Some of Australia's top women's cricketers Monday blasted a decision by India to schedule its T20 Challenge during the Big Bash League as a "huge shame" and "sad for the game".

Indian cricket bosses on Sunday said the women's T20 Challenge will take place in the United Arab Emirates, comprising three teams with four matches during the playoff week of the cash-rich and globally popular men's <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/ipl">Indian Premier League (IPL)</a>.

That would see it clash with the Women's Big Bash League (WBBL), widely considered the top women's Twenty20 tournament, which is due to be held between October 17 and November 29.

It would effectively mean Indian players will not be available for the WBBL while overseas stars face having to pick between the competitions.

"So during the WBBL... cool," Australian wicketkeeper Alyssa Healy tweeted sarcastically.

"So the Indian players who've already signed wbbl contracts will do what? And all the international marquee players that will be in aus for wbbl? Good luck with it..."

Fellow Australian Jess Jonassen, the world's top-ranked one-day bowler, was equally bemused, saying "I have no words for this", while batting stalwart Rachael Haynes said "If true, it's a shame".

"While the game continues to grow, premier domestic competitions do not need to compete against each other," Haynes added.&nbsp;

Trailblazing former New Zealand captain Suzie Bates echoed similar sentiments.

"What a huge shame for both the WBBL and WIPL competitions there is a clash," she said.

Both the IPL and T20 Challenge, also known as the women's IPL, have had to be rescheduled due to the coronavirus pandemic.&nbsp;

They were due to be played earlier in the year with the new dates finally set after the postponement of the men's T20 World Cup, which was scheduled to start in Australia in October.

Some of Australia's top women's cricketers Monday blasted a decision by India to schedule its T20 Challenge during the Big Bash League as a "huge shame" and "sad for the game".

Some of Australia's top women's cricketers Monday blasted a decision by India to schedule its T20 Challenge during the Big Bash League as a "huge shame" and "sad for the game". Indian cricket bosses on Sunday said the women's T20 Challenge will take place in the United Arab Emirates, comprising three teams with four matches during the playoff week of the cash-rich and globally popular men's Indian Premier League (IPL). That would see it clash with the Women's Big Bash League (WBBL), widely considered the top women's Twenty20 tournament, which is due to be held between October 17 and November 29. It would effectively mean Indian players will not be available for the WBBL while overseas stars face having to pick between the competitions. "So during the WBBL... cool," Australian wicketkeeper Alyssa Healy tweeted sarcastically. "So the Indian players who've already signed wbbl contracts will do what? And all the international marquee players that will be in aus for wbbl? Good luck with it..." Fellow Australian Jess Jonassen, the world's top-ranked one-day bowler, was equally bemused, saying "I have no words for this", while batting stalwart Rachael Haynes said "If true, it's a shame". "While the game continues to grow, premier domestic competitions do not need to compete against each other," Haynes added. Trailblazing former New Zealand captain Suzie Bates echoed similar sentiments. "What a huge shame for both the WBBL and WIPL competitions there is a clash," she said. Both the IPL and T20 Challenge, also known as the women's IPL, have had to be rescheduled due to the coronavirus pandemic. They were due to be played earlier in the year with the new dates finally set after the postponement of the men's T20 World Cup, which was scheduled to start in Australia in October.

Australian women stars slam timing of India's T20 Challenge

England have the luxury of six specialist pacemen in their 14-man squad for this week's first Test against Pakistan at Old Trafford -- a welcome "headache" for captain Joe Root.

The skipper can call on veteran new-ball partners James Anderson and Stuart Broad, the express pace of Jofra Archer and Mark Wood and the impressive Sam Curran and Chris Woakes.

The hosts rotated their quicks during last month's 2-1 series win over the West Indies which, together with the upcoming campaign against Pakistan, forms a programme of six Tests in seven weeks.

That is a particularly tough schedule for fast bowlers in a season cut short by the coronavirus pandemic.

England's management has argued no paceman can play all six Tests, with the restrictions imposed by maintaining a bio-secure "bubble" requiring several options to be immediately at hand.

But it is an issue they will need to handle with care given they have now lost the opener in eight of their past 10 multi-match Test series, which for all their resilience could prove costly if it happens against Pakistan.

Broad revealed on Sunday he felt "so low" after being omitted from the West Indies opener that he considered retiring.

The recalled Broad responded with 16 wickets at a miserly average of under 11 in the next two matches as he joined long-standing England new-ball colleague Anderson as one of a select group of seven bowlers to have taken 500 Test wickets.

At 34, and bowling a generally fuller length which makes his ability to move the ball late off the seam an even more challenging proposition, Broad is in arguably the best form of his career.

Anderson, four years older and a swing bowler who thrives in home conditions, is closing in on 600 Test wickets, with England's all-time leading bowler clearly not done yet.

&nbsp;

<h2>- Raw pace -</h2>

&nbsp;

World Cup winners Archer and Wood provide England with the option of genuine 90-miles-per-hour-plus pace, with speed through the air an asset even when pitch and overhead conditions favour the batsmen.

Then there is Curran, whose left-arm angle adds variety to an otherwise all right-arm attack. The Surrey bowler has won every Test he has played in at home.

Woakes, who took 5-50 in the West Indies decider, has a better home average than either Broad or Anderson, with his 81 Test wickets in England coming at just 22 apiece.

Woakes is now more inclined to deploy a sharp bouncer, which makes it harder for batsmen to routinely push forward in the hope of blunting his movement.

That still leaves the pace bowling of star all-rounder Ben Stokes who, as he showed before guiding England to an astounding one-wicket win with a brilliant century during last year's Headingley Test against Australia, can also drag his side back into matches by sheer force of personality with the ball.

But the West Indies finale may serve as a model for England.

Stokes was unfit to bowl, although he featured as a batsman, and that meant England deployed Anderson, Broad, Archer and Woakes in an attack featuring spinner Dom Bess after omitting batsman Zak Crawley.

England could now drop Bess or still play four specialist quicks even if Stokes is fit to bowl for the first Test, which starts at Old Trafford on Wednesday.

There were times when Archer, who clearly thrives on responsibility, was relegated to the role of first and second change during the West Indies finale and appeared to bowl accordingly.

Archer was making his return after missing the second Test due to a breach of coronavirus protocols.

It may be, however, that even Anderson and Broad will have to accept they cannot always be the "main men" from now on.

England often appear so obsessed with the Ashes that the opponent in front of them becomes relegated to a warm-up act for their next confrontation with Australia.

But this season's compressed schedule may have inadvertently given England a template for how to regain the urn Down Under in 2021/22. &nbsp;

"With the talent that's waiting in the wings it's an exciting place to be and long may those headaches continue," said Root.

England have the luxury of six specialist pacemen in their 14-man squad for this week's first Test against Pakistan at Old Trafford -- a welcome "headache" for captain Joe Root.

England have the luxury of six specialist pacemen in their 14-man squad for this week's first Test against Pakistan at Old Trafford -- a welcome "headache" for captain Joe Root. The skipper can call on veteran new-ball partners James Anderson and Stuart Broad, the express pace of Jofra Archer and Mark Wood and the impressive Sam Curran and Chris Woakes. The hosts rotated their quicks during last month's 2-1 series win over the West Indies which, together with the upcoming campaign against Pakistan, forms a programme of six Tests in seven weeks. That is a particularly tough schedule for fast bowlers in a season cut short by the coronavirus pandemic. England's management has argued no paceman can play all six Tests, with the restrictions imposed by maintaining a bio-secure "bubble" requiring several options to be immediately at hand. But it is an issue they will need to handle with care given they have now lost the opener in eight of their past 10 multi-match Test series, which for all their resilience could prove costly if it happens against Pakistan. Broad revealed on Sunday he felt "so low" after being omitted from the West Indies opener that he considered retiring. The recalled Broad responded with 16 wickets at a miserly average of under 11 in the next two matches as he joined long-standing England new-ball colleague Anderson as one of a select group of seven bowlers to have taken 500 Test wickets. At 34, and bowling a generally fuller length which makes his ability to move the ball late off the seam an even more challenging proposition, Broad is in arguably the best form of his career. Anderson, four years older and a swing bowler who thrives in home conditions, is closing in on 600 Test wickets, with England's all-time leading bowler clearly not done yet. - Raw pace - World Cup winners Archer and Wood provide England with the option of genuine 90-miles-per-hour-plus pace, with speed through the air an asset even when pitch and overhead conditions favour the batsmen. Then there is Curran, whose left-arm angle adds variety to an otherwise all right-arm attack. The Surrey bowler has won every Test he has played in at home. Woakes, who took 5-50 in the West Indies decider, has a better home average than either Broad or Anderson, with his 81 Test wickets in England coming at just 22 apiece. Woakes is now more inclined to deploy a sharp bouncer, which makes it harder for batsmen to routinely push forward in the hope of blunting his movement. That still leaves the pace bowling of star all-rounder Ben Stokes who, as he showed before guiding England to an astounding one-wicket win with a brilliant century during last year's Headingley Test against Australia, can also drag his side back into matches by sheer force of personality with the ball. But the West Indies finale may serve as a model for England. Stokes was unfit to bowl, although he featured as a batsman, and that meant England deployed Anderson, Broad, Archer and Woakes in an attack featuring spinner Dom Bess after omitting batsman Zak Crawley. England could now drop Bess or still play four specialist quicks even if Stokes is fit to bowl for the first Test, which starts at Old Trafford on Wednesday. There were times when Archer, who clearly thrives on responsibility, was relegated to the role of first and second change during the West Indies finale and appeared to bowl accordingly. Archer was making his return after missing the second Test due to a breach of coronavirus protocols. It may be, however, that even Anderson and Broad will have to accept they cannot always be the "main men" from now on. England often appear so obsessed with the Ashes that the opponent in front of them becomes relegated to a warm-up act for their next confrontation with Australia. But this season's compressed schedule may have inadvertently given England a template for how to regain the urn Down Under in 2021/22. "With the talent that's waiting in the wings it's an exciting place to be and long may those headaches continue," said Root.

England pace aces create 'headache' for Root ahead of Pakistan Tests

It is the biggest cricket tournament of the year. The Indian Premier League. A festival for the fans. A money minter for the Board of Control for Cricket (BCCI) - the biggest cricket board in the world.

But, the IPL is facing boycott calls this year. Because, the BCCI won’t dump a Chinese sponsor. Vivo – a Chinese smartphone company is the title sponsor of the tournament. Come September - its logo will be plastered all over IPL venues in the UAE.

At a time - when China isn’t willing to back down from the border. After the PLA launched an unprovoked attack on Indian soldiers. 20 Indian soldiers had died in June. India retaliated --- by punishing Chinese companies. Indian citizens are boycotting Chinese products.

But India’s biggest cricket tournament - will not dump Vivo. A Chinese brand.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2020-in-uae-from-match-timings-to-womens-ipl-key-takeaways-from-ipl-gc-meeting-317694" hreflang="en">IPL 2020 in UAE: From match timings to women's IPL - Key takeaways from IPL GC meeting</a>

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/boycottipl?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#boycottipl</a> 
I'm a huge IPL fan, especially <a href="https://twitter.com/mipaltan?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@mipaltan</a>. But I won't watch until they change this decision.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IPL2020?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IPL2020</a> <a href="https://t.co/Hozsz7yzuO">pic.twitter.com/Hozsz7yzuO</a>
— Soham Parmar (@Defier_52) <a href="https://twitter.com/Defier_52/status/1289988276183371776?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 2, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Indian Premier League (IPL) is a business &amp; those running this biz are insensitive towards the nation and it’s security concerns. Whole world is boycotting China, IPL is sheltering them. They should understand that nothing is above nation, not even cricket. Ppl may <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BoycottIPL?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BoycottIPL</a> <a href="https://t.co/6nyjJ1nCSE">https://t.co/6nyjJ1nCSE</a>
— ASHWANI MAHAJAN (@ashwani_mahajan) <a href="https://twitter.com/ashwani_mahajan/status/1290000344928227329?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 2, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BoycottIPL?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BoycottIPL</a> 
 
Shame on you <a href="https://twitter.com/BCCI?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@BCCI</a> <a href="https://t.co/8a6IYebjzL">pic.twitter.com/8a6IYebjzL</a>
— Raghu shukla 🇮🇳👳 (@Raghushukla13) <a href="https://twitter.com/Raghushukla13/status/1290061876957650944?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 2, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Needless to say - this decision hasn’t gone down well with a large section of Indians. From the politicians to citizens, they all have slammed the BCCI. The opposition has latched onto the issue to take on the government. On twitter, angry fans started a hashtag -- boycott IPL.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/exclusive-marnus-labuschagne-thriving-to-be-the-best-316956" hreflang="en">Exclusive | Marnus Labuschagne: Thriving to be the best</a>

Confederation of All India Traders have written to the government. The letter has gone to Home Minister Amit shah --- as well as External Affairs Minister, S. Jaishankar. They claim that BCCI decision “smacks of its lust for money”. The confederation wants the permission to the BCCI withdrawn.

The IPL starts on the 19th of September. The tournament will be moved to the UAE this year. Dubai, Abu Dhabi and Sharjah will be the three venues for the money-spinning tournament.

<h2>Why can’t the BCCI dump Vivo?</h2>

Since 2018 --- the board received close to INR 3,300 crores for media rights. More than 400 million dollars. It earns 700 crores in sponsorships. That's 93 million dollars. Vivo pays the board 440 crores for the title sponsorship per year. Or 58 million dollars. All of this, doesn’t go into BCCI’s pocket.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/exclusive-australias-josh-hazlewood-opens-up-on-england-and-india-series-ipl-2020-injuries-and-more-316469" hreflang="en">EXCLUSIVE: Australia's Josh Hazlewood opens up on England and India series, IPL 2020, injuries and more</a>

Half of the revenue from the IPL. is distributed to the eight franchises. After doing that --- the BCCI is left with around two thousand crores as income. Or 265 million dollars.

That’s the kind of money that the BCCI makes from the tournament. It can afford to let go of the 440 crores from Vivo.

But, it hasn’t. Reportedly, it was too late for the BCCI to take a call. There are also fears of legal liabilities too. In 2018, Vivo had secured the title sponsorship for the IPL for five years. With a mammoth bid of INR 2,199 crores. That's close to $300 million.

Allegedly - the exit clause in the contract favours the Chinese company.&nbsp;Cricket is more than a sport for India. It is a religion. You must have heard that often.

But, it is also a diplomatic tool. Used to send a message to India’s adversaries. The Indian cricket team doesn’t play with Pakistan. Pakistani players are banned from the IPL.

In 2017, Pakistani commentators were banned too. Why can’t Chinese sponsors be given the boot? How much money is enough for the richest cricket board in the world?

According to a report --- the BCCI had more than five thousand crores as cash and bank balances in its 2018 balance sheets.

That's more than 600 million dollars. A little more than two thousand crores was in the form of fixed deposits. In comparison, the money from the vivo sponsorship is pocket change. Something that the bcci won’t miss from its balance sheets. 
&nbsp;

It is the biggest cricket tournament of the year. The Indian Premier League. A festival for the fans. A money minter for the Board of Control for Cricket (BCCI) - the biggest cricket board in the world.

It is the biggest cricket tournament of the year. The Indian Premier League. A festival for the fans. A money minter for the Board of Control for Cricket (BCCI) - the biggest cricket board in the world. But, the IPL is facing boycott calls this year. Because, the BCCI won’t dump a Chinese sponsor. Vivo – a Chinese smartphone company is the title sponsor of the tournament. Come September - its logo will be plastered all over IPL venues in the UAE. At a time - when China isn’t willing to back down from the border. After the PLA launched an unprovoked attack on Indian soldiers. 20 Indian soldiers had died in June. India retaliated --- by punishing Chinese companies. Indian citizens are boycotting Chinese products. But India’s biggest cricket tournament - will not dump Vivo. A Chinese brand. ALSO READ: IPL 2020 in UAE: From match timings to women's IPL - Key takeaways from IPL GC meeting #boycottipl I'm a huge IPL fan, especially @mipaltan. But I won't watch until they change this decision.#IPL2020 pic.twitter.com/Hozsz7yzuO — Soham Parmar (@Defier_52) August 2, 2020 × Indian Premier League (IPL) is a business & those running this biz are insensitive towards the nation and it’s security concerns. Whole world is boycotting China, IPL is sheltering them. They should understand that nothing is above nation, not even cricket. Ppl may #BoycottIPL https://t.co/6nyjJ1nCSE — ASHWANI MAHAJAN (@ashwani_mahajan) August 2, 2020 × #BoycottIPL Shame on you @BCCI pic.twitter.com/8a6IYebjzL — Raghu shukla 🇮🇳👳 (@Raghushukla13) August 2, 2020 × Needless to say - this decision hasn’t gone down well with a large section of Indians. From the politicians to citizens, they all have slammed the BCCI. The opposition has latched onto the issue to take on the government. On twitter, angry fans started a hashtag -- boycott IPL. ALSO READ: Exclusive | Marnus Labuschagne: Thriving to be the best Confederation of All India Traders have written to the government. The letter has gone to Home Minister Amit shah --- as well as External Affairs Minister, S. Jaishankar. They claim that BCCI decision “smacks of its lust for money”. The confederation wants the permission to the BCCI withdrawn. The IPL starts on the 19th of September. The tournament will be moved to the UAE this year. Dubai, Abu Dhabi and Sharjah will be the three venues for the money-spinning tournament. Why can’t the BCCI dump Vivo? Since 2018 --- the board received close to INR 3,300 crores for media rights. More than 400 million dollars. It earns 700 crores in sponsorships. That's 93 million dollars. Vivo pays the board 440 crores for the title sponsorship per year. Or 58 million dollars. All of this, doesn’t go into BCCI’s pocket. ALSO READ: EXCLUSIVE: Australia's Josh Hazlewood opens up on England and India series, IPL 2020, injuries and more Half of the revenue from the IPL. is distributed to the eight franchises. After doing that --- the BCCI is left with around two thousand crores as income. Or 265 million dollars. That’s the kind of money that the BCCI makes from the tournament. It can afford to let go of the 440 crores from Vivo. But, it hasn’t. Reportedly, it was too late for the BCCI to take a call. There are also fears of legal liabilities too. In 2018, Vivo had secured the title sponsorship for the IPL for five years. With a mammoth bid of INR 2,199 crores. That's close to $300 million. Allegedly - the exit clause in the contract favours the Chinese company. Cricket is more than a sport for India. It is a religion. You must have heard that often. But, it is also a diplomatic tool. Used to send a message to India’s adversaries. The Indian cricket team doesn’t play with Pakistan. Pakistani players are banned from the IPL. In 2017, Pakistani commentators were banned too. Why can’t Chinese sponsors be given the boot? How much money is enough for the richest cricket board in the world? According to a report --- the BCCI had more than five thousand crores as cash and bank balances in its 2018 balance sheets. That's more than 600 million dollars. A little more than two thousand crores was in the form of fixed deposits. In comparison, the money from the vivo sponsorship is pocket change. Something that the bcci won’t miss from its balance sheets.

IPL's million-dollar Chinese connection

Pakistan coach Misbah-ul-Haq has asked his side to get off to a winning start in their impending three-match Test series against England as the former skipper said that every player must be at their best “right from the word go.”

England have had a consistent run in losing series openers in eight of their last 10 Test series, including the defeat in 2-1 series win over the West Indies that marked international cricket’s return from the COVID-19 lockdown.&nbsp;

Old Trafford will be the hunting ground for both the sides, the same venue where England thumped Jason Holder’s men recently.&nbsp;

Misbah, addressing the reporters via video-conference, suggested England would have the momentum going into the series: "We should be ready for an England team that have already had three matches of experience and they won their last two Test matches.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/bcci-retains-chinese-sponsors-for-ipl-despite-political-tensions-between-two-countries-317854" hreflang="en">BCCI retains Chinese sponsors for IPL despite political tensions between two countries</a>

"We have to really come in this Test series right from the word 'go' at our best if we want to win a Test series or a Test match here.&nbsp;

"We are aware that England have a slight advantage but if we are alert and go 100 percent in the first Test match, that is the only way we can beat England, otherwise we will find ourselves in difficulty."

