Former India cricketer Sanjay Manjrekar has picked his India playing XI for the ICC World Test Championship, set to be played against New Zealand in Southampton from Friday. Manjrekar left out the likes of Ravindra Jadeja and Ishant Sharma as he went with an extra batsman in the line-up.<o:p></o:p>

“I’m assuming you have typical English conditions. I’m assuming there will be a mixture of sun and cloudy cover throughout the five days of the Test match if it goes the distance. So, I’m picking the team accordingly," Manjrekar said on ESPNCricinfo.<o:p></o:p>

Manjrekar went with Ravichandran Ashwin as his sole spinner for the WTC final while combining the pace troika of Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Shami and Mohammed Siraj.<o:p></o:p>

The former India batsman backed Hanuma Vihari, who picked up an injury during the Sydney Test in Australia earlier this year, in a bid to reward him for his heroics in the match. In Manjrekar’s team, Rishabh Pant bats at number seven as he said he wants the batting line-up to run deep given the lack of practice India have had in the build-up to the WTC final.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-taylor-targets-final-redemption-in-icc-world-test-championship-391856" hreflang="en">Cricket: Taylor targets Final redemption in ICC World Test Championship</a><o:p></o:p>

“Going to have Hanuma Vihari reward him for his brilliant innings before he got injured," Manjrekar said. “India will need somebody with more compact defensive technique because the guys at the top of the order, barring (Cheteshwar) Pujara, aren’t those kinds. So I will have Hanuma Vihari at number 6. (Rishabh)Pant at 7, considering India have hardly had any practice game. I just want to make sure the batting runs deep."<o:p></o:p>

“Want Siraj, the swing bowler to be brought into the equation, and the last time Siraj bowled overseas in Australia, got a five-wicket haul. Hard to leave a bowler like him out. You will be tempted to think of Siraj because when you look at Shami, Bumrah and Ishant, they are more seam bowlers, hit-the-deck kind of bowler. Siraj might offer something different. I would go with Siraj, but India might play Ishant for obvious reasons," he said.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-rohit-sharma-understands-when-to-press-accelerator-says-sachin-tendulkar-391833" hreflang="en">Cricket: Rohit Sharma understands when to press accelerator, says Sachin Tendulkar</a><o:p></o:p>

Sanjay Manjrekar’s India playing XI for WTC Final: Shubman Gill, Rohit Sharma, Cheteshwar Pujara, Virat Kohli (c), Ajinkya Rahane, Hanuma Vihari, Rishabh Pant (wk), Ravichandran Ashwin, Mohammed Shami, Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Siraj<o:p></o:p>

Former India cricketer Sanjay Manjrekar has picked his India playing XI for the ICC World Test Championship, set to be played against New Zealand in Southampton from Friday.

Former India cricketer Sanjay Manjrekar has picked his India playing XI for the ICC World Test Championship, set to be played against New Zealand in Southampton from Friday. Manjrekar left out the likes of Ravindra Jadeja and Ishant Sharma as he went with an extra batsman in the line-up. “I’m assuming you have typical English conditions. I’m assuming there will be a mixture of sun and cloudy cover throughout the five days of the Test match if it goes the distance. So, I’m picking the team accordingly," Manjrekar said on ESPNCricinfo. Manjrekar went with Ravichandran Ashwin as his sole spinner for the WTC final while combining the pace troika of Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Shami and Mohammed Siraj. The former India batsman backed Hanuma Vihari, who picked up an injury during the Sydney Test in Australia earlier this year, in a bid to reward him for his heroics in the match. In Manjrekar’s team, Rishabh Pant bats at number seven as he said he wants the batting line-up to run deep given the lack of practice India have had in the build-up to the WTC final. ALSO READ: Cricket: Taylor targets Final redemption in ICC World Test Championship “Going to have Hanuma Vihari reward him for his brilliant innings before he got injured," Manjrekar said. “India will need somebody with more compact defensive technique because the guys at the top of the order, barring (Cheteshwar) Pujara, aren’t those kinds. So I will have Hanuma Vihari at number 6. (Rishabh)Pant at 7, considering India have hardly had any practice game. I just want to make sure the batting runs deep." “Want Siraj, the swing bowler to be brought into the equation, and the last time Siraj bowled overseas in Australia, got a five-wicket haul. Hard to leave a bowler like him out. You will be tempted to think of Siraj because when you look at Shami, Bumrah and Ishant, they are more seam bowlers, hit-the-deck kind of bowler. Siraj might offer something different. I would go with Siraj, but India might play Ishant for obvious reasons," he said. ALSO READ: Cricket: Rohit Sharma understands when to press accelerator, says Sachin Tendulkar Sanjay Manjrekar’s India playing XI for WTC Final: Shubman Gill, Rohit Sharma, Cheteshwar Pujara, Virat Kohli (c), Ajinkya Rahane, Hanuma Vihari, Rishabh Pant (wk), Ravichandran Ashwin, Mohammed Shami, Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Siraj

