deals with viral memes on the internet and criticism offered by social media users.&nbsp;&nbsp;

For viral meme-creators, Shastri's flamboyant personality has been a go-to subject. From making memes on Shastri's love for a drink to even hammering him when India&nbsp;lose&nbsp;a match, memes on Shastri are all over the social media whenever Team India plays a match.&nbsp;

Giving his opinion on memes and criticism, Shastri said it's pure banter and he never takes it seriously. The former Indian all-rounder said&nbsp;that if people are laughing at his expense, then he's fine with it&nbsp;while adding who seriously cares whether he is having lemonade or honey water.&nbsp;&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-vs-new-zealand-southampton-leads-race-to-host-icc-world-test-championship-final-368557" hreflang="en">India vs New Zealand: Southampton leads race to host ICC World Test Championship final</a>

Talking about the critics, Shastri made it clear that it will be always based around performances as he said that if you do well then fans will praise you and if you don't, then criticism will always be there.&nbsp;&nbsp;

"It's banter, it's at my expense, I'll have a laugh. I'll have lemonade or&nbsp;honey,&nbsp;you have a laugh at my expense. You have fun, enjoy. Have a drink on my name,” Shastri told reporters in a virtual press-conference on Sunday.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/ind-vs-eng-rishabh-pants-magnificent-century-against-jimmy-anderson-and-co-368226" hreflang="en">IND vs ENG: Rishabh Pant's magnificent century against Jimmy Anderson and Co.</a>

The Indian team, with the 3-1 Test series in against England, qualified for the WTC final where they will take on New Zealand. Shastri said he is mighty proud of his team that too while staying inside bio-bubbles for so long.&nbsp;

"I cannot say how proud of I am of my Indian cricket team. To qualify for the ICC World Test Championship after everything they went through is incredible. This team takes pride in winning. This team doesn't mind losing as long as it throws its punches."&nbsp;

Ravi Shastri on Sunday addressed a press conference following India's 3-1 Test series win over England as Virat Kohli and Co qualify for the final of ICC World Test Championship.

Ravi Shastri on Sunday addressed a press conference following India's 3-1 Test series win over England as Virat Kohli and Co qualify for the final of ICC World Test Championship. The head coach of the Indian cricket team was asked how he deals with viral memes on the internet and criticism offered by social media users. For viral meme-creators, Shastri's flamboyant personality has been a go-to subject. From making memes on Shastri's love for a drink to even hammering him when India lose a match, memes on Shastri are all over the social media whenever Team India plays a match. Giving his opinion on memes and criticism, Shastri said it's pure banter and he never takes it seriously. The former Indian all-rounder said that if people are laughing at his expense, then he's fine with it while adding who seriously cares whether he is having lemonade or honey water. ALSO READ: India vs New Zealand: Southampton leads race to host ICC World Test Championship final Talking about the critics, Shastri made it clear that it will be always based around performances as he said that if you do well then fans will praise you and if you don't, then criticism will always be there. "It's banter, it's at my expense, I'll have a laugh. I'll have lemonade or honey, you have a laugh at my expense. You have fun, enjoy. Have a drink on my name,” Shastri told reporters in a virtual press-conference on Sunday. ALSO READ: IND vs ENG: Rishabh Pant's magnificent century against Jimmy Anderson and Co. The Indian team, with the 3-1 Test series in against England, qualified for the WTC final where they will take on New Zealand. Shastri said he is mighty proud of his team that too while staying inside bio-bubbles for so long. "I cannot say how proud of I am of my Indian cricket team. To qualify for the ICC World Test Championship after everything they went through is incredible. This team takes pride in winning. This team doesn't mind losing as long as it throws its punches."

It's banter!: Ravi Shastri reacts to viral memes around him on social media

India and England are set to lock horns for the fourth and final Test at the world’s largest cricket stadium – Narendra Modi Stadium – in Ahmedabad from March 4.&nbsp;The series, thus far, has been centred around the talks on pitches more than the actual cricket happening on the ground.&nbsp;&nbsp;

While England started a series with a thumping 227-run win in Chennai, a victory that prompted some of the former England cricketers to jump the gun and predict a series win for England; India came back roaring into the series with wins in the second and third Test by 317 runs and 10 wickets respectively.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Heading into the series finale, India&nbsp;lead&nbsp;the series 2-1 and a draw or win would be enough for Virat Kohli and Co to seal a spot in the final of ICC World Test Championship, slated to be played from June 10-14 June in England.&nbsp;&nbsp;

India’s Test deputy Ajinkya Rahane on Tuesday suggested&nbsp;that the pitch for the fourth Test would be similar to what both the teams faced in the second and third&nbsp;Test. Even England spinner Jack Leach suggested that there is more talk about the pitch outside the dressing room than inside it while adding players are completely focusing on the match.&nbsp;&nbsp;

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Training ✅<a href="https://twitter.com/Paytm?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Paytm</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvENG?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDvENG</a> <a href="https://t.co/G7GCV1EA8U">pic.twitter.com/G7GCV1EA8U</a>
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ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/4th-test-india-pushing-conditions-to-extremities-ball-will-turn-from-ball-one-ben-foakes-366877" hreflang="en">4th Test: India pushing conditions to extremities, ball will turn from ball one - Ben Foakes</a>

"Wicket will be similar to the third Test match and also the second Test in Chennai. Spinning track," Rahane told reporters ahead of the Test starting Thursday.