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/bccis-sops-on-resumption-of-training-consent-form-age-bracket-headline-100-page-guidelines-317834" hreflang="en">BCCI's SOPs on resumption of training: Consent form, age bracket headline 100-page guidelines</a>

Pakistan have played two intra-squad warm-up matches to get into the rhythm with praises flowing in for the Pakistani pace attack. However, Misbah is of the view that the batsmen would need to perform well to give a chance to the bowlers.

"It's always tough with the Duke ball in England where the ball moves around off the seam and also in the air," Misbah said.

"But this is where you can really fight and our batting looked in great shape in the last two series. We played in Pakistan but even in Australia we managed to score good runs in almost every innings.&nbsp;

"Shan Masood, Abid Ali scored centuries in previous series (at home to Bangladesh in February and at home to Sri Lanka in December). Conditions are different but still confidence plays a huge role in your mind when you're coming from a series where you scored runs.&nbsp;

"Azhar (Ali) got a hundred (too, against Sri Lanka).

"In 2016 Asad Shafiq scored runs here, Babar Azam last time performed here in 2018 (when Pakistan drew a two-match series in England 1-1) and the way he's batting at the moment, he's confident and playing well."

The England versus Pakistan three-match Test series is set to start from August 5. 
&nbsp;

Pakistan coach Misbah-ul-Haq has asked his side to get off to a winning start in their impending three-match Test series against England as the former skipper said that every player must be at their best “right from the word go.

Pakistan coach Misbah-ul-Haq has asked his side to get off to a winning start in their impending three-match Test series against England as the former skipper said that every player must be at their best “right from the word go.” England have had a consistent run in losing series openers in eight of their last 10 Test series, including the defeat in 2-1 series win over the West Indies that marked international cricket’s return from the COVID-19 lockdown. Old Trafford will be the hunting ground for both the sides, the same venue where England thumped Jason Holder’s men recently. Misbah, addressing the reporters via video-conference, suggested England would have the momentum going into the series: "We should be ready for an England team that have already had three matches of experience and they won their last two Test matches. ALSO READ: BCCI retains Chinese sponsors for IPL despite political tensions between two countries "We have to really come in this Test series right from the word 'go' at our best if we want to win a Test series or a Test match here. "We are aware that England have a slight advantage but if we are alert and go 100 percent in the first Test match, that is the only way we can beat England, otherwise we will find ourselves in difficulty." ALSO READ: BCCI's SOPs on resumption of training: Consent form, age bracket headline 100-page guidelines Pakistan have played two intra-squad warm-up matches to get into the rhythm with praises flowing in for the Pakistani pace attack. However, Misbah is of the view that the batsmen would need to perform well to give a chance to the bowlers. "It's always tough with the Duke ball in England where the ball moves around off the seam and also in the air," Misbah said. "But this is where you can really fight and our batting looked in great shape in the last two series. We played in Pakistan but even in Australia we managed to score good runs in almost every innings. "Shan Masood, Abid Ali scored centuries in previous series (at home to Bangladesh in February and at home to Sri Lanka in December). Conditions are different but still confidence plays a huge role in your mind when you're coming from a series where you scored runs. "Azhar (Ali) got a hundred (too, against Sri Lanka). "In 2016 Asad Shafiq scored runs here, Babar Azam last time performed here in 2018 (when Pakistan drew a two-match series in England 1-1) and the way he's batting at the moment, he's confident and playing well." The England versus Pakistan three-match Test series is set to start from August 5.

Misbah-ul-Haq: Pakistan must be ready from word 'go' against England

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) on Sunday retained all the sponsors of the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/ipl">Indian Premier League (IPL)</a> including the Chinese brands. Following the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2020-in-uae-from-match-timings-to-womens-ipl-key-takeaways-from-ipl-gc-meeting-317694">IPL Governing Council meeting</a> which decided on certain important factors including the logistics and match timings, the board decided not to sever ties with major sponsors including Chinese companies despite the recent political tensions between the two countries.

Chinese sponsorship in the IPL became talk of the country in the wake of clashes between Indian and Chinese troops in eastern Ladakh in June. While BCCI did tweet that it will meet to review IPL’s various sponsorship deals but the meeting never took place before the IPL GC met on Sunday.&nbsp;

“Taking note of the border skirmish that resulted in the martyrdom of our brave jawans, the IPL Governing Council has convened a meeting next week to review IPL’s various sponsorship deals,” IPL had tweeted on June 19.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2020-in-uae-from-match-timings-to-womens-ipl-key-takeaways-from-ipl-gc-meeting-317694" hreflang="en">IPL 2020 in UAE: From match timings to women's IPL - Key takeaways from IPL GC meeting</a>

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Taking note of the border skirmish that resulted in the martyrdom of our brave jawans, the IPL Governing Council has convened a meeting next week to review IPL’s various sponsorship deals 🇮🇳
— IndianPremierLeague (@IPL) <a href="https://twitter.com/IPL/status/1274027565926060034?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 19, 2020</a></blockquote>
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One of the main reasons behind retaining Chinese sponsors in IPL 2020 is the difficulty to find new sponsors with similar financial proposals during these tough times.&nbsp;

"All I can say is that all our sponsors are with us. Hopefully, you can read between the lines," a Governing Council member was quoted as saying by PTI.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/bccis-sops-on-resumption-of-training-consent-form-age-bracket-headline-100-page-guidelines-317834" hreflang="en">BCCI's SOPs on resumption of training: Consent form, age bracket headline 100-page guidelines</a>

Vivo – the principle sponsor of IPL – had signed a five-year deal in 2017 with the BCCI to the tune of Rs 2,199 crores. BCCI’s decision comes amid calls of ‘Boycott Chinese Products’ from all over the country after Galwan Valley clash where 20 Indian soldiers were martyred.

"We said we will review sponsorship. Review means that we need to check all the modalities of the contract. If the 'Exit Clause' favours VIVO more, why should we terminate a Rs 440 crore per year contract. We will only terminate if 'Exit Clause' favours us," a Board official had told PTI.

While Indian government has already banned 59 Chinese applications including some of the top social media platforms, to counter threat posed by these applications to country’s “sovereignty and security”, the BCCI decided to oblige to the current contract.

Other key decisions taken in the IPL GC meeting on Sunday were the match timings with evening games now set to start from 7:30 PM IST. The squads have also been restricted to 24-per-franchise with COVID-19 substitutions a llowed.The matches will be played at three venues in the UAE - Dubai, Sharjah and Abu Dhabi.

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) on Sunday retained all the sponsors of the Indian Premier League (IPL) including the Chinese brands. Following the IPL Governing Council meeting which decided on certain important factors including the logistics and match timings, the board decided not to sever ties with major sponsors including Chinese companies despite the recent political tensions between the two countries.

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) on Sunday retained all the sponsors of the Indian Premier League (IPL) including the Chinese brands. Following the IPL Governing Council meeting which decided on certain important factors including the logistics and match timings, the board decided not to sever ties with major sponsors including Chinese companies despite the recent political tensions between the two countries. Chinese sponsorship in the IPL became talk of the country in the wake of clashes between Indian and Chinese troops in eastern Ladakh in June. While BCCI did tweet that it will meet to review IPL’s various sponsorship deals but the meeting never took place before the IPL GC met on Sunday. “Taking note of the border skirmish that resulted in the martyrdom of our brave jawans, the IPL Governing Council has convened a meeting next week to review IPL’s various sponsorship deals,” IPL had tweeted on June 19. ALSO READ: IPL 2020 in UAE: From match timings to women's IPL - Key takeaways from IPL GC meeting Taking note of the border skirmish that resulted in the martyrdom of our brave jawans, the IPL Governing Council has convened a meeting next week to review IPL’s various sponsorship deals 🇮🇳 — IndianPremierLeague (@IPL) June 19, 2020 × One of the main reasons behind retaining Chinese sponsors in IPL 2020 is the difficulty to find new sponsors with similar financial proposals during these tough times. "All I can say is that all our sponsors are with us. Hopefully, you can read between the lines," a Governing Council member was quoted as saying by PTI. ALSO READ: BCCI's SOPs on resumption of training: Consent form, age bracket headline 100-page guidelines Vivo – the principle sponsor of IPL – had signed a five-year deal in 2017 with the BCCI to the tune of Rs 2,199 crores. BCCI’s decision comes amid calls of ‘Boycott Chinese Products’ from all over the country after Galwan Valley clash where 20 Indian soldiers were martyred. "We said we will review sponsorship. Review means that we need to check all the modalities of the contract. If the 'Exit Clause' favours VIVO more, why should we terminate a Rs 440 crore per year contract. We will only terminate if 'Exit Clause' favours us," a Board official had told PTI. While Indian government has already banned 59 Chinese applications including some of the top social media platforms, to counter threat posed by these applications to country’s “sovereignty and security”, the BCCI decided to oblige to the current contract. Other key decisions taken in the IPL GC meeting on Sunday were the match timings with evening games now set to start from 7:30 PM IST. The squads have also been restricted to 24-per-franchise with COVID-19 substitutions a llowed.The matches will be played at three venues in the UAE - Dubai, Sharjah and Abu Dhabi.

BCCI retains Chinese sponsors for IPL despite political tensions between two countries

Players will have to sign a consent form before the resumption of training at their respective centres, the BCCI conveyed to the state associations in its 100-page-long Standard Operating Procedure (SOPs), which also stopped anyone over 60 years of age and individuals with medical conditions from taking part in camps.

"The health and safety of players, staff and stakeholders will be the sole responsibility of respective State Cricket Associations," read the BCCI guidelines on resumption of cricket, which is in WION’s possession.

In the consent form, players have to acknowledge the risks involved with the resumption of training amid the COVID-19 pandemic, which has shaken the entire world. The 2019-20 Indian domestic season ending March but the upcoming season is set to be truncated due to rising cases of coronavirus. The season, in normal circumstances, usually starts in August.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/this-is-god-shoaib-akhtar-recalls-facing-sachin-tendulkar-for-the-first-time-317814" hreflang="en">'This is God?' - Shoaib Akhtar recalls facing Sachin Tendulkar for the first time</a>

Support staff, officials and ground staff over 60 years of age and individuals with underlying medical conditions won’t be allowed to attend training camps until “suitable guidelines are issued by the Government”. The players will have to adhere to strict safety protocols be it travelling or training.

Before the start of the training camps, the medial team will need to get travel and medical history of past two weeks of all players and staff via online questionnaire. Any player or staff suspected with COVID-19-like symptoms will have to undergo PCR tests.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2020-in-uae-from-match-timings-to-womens-ipl-key-takeaways-from-ipl-gc-meeting-317694" hreflang="en">IPL 2020 in UAE: From match timings to women's IPL - Key takeaways from IPL GC meeting</a>

"Two tests one day apart (Day 1 &amp; Day 3) should be done to account for false negatives. If both the test results are negative, only then they should be included in the camp," read the SOPs.

Furthermore, players will need to wear a N95 mask on the way to the stadium with encouragement to wear eyewear as well in public places and during training.

"A webinar before commencement and in-person education workshop on Day 1 of the camp must be conducted by the CMO (Chief Medical Officer) for all players &amp; staff..."

Players will have to sign a consent form before the resumption of training at their respective centres, the BCCI conveyed to the state associations in its 100-page-long Standard Operating Procedure (SOPs), which also stopped anyone over 60 years of age and individuals with medical conditions from taking part in camps.

Players will have to sign a consent form before the resumption of training at their respective centres, the BCCI conveyed to the state associations in its 100-page-long Standard Operating Procedure (SOPs), which also stopped anyone over 60 years of age and individuals with medical conditions from taking part in camps. "The health and safety of players, staff and stakeholders will be the sole responsibility of respective State Cricket Associations," read the BCCI guidelines on resumption of cricket, which is in WION’s possession. In the consent form, players have to acknowledge the risks involved with the resumption of training amid the COVID-19 pandemic, which has shaken the entire world. The 2019-20 Indian domestic season ending March but the upcoming season is set to be truncated due to rising cases of coronavirus. The season, in normal circumstances, usually starts in August. ALSO READ: 'This is God?' - Shoaib Akhtar recalls facing Sachin Tendulkar for the first time Support staff, officials and ground staff over 60 years of age and individuals with underlying medical conditions won’t be allowed to attend training camps until “suitable guidelines are issued by the Government”. The players will have to adhere to strict safety protocols be it travelling or training. Before the start of the training camps, the medial team will need to get travel and medical history of past two weeks of all players and staff via online questionnaire. Any player or staff suspected with COVID-19-like symptoms will have to undergo PCR tests. ALSO READ: IPL 2020 in UAE: From match timings to women's IPL - Key takeaways from IPL GC meeting "Two tests one day apart (Day 1 & Day 3) should be done to account for false negatives. If both the test results are negative, only then they should be included in the camp," read the SOPs. Furthermore, players will need to wear a N95 mask on the way to the stadium with encouragement to wear eyewear as well in public places and during training. "A webinar before commencement and in-person education workshop on Day 1 of the camp must be conducted by the CMO (Chief Medical Officer) for all players & staff..."

BCCI's SOPs on resumption of training: Consent form, age bracket headline 100-page guidelines

The battle between Sachin Tendulkar and Shoaib Akhtar enthralled cricket fans during their playing days. The face-off between two top cricketers at the peak of their powers was nothing short of feast for cricket lovers. While many a times Tendulkar came out on top, there were moments when Akhtar dominated with his extreme pace.&nbsp;

Former Pakistan speedster Shoaib Akhtar recalled bowling to Sachin Tendulkar for the first time as he explained the build-up to the match in 1999 where India and Pakistan locked horns at the Eden Gardens.&nbsp;

Akhtar recalled that there was certain hype surrounding Tendulkar as everyone portrayed him as ‘God’ while adding that motivated him to get him dismissed in the first delivery, which he did.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2020-in-uae-from-match-timings-to-womens-ipl-key-takeaways-from-ipl-gc-meeting-317694">IPL 2020 in UAE: Key takeaways from IPL Governing Council meeting</a>

“I heard Sachin was the God. I said this is a God?. He didn’t recognize me, and I didn’t recognize him. He was in his own attitude and I was in my attitude. But I wanted to get him out on the first ball and that happened,” Akhtar told ARY News on Saturday.

Akhtar, who has been among the headlines for his controversial statements, had taken a jibe at the BCCI following the postponement of T20 World Cup while dragging ‘Monkeygate’ controversy to support his point.&nbsp;

“Sometimes they get easy wickets in Melbourne, at times someone calls another person a monkey but gets saved, the talk goes to boycotting the series. I am asking the Australians, where are their ethics?” Akhtar said.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/australian-women-stars-slam-timing-of-indias-t20-challenge-317796" hreflang="en">Australian women stars slam timing of India's T20 Challenge</a>

Akhtar had bowled Tendulkar on the very first ball in 1999 Kolkata test where the duo was locking horns for the first time. Akhtar went on to dismiss VVS Laxman, Rahul Dravid and Venkatesh Prasad to mark his presence against India and finished with good figures of 4/71 in the first innings before picking another four in the second. Pakistan ultimately won the Test by 46 runs. 
&nbsp;

The battle between Sachin Tendulkar and Shoaib Akhtar enthralled cricket fans during their playing days. The face-off between two top cricketers at the peak of their powers was nothing short of feast for cricket lovers.

The battle between Sachin Tendulkar and Shoaib Akhtar enthralled cricket fans during their playing days. The face-off between two top cricketers at the peak of their powers was nothing short of feast for cricket lovers. While many a times Tendulkar came out on top, there were moments when Akhtar dominated with his extreme pace. Former Pakistan speedster Shoaib Akhtar recalled bowling to Sachin Tendulkar for the first time as he explained the build-up to the match in 1999 where India and Pakistan locked horns at the Eden Gardens. Akhtar recalled that there was certain hype surrounding Tendulkar as everyone portrayed him as ‘God’ while adding that motivated him to get him dismissed in the first delivery, which he did. ALSO READ: IPL 2020 in UAE: Key takeaways from IPL Governing Council meeting “I heard Sachin was the God. I said this is a God?. He didn’t recognize me, and I didn’t recognize him. He was in his own attitude and I was in my attitude. But I wanted to get him out on the first ball and that happened,” Akhtar told ARY News on Saturday. Akhtar, who has been among the headlines for his controversial statements, had taken a jibe at the BCCI following the postponement of T20 World Cup while dragging ‘Monkeygate’ controversy to support his point. “Sometimes they get easy wickets in Melbourne, at times someone calls another person a monkey but gets saved, the talk goes to boycotting the series. I am asking the Australians, where are their ethics?” Akhtar said. ALSO READ: Australian women stars slam timing of India's T20 Challenge Akhtar had bowled Tendulkar on the very first ball in 1999 Kolkata test where the duo was locking horns for the first time. Akhtar went on to dismiss VVS Laxman, Rahul Dravid and Venkatesh Prasad to mark his presence against India and finished with good figures of 4/71 in the first innings before picking another four in the second. Pakistan ultimately won the Test by 46 runs.

'This is God?' - Shoaib Akhtar recalls facing Sachin Tendulkar for the first time

The Indian Premier League Governing Council meeting which took place on Sunday decided on a certain major things related to the tournament. The IPL 2020 is set to start on September 19 with the final now lined up on November 10 contrary to as earlier proposed on November 8, subject to necessary approval by Indian government.&nbsp;

While the dates are now zeroed in for September 19 to November 10, Women’s IPL or the Challengers Trophy is also set to take place in the UAE, most likely in between the play-offs and the final. .&nbsp;

As learned by WION, IPL 2020 squads will have just 24 players per franchise with back-ups ready, in case someone gets injured. Another major point discussed in the IPL Governing Council meeting was the current sponsors including Chinese companies but the board decided to make no changes to it with franchises and IPL set to oblige to the current contract.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/exclusive-marnus-labuschagne-thriving-to-be-the-best-316956" hreflang="en">Exclusive | Marnus Labuschagne: Thriving to be the best</a>&nbsp;

The matches have been pushed forward with IPL 2020 matches set to start at 7:30 PM (Indian Standard Time) against the previous 8:00 IST time. The IPL GC has also zeroed in on the logistics with an announcement regarding the same expected soon from the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI). Also, there will be as many as 10 double headers in the tournament.&nbsp;

Matches will be played behind closed doors with a possibility of reduced crowd later in the tournament. The franchises are set to depart to the UAE on August 27.

There is another meeting scheduled with the franchises after which the final schedule for the tournament could be announced.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/exclusive-australias-josh-hazlewood-opens-up-on-england-and-india-series-ipl-2020-injuries-and-more-316469" hreflang="en">EXCLUSIVE: Australia's Josh Hazlewood opens up on England and India series, IPL 2020, injuries and more</a>

<h2>Key takeaways from IPL Governing Council meeting:</h2>

<ul>
	<li>IPL 2020 start date: September 19</li>
	<li>IPL 2020 final: 10 November</li>
	<li>Squad strength: 24 per franchises (players)</li>
	<li>Women’s IPL given nod</li>
	<li>7:30 PM IST start time</li>
	<li>10 double headers 
	&nbsp;</li>
</ul>

The Indian Premier League Governing Council meeting which took place on Sunday decided on a certain major things related to the tournament. The IPL 2020 is set to start on September 19 with the final now lined up on November 10 contrary to as earlier proposed on November 8, subject to necessary approval by Indian government.