Cricket: Sanjay Manjrekar picks his India playing XI for WTC Final, leaves out Jadeja, Ishant

Former India captain Sunil Gavaskar has said that India should go with both Ravichandran Ashwin and Ravindra Jadeja in the much-awaited ICC World Test Championship final against New Zealand, scheduled to be played in Southampton from June 18 to 22. <o:p></o:p>

Citing the weather conditions in Southampton, Gavaskar said that pitch will “definitely be dry” and assist spinners making Ashwin and Jadeja surety in India playing XI. <o:p></o:p>

“In Southampton, it’s been boiling hot over the last few days so the pitch will definitely be dry and help spin as the match progresses, so yes both Ashwin and Jadeja will play," Gavaskar told PTI in an interview.<o:p></o:p>

Gavaskar wants both Jadeja and Ashwin in the playing XI not just because of their bowling abilities but also for the batting depth the duo provides to the Indian team in the longest format of the game. <o:p></o:p>

“That (Ashwin and Jadeja together) also gives depth to the batting as well as give a fine balance to the bowling attack. For the series later (vs England) much will depend on the weather and pitch conditions."

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-taylor-targets-final-redemption-in-icc-world-test-championship-391856" hreflang="en">Cricket: Taylor targets Final redemption in ICC World Test Championship</a><o:p></o:p>

Gavaskar is not bothered about India’s lack of practice ahead of the WTC final and England series as he said that the team has a good blend of youth and experience with players who have played in English conditions in the past. <o:p></o:p>

“(In) today’s tours there are barely one or two practice games before the Test series begins and the Indian team has had intra-squad matches so they have had that practice.<o:p></o:p>

“The team is a good blend of youth and experience and most of the players have been to England several times so they know the conditions and what to expect," said the former India captain.<o:p></o:p>

This will also be India’s chance to win their first ICC trophy under the leadership of Virat Kohli.&nbsp;

<h2 class="MsoNormal">The squads:</h2>

India: Virat Kohli (captain), Rohit Sharma, Shubman Gill, Cheteshwar Pujara, Ajinkya Rahane, Hanuma Vihari, Rishabh Pant, Wriddhiman Saha, Ravichandran Ashwin, Ravindra Jadeja, Jasprit Bumrah, Ishant Sharma, Mohammad Shami, Md Siraj, Umesh Yadav.

New Zealand: Kane Williamson (captain), Tom Blundell, Trent Boult, Devon Conway, Colin de Grandhomme, Matt Henry, Kyle Jamieson, Tom Latham, Henry Nicholls, Ajaz Patel, Tim Southee, Ross Taylor, Neil Wagner, BJ Watling, Will Young.

Former India captain Sunil Gavaskar has said that India should go with both Ravichandran Ashwin and Ravindra Jadeja in the much-awaited ICC World Test Championship final against New Zealand, scheduled to be played in Southampton from June 18 to 22.

Former India captain Sunil Gavaskar has said that India should go with both Ravichandran Ashwin and Ravindra Jadeja in the much-awaited ICC World Test Championship final against New Zealand, scheduled to be played in Southampton from June 18 to 22. Citing the weather conditions in Southampton, Gavaskar said that pitch will “definitely be dry” and assist spinners making Ashwin and Jadeja surety in India playing XI. “In Southampton, it’s been boiling hot over the last few days so the pitch will definitely be dry and help spin as the match progresses, so yes both Ashwin and Jadeja will play," Gavaskar told PTI in an interview. Gavaskar wants both Jadeja and Ashwin in the playing XI not just because of their bowling abilities but also for the batting depth the duo provides to the Indian team in the longest format of the game. “That (Ashwin and Jadeja together) also gives depth to the batting as well as give a fine balance to the bowling attack. For the series later (vs England) much will depend on the weather and pitch conditions." ALSO READ: Cricket: Taylor targets Final redemption in ICC World Test Championship Gavaskar is not bothered about India’s lack of practice ahead of the WTC final and England series as he said that the team has a good blend of youth and experience with players who have played in English conditions in the past. “(In) today’s tours there are barely one or two practice games before the Test series begins and the Indian team has had intra-squad matches so they have had that practice. “The team is a good blend of youth and experience and most of the players have been to England several times so they know the conditions and what to expect," said the former India captain. This will also be India’s chance to win their first ICC trophy under the leadership of Virat Kohli. The squads: India: Virat Kohli (captain), Rohit Sharma, Shubman Gill, Cheteshwar Pujara, Ajinkya Rahane, Hanuma Vihari, Rishabh Pant, Wriddhiman Saha, Ravichandran Ashwin, Ravindra Jadeja, Jasprit Bumrah, Ishant Sharma, Mohammad Shami, Md Siraj, Umesh Yadav. New Zealand: Kane Williamson (captain), Tom Blundell, Trent Boult, Devon Conway, Colin de Grandhomme, Matt Henry, Kyle Jamieson, Tom Latham, Henry Nicholls, Ajaz Patel, Tim Southee, Ross Taylor, Neil Wagner, BJ Watling, Will Young.