"I don't really have too much to say about the pitch, I think we got outplayed in those conditions and for me I am always looking to learn and get better and see every challenge as a way of improving,"&nbsp;Leach&nbsp;told reporters.

"I think their spinners bowled really, really well and I don't think we should take anything away from them by saying bad things about the wicket."

The performances of the batsmen have been on the disappointing side with only Rohit Sharma being the standalone batsman who looked like a threat in challenging conditions. While Joe Root started the series on a splendid note with the bat on a flat deck in Chennai, he has been limited to celebrating five-fers&nbsp;with the ball.&nbsp;

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ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/poor-pitch-in-ahmedabad-or-abysmal-batting-performance-366843" hreflang="en">Poor pitch in Ahmedabad or abysmal batting performance?</a>

The Narendra Modi Stadium is set to host the series finale after hosting its first-ever Test match since being rebuilt. The largest cricket stadium in the world witnessed the pink-ball Test that lasted just 842 deliveries – the shortest Test match since 1935.&nbsp;While fans and broadcasters have every right to be disappointed about watching a match that last five sessions, the pink-ball Test exposed the flawed technique of England batters.&nbsp;&nbsp;

When it comes to team selection, Team India, in the absence of Jasprit&nbsp;Bumrah, is likely to bring Umesh Yadav into the playing XI with Kuldeep Yadav expected to get a green signal ahead of Washington Sundar. For England, Jack Leach is expected to replace one of the pacers and either of Mark Wood or Olly Stone could be in the fray to bring some fresh blood for the visitors.&nbsp;&nbsp;

IN PICS |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-signed-bats-to-historic-photos-inside-the-hall-of-fame-zone-narendra-modi-stadium-365726" hreflang="en">From signed bats to historic photos: Inside the 'Hall of Fame' zone Narendra Modi Stadium</a>

With another rank-turner expected in Ahmedabad, cricket lovers can expect spinners to continue their domination in the series.&nbsp;&nbsp;

India and England are set to lock horns for the fourth and final Test at the world’s largest cricket stadium – Narendra Modi Stadium – in Ahmedabad from March 4.

India and England are set to lock horns for the fourth and final Test at the world’s largest cricket stadium – Narendra Modi Stadium – in Ahmedabad from March 4. The series, thus far, has been centred around the talks on pitches more than the actual cricket happening on the ground. While England started a series with a thumping 227-run win in Chennai, a victory that prompted some of the former England cricketers to jump the gun and predict a series win for England; India came back roaring into the series with wins in the second and third Test by 317 runs and 10 wickets respectively. Heading into the series finale, India lead the series 2-1 and a draw or win would be enough for Virat Kohli and Co to seal a spot in the final of ICC World Test Championship, slated to be played from June 10-14 June in England. India’s Test deputy Ajinkya Rahane on Tuesday suggested that the pitch for the fourth Test would be similar to what both the teams faced in the second and third Test. Even England spinner Jack Leach suggested that there is more talk about the pitch outside the dressing room than inside it while adding players are completely focusing on the match. Training ✅@Paytm #INDvENG pic.twitter.com/G7GCV1EA8U — BCCI (@BCCI) March 1, 2021 × ALSO READ: 4th Test: India pushing conditions to extremities, ball will turn from ball one - Ben Foakes "Wicket will be similar to the third Test match and also the second Test in Chennai. Spinning track," Rahane told reporters ahead of the Test starting Thursday. "I don't really have too much to say about the pitch, I think we got outplayed in those conditions and for me I am always looking to learn and get better and see every challenge as a way of improving," Leach told reporters. "I think their spinners bowled really, really well and I don't think we should take anything away from them by saying bad things about the wicket." The performances of the batsmen have been on the disappointing side with only Rohit Sharma being the standalone batsman who looked like a threat in challenging conditions. While Joe Root started the series on a splendid note with the bat on a flat deck in Chennai, he has been limited to celebrating five-fers with the ball. #TeamIndia Boys working hard for the 4th Test@BCCI#GCA #GujaratCricketAssociation #INDvENG #Testcricket #Cricket #practicesession pic.twitter.com/tTtOSxVfzT — Gujarat Cricket Association (Official) (@GCAMotera) March 2, 2021 × ALSO READ: Poor pitch in Ahmedabad or abysmal batting performance? The Narendra Modi Stadium is set to host the series finale after hosting its first-ever Test match since being rebuilt. The largest cricket stadium in the world witnessed the pink-ball Test that lasted just 842 deliveries – the shortest Test match since 1935. While fans and broadcasters have every right to be disappointed about watching a match that last five sessions, the pink-ball Test exposed the flawed technique of England batters. When it comes to team selection, Team India, in the absence of Jasprit Bumrah, is likely to bring Umesh Yadav into the playing XI with Kuldeep Yadav expected to get a green signal ahead of Washington Sundar. For England, Jack Leach is expected to replace one of the pacers and either of Mark Wood or Olly Stone could be in the fray to bring some fresh blood for the visitors. IN PICS | From signed bats to historic photos: Inside the 'Hall of Fame' zone Narendra Modi Stadium With another rank-turner expected in Ahmedabad, cricket lovers can expect spinners to continue their domination in the series.