The Indian Premier League Governing Council meeting which took place on Sunday decided on a certain major things related to the tournament. The IPL 2020 is set to start on September 19 with the final now lined up on November 10 contrary to as earlier proposed on November 8, subject to necessary approval by Indian government. While the dates are now zeroed in for September 19 to November 10, Women’s IPL or the Challengers Trophy is also set to take place in the UAE, most likely in between the play-offs and the final. . As learned by WION, IPL 2020 squads will have just 24 players per franchise with back-ups ready, in case someone gets injured. Another major point discussed in the IPL Governing Council meeting was the current sponsors including Chinese companies but the board decided to make no changes to it with franchises and IPL set to oblige to the current contract. ALSO READ: Exclusive | Marnus Labuschagne: Thriving to be the best The matches have been pushed forward with IPL 2020 matches set to start at 7:30 PM (Indian Standard Time) against the previous 8:00 IST time. The IPL GC has also zeroed in on the logistics with an announcement regarding the same expected soon from the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI). Also, there will be as many as 10 double headers in the tournament. Matches will be played behind closed doors with a possibility of reduced crowd later in the tournament. The franchises are set to depart to the UAE on August 27. There is another meeting scheduled with the franchises after which the final schedule for the tournament could be announced. ALSO READ: EXCLUSIVE: Australia's Josh Hazlewood opens up on England and India series, IPL 2020, injuries and more Key takeaways from IPL Governing Council meeting: IPL 2020 start date: September 19 IPL 2020 final: 10 November Squad strength: 24 per franchises (players) Women’s IPL given nod 7:30 PM IST start time 10 double headers

IPL 2020 in UAE: From match timings to women's IPL - Key takeaways from IPL GC meeting

BCCI president Sourav Ganguly on Sunday said the Women's <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/ipl">IPL</a> or the Challenger series, as it is better known, is "very much on", ending speculation about the parent body not having a plan for Harmanpreet Kaur and her team.

The men's IPL will be held between September 19 and November 8 or 10 (final date yet to be locked in) in the UAE due to the surge in COVID-19 cases in India. The women's IPL will also be fit in to the schedule, according to the BCCI chief.

"I can confirm to you that the women's IPL is very much on and we do have a plan in place for the national team also," Ganguly told PTI ahead of the IPL Governing Council meeting later on Sunday.

The BCCI president, who is awaiting a Supreme Court verdict on waiver of the cooling off period to continue in the position, did not divulge details but another senior official privy to the development said that women's Challenger will be held during the last phase of IPL like last year.

"The women's Challenger series is likely to be held between November 1-10 and there could be a camp before that," the source said.

The former India captain also said that the centrally contracted women players will have a camp which has been delayed due to the prevailing situation in the country.

"We couldn't have exposed any of our cricketers -- be it male or female to health risk. It would have been dangerous," Ganguly said.

"The NCA also remained shut because of COVID-19. But we have a plan in place and we will have a camp for women, I can tell you that," he added.

The BCCI's cricket operations team is chalking up a schedule where Indian women are likely to have two full fledged white-ball series against South Africa and the West Indies before playing the ODI World Cup in New Zealand.

BCCI president Sourav Ganguly on Sunday said the Women's IPL or the Challenger series, as it is better known, is "very much on", ending speculation about the parent body not having a plan for Harmanpreet Kaur and her team.

BCCI president Sourav Ganguly on Sunday said the Women's IPL or the Challenger series, as it is better known, is "very much on", ending speculation about the parent body not having a plan for Harmanpreet Kaur and her team. The men's IPL will be held between September 19 and November 8 or 10 (final date yet to be locked in) in the UAE due to the surge in COVID-19 cases in India. The women's IPL will also be fit in to the schedule, according to the BCCI chief. "I can confirm to you that the women's IPL is very much on and we do have a plan in place for the national team also," Ganguly told PTI ahead of the IPL Governing Council meeting later on Sunday. The BCCI president, who is awaiting a Supreme Court verdict on waiver of the cooling off period to continue in the position, did not divulge details but another senior official privy to the development said that women's Challenger will be held during the last phase of IPL like last year. "The women's Challenger series is likely to be held between November 1-10 and there could be a camp before that," the source said. The former India captain also said that the centrally contracted women players will have a camp which has been delayed due to the prevailing situation in the country. "We couldn't have exposed any of our cricketers -- be it male or female to health risk. It would have been dangerous," Ganguly said. "The NCA also remained shut because of COVID-19. But we have a plan in place and we will have a camp for women, I can tell you that," he added. The BCCI's cricket operations team is chalking up a schedule where Indian women are likely to have two full fledged white-ball series against South Africa and the West Indies before playing the ODI World Cup in New Zealand.

BCCI president Sourav Ganguly: We are going ahead with women's IPL on time

This Friendship Day, cricket fans on Twitter are in for a treat, as the limited overs vice-captain of the Indian cricket team, Rohit Sharma will take questions from fans during a live video Q&amp;A on the service. Rohit Tweeted about this earlier on Saturday asking fans to Tweet their questions using the hashtag #AskRo.

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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Let’s celebrate Friendship Day together guys 🤗 Send me your questions using <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AskRo?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AskRo</a> and I will answer as many as I can tomorrow 😃
— Rohit Sharma (@ImRo45) <a href="https://twitter.com/ImRo45/status/1289503747094110208?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 1, 2020</a></blockquote>
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ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/exclusive-marnus-labuschagne-thriving-to-be-the-best-316956" hreflang="en">Exclusive | Marnus Labuschagne: Thriving to be the best</a>

Over the years, Rohit Sharma - also affably known as ‘Hitman’ has established himself as one of the most explosive opening batsmen. Rohit is also known for his witty and interesting replies during the press conferences, which we have witnessed from time to time. We might see some more of that tomorrow.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, Rohit would soon be seen in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020 set to be played in the UAE. While IPL Governing Council Chairman Brijesh Patel has already confirmed that the tournament would be starting from September 19, the GC meeting set to take place on August 2 will see authorities take a final call on the SOPs and other details related to the tournament.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/exclusive-australias-josh-hazlewood-opens-up-on-england-and-india-series-ipl-2020-injuries-and-more-316469" hreflang="en">EXCLUSIVE: Australia's Josh Hazlewood opens up on England and India series, IPL 2020, injuries and more</a>

Rohit has been the spine of Mumbai Indians side leading the outfit to a record four IPL titles including the previous edition. Regarded as one of the shrewdest captains in the shortest format, Rohit would be looking to guide MI to successive title wins and all eyes will be on the Hitman to take the charge when he takes to the field after a prolonged break due to COVID-19.&nbsp;

Indian cricketers will be finally back on the field but in the UAE. However, given the current circumstances, the fans just want to see their favourite superstars hit the ground.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

This Friendship Day, cricket fans on Twitter are in for a treat, as the limited overs vice-captain of the Indian cricket team, Rohit Sharma will take questions from fans during a live video Q&A on the service.

This Friendship Day, cricket fans on Twitter are in for a treat, as the limited overs vice-captain of the Indian cricket team, Rohit Sharma will take questions from fans during a live video Q&A on the service. Rohit Tweeted about this earlier on Saturday asking fans to Tweet their questions using the hashtag #AskRo. Let’s celebrate Friendship Day together guys 🤗 Send me your questions using #AskRo and I will answer as many as I can tomorrow 😃 — Rohit Sharma (@ImRo45) August 1, 2020 × ALSO READ: Exclusive | Marnus Labuschagne: Thriving to be the best Over the years, Rohit Sharma - also affably known as ‘Hitman’ has established himself as one of the most explosive opening batsmen. Rohit is also known for his witty and interesting replies during the press conferences, which we have witnessed from time to time. We might see some more of that tomorrow. Meanwhile, Rohit would soon be seen in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020 set to be played in the UAE. While IPL Governing Council Chairman Brijesh Patel has already confirmed that the tournament would be starting from September 19, the GC meeting set to take place on August 2 will see authorities take a final call on the SOPs and other details related to the tournament. ALSO READ: EXCLUSIVE: Australia's Josh Hazlewood opens up on England and India series, IPL 2020, injuries and more Rohit has been the spine of Mumbai Indians side leading the outfit to a record four IPL titles including the previous edition. Regarded as one of the shrewdest captains in the shortest format, Rohit would be looking to guide MI to successive title wins and all eyes will be on the Hitman to take the charge when he takes to the field after a prolonged break due to COVID-19. Indian cricketers will be finally back on the field but in the UAE. However, given the current circumstances, the fans just want to see their favourite superstars hit the ground.

Rohit Sharma to celebrate Friendship Day on Twitter with a video Q&A

David Willey and Sam Billings guided world champions England to a six-wicket win over Ireland at Southampton on Thursday in the first one-day international.

Left-arm paceman Willey, appearing in his first ODI since being left out of England's World Cup-winning squad for Jofra Archer, took a career-best 5-30 as Ireland were dismissed for a modest 172 in a match that marked the return of white-ball cricket from the coronavirus lockdown.

But an unfamiliar-looking England, in the first of a three-match series that launches the new World Cup Super League to determine qualification for the 2023 50-over showpiece in India, slumped to 78-4 at the Ageas Bowl.

Sam Billings, a late injury replacement for Kent team-mate Joe Denly, made 67 not out including 11 fours at better than a run-a-ball.

Together with World Cup-winning captain Eoin Morgan, a former Ireland batsman, he shared an unbroken fifth-wicket partnership of 96.

Willey took 4-12 as Ireland slumped to 28-5 after losing the toss.

Curtis Campher held firm with an unbeaten 59 on debut.

Together with Andy McBrine (40) he shared a stand of 66 after Ireland were in danger of being dismissed for under 100 at 79-7.&nbsp;

Willey struck with just the fourth ball of the match when Paul Stirling chipped him to Morgan at midwicket.

Ireland were 7-2 when skipper Andy Balbirnie was caught behind driving at Willey.

Gareth Delany hit five fours in his 22 before he struck Willey straight to backward point.

Next ball, the 30-year-old Willey, the son of former England batsman and umpire David Willey, had Lorcan Tucker lbw for a duck to leave Ireland 28-5.

<h2>- Campher carries on -</h2>

&nbsp;

The 21-year-old Campher, a former South Africa youth international qualified for Ireland through his mother, survived the hat-trick delivery and went on to complete an admirable 103-ball fifty.

Kevin O'Brien, whose stunning 50-ball hundred set up a remarkable Ireland win over England during the 2011 World Cup, made 22 before he holed out off leg-spinner Adil Rashid.

McBrine pulled Tom Curran to deep square leg before Willey dismissed last man Craig Young to end the innings.

Willey's return was his best in 47 ODIs, surpassing his 4-34 against Sri Lanka in Cardiff in 2016.

Ireland suffered a blow in the first over of England's reply when Barry McCarthy walked off after bowling five balls with what appeared to be a hamstring injury.

Off-spinner McBrine, however, had Jonny Bairstow lbw for two before fellow opener Jason Roy fell leg before to Young.

As happened before each of the recent England-West Indies Tests, players from both sides took a knee before play in support of the Black Lives Matter campaign.

This was England's first home ODI since they beat New Zealand in last year's World Cup final at Lord's.

England's red and white-ball fixtures are overlapping in a season cut short by the COVID-19 outbreak and they are maintaining two separate squads, meaning several World Cup winners including Joe Root, Ben Stokes and Archer won't feature against Ireland.

David Willey and Sam Billings guided world champions England to a six-wicket win over Ireland at Southampton on Thursday in the first one-day international. Left-arm paceman Willey, appearing in his first ODI since being left out of England's World Cup-winning squad for Jofra Archer, took a career-best 5-30 as Ireland were dismissed for a modest 172 in a match that marked the return of white-ball cricket from the coronavirus lockdown.

David Willey and Sam Billings guided world champions England to a six-wicket win over Ireland at Southampton on Thursday in the first one-day international. Left-arm paceman Willey, appearing in his first ODI since being left out of England's World Cup-winning squad for Jofra Archer, took a career-best 5-30 as Ireland were dismissed for a modest 172 in a match that marked the return of white-ball cricket from the coronavirus lockdown. But an unfamiliar-looking England, in the first of a three-match series that launches the new World Cup Super League to determine qualification for the 2023 50-over showpiece in India, slumped to 78-4 at the Ageas Bowl. Sam Billings, a late injury replacement for Kent team-mate Joe Denly, made 67 not out including 11 fours at better than a run-a-ball. Together with World Cup-winning captain Eoin Morgan, a former Ireland batsman, he shared an unbroken fifth-wicket partnership of 96. Willey took 4-12 as Ireland slumped to 28-5 after losing the toss. Curtis Campher held firm with an unbeaten 59 on debut. Together with Andy McBrine (40) he shared a stand of 66 after Ireland were in danger of being dismissed for under 100 at 79-7. Willey struck with just the fourth ball of the match when Paul Stirling chipped him to Morgan at midwicket. Ireland were 7-2 when skipper Andy Balbirnie was caught behind driving at Willey. Gareth Delany hit five fours in his 22 before he struck Willey straight to backward point. Next ball, the 30-year-old Willey, the son of former England batsman and umpire David Willey, had Lorcan Tucker lbw for a duck to leave Ireland 28-5. - Campher carries on - The 21-year-old Campher, a former South Africa youth international qualified for Ireland through his mother, survived the hat-trick delivery and went on to complete an admirable 103-ball fifty. Kevin O'Brien, whose stunning 50-ball hundred set up a remarkable Ireland win over England during the 2011 World Cup, made 22 before he holed out off leg-spinner Adil Rashid. McBrine pulled Tom Curran to deep square leg before Willey dismissed last man Craig Young to end the innings. Willey's return was his best in 47 ODIs, surpassing his 4-34 against Sri Lanka in Cardiff in 2016. Ireland suffered a blow in the first over of England's reply when Barry McCarthy walked off after bowling five balls with what appeared to be a hamstring injury. Off-spinner McBrine, however, had Jonny Bairstow lbw for two before fellow opener Jason Roy fell leg before to Young. As happened before each of the recent England-West Indies Tests, players from both sides took a knee before play in support of the Black Lives Matter campaign. This was England's first home ODI since they beat New Zealand in last year's World Cup final at Lord's. England's red and white-ball fixtures are overlapping in a season cut short by the COVID-19 outbreak and they are maintaining two separate squads, meaning several World Cup winners including Joe Root, Ben Stokes and Archer won't feature against Ireland.

Willey and Billings star as England beat Ireland in ODI return

Australia batsman Matthew Wade expects India’s pacemen to make use of the short ball when they tour Down Under but says none will be as effective as New Zealand’s Neil Wagner with the bouncer.

Wade was left battered and bruised after short-pitched assaults by Wagner when New Zealand toured in the last home summer and paid tribute to the fiery left-armer.

“I don’t think anyone in the game has bowled bouncers the way he bowled and been so consistent, and not gotten scored off while also picking up wickets,” Wade told Cricket Australia’s website.

“I think we’ll see it a bit (from India) but I don’t think it will be as effective as Wagner. He’s done it for a long time now.

“To be honest, I’ve never faced a bowler who is so accurate at bowling bouncers.”

Though Wagner made his mark with 17 wickets, including multiple dismissals of Australia’s best batsmen Steve Smith, David Warner and Marnus Labuschagne, Tim Paine’s side dominated the Black Caps to claim the test series 3-0.

India were more successful in the previous summer, becoming the first Asian team to win a test series in Australia with a 2-1 result.

Australia were without Smith and Warner for that series, who were serving suspensions for ball-tampering.

However, India’s pace attack of Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Shami and Ishant Sharma bowled superbly throughout the series and humbled the hosts’ vaunted trio of Mitchell Starc, Pat Cummins and Josh Hazlewood on their own pitches.

Wade said Wagner’s angles and accuracy would nonetheless be hard for India’s quicks to reproduce.

“He’s always between your shoulder and the top of your (helmet) peak, or in your armpits,” said Wade.

“They barely had anyone in front of the wicket. They had really cagey fields, catchers in good places, they were trying to take wickets all the time, it wasn’t negative bowling.

“Hats off to him, he bowled unbelievably well.”

Australia meet India in a four-test series starting in Brisbane on Dec. 3.

&nbsp;

Australia batsman Matthew Wade expects India’s pacemen to make use of the short ball when they tour Down Under but says none will be as effective as New Zealand’s Neil Wagner with the bouncer.

Australia batsman Matthew Wade expects India’s pacemen to make use of the short ball when they tour Down Under but says none will be as effective as New Zealand’s Neil Wagner with the bouncer. Wade was left battered and bruised after short-pitched assaults by Wagner when New Zealand toured in the last home summer and paid tribute to the fiery left-armer. “I don’t think anyone in the game has bowled bouncers the way he bowled and been so consistent, and not gotten scored off while also picking up wickets,” Wade told Cricket Australia’s website. “I think we’ll see it a bit (from India) but I don’t think it will be as effective as Wagner. He’s done it for a long time now. “To be honest, I’ve never faced a bowler who is so accurate at bowling bouncers.” Though Wagner made his mark with 17 wickets, including multiple dismissals of Australia’s best batsmen Steve Smith, David Warner and Marnus Labuschagne, Tim Paine’s side dominated the Black Caps to claim the test series 3-0. India were more successful in the previous summer, becoming the first Asian team to win a test series in Australia with a 2-1 result. Australia were without Smith and Warner for that series, who were serving suspensions for ball-tampering. However, India’s pace attack of Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Shami and Ishant Sharma bowled superbly throughout the series and humbled the hosts’ vaunted trio of Mitchell Starc, Pat Cummins and Josh Hazlewood on their own pitches. Wade said Wagner’s angles and accuracy would nonetheless be hard for India’s quicks to reproduce. “He’s always between your shoulder and the top of your (helmet) peak, or in your armpits,” said Wade. “They barely had anyone in front of the wicket. They had really cagey fields, catchers in good places, they were trying to take wickets all the time, it wasn’t negative bowling. “Hats off to him, he bowled unbelievably well.” Australia meet India in a four-test series starting in Brisbane on Dec. 3.

Cricket: India won't be able to replicate Wagner's bounce, says Australia's Wade

Australia are looking to get back to action with the upcoming limited-overs series lined up against England after a prolonged three-months break due to COVID-19 pandemic. However, the biggest challenge for the Australian side will be the Test series against India, scheduled to start in December. While preparations are set to take off in the Australian camp for the England series, all eyes will be on the much-awaited series against India with Australia eyeing redemption following the 2-1 defeat in 2018-19 series.&nbsp;

As Australian cricketers gear up to get back in flow, pacer Josh Hazlewood, in an exclusive interview with WION, spoke about a lot of things ranging from the cricket post-COVID-19, England series, Indian Premier League (IPL) ambitions with Chennai Super Kings, playing under MS Dhoni, the much-talked-about India series, injuries and much more.

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&nbsp;

Subhayan Chakraborty: Josh, how has been life for you in these past three months. Things have been pretty difficult for everyone it feels.&nbsp; 
&nbsp; 
Josh Hazlewood: Thank you for having me. Yes, I think it has been different, it has been difficult. We are just doing our business here. We are training four-five days a week in smaller six-eight a person group, enough for couple of net sessions. The weather here has been pretty good for winter. So I have been getting outdoors quite a fair bit. So all’s going well and we are sort of getting whatever comes our way like the tour to the UK next month.&nbsp;

SC: Australia have a tour to England lined up. Have you been following the England versus the West Indies Test series?

Hazlewood: Yes, I have been watching it a little bit. There’s no such sport going on so it is good to have international cricket back. I am sure a lot of eyes have been there on the Test series and now England looking good in the last Test. Everything seems to be going pretty well off the field as well with the isolation and hubs (bio-secure bubble) in the ground. Promising signs for us.&nbsp;

SC: There has been a lot of talks around the Dukes ball moving around for the entire five days in the ongoing Test series. But the Kookaburra is completely different. Brett Lee, in a recent interview with PTI, raised his concerns about the saliva-less Kookaburra. What’s your take on it? Tough on the bowlers?

Hazlewood: I think it is going to take some time to get rid of that habit – shining the ball with saliva. But I think sweat will work pretty well. Obviously, the Kookaburra is not going to do as much as the Dukes be it off the seam or in the air. So it is difficult here in Australia to get wickets. But giving right conditions – maybe the ground staff can leave a bit of grass on the wickets – such as Adelaide or Brisbane can make a difference. But I think we will be okay. We will work out a solution to get that ball nice and shiny and hopefully swinging throughout the innings. But yes, I certainly enjoyed bowling with the Dukes ball in England. It always keeps on doing something and keeps you in the game.&nbsp;

SC: Josh, 51 Tests - 195 wickets, 48 ODIs - 78 wickets and an economy rate of 4.74. What has been your key to success? What does a top bowler need to do to improve every day?&nbsp;

Hazlewood: Firstly, I try to keep my game very simple. It is about hitting the top of the off stump with an occasional bouncer. It’s pretty much down to that. It is a simple plan but to execute that plan is probably the hardest thing. Just because of what the Test wickets are, and how good the batsmen are, so it gives a small margin for error. Especially in Australia, the wickets are usually good for batting. I have always been a line and length bowler; I don’t have express pace like Mitch Starc. So I know my game well and stick to that. Over the years, I have played Test cricket all around the world and it is about learning with each experiences. So the next time you tour there, you improve every time. Hopefully, my bowling will improve as I get older. It has certainly happened in the past in tours, you seem to get better and better.

<img alt="Josh Hazlewood" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="784994cc-b715-473e-bf06-7b039db59d39" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/000_1JJ9P6.jpg" />

You have to enjoy it as well. Enjoy the challenge of getting wicket of batsmen. You have certain tussles with certain guys. It’s good competitive stuff, good fun.

SC: What has been your toughest battle in your career?

Hazlewood: There’s been a few over the years. Obviously, Pujara couple of summers ago was quite tough work. He had a really good series, and probably was the standout batsmen from both sides so he was really hard work. There’s always that group we talk about – Virat Kohli, Joe Root and Kane Williamson along with Stevie (Smith). That group is always the key wicket for each team. AB de Villiers was always a tough battle, pretty happy he has retired from international cricket (laughs). So different team has different players and it is ultimately about adapting to each team.&nbsp;

SC: Another part of your career has been injuries. You suffered from back stress fracture early in your career and were withdrawn from the 2010 Australia’s Test tour of India. And since then you have missed a couple of series due to it. So I have two points: 1) How have you dealt with back injuries. 2) What will your tips for the younger players and their coaches who can possibly avoid it in the future?

Hazlewood: It’s a tough one the stress fractures. Happens to a lot of fast bowlers. It’s about getting a good natural action with nice rhythm that is easy as possible on your body and suits your style. I have made changes from last 18 months to now. And my action is in a much better position now taking a bit of stress off the back. So the key is to get a nice action which doesn’t put much stress on the lower back.

I think dealing with injuries is tough, mentally tough as well. You know, doing rehabs all alone, missing those games for Australia. I think I have been lucky. I have played 51 Tests as you mentioned and I have missed only six or eight since I started. I have had early troubles before I started Test cricket but I think I have an action to withstand the rigors of Test cricket and it is always evolving and try and get to perfection or as close as you can. For youngsters, it is about realizing that it is going to happen at some stage that you are going to get injured and it is about doing all that hard work off the field, be it in the gym or running, working with the coaches to try and minimize the risk of having a big injury. And keep a positive mindset even if you get injured and try and come back stronger.&nbsp;

<img alt="Josh Hazlewood" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="c1a8928f-226e-46db-820e-083f0a5f4d60" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/000_1K46O4.jpg" />

SC: How are you looking at the upcoming training camp? Perfect way to get back to rhythm and fitness back

Hazlewood: We are doing as much as we can here in Australia. It is winters here now so it is probably tough to go outside every time. We are doing to a lot with the bowling workloads to get ready. Obviously, we will have to complete our quarantine in England before we start playing and I am assuming that will be close to two weeks. If we have a good 20 guys there and play cricket among us to get prepared because we haven’t played cricket in long time. This has been my longest break since I started playing for Australia so I might be a bit rusty and England obviously are playing at the moment. So they have a bit of a leg up on us. So we will try to create an atmosphere as close to a real match as possible. That’s probably the key.

SC: You mentioned about England already playing. I was watching their intra-friendly matches and the likes of Moeen Ali, Tom Banton, Jonny Bairstow, Jason Roy, everyone was smashing it all over the park. So what will be the biggest challenge against this white-ball England team, the world champions?

Hazlewood: England are obviously one of the best sides if not the best, especially at home. It will be a huge challenge for us. One thing as a bowling group, we have talked of taking all 10 wickets rather than building pressure in the middle overs and hoping to keep the runs down. We want to be as attacking as much as we can and taking wickets throughout. And then bowl to the lower order in the last 10-15 overs. That helps in being top of the target. As you mentioned those guys are already playing, so it will be about preparations and get match ready quickly.&nbsp;

<img alt="Josh Hazlewood" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="31228195-8a73-491a-a376-f6d55d999395" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/000_1BO5QE_0.jpg" />

SC: After the England series is the Indian Premier League (IPL). You will be playing for Chennai Super Kings (CSK) – one of the most successful franchises in the history of IPL. How much are you looking forward to IPL?

Hazlewood: I am pretty excited actually. It’s been a while that I have been in the squad. I haven’t played a game yet but I was with Mumbai Indians squad in IPL 2014. I have been using this time – April and May – for rest, preparing for other Test tours for Australia. And now it is a good opportunity to play some T20 cricket and put my name up in that format of the game, in which I haven’t played too much. As you said, it is the best T20 competition in the world. So looking forward to it and hopefully to do well for CSK.

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Jostling into the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AnbuDen?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AnbuDen</a> is Big Josh from Oz, who's already used to wearing the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/yellove?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#yellove</a>! <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SuperFam?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SuperFam</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SuperAuction?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SuperAuction</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WhistlePodu?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WhistlePodu</a> 🦁💛 <a href="https://t.co/wqaJJEbMpP">pic.twitter.com/wqaJJEbMpP</a>
— Chennai Super Kings (@ChennaiIPL) <a href="https://twitter.com/ChennaiIPL/status/1207654890392018944?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 19, 2019</a></blockquote>
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WION: Did you follow the auction? Because Pat Cummins was over the moon after it. How were you feeling after CSK got you?

Hazlewood: I was ecstatic to be picked up by CSK. Pat was obviously different, and he is pretty excited to be out there and do well for Kolkata. I haven’t played a lot of T20 cricket in the last five years but I am happy CSK gave me an opportunity and hopefully, I can reward them.

WION: And are you looking forward to playing under the leadership of MS Dhoni?

Hazlewood: Again, I am excited! I think he is a pretty similar player to me – very relaxed and calm – and that’s how I play my best cricket, that’s when I enjoy my cricket. Hopefully, we are a good match.&nbsp;

<img alt="Josh Hazlewood" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="afc88839-7170-49ad-8835-9d463dff7b7d" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/pjimage_2.jpg" />

SC: You haven’t played much T20 tournaments in last few years but you have good numbers in whatever matches you have played for Sydney Sixers in Big Bash League. So how are you looking to crack the IPL? Bringing something special in your armory?

Hazlewood: I am always working on different deliveries, different change-ups and slower balls. Hopefully in the next couple of months, I can work on settling in and deliver in the IPL. Under a lot of pressure but it is always good to try things.&nbsp;

SC: After IPL, the biggest task for Australia will be the India series. The entire world has its eyes on that series. So what do you think will be the biggest challenge for Australia, particularly against the likes of Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma and Cheteshwar Pujara?

Hazlewood: Obviously we have got Steve (Smith) and David (Warner) back and Marnus (Labuschagne) has come leaps and bounds. The bowling attack is similar to what it was but it is the batting which now has a lot more depth and experiences from the last time India toured. India’s bowling attack got us last time and that is what we don’t like to happen on our home soil. So we want to get India in that department. But as you said, everyone is going to watch this series. It has almost reach the point where it has reached point like the Ashes now. It is a huge series for both teams and we need to give a payback to India after last time.&nbsp;

SC: Any specific plan for Cheteshwar Pujara this time?

Hazlewood: (Laughs) Nothing yet. We need to have a few team meetings, bowlers meeting to come up with something. Because obviously, he is a key along with Virat and a few other guys. But if you focus too much on a player then others can hurt you. So the top 6 is always important.&nbsp;

<img alt="Josh Hazlewood" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="30f914c9-499b-4133-bb94-4782dcd54daf" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/000_1JP61J.jpg" />

SC: And how big will the pink ball Test in Adelaide?

Hazlewood: That’s probably huge for us the pink ball Test. We obviously play a lot more Test in Adelaide. We have got some good experience with the pink ball. That’s probably a big positive for us. But again you have to play good cricket. And we are playing in Brisbane as well. We love playing there. So we have got a few things going are way already. It is about executing on the day as well. Things can move pretty quickly in pink ball Test and India have a great pace attack as well. It’s going to be good fun.&nbsp;

SC: Coming to the pace attacks of both the teams, how do you compare and differentiate these two pace line-ups?

Hazlewood: I think both teams have pretty good depth. We have our three guys who play most of the Tests and then James Pattinson, Jackson Bird, Michael Nesser, Jhye Richardson. We have good depth there, same as India. The variety in both the sides is pretty good, to be honest. Jasprit Bumrah is different to Ishant Sharma and vice-versa. It is a top attack and our batters would want to get their hands up against that attack, which didn’t happen last time (laughs). Hopefully, we will keep them out there for long and wear them down.&nbsp;

SC: Do you think it is important to evolve with time and learn new craft such as wobble seam, reverse swing or say knuckle ball in T20s?

Hazlewood: Conditions play a big part. If one place is swinging more then it is about is about controlling that swing but if it is not swinging but seaming then it becomes an entire different story. So that happens over time by playing in different grounds in different conditions. Calling that arsenal and bring it on and perform in each and every game. International cricket is a tough game. As you said, it is about evolving with time and improving.&nbsp;

<img alt="Josh Hazlewood" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="f53ef0ad-498c-40f1-87bc-a783d736215f" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/000_1JJ97R_0.jpg" />

SC: What will be your combined India-Australia Test XI?

Hazlewood: Starting from quicks, I will have myself in (laughs) with Pat Cummins and Jasprit Bumrah. In Australian conditions, I will have Nathan Lyon and in Indian conditions, Ravichandran Ashwin. Openers would be Mayank Agarwal – taking future in consideration – and David Warner. Steve Smith, Virat Kohli and Cheteshwar Pujara are automatic picks at three, four and five. At no. six…I will have Marnus Labuschagne or Rohit Sharma given their ability to change the game.&nbsp;

Josh Hazlewood’s India-Australia combined Test XI: Mayank Agarwal, David Warner, Steve Smith, Virat Kohli, Cheteshwar Pujara, Marnus Labuschagne/Rohit Sharma, Tim Paine (wk), Nathan Lyon/Ravichandran Ashwin, Pat Cummins, Josh Hazlewood, Jasprit Bumrah.

SC: What will be you message for fans who are supporting the Sport from home?

Hazlewood: Hopefully, we can get some crowd, maybe in the IPL or definitely in India series here in Australia. Football is getting 30,000 audience here in Perth. So I guess there’s a possibility of getting a good crowd in. Obviously, great atmosphere with Indian fans, they a make a lot of noise and they love cricket. And if they are watching it from their couches, then I hope we play some really entertaining cricket for them and hopefully they will enjoy it.

Australia are looking to get back to action with the upcoming limited-overs series lined up against England after a prolonged three-months break due to COVID-19 pandemic.

Australia are looking to get back to action with the upcoming limited-overs series lined up against England after a prolonged three-months break due to COVID-19 pandemic. However, the biggest challenge for the Australian side will be the Test series against India, scheduled to start in December. While preparations are set to take off in the Australian camp for the England series, all eyes will be on the much-awaited series against India with Australia eyeing redemption following the 2-1 defeat in 2018-19 series. As Australian cricketers gear up to get back in flow, pacer Josh Hazlewood, in an exclusive interview with WION, spoke about a lot of things ranging from the cricket post-COVID-19, England series, Indian Premier League (IPL) ambitions with Chennai Super Kings, playing under MS Dhoni, the much-talked-about India series, injuries and much more. × Subhayan Chakraborty: Josh, how has been life for you in these past three months. Things have been pretty difficult for everyone it feels. Josh Hazlewood: Thank you for having me. Yes, I think it has been different, it has been difficult. We are just doing our business here. We are training four-five days a week in smaller six-eight a person group, enough for couple of net sessions. The weather here has been pretty good for winter. So I have been getting outdoors quite a fair bit. So all’s going well and we are sort of getting whatever comes our way like the tour to the UK next month. SC: Australia have a tour to England lined up. Have you been following the England versus the West Indies Test series? Hazlewood: Yes, I have been watching it a little bit. There’s no such sport going on so it is good to have international cricket back. I am sure a lot of eyes have been there on the Test series and now England looking good in the last Test. Everything seems to be going pretty well off the field as well with the isolation and hubs (bio-secure bubble) in the ground. Promising signs for us. SC: There has been a lot of talks around the Dukes ball moving around for the entire five days in the ongoing Test series. But the Kookaburra is completely different. Brett Lee, in a recent interview with PTI, raised his concerns about the saliva-less Kookaburra. What’s your take on it? Tough on the bowlers? Hazlewood: I think it is going to take some time to get rid of that habit – shining the ball with saliva. But I think sweat will work pretty well. Obviously, the Kookaburra is not going to do as much as the Dukes be it off the seam or in the air. So it is difficult here in Australia to get wickets. But giving right conditions – maybe the ground staff can leave a bit of grass on the wickets – such as Adelaide or Brisbane can make a difference. But I think we will be okay. We will work out a solution to get that ball nice and shiny and hopefully swinging throughout the innings. But yes, I certainly enjoyed bowling with the Dukes ball in England. It always keeps on doing something and keeps you in the game. SC: Josh, 51 Tests - 195 wickets, 48 ODIs - 78 wickets and an economy rate of 4.74. What has been your key to success? What does a top bowler need to do to improve every day? Hazlewood: Firstly, I try to keep my game very simple. It is about hitting the top of the off stump with an occasional bouncer. It’s pretty much down to that. It is a simple plan but to execute that plan is probably the hardest thing. Just because of what the Test wickets are, and how good the batsmen are, so it gives a small margin for error. Especially in Australia, the wickets are usually good for batting. I have always been a line and length bowler; I don’t have express pace like Mitch Starc. So I know my game well and stick to that. Over the years, I have played Test cricket all around the world and it is about learning with each experiences. So the next time you tour there, you improve every time. Hopefully, my bowling will improve as I get older. It has certainly happened in the past in tours, you seem to get better and better. You have to enjoy it as well. Enjoy the challenge of getting wicket of batsmen. You have certain tussles with certain guys. It’s good competitive stuff, good fun. SC: What has been your toughest battle in your career? Hazlewood: There’s been a few over the years. Obviously, Pujara couple of summers ago was quite tough work. He had a really good series, and probably was the standout batsmen from both sides so he was really hard work. There’s always that group we talk about – Virat Kohli, Joe Root and Kane Williamson along with Stevie (Smith). That group is always the key wicket for each team. AB de Villiers was always a tough battle, pretty happy he has retired from international cricket (laughs). So different team has different players and it is ultimately about adapting to each team. SC: Another part of your career has been injuries. You suffered from back stress fracture early in your career and were withdrawn from the 2010 Australia’s Test tour of India. And since then you have missed a couple of series due to it. So I have two points: 1) How have you dealt with back injuries. 2) What will your tips for the younger players and their coaches who can possibly avoid it in the future? Hazlewood: It’s a tough one the stress fractures. Happens to a lot of fast bowlers. It’s about getting a good natural action with nice rhythm that is easy as possible on your body and suits your style. I have made changes from last 18 months to now. And my action is in a much better position now taking a bit of stress off the back. So the key is to get a nice action which doesn’t put much stress on the lower back. I think dealing with injuries is tough, mentally tough as well. You know, doing rehabs all alone, missing those games for Australia. I think I have been lucky. I have played 51 Tests as you mentioned and I have missed only six or eight since I started. I have had early troubles before I started Test cricket but I think I have an action to withstand the rigors of Test cricket and it is always evolving and try and get to perfection or as close as you can. For youngsters, it is about realizing that it is going to happen at some stage that you are going to get injured and it is about doing all that hard work off the field, be it in the gym or running, working with the coaches to try and minimize the risk of having a big injury. And keep a positive mindset even if you get injured and try and come back stronger. SC: How are you looking at the upcoming training camp? Perfect way to get back to rhythm and fitness back Hazlewood: We are doing as much as we can here in Australia. It is winters here now so it is probably tough to go outside every time. We are doing to a lot with the bowling workloads to get ready. Obviously, we will have to complete our quarantine in England before we start playing and I am assuming that will be close to two weeks. If we have a good 20 guys there and play cricket among us to get prepared because we haven’t played cricket in long time. This has been my longest break since I started playing for Australia so I might be a bit rusty and England obviously are playing at the moment. So they have a bit of a leg up on us. So we will try to create an atmosphere as close to a real match as possible. That’s probably the key. SC: You mentioned about England already playing. I was watching their intra-friendly matches and the likes of Moeen Ali, Tom Banton, Jonny Bairstow, Jason Roy, everyone was smashing it all over the park. So what will be the biggest challenge against this white-ball England team, the world champions? Hazlewood: England are obviously one of the best sides if not the best, especially at home. It will be a huge challenge for us. One thing as a bowling group, we have talked of taking all 10 wickets rather than building pressure in the middle overs and hoping to keep the runs down. We want to be as attacking as much as we can and taking wickets throughout. And then bowl to the lower order in the last 10-15 overs. That helps in being top of the target. As you mentioned those guys are already playing, so it will be about preparations and get match ready quickly. SC: After the England series is the Indian Premier League (IPL). You will be playing for Chennai Super Kings (CSK) – one of the most successful franchises in the history of IPL. How much are you looking forward to IPL? Hazlewood: I am pretty excited actually. It’s been a while that I have been in the squad. I haven’t played a game yet but I was with Mumbai Indians squad in IPL 2014. I have been using this time – April and May – for rest, preparing for other Test tours for Australia. And now it is a good opportunity to play some T20 cricket and put my name up in that format of the game, in which I haven’t played too much. As you said, it is the best T20 competition in the world. So looking forward to it and hopefully to do well for CSK. Jostling into the #AnbuDen is Big Josh from Oz, who's already used to wearing the #yellove! #SuperFam #SuperAuction #WhistlePodu 🦁💛 pic.twitter.com/wqaJJEbMpP — Chennai Super Kings (@ChennaiIPL) December 19, 2019 × WION: Did you follow the auction? Because Pat Cummins was over the moon after it. How were you feeling after CSK got you? Hazlewood: I was ecstatic to be picked up by CSK. Pat was obviously different, and he is pretty excited to be out there and do well for Kolkata. I haven’t played a lot of T20 cricket in the last five years but I am happy CSK gave me an opportunity and hopefully, I can reward them. WION: And are you looking forward to playing under the leadership of MS Dhoni? Hazlewood: Again, I am excited! I think he is a pretty similar player to me – very relaxed and calm – and that’s how I play my best cricket, that’s when I enjoy my cricket. Hopefully, we are a good match. SC: You haven’t played much T20 tournaments in last few years but you have good numbers in whatever matches you have played for Sydney Sixers in Big Bash League. So how are you looking to crack the IPL? Bringing something special in your armory? Hazlewood: I am always working on different deliveries, different change-ups and slower balls. Hopefully in the next couple of months, I can work on settling in and deliver in the IPL. Under a lot of pressure but it is always good to try things. SC: After IPL, the biggest task for Australia will be the India series. The entire world has its eyes on that series. So what do you think will be the biggest challenge for Australia, particularly against the likes of Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma and Cheteshwar Pujara? Hazlewood: Obviously we have got Steve (Smith) and David (Warner) back and Marnus (Labuschagne) has come leaps and bounds. The bowling attack is similar to what it was but it is the batting which now has a lot more depth and experiences from the last time India toured. India’s bowling attack got us last time and that is what we don’t like to happen on our home soil. So we want to get India in that department. But as you said, everyone is going to watch this series. It has almost reach the point where it has reached point like the Ashes now. It is a huge series for both teams and we need to give a payback to India after last time. SC: Any specific plan for Cheteshwar Pujara this time? Hazlewood: (Laughs) Nothing yet. We need to have a few team meetings, bowlers meeting to come up with something. Because obviously, he is a key along with Virat and a few other guys. But if you focus too much on a player then others can hurt you. So the top 6 is always important. SC: And how big will the pink ball Test in Adelaide? Hazlewood: That’s probably huge for us the pink ball Test. We obviously play a lot more Test in Adelaide. We have got some good experience with the pink ball. That’s probably a big positive for us. But again you have to play good cricket. And we are playing in Brisbane as well. We love playing there. So we have got a few things going are way already. It is about executing on the day as well. Things can move pretty quickly in pink ball Test and India have a great pace attack as well. It’s going to be good fun. SC: Coming to the pace attacks of both the teams, how do you compare and differentiate these two pace line-ups? Hazlewood: I think both teams have pretty good depth. We have our three guys who play most of the Tests and then James Pattinson, Jackson Bird, Michael Nesser, Jhye Richardson. We have good depth there, same as India. The variety in both the sides is pretty good, to be honest. Jasprit Bumrah is different to Ishant Sharma and vice-versa. It is a top attack and our batters would want to get their hands up against that attack, which didn’t happen last time (laughs). Hopefully, we will keep them out there for long and wear them down. SC: Do you think it is important to evolve with time and learn new craft such as wobble seam, reverse swing or say knuckle ball in T20s? Hazlewood: Conditions play a big part. If one place is swinging more then it is about is about controlling that swing but if it is not swinging but seaming then it becomes an entire different story. So that happens over time by playing in different grounds in different conditions. Calling that arsenal and bring it on and perform in each and every game. International cricket is a tough game. As you said, it is about evolving with time and improving. SC: What will be your combined India-Australia Test XI? Hazlewood: Starting from quicks, I will have myself in (laughs) with Pat Cummins and Jasprit Bumrah. In Australian conditions, I will have Nathan Lyon and in Indian conditions, Ravichandran Ashwin. Openers would be Mayank Agarwal – taking future in consideration – and David Warner. Steve Smith, Virat Kohli and Cheteshwar Pujara are automatic picks at three, four and five. At no. six…I will have Marnus Labuschagne or Rohit Sharma given their ability to change the game. Josh Hazlewood’s India-Australia combined Test XI: Mayank Agarwal, David Warner, Steve Smith, Virat Kohli, Cheteshwar Pujara, Marnus Labuschagne/Rohit Sharma, Tim Paine (wk), Nathan Lyon/Ravichandran Ashwin, Pat Cummins, Josh Hazlewood, Jasprit Bumrah. SC: What will be you message for fans who are supporting the Sport from home? Hazlewood: Hopefully, we can get some crowd, maybe in the IPL or definitely in India series here in Australia. Football is getting 30,000 audience here in Perth. So I guess there’s a possibility of getting a good crowd in. Obviously, great atmosphere with Indian fans, they a make a lot of noise and they love cricket. And if they are watching it from their couches, then I hope we play some really entertaining cricket for them and hopefully they will enjoy it.