4th Test Preview: India-England gear up for Ahmedabad showdown with WTC final on line

Jasprit&nbsp;Bumrah&nbsp;is set to get&nbsp;married and had asked for some days off, following which the ace Indian pacer was relieved from India’s squad citing ‘personal reasons.’&nbsp;&nbsp;

According to ANI,&nbsp;Bumrah&nbsp;is getting married and hence, asked the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) to give him some days off to prepare for the same.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Speaking to ANI, sources in the BCCI in the know of developments have confirmed that the pacer is set to get married soon and has taken a leave to prepare for the same. "He informed the BCCI that he is getting married and has taken the leave to help in preparations for the big day," the source said.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-gave-us-platform-to-express-ajinkya-rahane-on-dale-steyns-comments-of-psl-being-more-rewarding-than-ipl-367430" hreflang="en">IPL gave us platform to express: Ajinkya Rahane on Dale Steyn's comments of PSL being more rewarding than IPL</a>

The 27-year-old pacer played two of the three Tests in the ongoing four-match series against England and scalped four wickets in what was his first home Test series since making his debut for India.&nbsp;Bumrah&nbsp;was wicket-less in the third Test in his home ground in Ahmedabad as spinners&nbsp;wreaked havoc&nbsp;with the pink-ball.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Bumrah&nbsp;has been rested for the upcoming five-match T20I series against England in a bid to complete workload management.&nbsp;&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/poor-pitch-in-ahmedabad-or-abysmal-batting-performance-366843" hreflang="en">Poor pitch in Ahmedabad or abysmal batting performance?</a>

Meanwhile, India&nbsp;are&nbsp;already 2-1 in the four-Test series against England and with a draw or win in the last match, the Virat Kohli-led side would qualify for the final of ICC World Test Championship, scheduled to be played at Lord’s later this year. New Zealand have already qualified for the summit clash of WTC.&nbsp;

Jasprit Bumrah is set to get married and had asked for some days off, following which the ace Indian pacer was relieved from India’s squad citing ‘personal reasons.

Jasprit Bumrah is set to get married and had asked for some days off, following which the ace Indian pacer was relieved from India’s squad citing ‘personal reasons.’ According to ANI, Bumrah is getting married and hence, asked the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) to give him some days off to prepare for the same. Speaking to ANI, sources in the BCCI in the know of developments have confirmed that the pacer is set to get married soon and has taken a leave to prepare for the same. "He informed the BCCI that he is getting married and has taken the leave to help in preparations for the big day," the source said. ALSO READ: IPL gave us platform to express: Ajinkya Rahane on Dale Steyn's comments of PSL being more rewarding than IPL The 27-year-old pacer played two of the three Tests in the ongoing four-match series against England and scalped four wickets in what was his first home Test series since making his debut for India. Bumrah was wicket-less in the third Test in his home ground in Ahmedabad as spinners wreaked havoc with the pink-ball. Bumrah has been rested for the upcoming five-match T20I series against England in a bid to complete workload management. ALSO READ: Poor pitch in Ahmedabad or abysmal batting performance? Meanwhile, India are already 2-1 in the four-Test series against England and with a draw or win in the last match, the Virat Kohli-led side would qualify for the final of ICC World Test Championship, scheduled to be played at Lord’s later this year. New Zealand have already qualified for the summit clash of WTC.

Ace Indian pacer Jasprit Bumrah has taken leave to prepare for marriage

The pitch for the fourth and final Test match between India and England, to be played at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad from March 4, will be similar to the strips of the second and third Test that were played in Chennai and Ahmedabad respectively, Team India vice-captain Ajinkya Rahane said on Tuesday.&nbsp;

India thrashed England in the third Test, which finished within two days, to take a lead of 2-1 in the four-Test series.&nbsp;There&nbsp;has&nbsp;been massive criticism on the pitch for the third Test, which India won by a 10-wicket&nbsp;margin, as both the teams return to the same venue – Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad.&nbsp;

"Wicket will be similar to the third Test match and also the second Test in Chennai. Spinning track," Rahane told reporters ahead of the Test starting Thursday.&nbsp;

Axar&nbsp;Patel and Ravichandran Ashwin ran the show as England were bundled out for 112 and 81 in the pink-ball Test that lasted for just 842 deliveries – the shortest Test since 1935.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-gave-us-platform-to-express-ajinkya-rahane-on-dale-steyns-comments-of-psl-being-more-rewarding-than-ipl-367430" hreflang="en">IPL gave us platform to express: Ajinkya Rahane on Dale Steyn's comments of PSL being more rewarding than IPL</a>

Former England players like Michael Vaughan, Andrew Strauss, Alastair Cook and Monty Panesar among others lashed out at the pitch while demanding answers from the ICC.&nbsp;

"Talk happening outside is not at all affecting the Indian team," said Rahane. "We are concentrating on what we have to do. When we&nbsp;tour&nbsp;we never complain about the pitch."?&nbsp;

The&nbsp;10-wicket defeat was England’s successive loss as they crashed out of the race for the World Test Championship final. However, Rahane said India would not be complacent.&nbsp;

"We respect England... They are a very good team, balanced team," he said.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/we-have-written-to-bcci-punjab-kings-ness-wadia-after-mohali-not-picked-among-potential-venues-367423" hreflang="en">'We have written to BCCI': Punjab Kings' Ness Wadia after Mohali not picked among potential venues</a>

"We are not taking them lightly. It's another Test match and we want to go out there and give our best. Equally, England would want to give their best and look to win."&nbsp;

India&nbsp;need&nbsp;a win or a draw to book a clash with New Zealand in the inaugural World Test Championship final and Rahane said they will go for an outright victory.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

The pitch for the fourth and final Test match between India and England, to be played at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad from March 4, will be similar to the strips of the second and third Test that were played in Chennai and Ahmedabad respectively, Team India vice-captain Ajinkya Rahane said on Tuesday.

The pitch for the fourth and final Test match between India and England, to be played at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad from March 4, will be similar to the strips of the second and third Test that were played in Chennai and Ahmedabad respectively, Team India vice-captain Ajinkya Rahane said on Tuesday. India thrashed England in the third Test, which finished within two days, to take a lead of 2-1 in the four-Test series. There has been massive criticism on the pitch for the third Test, which India won by a 10-wicket margin, as both the teams return to the same venue – Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad. "Wicket will be similar to the third Test match and also the second Test in Chennai. Spinning track," Rahane told reporters ahead of the Test starting Thursday. Axar Patel and Ravichandran Ashwin ran the show as England were bundled out for 112 and 81 in the pink-ball Test that lasted for just 842 deliveries – the shortest Test since 1935. ALSO READ: IPL gave us platform to express: Ajinkya Rahane on Dale Steyn's comments of PSL being more rewarding than IPL Former England players like Michael Vaughan, Andrew Strauss, Alastair Cook and Monty Panesar among others lashed out at the pitch while demanding answers from the ICC. "Talk happening outside is not at all affecting the Indian team," said Rahane. "We are concentrating on what we have to do. When we tour we never complain about the pitch."? The 10-wicket defeat was England’s successive loss as they crashed out of the race for the World Test Championship final. However, Rahane said India would not be complacent. "We respect England... They are a very good team, balanced team," he said. ALSO READ: 'We have written to BCCI': Punjab Kings' Ness Wadia after Mohali not picked among potential venues "We are not taking them lightly. It's another Test match and we want to go out there and give our best. Equally, England would want to give their best and look to win." India need a win or a draw to book a clash with New Zealand in the inaugural World Test Championship final and Rahane said they will go for an outright victory.

IND vs ENG 4th Test: Pitch would be similar to second and third match, says Ajinkya Rahane

Dale Steyn on Tuesday created a huge uproar on social media after he said that the Pakistan Super League (PSL) is more rewarding than the Indian Premier League (IPL). The South Africa speedster said that the IPL is&nbsp;less rewarding for the cricketers than other franchise leagues around the world due to too much emphasis on the money involved in the IPL while adding that&nbsp;“cricket gets forgotten” as a result.&nbsp;Indian batsman and vice-captain of the Test team, Ajinkya Rahane has now responded to Steyn’s comments on PSL being more rewarding than the IPL.&nbsp;

Rahane, who addressed a press conference on Tuesday ahead of the fourth Test between India and England, said that the Indian Premier League (IPL) gave not only Indian players and platform to express themselves but also to the overseas players.&nbsp;While Rahane didn’t&nbsp;indulge&nbsp;in Steyn’s comments much, his&nbsp;succinct&nbsp;reply suggested how IPL has changed the way T20 cricket is looked at around the world.&nbsp;&nbsp;

“We are here to talk about the Test match. We are not here to talk about PSL or Sri Lankan Premier League. IPL gave us the platform to express ourselves. To a lot of Indians and overseas players. I am not sure about what Dale Steyn said and we are here to talk about the Test match,” Rahane responded when asked about his opinion on the Proteas pacer’s comments.&nbsp;

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Speaking to Express Tribune, Steyn, who had decided to withdraw his name from IPL 2021 said,&nbsp;“I wanted some time off. I found that playing in these other leagues was slightly more rewarding as a player.”&nbsp;

“I think when you go to IPL, there are such big squads and so many big names and so much emphasis on maybe the amount of money players earn and everything like that, so sometimes, somewhere down the line, cricket gets forgotten,” he added.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/from-ms-dhoni-to-clive-lloyd-records-that-virat-kohli-could-achieve-in-the-fourth-test-367392" hreflang="en">From MS Dhoni to Clive Lloyd: Records that Virat Kohli could achieve in the fourth Test</a>

Steyn has been a part of IPL franchises like Deccan Chargers, SunRisers Hyderabad, Gujarat Lions and Royal&nbsp;Challengers&nbsp;Bangalore in the past.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

“When you come to like a PSL or the Sri Lankan Premier League, for that matter, there is an importance on the cricket. I have only been here for a couple of days and I have had people in and out of my room, just wanting to know about where I have played and how I went about it. Whereas, when I go to something like the IPL that gets forgotten and the main topic is how much money did you go for in this IPL?” said Steyn.&nbsp;

Steyn didn’t play much in IPL 2020 due to his poor performances with the ball. In three matches, Steyn scalped just one wicket at an average of 133 and strike-rate of 11.40.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, Rahane will be in action when India take the field for the fourth and final Test against England at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad from March 4.