EXCLUSIVE: Australia's Josh Hazlewood opens up on England and India series, IPL 2020, injuries and more

The Emirates Cricket Board is looking to fill-up 30 to 50 per cent of the stadiums with crowds when the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/ipl">Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020</a> kickstarts in the UAE following government approval, ECB secretary Mubashshir Usmani said on Friday.

Earlier, IPL Governing Council Chairman Brijesh Patel had said that the decision on the crowds will be on the UAE government. After announcing the dates of IPL 2020, i.e September 19 to November 8, BCCI is awaiting Indian government’s approval to shift the cash-rich tournament in the UAE.&nbsp;

"Once we get the confirmation from the BCCI (on Indian government's approval), we will go to our government with the complete proposal and SOPs which will be prepared by us and the BCCI," Usmani told PTI.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/exclusive-marnus-labuschagne-thriving-to-be-the-best-316956" hreflang="en">Exclusive | Marnus Labuschagne: Thriving to be the best</a>

"We will definitely want our people to experience this prestigious event but it is totally the government's decision. For most events here, the number ranges from thirty to 50 percent capacity, we are looking at a similar number.

"We are hopeful of getting our government's approval on that," he added.

The UAE has just over 6000 active cases of coronavirus and the overall situation around the dreaded virus is under control. Usmani said that people in the UAE are living almost a normal life with certain rules and protocols while adding the situation will be better by the time IPL starts.&nbsp;

"The UAE government has been very efficient in bringing down the case numbers. We are almost living a normal life with certain rules and protocols to be followed.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/exclusive-australias-josh-hazlewood-opens-up-on-england-and-india-series-ipl-2020-injuries-and-more-316469" hreflang="en">EXCLUSIVE: Australia's Josh Hazlewood opens up on England and India series, IPL 2020, injuries and more</a>

"And with the IPL still some time way, we will be in an even better place than what it is right now."

The IPL Governing Council will meet on Sunday to take a final call on the logistics and SOP for the biggest T20 tournament.&nbsp;

Usmani said the UAE is ready to host the event and is only awaiting the Indian government's approval, "which should come through soon", going by what Patel said at the time of announcing the tournament dates.

"We are still waiting to hear from the BCCI on the Indian government's approval. Having said that, we are ready," Usmani said.

"We have plug and play facilities here and have informed them (officials at Dubai, Abu Dhabi and Sharjah stadiums) to be ready and they are fully aware of it."

Asked if managing the training schedules of eight teams will be a challenge, Usmani said: "UAE is blessed with the support of private infrastructure. We are able to deliver such events and have delivered before. Last year, we hosted the T20 World Cup qualifier which had 14 teams."

The UAE had partially hosted the IPL in 2014 due to the general elections in India.

"Last time also, it contributed significantly to the UAE economy. With the full tournament taking place this time, it will be a much bigger boost," added Usmani.

(With PTI inputs)

The Emirates Cricket Board is looking to fill-up 30 to 50 per cent of the stadiums with crowds when the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020 kickstarts in the UAE following government approval, ECB secretary Mubashshir Usmani said on Friday.

The Emirates Cricket Board is looking to fill-up 30 to 50 per cent of the stadiums with crowds when the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020 kickstarts in the UAE following government approval, ECB secretary Mubashshir Usmani said on Friday. Earlier, IPL Governing Council Chairman Brijesh Patel had said that the decision on the crowds will be on the UAE government. After announcing the dates of IPL 2020, i.e September 19 to November 8, BCCI is awaiting Indian government’s approval to shift the cash-rich tournament in the UAE. "Once we get the confirmation from the BCCI (on Indian government's approval), we will go to our government with the complete proposal and SOPs which will be prepared by us and the BCCI," Usmani told PTI. ALSO READ: Exclusive | Marnus Labuschagne: Thriving to be the best "We will definitely want our people to experience this prestigious event but it is totally the government's decision. For most events here, the number ranges from thirty to 50 percent capacity, we are looking at a similar number. "We are hopeful of getting our government's approval on that," he added. The UAE has just over 6000 active cases of coronavirus and the overall situation around the dreaded virus is under control. Usmani said that people in the UAE are living almost a normal life with certain rules and protocols while adding the situation will be better by the time IPL starts. "The UAE government has been very efficient in bringing down the case numbers. We are almost living a normal life with certain rules and protocols to be followed. ALSO READ: EXCLUSIVE: Australia's Josh Hazlewood opens up on England and India series, IPL 2020, injuries and more "And with the IPL still some time way, we will be in an even better place than what it is right now." The IPL Governing Council will meet on Sunday to take a final call on the logistics and SOP for the biggest T20 tournament. Usmani said the UAE is ready to host the event and is only awaiting the Indian government's approval, "which should come through soon", going by what Patel said at the time of announcing the tournament dates. "We are still waiting to hear from the BCCI on the Indian government's approval. Having said that, we are ready," Usmani said. "We have plug and play facilities here and have informed them (officials at Dubai, Abu Dhabi and Sharjah stadiums) to be ready and they are fully aware of it." Asked if managing the training schedules of eight teams will be a challenge, Usmani said: "UAE is blessed with the support of private infrastructure. We are able to deliver such events and have delivered before. Last year, we hosted the T20 World Cup qualifier which had 14 teams." The UAE had partially hosted the IPL in 2014 due to the general elections in India. "Last time also, it contributed significantly to the UAE economy. With the full tournament taking place this time, it will be a much bigger boost," added Usmani. (With PTI inputs)

IPL 2020: Emirates Cricket Board to fill 30 to 50 per cent of stadiums in UAE

Indian skipper Virat Kohli and his wife Anushka Sharma on Thursday asked people to donate for Assam and Bihar flood relief. Kohli, taking to social media platform Instagram, announced that they have pledged to donate to the relief funds while urging people to contribute towards the same cause.

On Friday, Kohli shared another video clip to urge people to contribute towards Assam and Bihar flood relief, that he wreaked havoc in both the Indian states and disrupted daily life. Kohli, along with other elite sportspersons, like KL Rahul, Sania Mirza, Kuldeep Yadav, Yuzvendra Chahal, Harmanpreet Kaur, Wriddhiman Saha and Shubman Gill, have decided to auction their prized possessions in a bid to raise funds for the flood victims.&nbsp;

“#WeAreTogetherForAssamAndBihar Our countrymen need us in these troubled times. Let’s do our part in helping them,” tweeted Kohli.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/exclusive-marnus-labuschagne-thriving-to-be-the-best-316956" hreflang="en">Exclusive | Marnus Labuschagne: Thriving to be the best</a>

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WeAreTogetherForAssamAndBihar?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WeAreTogetherForAssamAndBihar</a> 
 
Our countrymen need us in these troubled times. Let's do our part in helping them.<a href="https://twitter.com/cornerstoneway?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@cornerstoneway</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/theawarefound?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@theawarefound</a><a href="https://t.co/DT7Q2tiBLN">https://t.co/DT7Q2tiBLN</a> <a href="https://t.co/9AyMHyNw5J">pic.twitter.com/9AyMHyNw5J</a>
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In Bihar, over three lakh people have been evacuated so far with over 25,000 people put in 19 relief camps. Whereas in Assam, at least 107 people have died. A total of 208 relief camps have been set up which now have more than 37,000 people.

Kohli put up a pair of bats signed by him for auction, whereas Saha put his signed Test jersey. Kuldeep auctioned his hat-trick ball while Chahal put the match-ball by which he picked up a five-fer against South Africa.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/exclusive-australias-josh-hazlewood-opens-up-on-england-and-india-series-ipl-2020-injuries-and-more-316469" hreflang="en">EXCLUSIVE: Australia's Josh Hazlewood opens up on England and India series, IPL 2020, injuries and more</a>

Rahul auctioned the bat which he used to smash the fastest IPL half-century, whereas Harmanpreet put her 100th T20I jersey for auction. Shubman Gill put up his signed Test jersey while Sania decised to auction the racquet with which she won the Australian Open women’s double in 2016.

The sportspersons asked everyone to participate in the auctions as the proceedings will go straight to the people affected by floods in Assam and Bihar.

Indian skipper Virat Kohli and his wife Anushka Sharma on Thursday asked people to donate for Assam and Bihar flood relief. Kohli, taking to social media platform Instagram, announced that they have pledged to donate to the relief funds while urging people to contribute towards the same cause.

Indian skipper Virat Kohli and his wife Anushka Sharma on Thursday asked people to donate for Assam and Bihar flood relief. Kohli, taking to social media platform Instagram, announced that they have pledged to donate to the relief funds while urging people to contribute towards the same cause. On Friday, Kohli shared another video clip to urge people to contribute towards Assam and Bihar flood relief, that he wreaked havoc in both the Indian states and disrupted daily life. Kohli, along with other elite sportspersons, like KL Rahul, Sania Mirza, Kuldeep Yadav, Yuzvendra Chahal, Harmanpreet Kaur, Wriddhiman Saha and Shubman Gill, have decided to auction their prized possessions in a bid to raise funds for the flood victims. “#WeAreTogetherForAssamAndBihar Our countrymen need us in these troubled times. Let’s do our part in helping them,” tweeted Kohli. ALSO READ: Exclusive | Marnus Labuschagne: Thriving to be the best #WeAreTogetherForAssamAndBihar Our countrymen need us in these troubled times. Let's do our part in helping them.@cornerstoneway @theawarefoundhttps://t.co/DT7Q2tiBLN pic.twitter.com/9AyMHyNw5J — Virat Kohli (@imVkohli) July 31, 2020 × In Bihar, over three lakh people have been evacuated so far with over 25,000 people put in 19 relief camps. Whereas in Assam, at least 107 people have died. A total of 208 relief camps have been set up which now have more than 37,000 people. Kohli put up a pair of bats signed by him for auction, whereas Saha put his signed Test jersey. Kuldeep auctioned his hat-trick ball while Chahal put the match-ball by which he picked up a five-fer against South Africa. ALSO READ: EXCLUSIVE: Australia's Josh Hazlewood opens up on England and India series, IPL 2020, injuries and more Rahul auctioned the bat which he used to smash the fastest IPL half-century, whereas Harmanpreet put her 100th T20I jersey for auction. Shubman Gill put up his signed Test jersey while Sania decised to auction the racquet with which she won the Australian Open women’s double in 2016. The sportspersons asked everyone to participate in the auctions as the proceedings will go straight to the people affected by floods in Assam and Bihar.

Kohli, Rahul and others auction prized possession to raise funds for Bihar, Assam flood victims

Biju George, the coach of Sanju Samson believes that the right-handed batsman will have a golden chance to cement his place in the T20 World Cup 2021 squad if he performs well in the two <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/ipl?page=1">IPL</a>s which will be played in a span of seven months.Samson was just 11-years-old when he started training under coach Biju George in Thiruvananthapuram.

At that time, George was a cricket coach at the Sports Authority of India`s cricket training centre. The <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/ipl">IPL 2020</a> is slated to start from September 19 in the UAE, while next year, the tournament is likely to be played in its normal window (March-May).

The T20 World Cup slated to be played this year in Australia has been postponed due to the coronavirus pandemic, and now it will go ahead next year either in India or Australia.

"Yes absolutely, I think it is a golden chance for him to make his place in the T20 World Cup 2021 squad. If you look at his white-ball career, he has been consistent at it and I am sure he will perform, he has been consistent ever since he made his debut in IPL," George told ANI while talking about Samson`s chances to make it to the T20 World Cup squad.

"I do not think Samson will have any pressure on him when he goes in to play the IPL. This year, he has put in the maximum preparation, I have never seen him more focused, he was even working out when we were in lockdown in Trivandrum," he added.

The 25-year-old will be representing Rajasthan Royals in the IPL this year.Samson has so far played 93 matches in the IPL, managing to score 1,696 runs at an average of 27.61 with his highest score being 102 not out. The batsman has been a part of India`s T20I squad for the past six months, but the player did not find many chances to feature in the playing XI.

Since then, Samson`s exclusion from the playing XI has been a subject of severe criticism. Firstly, Rishabh Pant was getting the nod in front of Samson, and later KL Rahul started performing well to feature permanently as the first-choice wicket-keeper in the white-ball format.

However, George believes that every cricketer in the Indian dressing room might be worried as Samson has a knack of producing quality innings in the IPL. "Every cricketer in the Indian dressing room knows that IPL is where Sanju Samson comes to play, comes to the party actually.

He plays some outstandings knocks in this tournament," George said."Rishabh Pant is a left-hander as compared to KL Rahul and Sanju Samson so he might be getting the nod because of this reason. But nowadays, you do not care whether you are a left-hander or right-hander," he added.

Samson has so far played 4 T20Is for India, in which he has registered 35 runs.The batsman was last seen in action in a T20I match against New Zealand earlier this year.&nbsp;

Biju George, the coach of Sanju Samson believes that the right-handed batsman will have a golden chance to cement his place in the T20 World Cup 2021 squad if he performs well in the two IPLs which will be played in a span of seven months.

Biju George, the coach of Sanju Samson believes that the right-handed batsman will have a golden chance to cement his place in the T20 World Cup 2021 squad if he performs well in the two IPLs which will be played in a span of seven months.Samson was just 11-years-old when he started training under coach Biju George in Thiruvananthapuram. At that time, George was a cricket coach at the Sports Authority of India`s cricket training centre. The IPL 2020 is slated to start from September 19 in the UAE, while next year, the tournament is likely to be played in its normal window (March-May). The T20 World Cup slated to be played this year in Australia has been postponed due to the coronavirus pandemic, and now it will go ahead next year either in India or Australia. "Yes absolutely, I think it is a golden chance for him to make his place in the T20 World Cup 2021 squad. If you look at his white-ball career, he has been consistent at it and I am sure he will perform, he has been consistent ever since he made his debut in IPL," George told ANI while talking about Samson`s chances to make it to the T20 World Cup squad. "I do not think Samson will have any pressure on him when he goes in to play the IPL. This year, he has put in the maximum preparation, I have never seen him more focused, he was even working out when we were in lockdown in Trivandrum," he added. The 25-year-old will be representing Rajasthan Royals in the IPL this year.Samson has so far played 93 matches in the IPL, managing to score 1,696 runs at an average of 27.61 with his highest score being 102 not out. The batsman has been a part of India`s T20I squad for the past six months, but the player did not find many chances to feature in the playing XI. Since then, Samson`s exclusion from the playing XI has been a subject of severe criticism. Firstly, Rishabh Pant was getting the nod in front of Samson, and later KL Rahul started performing well to feature permanently as the first-choice wicket-keeper in the white-ball format. However, George believes that every cricketer in the Indian dressing room might be worried as Samson has a knack of producing quality innings in the IPL. "Every cricketer in the Indian dressing room knows that IPL is where Sanju Samson comes to play, comes to the party actually. He plays some outstandings knocks in this tournament," George said."Rishabh Pant is a left-hander as compared to KL Rahul and Sanju Samson so he might be getting the nod because of this reason. But nowadays, you do not care whether you are a left-hander or right-hander," he added. Samson has so far played 4 T20Is for India, in which he has registered 35 runs.The batsman was last seen in action in a T20I match against New Zealand earlier this year.

Samson will definitely perform in IPL, have never seen him more focused: Coach Biju George

Australian batsman Marnus Labuschagne has made a significant impact in the Aussie side since making his Test debut against Pakistan in October 2018. Since then he has scored 1459 runs in 14 Tests at a staggering average of 63.43 while becoming a vital part of the Australian batting line-up. In ODIs, Labuschagne has already hammered a century and couple of 50s in just seven matches making him one of the hottest property in world cricket. However, the T20 platform still remains untouched for the youngster.&nbsp;

Having played just 10 matches in the Big Bash League for Brisbane Heat, Labuschagne is yet to make his T20I debut for Australia. However, he wants to become a mainstay for Australia across formats if the hectic schedule permits him to do so.&nbsp;

When asked about whom he wants to emulate in becoming consistent across all three formats, Labuschagne named Steve Smith, Virat Kohli and David Warner for their ability to switch their mindset and carry forward their form in whatever format they are playing.

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“It is really important in modern day cricket to be able to switch in between format to format. It’s definitely something I personally want – just stay ready – and obviously you have to do some things differently in your preparations and the way you prepare for a game. All and all, it is a massive part of the game. You look at guys like Virat Kohli, whose able to switch between all three formats; Steve Smith and David Warner, and have success. Consistently there is a benchmark. And the target is to hit those standards,” Labuschagne told WION in an exclusive interview.