Dale Steyn on Tuesday created a huge uproar on social media after he said that the Pakistan Super League (PSL) is more rewarding than the Indian Premier League (IPL).

Dale Steyn on Tuesday created a huge uproar on social media after he said that the Pakistan Super League (PSL) is more rewarding than the Indian Premier League (IPL). The South Africa speedster said that the IPL is less rewarding for the cricketers than other franchise leagues around the world due to too much emphasis on the money involved in the IPL while adding that “cricket gets forgotten” as a result. Indian batsman and vice-captain of the Test team, Ajinkya Rahane has now responded to Steyn’s comments on PSL being more rewarding than the IPL. Rahane, who addressed a press conference on Tuesday ahead of the fourth Test between India and England, said that the Indian Premier League (IPL) gave not only Indian players and platform to express themselves but also to the overseas players. While Rahane didn’t indulge in Steyn’s comments much, his succinct reply suggested how IPL has changed the way T20 cricket is looked at around the world. “We are here to talk about the Test match. We are not here to talk about PSL or Sri Lankan Premier League. IPL gave us the platform to express ourselves. To a lot of Indians and overseas players. I am not sure about what Dale Steyn said and we are here to talk about the Test match,” Rahane responded when asked about his opinion on the Proteas pacer’s comments. ALSO READ: Multi-millionaire Morris wants to follow in dad’s footsteps Speaking to Express Tribune, Steyn, who had decided to withdraw his name from IPL 2021 said, “I wanted some time off. I found that playing in these other leagues was slightly more rewarding as a player.” “I think when you go to IPL, there are such big squads and so many big names and so much emphasis on maybe the amount of money players earn and everything like that, so sometimes, somewhere down the line, cricket gets forgotten,” he added. ALSO READ: From MS Dhoni to Clive Lloyd: Records that Virat Kohli could achieve in the fourth Test Steyn has been a part of IPL franchises like Deccan Chargers, SunRisers Hyderabad, Gujarat Lions and Royal Challengers Bangalore in the past. “When you come to like a PSL or the Sri Lankan Premier League, for that matter, there is an importance on the cricket. I have only been here for a couple of days and I have had people in and out of my room, just wanting to know about where I have played and how I went about it. Whereas, when I go to something like the IPL that gets forgotten and the main topic is how much money did you go for in this IPL?” said Steyn. Steyn didn’t play much in IPL 2020 due to his poor performances with the ball. In three matches, Steyn scalped just one wicket at an average of 133 and strike-rate of 11.40. Meanwhile, Rahane will be in action when India take the field for the fourth and final Test against England at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad from March 4.

IPL gave us platform to express: Ajinkya Rahane on Dale Steyn's comments of PSL being more rewarding than IPL

Cricket multi-millionaire Chris Morris has said that&nbsp;he wants to follow in his father's footsteps by playing for the South African province that dad Willie represented for 12 seasons.

Morris, 33, will play for the Rajasthan Royals in the 2021 Indian Premier League after the franchise bought him for US$2.2-million, an IPL auction record.&nbsp;

His projected fee will take him past $8-million in earnings from the IPL alone.

It is a different cricketing world from that in which Willie Morris played for what was then known as Northern Transvaal between 1979/80 and 1991/92.

Willie played in an era when cricket in South Africa was taking its first tentative steps towards professionalism.&nbsp;

"Cricketers still needed to have full-time jobs and would go to net practice after a long day in the office," said Chris.

Northern Transvaal had an unusual payment scheme, according to Lee Barnard, who captained Willie Morris for part of his career.&nbsp;

"Batsmen only got paid if they scored at least 25 runs. More guys got out between 21 and 24 than in the whole history of cricket. Bowlers had to meet targets. One player had such a poor season that he couldn’t even pay his laundry bills."

Chris Morris said that cricket had been his life because of his father.&nbsp;

"I always say I was born with a bat in my hand. He would come back from a long day at work and still have the energy to throw balls at me."

South Africa will be scrapping its current franchise system next season and will return to an interprovincial set-up similar to that in which Willie Morris played.&nbsp;

<h2>- IPL 'big surprise' -</h2>

The only big difference is that the province is now known as Northerns, with the name Transvaal having been dropped after the end of apartheid in South Africa.

"I’m quite excited for the new 15-province thing," said Chris.&nbsp;

"If I get the opportunity to play at Centurion for Northerns and follow in Willie’s footsteps that will be quite cool."

Morris said his IPL record signing "came as a very big surprise".&nbsp;

After being released by Royal Challengers Bangalore last year, he wasn't even sure that another franchise would want his brand of aggressive batting, fast bowling and agile fielding.