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“Absolutely, I definitely want to be playing all three formats. For me it doesn’t matter where my opportunity comes and I am playing a T20 game then it is important for me to make sure that I am understanding my role within that team and how I want to approach that format of the game. Like you said, I haven’t played too many T20 games, but with the schedule I don’t think I am going to play too many either. So for me, it is about learning in ODI cricket and making sure that I am ready to grab any opportunity that come my way,” the No. 3 ranked ICC Test batsman added.&nbsp;

The biggest challenge for Australia after the resumption of cricket post-COVID will be the forthcoming four-match Test series against India, scheduled to start in December. Labuschagne said he was excited to face India again while adding it is going to be a spectacle with two of the best Test nations facing each other in the longest format of the game.&nbsp;

“I can’t wait, I can’t wait for it to start! Very excited for it to get underway. Two of the best Test nations in the world going at it. That’s what we want to see. That’s what people want to see. Not only me but the whole team is excited for that challenge. Two good teams, two good bowling attacks coming head-to-head, what’s not to like!,” Labuschagne said. 
&nbsp;

Australian batsman Marnus Labuschagne has made a significant impact in the Aussie side since making his Test debut against Pakistan in October 2018. Since then he has scored 1459 runs in 14 Tests at a staggering average of 63.

Australian batsman Marnus Labuschagne has made a significant impact in the Aussie side since making his Test debut against Pakistan in October 2018. Since then he has scored 1459 runs in 14 Tests at a staggering average of 63.43 while becoming a vital part of the Australian batting line-up. In ODIs, Labuschagne has already hammered a century and couple of 50s in just seven matches making him one of the hottest property in world cricket. However, the T20 platform still remains untouched for the youngster. Having played just 10 matches in the Big Bash League for Brisbane Heat, Labuschagne is yet to make his T20I debut for Australia. However, he wants to become a mainstay for Australia across formats if the hectic schedule permits him to do so. When asked about whom he wants to emulate in becoming consistent across all three formats, Labuschagne named Steve Smith, Virat Kohli and David Warner for their ability to switch their mindset and carry forward their form in whatever format they are playing. × ALSO READ: Exclusive | Marnus Labuschagne: Thriving to be the best “It is really important in modern day cricket to be able to switch in between format to format. It’s definitely something I personally want – just stay ready – and obviously you have to do some things differently in your preparations and the way you prepare for a game. All and all, it is a massive part of the game. You look at guys like Virat Kohli, whose able to switch between all three formats; Steve Smith and David Warner, and have success. Consistently there is a benchmark. And the target is to hit those standards,” Labuschagne told WION in an exclusive interview. “Absolutely, I definitely want to be playing all three formats. For me it doesn’t matter where my opportunity comes and I am playing a T20 game then it is important for me to make sure that I am understanding my role within that team and how I want to approach that format of the game. Like you said, I haven’t played too many T20 games, but with the schedule I don’t think I am going to play too many either. So for me, it is about learning in ODI cricket and making sure that I am ready to grab any opportunity that come my way,” the No. 3 ranked ICC Test batsman added. The biggest challenge for Australia after the resumption of cricket post-COVID will be the forthcoming four-match Test series against India, scheduled to start in December. Labuschagne said he was excited to face India again while adding it is going to be a spectacle with two of the best Test nations facing each other in the longest format of the game. “I can’t wait, I can’t wait for it to start! Very excited for it to get underway. Two of the best Test nations in the world going at it. That’s what we want to see. That’s what people want to see. Not only me but the whole team is excited for that challenge. Two good teams, two good bowling attacks coming head-to-head, what’s not to like!,” Labuschagne said.

Marnus Labuschagne: Kohli, Smith and Warner benchmarks of modern cricket

There will be no fans allowed inside the stadiums, in the beginning of much-awaited <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/ipl">Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020 </a>with the commentators sitting six feet apart in studios. Dugouts will be less crowded with not more than 15 players in the dressing room.

Even the post-match ceremonies will be done keeping social distancing norms in mind with four COVID-19 tests in two weeks for all the players, as per some of the key guidelines in the Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) prepared by the BCCI, that will be soon sent to all the IPL franchises for the cash-rich tournament, set to be held in the UAE from September to November.

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While the BCCI is still awaiting government’s approval to shift IPL 2020 to the UAE, Emirates Cricket Board has confirmed that it will be hosting the event after receiving the request from the Indian board.

As per a report in The Indian Express, a BCCI official has said that not just the players, their wives and girlfriends (WAGs) and franchise owners will have to follow all the norms for the ‘bio-bubble’ that will be created for IPL 2020.&nbsp;

“Once they are in the bio-bubble, no one can break it and rejoin,” the official said.

“The BCCI will not decide whether WAGs and family members can travel with the players, we have left it to the franchises. But we have put out a protocol in which everyone, even team bus drivers, can’t leave the bio-bubble,” the official said. “The SOP will be handed over to the franchises once we have a meeting with them next week. If they have any grievances, they can come back to the board and we will discuss it.”

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2020-bcci-likely-to-postpone-final-from-november-8-to-10-report-316975" hreflang="en">IPL 2020: BCCI likely to postpone final from November 8 to 10 - Report</a>

Two COVID-19 tests will be conducted on players in India prior to their departure and two during quarantine period in the UAE. The SOPs have been created on the lines of the England and Wales Cricket Board for the Test series against the WIndies.

All the players will need to enter the bio-bubble together. &nbsp;Even the teams won’t be permitted to change hotels once they are allotted.

Franchises will have to work out the logistics and hotel arrangements with the board helping them to get discounts during bookings. The BCCI will hand over SOPs to broadcasters and match officials, as well.

“We don’t want to take risks. At least for the early part of the tournament, the games will be played behind closed doors,” the official said.

There will be no fans allowed inside the stadiums, in the beginning of much-awaited Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020 with the commentators sitting six feet apart in studios.

There will be no fans allowed inside the stadiums, in the beginning of much-awaited Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020 with the commentators sitting six feet apart in studios. Dugouts will be less crowded with not more than 15 players in the dressing room. Even the post-match ceremonies will be done keeping social distancing norms in mind with four COVID-19 tests in two weeks for all the players, as per some of the key guidelines in the Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) prepared by the BCCI, that will be soon sent to all the IPL franchises for the cash-rich tournament, set to be held in the UAE from September to November. ALSO READ: Exclusive | Marnus Labuschagne: Thriving to be the best While the BCCI is still awaiting government’s approval to shift IPL 2020 to the UAE, Emirates Cricket Board has confirmed that it will be hosting the event after receiving the request from the Indian board. As per a report in The Indian Express, a BCCI official has said that not just the players, their wives and girlfriends (WAGs) and franchise owners will have to follow all the norms for the ‘bio-bubble’ that will be created for IPL 2020. “Once they are in the bio-bubble, no one can break it and rejoin,” the official said. “The BCCI will not decide whether WAGs and family members can travel with the players, we have left it to the franchises. But we have put out a protocol in which everyone, even team bus drivers, can’t leave the bio-bubble,” the official said. “The SOP will be handed over to the franchises once we have a meeting with them next week. If they have any grievances, they can come back to the board and we will discuss it.” ALSO READ: IPL 2020: BCCI likely to postpone final from November 8 to 10 - Report Two COVID-19 tests will be conducted on players in India prior to their departure and two during quarantine period in the UAE. The SOPs have been created on the lines of the England and Wales Cricket Board for the Test series against the WIndies. All the players will need to enter the bio-bubble together. Even the teams won’t be permitted to change hotels once they are allotted. Franchises will have to work out the logistics and hotel arrangements with the board helping them to get discounts during bookings. The BCCI will hand over SOPs to broadcasters and match officials, as well. “We don’t want to take risks. At least for the early part of the tournament, the games will be played behind closed doors,” the official said.

No fans and 4 tests in two weeks for players as IPL 2020 gears up for commencement

After IPL Governing Council Chairman confirmed that the 13 edition of the tournament will take place from September 19 to November 8, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is looking to shift the final to November 10 while keeping the schedule of India’s tour of Australia in mind.

With the change in schedule, the Indian team can directly depart from the UAE to Australia instead of coming back to India.

However, the starting date of the tournament is unlikely to be changed which means IPL 2020 might be played for 53 days instead of 51. The final call will be taken at the IPL Governing Council meeting which is scheduled to take place on August 2.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/exclusive-marnus-labuschagne-thriving-to-be-the-best-316956" hreflang="en">Exclusive | Marnus Labuschagne: Thriving to be the best</a>

November 10, comes in Diwali week, which will make the host broadcaster happy. But the primary reason for the change is said to the due to the commitment made to Cricket Australia which will see the Indian players take a direct flight from the UAE to Australia.&nbsp;

“Even if the players are left without any IPL matches, they will continue to remain in UAE and participate in a camp there,” TOI quoted sources as saying. “As soon as the IPL is over, the remaining players busy playing the final knockout matches of the league will join the rest and the entire team will fly together from there”.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/anti-doping-measures-at-ipl-nada-might-outsource-sample-collection-316804" hreflang="en">Anti-Doping measures at IPL: NADA might outsource sample collection</a>

With the Aussie tour also a lengthy assignment, the Indian players in the squad would not return home for the rest of the year.&nbsp;

Player might get irked with the move given the present of bio-secure protocols which keeps the player confine to a hotel.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

After IPL Governing Council Chairman confirmed that the 13 edition of the tournament will take place from September 19 to November 8, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is looking to shift the final to November 10 while keeping the schedule of India’s tour of Australia in mind.

After IPL Governing Council Chairman confirmed that the 13 edition of the tournament will take place from September 19 to November 8, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is looking to shift the final to November 10 while keeping the schedule of India’s tour of Australia in mind. With the change in schedule, the Indian team can directly depart from the UAE to Australia instead of coming back to India. However, the starting date of the tournament is unlikely to be changed which means IPL 2020 might be played for 53 days instead of 51. The final call will be taken at the IPL Governing Council meeting which is scheduled to take place on August 2. ALSO READ: Exclusive | Marnus Labuschagne: Thriving to be the best November 10, comes in Diwali week, which will make the host broadcaster happy. But the primary reason for the change is said to the due to the commitment made to Cricket Australia which will see the Indian players take a direct flight from the UAE to Australia. “Even if the players are left without any IPL matches, they will continue to remain in UAE and participate in a camp there,” TOI quoted sources as saying. “As soon as the IPL is over, the remaining players busy playing the final knockout matches of the league will join the rest and the entire team will fly together from there”. ALSO READ: Anti-Doping measures at IPL: NADA might outsource sample collection With the Aussie tour also a lengthy assignment, the Indian players in the squad would not return home for the rest of the year. Player might get irked with the move given the present of bio-secure protocols which keeps the player confine to a hotel.

IPL 2020: BCCI likely to postpone final from November 8 to 10 - Report

Pakistan wicketkeeper-batsman Umar Akmal’s suspension has been reduced to 18 months after a trial procedure with independent adjudicator Faqir Muhammad Khokhar, a former Supreme Court judge, Justice (retd). Akmal was earlier handed a three-year ban on April 27 by a Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) disciplinary panel, which found him guilty of breaching Article 2.4.4 of the PCB Anti-Corruption Code over two separate incidents.&nbsp;

Akmal’s suspension, which started ahead of this year’s Pakistan Super League (PSL) in February, will stay in effect until August 2021, and comes as a huge relief for the 30-year-old.&nbsp;

The Article 2.4.4 of the PCB Anti-Corruptin Code relates to: "Failing to disclose to the PCB Vigilance and Security Department (without unnecessary delay) full details of any approaches or invitations received by the Participant to engage in Corrupt Conduct under this Anti-Corruption Code".

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/broad-says-he-could-be-last-paceman-in-500-club-316665" hreflang="en">Broad says he could be last paceman in '500 club'</a>

Akmal was provisionally suspended on February 17 and was withdrawn from PSL 2020 and was later charged by the PCB on March 20 after which his case was handed over to the PCB Disciplinary Panel. He didn’t contest the charges before an Anti-Corruption Tribunal.&nbsp;

The Pakistan batsman decided to appeal against the length of the three-year suspension on May 19 after which an independent adjudicator was appointed.

Akmal’s appeal was based on the narrative that players who were found guilty of similar incidents were handed lighter sanctions. Mohammad Irfan was banned for six months in 2017 whereas Mohammad Nawaz was handed a two-month ban. Akmal was handed a lengthy sanction for failing to show sufficient remorse but it has now been slashed to 18 months.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/jason-holder-wants-england-to-reciprocate-with-windies-tour-316657" hreflang="en">Jason Holder wants England to reciprocate with Windies tour</a>

Akmal’s 18-month suspension is the latest development in the once-promising career troubled by controversies. Before the corruption allegations in February, Akmal had allegedly misbehaved with a staff member after failing a fitness test. However, the PCB had put the episode as “misunderstanding” after an inquiry.

Pakistan wicketkeeper-batsman Umar Akmal’s suspension has been reduced to 18 months after a trial procedure with independent adjudicator Faqir Muhammad Khokhar, a former Supreme Court judge, Justice (retd).

Pakistan wicketkeeper-batsman Umar Akmal’s suspension has been reduced to 18 months after a trial procedure with independent adjudicator Faqir Muhammad Khokhar, a former Supreme Court judge, Justice (retd). Akmal was earlier handed a three-year ban on April 27 by a Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) disciplinary panel, which found him guilty of breaching Article 2.4.4 of the PCB Anti-Corruption Code over two separate incidents. Akmal’s suspension, which started ahead of this year’s Pakistan Super League (PSL) in February, will stay in effect until August 2021, and comes as a huge relief for the 30-year-old. The Article 2.4.4 of the PCB Anti-Corruptin Code relates to: "Failing to disclose to the PCB Vigilance and Security Department (without unnecessary delay) full details of any approaches or invitations received by the Participant to engage in Corrupt Conduct under this Anti-Corruption Code". ALSO READ: Broad says he could be last paceman in '500 club' Akmal was provisionally suspended on February 17 and was withdrawn from PSL 2020 and was later charged by the PCB on March 20 after which his case was handed over to the PCB Disciplinary Panel. He didn’t contest the charges before an Anti-Corruption Tribunal. The Pakistan batsman decided to appeal against the length of the three-year suspension on May 19 after which an independent adjudicator was appointed. Akmal’s appeal was based on the narrative that players who were found guilty of similar incidents were handed lighter sanctions. Mohammad Irfan was banned for six months in 2017 whereas Mohammad Nawaz was handed a two-month ban. Akmal was handed a lengthy sanction for failing to show sufficient remorse but it has now been slashed to 18 months. ALSO READ: Jason Holder wants England to reciprocate with Windies tour Akmal’s 18-month suspension is the latest development in the once-promising career troubled by controversies. Before the corruption allegations in February, Akmal had allegedly misbehaved with a staff member after failing a fitness test. However, the PCB had put the episode as “misunderstanding” after an inquiry.

Umar Akmal's ban halved to 18 months by Independent Adjudicator

Stuart Broad said changes to the global cricket calendar could mean he will be the last paceman to take 500 Test wickets.

Broad reached the landmark figure by trapping Kraigg Brathwaite plumb lbw as England completed a dominant 269-run win in the third Test against the West Indies at Old Trafford on Tuesday that saw the hosts to a 2-1 series victory.

The 34-year-old Broad is only the seventh bowler in history to have taken 500 Test wickets and the fourth quick.

When Fred Trueman became the first man to take 300 Test wickets back in 1964, the outstanding England fast bowler, asked if anyone might break his record, reportedly replied: "Aye, but whoever does will be bloody tired."

Broad, whose one-day international career was effectively ended by England in 2016 to keep him going in the Test match arena, said scheduling would now be the issue for a fast bowler wanting to join him in the '500 club'.&nbsp;

"Someone is going to have to play a lot of cricket because there is a lot of competition out there, between different T20 leagues franchises, 100-ball."

Broad, who also marked his 140th Test with a match haul of 10-67, added: "I feel very lucky to have played for England in an era where we've played a lot of Test cricket in the summer and a lot in the winter.

"I think there's talk of thinning the amount of Tests we play in a summer down."

Among active bowlers, only Australia off-spinner Nathan Lyon, with 390 Test wickets, would appear to have much hope of becoming the eighth member of a select group.

<h2>- Anderson inspiration -</h2>

"You need a lot of Test matches to get 500 wickets," said Broad.

"I think there'll be people who have the talent to get the numbers but whether they'll be able to play the amount of Test cricket the seam bowlers have to get that feat remains to be seen," he added.

Broad's longtime new-ball colleague James Anderson, who is approaching 600 Test wickets, suggested before play Tuesday that the Nottinghamshire seamer could surpass his eventual tally.

"I've never even thought about that," said Broad. "(But) why not try and follow in Jimmy's footsteps? He's been wonderful to play with.

"If I keep bowling the way I am for the next few years then I wouldn't rule anything out."

Broad ended the West Indies series as the leading bowler on either side, with 16 wickets at a miserly average of 10.93, despite being controversially left out of England's defeat in the first Test at Southampton.&nbsp;

"I thought 'where am I going here?'" admitted Broad. "I'm glad I stayed strong because I'm very happy two weeks later."

Stuart Broad said changes to the global cricket calendar could mean he will be the last paceman to take 500 Test wickets. Broad reached the landmark figure by trapping Kraigg Brathwaite plumb lbw as England completed a dominant 269-run win in the third Test against the West Indies at Old Trafford on Tuesday that saw the hosts to a 2-1 series victory.

Stuart Broad said changes to the global cricket calendar could mean he will be the last paceman to take 500 Test wickets. Broad reached the landmark figure by trapping Kraigg Brathwaite plumb lbw as England completed a dominant 269-run win in the third Test against the West Indies at Old Trafford on Tuesday that saw the hosts to a 2-1 series victory. The 34-year-old Broad is only the seventh bowler in history to have taken 500 Test wickets and the fourth quick. When Fred Trueman became the first man to take 300 Test wickets back in 1964, the outstanding England fast bowler, asked if anyone might break his record, reportedly replied: "Aye, but whoever does will be bloody tired." Broad, whose one-day international career was effectively ended by England in 2016 to keep him going in the Test match arena, said scheduling would now be the issue for a fast bowler wanting to join him in the '500 club'. "Someone is going to have to play a lot of cricket because there is a lot of competition out there, between different T20 leagues franchises, 100-ball." Broad, who also marked his 140th Test with a match haul of 10-67, added: "I feel very lucky to have played for England in an era where we've played a lot of Test cricket in the summer and a lot in the winter. "I think there's talk of thinning the amount of Tests we play in a summer down." Among active bowlers, only Australia off-spinner Nathan Lyon, with 390 Test wickets, would appear to have much hope of becoming the eighth member of a select group. - Anderson inspiration - "You need a lot of Test matches to get 500 wickets," said Broad. "I think there'll be people who have the talent to get the numbers but whether they'll be able to play the amount of Test cricket the seam bowlers have to get that feat remains to be seen," he added. Broad's longtime new-ball colleague James Anderson, who is approaching 600 Test wickets, suggested before play Tuesday that the Nottinghamshire seamer could surpass his eventual tally. "I've never even thought about that," said Broad. "(But) why not try and follow in Jimmy's footsteps? He's been wonderful to play with. "If I keep bowling the way I am for the next few years then I wouldn't rule anything out." Broad ended the West Indies series as the leading bowler on either side, with 16 wickets at a miserly average of 10.93, despite being controversially left out of England's defeat in the first Test at Southampton. "I thought 'where am I going here?'" admitted Broad. "I'm glad I stayed strong because I'm very happy two weeks later."

Broad says he could be last paceman in '500 club'

International cricket's first major campaign since the coronavirus lockdown saw England triumph 2-1 in a three-Test series against the West Indies following a 269-run victory at Old Trafford on Tuesday.

Below AFP Sport looks at three things we learned from a fascinating contest:

<h2>- 'Bubble cricket' can work -</h2>

Despite fears life in a bio-secure bubble, with teams holed up in onsite hotels and no spectators allowed into grounds to guard against the spread of COVID-19, might produce equally sterile cricket, both sides produced a high standard of play.