"I don't think anyone in the cricket fraternity thought cricket would ever pay this well. In the past cricket couldn't set you up for the rest of your life.&nbsp;

"It's the way business is going, the way sport is going, especially in the pandemic.

"I think a lot of people are looking for sport as a way to escape. Sportsmen have a responsibility to provide as much entertainment as we can."

Morris said he looked forward to returning to the Royals, a team he played for 2015. He said earning a big fee would not change his approach to playing.

"The auction is out of our control," he said.&nbsp;

"It's an absolute lottery. At the end of the day I've got to do what I have been doing over the last couple of years.&nbsp;

"There will be a little bit of added pressure, that's natural. But I'm fortunate enough to have been part of this franchise before and I know what I'm getting into.”

The tall all-rounder has also played T20 cricket in Australia’s Big Bash League, South Africa’s Mzansi Super League and for two English counties. Surprisingly, though, his appearances for South Africa in international cricket have been sporadic.

He said during a press conference in Durban, where he is playing in a domestic T20 tournament, that there had been no contact with his home country’s selectors since he was picked as a late replacement for the 2019 Cricket World Cup.

And he remains reticent about whether he would be available to play for South Africa in the T20 World Cup in India later this year.&nbsp;

"That's a difficult question," he said. "If that conversation comes, it comes."

Cricket multi-millionaire Chris Morris has said that he wants to follow in his father's footsteps by playing for the South African province that dad Willie represented for 12 seasons.

Cricket multi-millionaire Chris Morris has said that he wants to follow in his father's footsteps by playing for the South African province that dad Willie represented for 12 seasons. Morris, 33, will play for the Rajasthan Royals in the 2021 Indian Premier League after the franchise bought him for US$2.2-million, an IPL auction record. His projected fee will take him past $8-million in earnings from the IPL alone. It is a different cricketing world from that in which Willie Morris played for what was then known as Northern Transvaal between 1979/80 and 1991/92. Willie played in an era when cricket in South Africa was taking its first tentative steps towards professionalism. "Cricketers still needed to have full-time jobs and would go to net practice after a long day in the office," said Chris. Northern Transvaal had an unusual payment scheme, according to Lee Barnard, who captained Willie Morris for part of his career. "Batsmen only got paid if they scored at least 25 runs. More guys got out between 21 and 24 than in the whole history of cricket. Bowlers had to meet targets. One player had such a poor season that he couldn’t even pay his laundry bills." Chris Morris said that cricket had been his life because of his father. "I always say I was born with a bat in my hand. He would come back from a long day at work and still have the energy to throw balls at me." South Africa will be scrapping its current franchise system next season and will return to an interprovincial set-up similar to that in which Willie Morris played. - IPL 'big surprise' - The only big difference is that the province is now known as Northerns, with the name Transvaal having been dropped after the end of apartheid in South Africa. "I’m quite excited for the new 15-province thing," said Chris. "If I get the opportunity to play at Centurion for Northerns and follow in Willie’s footsteps that will be quite cool." Morris said his IPL record signing "came as a very big surprise". After being released by Royal Challengers Bangalore last year, he wasn't even sure that another franchise would want his brand of aggressive batting, fast bowling and agile fielding. "I don't think anyone in the cricket fraternity thought cricket would ever pay this well. In the past cricket couldn't set you up for the rest of your life. "It's the way business is going, the way sport is going, especially in the pandemic. "I think a lot of people are looking for sport as a way to escape. Sportsmen have a responsibility to provide as much entertainment as we can." Morris said he looked forward to returning to the Royals, a team he played for 2015. He said earning a big fee would not change his approach to playing. "The auction is out of our control," he said. "It's an absolute lottery. At the end of the day I've got to do what I have been doing over the last couple of years. "There will be a little bit of added pressure, that's natural. But I'm fortunate enough to have been part of this franchise before and I know what I'm getting into.” The tall all-rounder has also played T20 cricket in Australia’s Big Bash League, South Africa’s Mzansi Super League and for two English counties. Surprisingly, though, his appearances for South Africa in international cricket have been sporadic. He said during a press conference in Durban, where he is playing in a domestic T20 tournament, that there had been no contact with his home country’s selectors since he was picked as a late replacement for the 2019 Cricket World Cup. And he remains reticent about whether he would be available to play for South Africa in the T20 World Cup in India later this year. "That's a difficult question," he said. "If that conversation comes, it comes."

Multi-millionaire Morris wants to follow in dad’s footsteps

The first week of the&nbsp;DC (Delhi Capitals) Junior League 2021, which began at the&nbsp;Bal Bhavan International School, Dwarka on 21st February 2021, saw numerous talented U-14 players steal the show in the competition. From a double century to six sixes in an over, the 40-over tournament has seen it all.

Telefunken CC's&nbsp;Shaurya Seth blazed his way to 221 runs off 124 balls against Push CCE on his 13th birthday to help his team set a total of 455/2, which is the highest team total of the competition so far. Seth, who smashed 30 fours and 4 sixes in his innings, was ably supported by&nbsp;Kunal Sangwan (101* off 69 balls). The Telefunken CC side defeated Push CCE by a whopping 360 runs.

After the high of a double century by Seth,&nbsp;LB Shastri CC's Captain&nbsp;Arnav Bugga struck six sixes in an over during his innings of 155 runs (off 65 balls) against Harry CA. The Skipper, who cracked 18 fours and 11 sixes in his innings, led his team to a 276-run victory over the Harry CA side.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ashwin-root-and-mayers-in-contention-for-icc-player-of-the-month-for-february-367383" hreflang="en">Ashwin, Root and Mayers in contention for ICC Player of the Month for February</a>

The 16-team tournament is being organized to provide a platform for both, boys and girls from the U-14 level, to showcase their talent. Three teams have fielded mixed teams in the competition with&nbsp;Simran Chauhan,&nbsp;Saachi and&nbsp;Minakshi playing for&nbsp;Sports Cube, Push CC and&nbsp;Telefunken CC respectively.

A total of 16 matches have been played in the&nbsp;DC Junior League 2021 so far and Sonnet, Telefunken CC, Baba Haridas CA and Wonders CC have already qualified for the quarter-finals.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/empowering-india-against-the-pandemic-ravi-shastri-receives-first-jab-of-covid-19-vaccine-367365" hreflang="en">'Empowering India against the pandemic': Ravi Shastri receives first jab of COVID-19 vaccine</a>

"The purpose of this league was to give children the much-needed competitive exposure which they had missed in the last one year. Over 240 kids between 10-13 years of age have been playing their hearts out and expressing their hunger for the game," said&nbsp;Jagrit Anand, Head of DC Academies, on the competition.&nbsp;"The tournament has already seen some great records with a 13-year-old boy scoring a double century and another one hitting 6 sixes in an over. There's a lot more to come in the next week of the competition."

The&nbsp;DC Junior League 2021&nbsp;is being held across three venues in Delhi NCR from 21 February to 06 March 2021.

The first week of the DC (Delhi Capitals) Junior League 2021, which began at the Bal Bhavan International School, Dwarka on 21st February 2021, saw numerous talented U-14 players steal the show in the competition.

The first week of the DC (Delhi Capitals) Junior League 2021, which began at the Bal Bhavan International School, Dwarka on 21st February 2021, saw numerous talented U-14 players steal the show in the competition. From a double century to six sixes in an over, the 40-over tournament has seen it all. Telefunken CC's Shaurya Seth blazed his way to 221 runs off 124 balls against Push CCE on his 13th birthday to help his team set a total of 455/2, which is the highest team total of the competition so far. Seth, who smashed 30 fours and 4 sixes in his innings, was ably supported by Kunal Sangwan (101* off 69 balls). The Telefunken CC side defeated Push CCE by a whopping 360 runs. After the high of a double century by Seth, LB Shastri CC's Captain Arnav Bugga struck six sixes in an over during his innings of 155 runs (off 65 balls) against Harry CA. The Skipper, who cracked 18 fours and 11 sixes in his innings, led his team to a 276-run victory over the Harry CA side. ALSO READ: Ashwin, Root and Mayers in contention for ICC Player of the Month for February The 16-team tournament is being organized to provide a platform for both, boys and girls from the U-14 level, to showcase their talent. Three teams have fielded mixed teams in the competition with Simran Chauhan, Saachi and Minakshi playing for Sports Cube, Push CC and Telefunken CC respectively. A total of 16 matches have been played in the DC Junior League 2021 so far and Sonnet, Telefunken CC, Baba Haridas CA and Wonders CC have already qualified for the quarter-finals. ALSO READ: 'Empowering India against the pandemic': Ravi Shastri receives first jab of COVID-19 vaccine "The purpose of this league was to give children the much-needed competitive exposure which they had missed in the last one year. Over 240 kids between 10-13 years of age have been playing their hearts out and expressing their hunger for the game," said Jagrit Anand, Head of DC Academies, on the competition. "The tournament has already seen some great records with a 13-year-old boy scoring a double century and another one hitting 6 sixes in an over. There's a lot more to come in the next week of the competition." The DC Junior League 2021 is being held across three venues in Delhi NCR from 21 February to 06 March 2021.

Double century, six sixes in an over: Top Highlights from week one of ‘DC Junior League 2021’

The International Cricket Council (ICC) on Tuesday announced the nominees for the ICC Player of the Month Awards for the month of February to recognise the best performances from both male and female cricketers across all forms of international cricket.&nbsp;Fans have been treated to some fantastic cricket the last few months and can now vote on ICC's official website&nbsp;for their favourite ICC Player of the Month (February).

About the ICC Men’s Player of the Month February Nominees:&nbsp;

Ravichandran Ashwin played 3 tests against England as part of India’s ongoing series against them. In these Tests, he scored a 106 in the second innings of India’s second Test victory over England at Chennai and took his 400th Test wicket in the third Test victory at Ahmedabad.