Fears a ban on shining the ball with saliva would neuter bowlers proved largely groundless, with sweat allied to seam movement off the pitch and helpful overhead conditions, allied to the skills of the attacks, ensuring batsmen had to work hard for their runs.

Meanwhile two England's 'big match' performers played key roles despite a lack of crowd support, with Ben Stokes scoring 176 and 78 not out in the second Test and paceman Stuart Broad becoming just the seventh bowler to take 500 Test wickets when he reached the landmark on Tuesday.

The one concerning moment came when England had to omit Jofra Archer from the second Test after it emerged the fast bowler had breached regulations by making an unauthorised trip home following the West Indies' four-wicket win in the series opener at Southampton.

England managing director Ashley Giles said Archer's error "could have cost us tens of millions of pounds" but he added the Sussex quick was a "fine young man" who would learn from his mistake.

<h2>- Holding 'bouncers' still hitting the mark -&nbsp;</h2>

This series may have been played in a bubble but it did not take place in a vacuum, with both teams -- and the match officials -- taking a knee before each Test in support of Black Lives Matter, a campaign given fresh global impetus by the death of George Floyd in police custody in the United States in May.

Former West Indies fast bowler turned television commentator Michael Holding, once the most feared of quicks, showed he could unleash a verbal, as well as physical, bouncer with an impassioned, off the cuff speech, on the first morning of the series as he called for a shake-up of the education system while criticising those who had told him to "get over" racism.

"How do you get rid of that (racism) in society? By educating both sides -- black and white," he insisted.

<h2>- Challenge Gough at your peril -</h2>

Due to travel restrictions imposed by the pandemic, this series saw the return of two home umpires standing in a Test, with teams granted an extra review per innings in recognition at the lack of neutral officials.

But when Michael Gough was in the middle for the second and third Tests at Old Trafford, his naked eye verdicts were repeatedly upheld by the Decision Review System. &nbsp;

The 40-year-old Englishman had a modest career as a Durham opening batsman, but Gough is fast becoming a top umpire.

International cricket's first major campaign since the coronavirus lockdown saw England triumph 2-1 in a three-Test series against the West Indies following a 269-run victory at Old Trafford on Tuesday.

International cricket's first major campaign since the coronavirus lockdown saw England triumph 2-1 in a three-Test series against the West Indies following a 269-run victory at Old Trafford on Tuesday. Below AFP Sport looks at three things we learned from a fascinating contest: - 'Bubble cricket' can work - Despite fears life in a bio-secure bubble, with teams holed up in onsite hotels and no spectators allowed into grounds to guard against the spread of COVID-19, might produce equally sterile cricket, both sides produced a high standard of play. Fears a ban on shining the ball with saliva would neuter bowlers proved largely groundless, with sweat allied to seam movement off the pitch and helpful overhead conditions, allied to the skills of the attacks, ensuring batsmen had to work hard for their runs. Meanwhile two England's 'big match' performers played key roles despite a lack of crowd support, with Ben Stokes scoring 176 and 78 not out in the second Test and paceman Stuart Broad becoming just the seventh bowler to take 500 Test wickets when he reached the landmark on Tuesday. The one concerning moment came when England had to omit Jofra Archer from the second Test after it emerged the fast bowler had breached regulations by making an unauthorised trip home following the West Indies' four-wicket win in the series opener at Southampton. England managing director Ashley Giles said Archer's error "could have cost us tens of millions of pounds" but he added the Sussex quick was a "fine young man" who would learn from his mistake. - Holding 'bouncers' still hitting the mark - This series may have been played in a bubble but it did not take place in a vacuum, with both teams -- and the match officials -- taking a knee before each Test in support of Black Lives Matter, a campaign given fresh global impetus by the death of George Floyd in police custody in the United States in May. Former West Indies fast bowler turned television commentator Michael Holding, once the most feared of quicks, showed he could unleash a verbal, as well as physical, bouncer with an impassioned, off the cuff speech, on the first morning of the series as he called for a shake-up of the education system while criticising those who had told him to "get over" racism. "How do you get rid of that (racism) in society? By educating both sides -- black and white," he insisted. - Challenge Gough at your peril - Due to travel restrictions imposed by the pandemic, this series saw the return of two home umpires standing in a Test, with teams granted an extra review per innings in recognition at the lack of neutral officials. But when Michael Gough was in the middle for the second and third Tests at Old Trafford, his naked eye verdicts were repeatedly upheld by the Decision Review System. The 40-year-old Englishman had a modest career as a Durham opening batsman, but Gough is fast becoming a top umpire.

Three things we learned from the England-West Indies series

West Indies captain Jason Holder says he hopes England will reciprocate his team’s visit during the COVID-19 pandemic and tour the Caribbean later this year.

England’s board had projected losses of up to $491 million if no cricket could be played this summer and the West Indies were hailed for agreeing to play the three-test series despite the UK struggling to curb the spread of the novel coronavirus.

“We don’t know what’s going to happen after this series with the international calendar but if there is an opportunity for England to come over to the Caribbean before the end of the year that would help significantly,” Holder said after England wrapped up the series 2-1 on Tuesday.

“It’s been a tough last few years for us financially and we’ve taken a pay cut due to the circumstances. A tour hopefully, if it is possible before the end of 2020, would help keep us afloat.”

The series, which saw the return of international cricket, was played in a bio-secure environment and Holder said smaller cricket nations might not be able to cover the costs of setting up a similar “bubble” to host visitors safely.

“We only really make money from England, and I think India. We break even with Pakistan and Australia, and all the rest of the series we play are losses,” he said.

“But in these trying times only England, Australia and India can probably host cricket. Outside of that, the smaller territories are struggling financially to get cricket on.”

Former West Indies captain Daren Sammy also wanted England to reciprocate with a tour.

“Let’s see if appreciation for our efforts will go unnoticed. They need to give us at least 20 million for all that money we saved them,” Sammy tweeted.

West Indies captain Jason Holder says he hopes England will reciprocate his team’s visit during the COVID-19 pandemic and tour the Caribbean later this year. England’s board had projected losses of up to $491 million if no cricket could be played this summer and the West Indies were hailed for agreeing to play the three-test series despite the UK struggling to curb the spread of the novel coronavirus.

West Indies captain Jason Holder says he hopes England will reciprocate his team’s visit during the COVID-19 pandemic and tour the Caribbean later this year. England’s board had projected losses of up to $491 million if no cricket could be played this summer and the West Indies were hailed for agreeing to play the three-test series despite the UK struggling to curb the spread of the novel coronavirus. “We don’t know what’s going to happen after this series with the international calendar but if there is an opportunity for England to come over to the Caribbean before the end of the year that would help significantly,” Holder said after England wrapped up the series 2-1 on Tuesday. “It’s been a tough last few years for us financially and we’ve taken a pay cut due to the circumstances. A tour hopefully, if it is possible before the end of 2020, would help keep us afloat.” The series, which saw the return of international cricket, was played in a bio-secure environment and Holder said smaller cricket nations might not be able to cover the costs of setting up a similar “bubble” to host visitors safely. “We only really make money from England, and I think India. We break even with Pakistan and Australia, and all the rest of the series we play are losses,” he said. “But in these trying times only England, Australia and India can probably host cricket. Outside of that, the smaller territories are struggling financially to get cricket on.” Former West Indies captain Daren Sammy also wanted England to reciprocate with a tour. “Let’s see if appreciation for our efforts will go unnoticed. They need to give us at least 20 million for all that money we saved them,” Sammy tweeted.

Jason Holder wants England to reciprocate with Windies tour

In charge of dope control at the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/ipl">IPL</a> for the very first time, the National Anti-Doping Agency (NADA) might have to outsource the task of sample collection given the high cost of handling the exercise when the event is held in the UAE.

The next best option for NADA will be using the services of UAE's National Anti-Doping Organisation (NADO) or contact Sweden's International Dope Test and Management (IDTM) which has done sample collection and testing for the last 12 seasons of the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/ipl">IPL</a>.

The BCCI came under NADA's ambit from the third quarter of 2019, making this year the first time that the agency will handle sample collection during the IPL, to be held from September 19 to November 8.

The COVID-19 pandemic has forced the BCCI to shift the tournament to the UAE, provided it gets the final approval from the Home Ministry.

"It is expected that the approved schedule will be out next week and once we send it to NADA, they can take a call. It's completely their call as they will have to bear the cost of sample collection and transportation," a senior BCCI official told PTI on conditions of anonymity.

When PTI approached NADA DG Navin Agarwal on the issue, he didn't divulge much apart from "we will let you know once we decide on the issue".

Till the 2019 IPL, BCCI bore the cost of sample collection and testing with the World Anti-Doping Agency-approved IDTM in charge.

There are a few options that NADA has according to those who are well abreast with the workings of the agency.

<h2>Outsourcing sample collection to UAE NADO</h2>

This is the most cost-effective measure where NADO will collect the sample and transport it to the WADA-accredited laboratory in Doha. NADA has been sending collected samples to this lab ever since the National Dope Testing Laboratory (NDTL) was suspended by WADA.

"This is the most convenient option in terms of checking the cost and sample transportation. NADA foots the bill which will be much lower," a source privy to the developments said.

In any case, the Dope Control Officers (DCOs) employed by NADA are not organisation's staff and are hired on a contractual basis.

<h2>NADA sends DCOs to UAE</h2>

Another option is that NADA sends at least 3 to 4 DCOs to the UAE at its own cost for sample collection. It is expected that these DCOs will stay at the bio-secure facility created by the BCCI, which will be different from the ones created by the franchises for their players. The tab has to be picked by NADA as cost will run into lakhs.

With the agency already short of target-testing during an Olympic year due to the pandemic-forced lockdown and working on a specific budget, spending a huge amount on testing players at the IPL may not be a wise idea, according to experts.

"When Indian athletes train in Europe or the USA, does NADA send DCOs for sample collection in those countries?" asked one of them.

In charge of dope control at the IPL for the very first time, the National Anti-Doping Agency (NADA) might have to outsource the task of sample collection given the high cost of handling the exercise when the event is held in the UAE.

In charge of dope control at the IPL for the very first time, the National Anti-Doping Agency (NADA) might have to outsource the task of sample collection given the high cost of handling the exercise when the event is held in the UAE. The next best option for NADA will be using the services of UAE's National Anti-Doping Organisation (NADO) or contact Sweden's International Dope Test and Management (IDTM) which has done sample collection and testing for the last 12 seasons of the IPL. The BCCI came under NADA's ambit from the third quarter of 2019, making this year the first time that the agency will handle sample collection during the IPL, to be held from September 19 to November 8. The COVID-19 pandemic has forced the BCCI to shift the tournament to the UAE, provided it gets the final approval from the Home Ministry. "It is expected that the approved schedule will be out next week and once we send it to NADA, they can take a call. It's completely their call as they will have to bear the cost of sample collection and transportation," a senior BCCI official told PTI on conditions of anonymity. When PTI approached NADA DG Navin Agarwal on the issue, he didn't divulge much apart from "we will let you know once we decide on the issue". Till the 2019 IPL, BCCI bore the cost of sample collection and testing with the World Anti-Doping Agency-approved IDTM in charge. There are a few options that NADA has according to those who are well abreast with the workings of the agency. Outsourcing sample collection to UAE NADO This is the most cost-effective measure where NADO will collect the sample and transport it to the WADA-accredited laboratory in Doha. NADA has been sending collected samples to this lab ever since the National Dope Testing Laboratory (NDTL) was suspended by WADA. "This is the most convenient option in terms of checking the cost and sample transportation. NADA foots the bill which will be much lower," a source privy to the developments said. In any case, the Dope Control Officers (DCOs) employed by NADA are not organisation's staff and are hired on a contractual basis. NADA sends DCOs to UAE Another option is that NADA sends at least 3 to 4 DCOs to the UAE at its own cost for sample collection. It is expected that these DCOs will stay at the bio-secure facility created by the BCCI, which will be different from the ones created by the franchises for their players. The tab has to be picked by NADA as cost will run into lakhs. With the agency already short of target-testing during an Olympic year due to the pandemic-forced lockdown and working on a specific budget, spending a huge amount on testing players at the IPL may not be a wise idea, according to experts. "When Indian athletes train in Europe or the USA, does NADA send DCOs for sample collection in those countries?" asked one of them.

Anti-Doping measures at IPL: NADA might outsource sample collection

England National Selectors on Wednesday&nbsp;named an unchanged squad for the first Test match against Pakistan starting on Wednesday 5 August 2020 at Emirates Old Trafford. The three-match series will be played behind closed doors, in a bio-secure environment.

England will head to the Pakistan series on a victorious note after the Joe Root-led side defeated the West Indies 2-1 in the recently concluded and successful series. The England squad for the first Test remains unchanged and it would be interesting to see what combination the hosts play in the first Test.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/youre-a-legend-yuvraj-singh-lauds-stuart-broads-500-wicket-milestone-316727" hreflang="en">'You're a legend!' Yuvraj Singh lauds Stuart Broad’s 500-wicket milestone</a>

England Test Squad:

Joe Root&nbsp;(Yorkshire) Captain,&nbsp;James Anderson&nbsp;(Lancashire),&nbsp;Jofra Archer&nbsp;(Sussex),&nbsp;Dominic Bess&nbsp;(Somerset),&nbsp;Stuart Broad&nbsp;(Nottinghamshire),&nbsp;Rory Burns&nbsp;(Surrey),&nbsp;Jos Buttler&nbsp;(Lancashire),&nbsp;Zak Crawley&nbsp;(Kent),&nbsp;Sam Curran&nbsp;(Surrey),&nbsp;Ollie Pope&nbsp;(Surrey),&nbsp;Dom Sibley&nbsp;(Warwickshire),&nbsp;Ben Stokes&nbsp;(Durham),&nbsp;Chris Woakes&nbsp;(Warwickshire),&nbsp;Mark Wood&nbsp;(Durham).

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/stuart-broad-jumps-to-no-3-in-icc-test-bowling-rankings-after-historic-series-against-wi-316694" hreflang="en">Stuart Broad jumps to No. 3 in ICC Test Bowling Rankings after historic series against WI</a>

<h2>Reserves:</h2>

James Bracey&nbsp;(Gloucestershire),&nbsp;Ben Foakes&nbsp;(Surrey),&nbsp;Jack Leach&nbsp;(Somerset),&nbsp;Dan Lawrence&nbsp;(Essex).

Commenting on the selection of the squad, National Selector Ed Smith, said: “After three Tests in quick succession against the West Indies, we now turn to an equally condensed Test series against Pakistan, with 15 days of Test cricket scheduled in a three-week period.

“Our 14-man squad is unchanged.

“County cricket now restarts on Saturday 1st August. We want to have sufficient reserves inside the biosecure Test match ‘bubble’, but we may also want to give opportunities, where possible, for the reserves to play county cricket. As we seek the best balance here, England may make changes to the reserves during the three-match series against Pakistan.”

The squad and reserves report to Emirates Old Trafford on Sunday 2 August 2020.

<h2 data-ogsc="rgb(85, 85, 85)">England vs Pakistan Three-match Test Series: Full Schedule</h2>

1st Test: England v Pakistan, 5-9 August, Emirates Old Trafford, Manchester

2nd Test: England v Pakistan, 13-17 August, Ageas Bowl, Southampton

3rd Test: England v Pakistan, 21-25 August, Ageas Bowl, Southampton

England National Selectors on Wednesday named an unchanged squad for the first Test match against Pakistan starting on Wednesday 5 August 2020 at Emirates Old Trafford.

England National Selectors on Wednesday named an unchanged squad for the first Test match against Pakistan starting on Wednesday 5 August 2020 at Emirates Old Trafford. The three-match series will be played behind closed doors, in a bio-secure environment. England will head to the Pakistan series on a victorious note after the Joe Root-led side defeated the West Indies 2-1 in the recently concluded and successful series. The England squad for the first Test remains unchanged and it would be interesting to see what combination the hosts play in the first Test. ALSO READ: 'You're a legend!' Yuvraj Singh lauds Stuart Broad’s 500-wicket milestone England Test Squad: Joe Root (Yorkshire) Captain, James Anderson (Lancashire), Jofra Archer (Sussex), Dominic Bess (Somerset), Stuart Broad (Nottinghamshire), Rory Burns (Surrey), Jos Buttler (Lancashire), Zak Crawley (Kent), Sam Curran (Surrey), Ollie Pope (Surrey), Dom Sibley (Warwickshire), Ben Stokes (Durham), Chris Woakes (Warwickshire), Mark Wood (Durham). ALSO READ: Stuart Broad jumps to No. 3 in ICC Test Bowling Rankings after historic series against WI Reserves: James Bracey (Gloucestershire), Ben Foakes (Surrey), Jack Leach (Somerset), Dan Lawrence (Essex). Commenting on the selection of the squad, National Selector Ed Smith, said: “After three Tests in quick succession against the West Indies, we now turn to an equally condensed Test series against Pakistan, with 15 days of Test cricket scheduled in a three-week period. “Our 14-man squad is unchanged. “County cricket now restarts on Saturday 1st August. We want to have sufficient reserves inside the biosecure Test match ‘bubble’, but we may also want to give opportunities, where possible, for the reserves to play county cricket. As we seek the best balance here, England may make changes to the reserves during the three-match series against Pakistan.” The squad and reserves report to Emirates Old Trafford on Sunday 2 August 2020. England vs Pakistan Three-match Test Series: Full Schedule 1st Test: England v Pakistan, 5-9 August, Emirates Old Trafford, Manchester 2nd Test: England v Pakistan, 13-17 August, Ageas Bowl, Southampton 3rd Test: England v Pakistan, 21-25 August, Ageas Bowl, Southampton

England announce squad for first Test versus Pakistan

England veteran Stuart Broad, who enjoyed a dream series against the West Indies while picking up 16 wickets, on Wednesday jumped seven paces to find himself third in the latest ICC Test Bowling Rankings. Broad, who was not picked in the playing XI for the first Test, came back roaring and dismantled the Windies batters to help England comeback and win the series 2-1 and his performances have been rewarded with him now being the No. 3 ICC Test bowler in the world. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/stuart-broad-joins-elite-list-with-500-test-wickets-brathwaite-completes-unique-double-316485">He also became the fourth pacer and seventh bowler overall to complete 500 Test wickets</a>.&nbsp;

Australian pacer Pat Cummins continues to be atop the Test bowling charts with 904 points to his name whereas Kiwi seamer Neil Wagner remains second in the list. His teammate Tim Southee is at four whereas the likes of Jason Holder (5), Kagiso Rabada (6), Mitchell Starc (7), Jasprit Bumrah (8), Trent Boult (9) and Josh Hazlewood (10) slid down the rankings to make way for Braod.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/broad-says-he-could-be-last-paceman-in-500-club-316665" hreflang="en">Broad says he could be last paceman in '500 club'</a>

<img alt="ICC Test Rankings" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="ffb60559-2329-4d72-ab35-d6d807d47bf2" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Rankings.JPG" />

In the ICC Test Batting Rankings, Steve Smith continues to rule the charts with Virat Kohli a close second in the list. Australia’s rising start Marnus Labuschagne finds himself at third while Ben Stokes is now the fourth ranked Test batsman besides being no. 1 all-rounder in the rankings.

Kane Williamson (5), Babar Azam (6), David Warner (7), Cheteshwar Pujara (8), Joe Root (9) and Ajinkya Rahane (10) complete the top ten of the latest ICC Test Batting Rankings.&nbsp;

The Test All-Rounder Rankings remain the same with Stokes atop the list and Holder being a close second. Ravindra Jadeja (3), Mitchell Starc (4), Ravichandran Ashwin (5) complete the top five of the rankings.&nbsp;

England veteran Stuart Broad, who enjoyed a dream series against the West Indies while picking up 16 wickets, on Wednesday jumped seven paces to find himself third in the latest ICC Test Bowling Rankings.

England veteran Stuart Broad, who enjoyed a dream series against the West Indies while picking up 16 wickets, on Wednesday jumped seven paces to find himself third in the latest ICC Test Bowling Rankings. Broad, who was not picked in the playing XI for the first Test, came back roaring and dismantled the Windies batters to help England comeback and win the series 2-1 and his performances have been rewarded with him now being the No. 3 ICC Test bowler in the world. He also became the fourth pacer and seventh bowler overall to complete 500 Test wickets. Australian pacer Pat Cummins continues to be atop the Test bowling charts with 904 points to his name whereas Kiwi seamer Neil Wagner remains second in the list. His teammate Tim Southee is at four whereas the likes of Jason Holder (5), Kagiso Rabada (6), Mitchell Starc (7), Jasprit Bumrah (8), Trent Boult (9) and Josh Hazlewood (10) slid down the rankings to make way for Braod. ALSO READ: Broad says he could be last paceman in '500 club' In the ICC Test Batting Rankings, Steve Smith continues to rule the charts with Virat Kohli a close second in the list. Australia’s rising start Marnus Labuschagne finds himself at third while Ben Stokes is now the fourth ranked Test batsman besides being no. 1 all-rounder in the rankings. Kane Williamson (5), Babar Azam (6), David Warner (7), Cheteshwar Pujara (8), Joe Root (9) and Ajinkya Rahane (10) complete the top ten of the latest ICC Test Batting Rankings. The Test All-Rounder Rankings remain the same with Stokes atop the list and Holder being a close second. Ravindra Jadeja (3), Mitchell Starc (4), Ravichandran Ashwin (5) complete the top five of the rankings.

Stuart Broad jumps to No. 3 in ICC Test Bowling Rankings after historic series against WI

Barcelona welcomed back three injured French players, Ousmane Dembele, Antoine Griezmann and Clement Lenglet, as they resumed training ahead of their <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/uefa-champions-league">Champions League</a> match against Napoli.&nbsp;

The club did not give any indication that the trio would be fit for the second-leg match against Napoli on August 8.&nbsp;

"The good news of the day was to see Lenglet and Griezmann doing individual work on the pitch," said Barcelona on their website as the squad returned after a few days of rest following the end of La Liga.&nbsp;

Lenglet suffered a groin injury on July 19 and Griezmann damaged a muscle in his right leg on July 11.&nbsp;

Dembele initially tore a hamstring in November and&nbsp;suffered a relapse on February 3 after returning to training. He also trained apart from the main squad on Tuesday.

"Ousmane Dembele has also been working on the sidelines and following his recovery guidelines," said Barcelona.

Barcelona welcomed back three injured French players, Ousmane Dembele, Antoine Griezmann and Clement Lenglet, as they resumed training ahead of their Champions League match against Napoli.

Barcelona welcomed back three injured French players, Ousmane Dembele, Antoine Griezmann and Clement Lenglet, as they resumed training ahead of their Champions League match against Napoli. The club did not give any indication that the trio would be fit for the second-leg match against Napoli on August 8. "The good news of the day was to see Lenglet and Griezmann doing individual work on the pitch," said Barcelona on their website as the squad returned after a few days of rest following the end of La Liga. Lenglet suffered a groin injury on July 19 and Griezmann damaged a muscle in his right leg on July 11. Dembele initially tore a hamstring in November and suffered a relapse on February 3 after returning to training. He also trained apart from the main squad on Tuesday. "Ousmane Dembele has also been working on the sidelines and following his recovery guidelines," said Barcelona.

Dembele, Lenglet and Griezmann return as Barca resume training

England displayed sheer dominance in the third and final Test of the series against the West Indies as the hosts defeated Jason Holder and Co. by 269 runs to win the series 2-1 after falling short in the Southampton Test.&nbsp;

Stuart Broad was on fire as he bagged a 10-wicket-haul in the match while also completing 500 Test wickets as he became only the fourth pacer and seventh bowler overall to achieve the feat in the longest format of the game.&nbsp;

The West Indies were decimated by Broad and Chris Woakes, four and five wickets respectively, in the second innings as the visitors were bundled out a paltry 129 with only five batsmen touching the double-digit mark.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/exclusive-australias-josh-hazlewood-opens-up-on-england-and-india-series-ipl-2020-injuries-and-more-316469" hreflang="en">EXCLUSIVE: Australia's Josh Hazlewood opens up on England and India series, IPL 2020, injuries and more</a>&nbsp;

West Indies skipper Holder won the toss and to everyone’s surprise, opted to bowl first – a move which failed miserably in both the second and third Test. While English opener Dom Sibley was sent packing for a duck, Rory Burns scored a cracking 57 to lay down a platform for England.

Ollie Pope was arguably the standout batter for the hosts as he smashed 91 off 150 deliveries while Jos Buttler roared back to form with a 67-run knock. Broad, didn’t only shine with the ball, but also did the damage down the order with the bat as he hammered every Windies bowler to score an entertaining 62 off 45 to help England score 369 in the first innings.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/stuart-broad-joins-elite-list-with-500-test-wickets-brathwaite-completes-unique-double-316485" hreflang="en">Stuart Broad joins elite list with 500 Test wickets; Brathwaite completes unique double</a>

In reply, West Indies could manage to score just 197 runs with Broad picking up six wickets.&nbsp;England’s dominance in the second innings was clear as they came out all guns blazing to score 226/2 (decl). Burns

scored 90 while his partner Sibley scored 56 while Joe Root played a terrific knock of 68 not-out off just 56 deliveries.&nbsp; 
West Indies were nowhere in the game as they lost wickets on a regular basis and despite the Day 4 being a complete washout, England were able to seal a comfortable victory and get back the Wisden Trophy from the Windies.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

England displayed sheer dominance in the third and final Test of the series against the West Indies as the hosts defeated Jason Holder and Co. by 269 runs to win the series 2-1 after falling short in the Southampton Test.

England displayed sheer dominance in the third and final Test of the series against the West Indies as the hosts defeated Jason Holder and Co. by 269 runs to win the series 2-1 after falling short in the Southampton Test. Stuart Broad was on fire as he bagged a 10-wicket-haul in the match while also completing 500 Test wickets as he became only the fourth pacer and seventh bowler overall to achieve the feat in the longest format of the game. The West Indies were decimated by Broad and Chris Woakes, four and five wickets respectively, in the second innings as the visitors were bundled out a paltry 129 with only five batsmen touching the double-digit mark. ALSO READ: EXCLUSIVE: Australia's Josh Hazlewood opens up on England and India series, IPL 2020, injuries and more West Indies skipper Holder won the toss and to everyone’s surprise, opted to bowl first – a move which failed miserably in both the second and third Test. While English opener Dom Sibley was sent packing for a duck, Rory Burns scored a cracking 57 to lay down a platform for England. Ollie Pope was arguably the standout batter for the hosts as he smashed 91 off 150 deliveries while Jos Buttler roared back to form with a 67-run knock. Broad, didn’t only shine with the ball, but also did the damage down the order with the bat as he hammered every Windies bowler to score an entertaining 62 off 45 to help England score 369 in the first innings. ALSO READ: Stuart Broad joins elite list with 500 Test wickets; Brathwaite completes unique double In reply, West Indies could manage to score just 197 runs with Broad picking up six wickets. England’s dominance in the second innings was clear as they came out all guns blazing to score 226/2 (decl). Burns scored 90 while his partner Sibley scored 56 while Joe Root played a terrific knock of 68 not-out off just 56 deliveries. West Indies were nowhere in the game as they lost wickets on a regular basis and despite the Day 4 being a complete washout, England were able to seal a comfortable victory and get back the Wisden Trophy from the Windies.

Broad, Woakes shine as England defeat West Indies by 269 runs; win series 2-1

England pacer Stuart Broad on Tuesday joined an elite list of fast bowlers to have scalped 500 Test wickets after the veteran trapped West Indies opener Kraigg Brathwaite in front of the stumps on Day 5 of the third and final Test at the Old Trafford in Manchester.&nbsp;

Broad joined Glenn McGrath, Courtney Walsh and teammate James Anderson in the list of fast bowlers to have picked up 500 Test wickets and became only the seventh bowler to have achieved the elusive feat.

While Broad joined an elusive list, Brathwaite completed a rare double as the Windies batsman became the 500th Test victim of Broad while also being the 500th Test wicket of James Anderson.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/exclusive-australias-josh-hazlewood-opens-up-on-england-and-india-series-ipl-2020-injuries-and-more-316469" hreflang="en">EXCLUSIVE: Australia's Josh Hazlewood opens up on England and India series, IPL 2020, injuries and more</a>

Broad took 140 Tests to complete join the 500-wicket club with former Sri Lankan spinner Muttiah Muralitharan still the quickets to complete the feat (in 87 Tests).&nbsp;

<h2>The 500-wicket club:</h2>

<ul>
	<li>800 Muttiah Muralitharan (victim: M Kasprowicz)</li>
	<li>708 Shane Warne (victim: H Tillakaratne)</li>
	<li>619 Anil Kumble (victim: S Harmison)</li>
	<li>589 James Anderson (victim: K Brathwaite)</li>
	<li>563 Glenn McGrath (victim: M Trescothick)</li>
	<li>519 Courtney Walsh (victim: J Kallis)</li>
	<li>500 STUART BROAD (victim: K Brathwaite)</li>
</ul>

Broad has completely turned around his career in the last few years with his focus being more on making the batsmen play. The unique trait of taking the ball away from left handers while coming bowling from around the wicket. The Englishman enjoyed a phenomenal outing in the Ashes and has certainly carried his form since then.&nbsp;

He was surprisingly dropped in the first Test against the West Indies in Southampton, which England lost but came back strong in the next two Tests to help England equalize the series and possibly get back the Wisden Trophy.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

England pacer Stuart Broad on Tuesday joined an elite list of fast bowlers to have scalped 500 Test wickets after the veteran trapped West Indies opener Kraigg Brathwaite in front of the stumps on Day 5 of the third and final Test at the Old Trafford in Manchester.

England pacer Stuart Broad on Tuesday joined an elite list of fast bowlers to have scalped 500 Test wickets after the veteran trapped West Indies opener Kraigg Brathwaite in front of the stumps on Day 5 of the third and final Test at the Old Trafford in Manchester. Broad joined Glenn McGrath, Courtney Walsh and teammate James Anderson in the list of fast bowlers to have picked up 500 Test wickets and became only the seventh bowler to have achieved the elusive feat. While Broad joined an elusive list, Brathwaite completed a rare double as the Windies batsman became the 500th Test victim of Broad while also being the 500th Test wicket of James Anderson. ALSO READ: EXCLUSIVE: Australia's Josh Hazlewood opens up on England and India series, IPL 2020, injuries and more Broad took 140 Tests to complete join the 500-wicket club with former Sri Lankan spinner Muttiah Muralitharan still the quickets to complete the feat (in 87 Tests). The 500-wicket club: 800 Muttiah Muralitharan (victim: M Kasprowicz) 708 Shane Warne (victim: H Tillakaratne) 619 Anil Kumble (victim: S Harmison) 589 James Anderson (victim: K Brathwaite) 563 Glenn McGrath (victim: M Trescothick) 519 Courtney Walsh (victim: J Kallis) 500 STUART BROAD (victim: K Brathwaite) Broad has completely turned around his career in the last few years with his focus being more on making the batsmen play. The unique trait of taking the ball away from left handers while coming bowling from around the wicket. The Englishman enjoyed a phenomenal outing in the Ashes and has certainly carried his form since then. He was surprisingly dropped in the first Test against the West Indies in Southampton, which England lost but came back strong in the next two Tests to help England equalize the series and possibly get back the Wisden Trophy.

Stuart Broad joins elite list with 500 Test wickets; Brathwaite completes unique double

Australia opening batsman David Warner raised fears Tuesday that Virat Kohli's India will be unable to play the Boxing Day Test in Melbourne as COVID-19 cases continue to spike in Australia's second largest city.

The match starting on December 26 is regarded as the highlight of Australia's home season, played before 100,000 fans at the Melbourne Cricket Ground and huge television audiences.

But Warner said shifting venues was a real possibility, with Melbourne currently in partial lockdown as Victoria state struggles to contain a second wave of virus infections.

"It's out of our control at the moment. Whatever happens, if you put something in place now, it's going to change tomorrow," he said.&nbsp;

"It's difficult to process. We're just going to have to wait and, yeah, you might see the first Boxing Day Test not in Melbourne."

His remarks came as authorities in Victoria on Tuesday said there were 384 new cases in the state, taking total active cases to more than 9,000.

Australia opening batsman David Warner raised fears Tuesday that Virat Kohli's India will be unable to play the Boxing Day Test in Melbourne as COVID-19 cases continue to spike in Australia's second largest city.

Australia opening batsman David Warner raised fears Tuesday that Virat Kohli's India will be unable to play the Boxing Day Test in Melbourne as COVID-19 cases continue to spike in Australia's second largest city. The match starting on December 26 is regarded as the highlight of Australia's home season, played before 100,000 fans at the Melbourne Cricket Ground and huge television audiences. But Warner said shifting venues was a real possibility, with Melbourne currently in partial lockdown as Victoria state struggles to contain a second wave of virus infections. "It's out of our control at the moment. Whatever happens, if you put something in place now, it's going to change tomorrow," he said. "It's difficult to process. We're just going to have to wait and, yeah, you might see the first Boxing Day Test not in Melbourne." His remarks came as authorities in Victoria on Tuesday said there were 384 new cases in the state, taking total active cases to more than 9,000.

Warner fears virus could scupper Melbourne Boxing Day Test

Liverpool turned the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/premier-league">Premier League</a> title race into a procession this season, but Jurgen Klopp expects his champions to face a much tougher fight to retain the trophy next term.

Klopp's side powered to their first English title for 30 years with a dominant campaign that left their rivals trailing in their wake.

Liverpool wrapped up the silverware with a record seven games remaining and finished the season 18 points ahead of second-placed Manchester City.

The Reds' remarkable run forced City to surrender the title they had won for the last two years, with Pep Guardiola's team unable to muster the consistency required to keep pace.

With Liverpool having also won the Champions League in the 2018-19 season and the Club World Cup in December, some pundits believe the Anfield club are primed for a golden era of dominance.

All the pieces are in place for Liverpool to win consecutive titles for the first time since 1984, with Klopp signed to a long-term contract and key stars Virgil van Dijk, Sadio Mane, Mohamed Salah and Jordan Henderson all in their primes.

Liverpool also have a cadre of emerging youngsters capable of bolstering Klopp's squad next season.

But the German insists Liverpool will take nothing for granted when the 2020-21 campaign kicks off because he expects a renewed push from City and stronger challenges from Manchester United and Chelsea.

"Whatever people say, it will not be important for next season because for sure we both have to be ready," Klopp said.

"We see United coming up. People thought they had no chance but we see with one or two players how good they are and how good they can be, and for sure they will not be worse next season, and now there is Chelsea as well.

"It will not be about City and us. For the last two years pretty much the top of the table was City and us, and City for four or five years before that."

City clearly have the pedigree to take back the title.

They set a 100-point Premier League record total in 2018 that Liverpool were unable to match this season and pipped Klopp's men to the title again in 2019.

Guardiola's side could yet underline their enduring class by ending the campaign as Champions League winners.

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<h2>- 'Anyone can beat you' -</h2>

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City were undeniably inconsistent this season, with defensive frailties exposed after failing to replace Vincent Kompany and losing Aymeric Laporte to injury for long periods.

Long-serving Spanish midfielder David Silva will leave this summer, but Phil Foden's development gives Guardiola a potential replacement.

Klopp does not expect a drop-off from City, who made a point about their ability to compete with Liverpool when they crushed them 4-0 in the Reds' first game after clinching the title.

"I am very positive about my team but I cannot deny Manchester City are really good. That was always the case, and I cannot see the end of anything for Manchester City," he said.

FA Cup finalists Chelsea, who ended fourth, must improve a creaky defence and a costly lack of killer instinct if they are to close the 33-point gap to Liverpool.

Frank Lampard's emerging young side have potential however and the additions of Timo Werner and Hakim Ziyech should add potency to their attack.

"Chelsea have incredible guys there in the squad and extra now with (new signings) Hakim Ziyech and (Timo) Werner," Guardiola said.

Third-placed United, who finished 15 points behind City, have improved dramatically since the January signing of Portugal playmaker Bruno Fernandes from Sporting Lisbon.

Ole Gunnar Solskjaer can also deploy a lethal front three in Marcus Rashford, Anthony Martial and Mason Greenwood.

"That is why it is the best league in the world. Anyone can beat you and every season will be stronger," Guardiola said.

"That is the reality of the Premier League. We are going to think about what we need to do to improve the team."

Liverpool turned the Premier League title race into a procession this season, but Jurgen Klopp expects his champions to face a much tougher fight to retain the trophy next term.

Liverpool turned the Premier League title race into a procession this season, but Jurgen Klopp expects his champions to face a much tougher fight to retain the trophy next term. Klopp's side powered to their first English title for 30 years with a dominant campaign that left their rivals trailing in their wake. Liverpool wrapped up the silverware with a record seven games remaining and finished the season 18 points ahead of second-placed Manchester City. The Reds' remarkable run forced City to surrender the title they had won for the last two years, with Pep Guardiola's team unable to muster the consistency required to keep pace. With Liverpool having also won the Champions League in the 2018-19 season and the Club World Cup in December, some pundits believe the Anfield club are primed for a golden era of dominance. All the pieces are in place for Liverpool to win consecutive titles for the first time since 1984, with Klopp signed to a long-term contract and key stars Virgil van Dijk, Sadio Mane, Mohamed Salah and Jordan Henderson all in their primes. Liverpool also have a cadre of emerging youngsters capable of bolstering Klopp's squad next season. But the German insists Liverpool will take nothing for granted when the 2020-21 campaign kicks off because he expects a renewed push from City and stronger challenges from Manchester United and Chelsea. "Whatever people say, it will not be important for next season because for sure we both have to be ready," Klopp said. "We see United coming up. People thought they had no chance but we see with one or two players how good they are and how good they can be, and for sure they will not be worse next season, and now there is Chelsea as well. "It will not be about City and us. For the last two years pretty much the top of the table was City and us, and City for four or five years before that." City clearly have the pedigree to take back the title. They set a 100-point Premier League record total in 2018 that Liverpool were unable to match this season and pipped Klopp's men to the title again in 2019. Guardiola's side could yet underline their enduring class by ending the campaign as Champions League winners. - 'Anyone can beat you' - City were undeniably inconsistent this season, with defensive frailties exposed after failing to replace Vincent Kompany and losing Aymeric Laporte to injury for long periods. Long-serving Spanish midfielder David Silva will leave this summer, but Phil Foden's development gives Guardiola a potential replacement. Klopp does not expect a drop-off from City, who made a point about their ability to compete with Liverpool when they crushed them 4-0 in the Reds' first game after clinching the title. "I am very positive about my team but I cannot deny Manchester City are really good. That was always the case, and I cannot see the end of anything for Manchester City," he said. FA Cup finalists Chelsea, who ended fourth, must improve a creaky defence and a costly lack of killer instinct if they are to close the 33-point gap to Liverpool. Frank Lampard's emerging young side have potential however and the additions of Timo Werner and Hakim Ziyech should add potency to their attack. "Chelsea have incredible guys there in the squad and extra now with (new signings) Hakim Ziyech and (Timo) Werner," Guardiola said. Third-placed United, who finished 15 points behind City, have improved dramatically since the January signing of Portugal playmaker Bruno Fernandes from Sporting Lisbon. Ole Gunnar Solskjaer can also deploy a lethal front three in Marcus Rashford, Anthony Martial and Mason Greenwood. "That is why it is the best league in the world. Anyone can beat you and every season will be stronger," Guardiola said. "That is the reality of the Premier League. We are going to think about what we need to do to improve the team."

Klopp expects Liverpool to face tougher title fight next term

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