Scoring a total of 176 runs across these games with taking a total of 24 wickets, Ashwin is the deserving candidate to be nominated in the Men’s category for Feb. England Test captain Joe Root makes it to the list of nominations again this month for his outstanding performance with the bat and the ball. He scored a total of 333 runs and took 6 wickets overall in the 3 Tests that he played against India.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/empowering-india-against-the-pandemic-ravi-shastri-receives-first-jab-of-covid-19-vaccine-367365" hreflang="en">'Empowering India against the pandemic': Ravi Shastri receives first jab of COVID-19 vaccine</a>

In the first Test against India, Root scored a 218 to lead England to victory. From the West Indies, Test debutant Kyle Mayers played 2 Tests against Bangladesh and scored a match-winning 210 to help the West Indies successfully chase 395 and win the first Test against Bangladesh. This performance alone is deserving of this nomination.&nbsp;

About ICC Women’s Player of the Month February Nominees:&nbsp;

Tammy Beaumont’s unbeaten 72 helped England to a comfortable seven-wicket win against New Zealand. She played 3 ODIs and passed fifty in each of these against New Zealand, totalling 231 runs.

Brooke Halliday of New Zealand also played 3 ODIs against England and scored a total of 110 runs and took a total of 2 wickets in these games. Brooke also went on to become just the fourth woman to score half-centuries in each of her first two ODI matches.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohli-becomes-first-indian-celebrity-to-have-100-million-followers-on-instagram-367305" hreflang="en">Virat Kohli becomes first Indian celebrity to have 100 million followers on Instagram</a>

England’s Nat Sciver went on to take 5 wickets and score a total of 96 runs in the 3 ODIs she played against New Zealand. Nat was the leading wicket-taker in the ODI series between New Zealand and England, and added an innings of 63 in the second match that they won.&nbsp;

The ICC Player of the Month voting process:&nbsp;

The three nominees for each of the categories are shortlisted based on on-field performances and overall achievements during the period of that month (the first to the last day of each calendar month).&nbsp;This shortlist is then voted on by the independent ICC Voting Academy&nbsp;and fans around the world.

The ICC Voting Academy comprising prominent members of the cricket family including senior journalists, former players, and broadcasters and some members of the ICC Hall of Fame.&nbsp;

The Voting Academy will submit their votes by email and will retain a 90% share of the vote. Additionally, fans registered with the ICC will be able to vote via the ICC website once the shortlisted players are announced and will have a 10% share of the vote. Winners will be announced every second Monday of the month on the ICC’s digital channels.&nbsp;

The International Cricket Council (ICC) on Tuesday announced the nominees for the ICC Player of the Month Awards for the month of February to recognise the best performances from both male and female cricketers across all forms of international cricket.

The International Cricket Council (ICC) on Tuesday announced the nominees for the ICC Player of the Month Awards for the month of February to recognise the best performances from both male and female cricketers across all forms of international cricket. Fans have been treated to some fantastic cricket the last few months and can now vote on ICC's official website for their favourite ICC Player of the Month (February). About the ICC Men’s Player of the Month February Nominees: Ravichandran Ashwin played 3 tests against England as part of India’s ongoing series against them. In these Tests, he scored a 106 in the second innings of India’s second Test victory over England at Chennai and took his 400th Test wicket in the third Test victory at Ahmedabad. Scoring a total of 176 runs across these games with taking a total of 24 wickets, Ashwin is the deserving candidate to be nominated in the Men’s category for Feb. England Test captain Joe Root makes it to the list of nominations again this month for his outstanding performance with the bat and the ball. He scored a total of 333 runs and took 6 wickets overall in the 3 Tests that he played against India. ALSO READ: 'Empowering India against the pandemic': Ravi Shastri receives first jab of COVID-19 vaccine In the first Test against India, Root scored a 218 to lead England to victory. From the West Indies, Test debutant Kyle Mayers played 2 Tests against Bangladesh and scored a match-winning 210 to help the West Indies successfully chase 395 and win the first Test against Bangladesh. This performance alone is deserving of this nomination. About ICC Women’s Player of the Month February Nominees: Tammy Beaumont’s unbeaten 72 helped England to a comfortable seven-wicket win against New Zealand. She played 3 ODIs and passed fifty in each of these against New Zealand, totalling 231 runs. Brooke Halliday of New Zealand also played 3 ODIs against England and scored a total of 110 runs and took a total of 2 wickets in these games. Brooke also went on to become just the fourth woman to score half-centuries in each of her first two ODI matches. ALSO READ: Virat Kohli becomes first Indian celebrity to have 100 million followers on Instagram England’s Nat Sciver went on to take 5 wickets and score a total of 96 runs in the 3 ODIs she played against New Zealand. Nat was the leading wicket-taker in the ODI series between New Zealand and England, and added an innings of 63 in the second match that they won. The ICC Player of the Month voting process: The three nominees for each of the categories are shortlisted based on on-field performances and overall achievements during the period of that month (the first to the last day of each calendar month). This shortlist is then voted on by the independent ICC Voting Academy and fans around the world. The ICC Voting Academy comprising prominent members of the cricket family including senior journalists, former players, and broadcasters and some members of the ICC Hall of Fame. The Voting Academy will submit their votes by email and will retain a 90% share of the vote. Additionally, fans registered with the ICC will be able to vote via the ICC website once the shortlisted players are announced and will have a 10% share of the vote. Winners will be announced every second Monday of the month on the ICC’s digital channels.

Ashwin, Root and Mayers in contention for ICC Player of the Month for February

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