Cricket: 'Pitch will definitely spin' - Sunil Gavaskar wants both Ashwin and Jadeja in India playing XI for WTC Final

When New Zealand lost the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup 2019, Ross Taylor thought he might have missed his last chance at winning a major final.

Two years later, the Black Caps batsman is back in England, looking to make amends after the Super Over loss at Lord’s as New Zealand and India prepare to face off in the ICC World Test Championship Final in Southampton.

And the 37-year-old admits that had he come out on the right side of that dramatic finale, there is a very good chance he would have called it a day.&nbsp;

He said: “It was disappointing to have lost that match at Lord’s a couple of years ago. When you lose and you’re at the age that I was, you think that might be the last time I ever get to play a World Cup final, so it’s nice for me to be here.&nbsp;

“If we had won that game, I might have retired after that, so I’m glad that I didn’t and that I’m here today.

“I just think it’s really exciting to be here, the whole New Zealand side are really excited, it’s going to be a great occasion, playing against India. We’ve only been number one for a few weeks, they have been number one for five or six years so they are going to be a really hard opposition to play against, but we’re looking forward to that.”&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/wtc-final-looking-forward-to-the-challenge-ross-taylor-eager-to-face-very-tough-opposition-india-391692" hreflang="en">WTC Final: 'Looking forward to the challenge' - Ross Taylor eager to face 'very tough opposition' India</a>

While Taylor was considering retirement in 2019, one man who will be calling time on his Test career after the Final is New Zealand wicket-keeper BJ Watling.&nbsp;

The 35-year-old made his Test debut back in 2009 and is set to make his 75th&nbsp;and final appearance for New Zealand in the longest format of the game, earning high praise from his coach Gary Stead.

Stead said: “BJ is a fantastic player, a great team man. He’s turned himself into, I think, one of the best keeper-batsmen in the world over the past 10 years of him playing. Let’s also remember he was a manufactured keeper as such, it wasn’t his first thing to do. The way he’s developed himself and continued to look to get better over that period of time is pretty amazing.

“I don’t think we as a team will realise how much we’ll miss BJ in the dressing room and in the role he is in until he’s not there. He’s a quiet individual but when he speaks, people listen. He’s very popular among the whole team. He will be a sad loss for us but we want to celebrate in style hopefully, and send him out on the right note.”&nbsp;

Pujara looking forward to WTC Final:&nbsp;For India batsman Cheteshwar Pujara, a Test specialist, the ICC World Test Championship offers a rare opportunity to play in a major final.&nbsp;

And the 33-year-old is relishing the opportunity as India ramp up their preparations following an inter-squad warm-up match.

He said: “Personally, it means a lot to me. Playing one format, the Test format, this is the first time we are playing the World Test Championship Finals. As a team we have worked over a period of time, you play so many series at home and away from home. To be at the top requires a lot of hard work.

“It’s like playing a World Cup final in any format. This is the first time in the Test format, but playing an ODI World Cup final or even a T20 World Cup final, it’s very similar to that. Personally, I’m looking forward to it, and as a team we are looking forward to it.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-wtc-format-helps-as-test-cricket-needs-to-survive-says-cheteshwar-pujara-391685" hreflang="en">Cricket: WTC format helps as Test cricket needs to survive, says Cheteshwar Pujara</a>

“It will be challenging but we have been through a lot of preparation recently. The time we have had here, in the last nine or 10 days, we have tried to use it to the fullest. As a team, we are very well-prepared. We have the experience, most of the guys have played in England in the past, so I think we are up for the challenge, so we are very confident.”&nbsp;

The squads:

India:&nbsp;Virat Kohli (captain), Rohit Sharma, Shubman Gill, Cheteshwar Pujara, Ajinkya Rahane, Hanuma Vihari, Rishabh Pant, Wriddhiman Saha, Ravichandran Ashwin, Ravindra Jadeja, Jasprit Bumrah, Ishant Sharma, Mohammad Shami, Md Siraj, Umesh Yadav.

New Zealand:&nbsp;Kane Williamson (captain), Tom Blundell, Trent Boult, Devon Conway, Colin de Grandhomme, Matt Henry, Kyle Jamieson, Tom Latham, Henry Nicholls, Ajaz Patel, Tim Southee,&nbsp;Ross Taylor, Neil Wagner, BJ Watling, Will Young.

When New Zealand lost the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup 2019, Ross Taylor thought he might have missed his last chance at winning a major final. Two years later, the Black Caps batsman is back in England, looking to make amends after the Super Over loss at Lord’s as New Zealand and India prepare to face off in the ICC World Test Championship Final in Southampton.

When New Zealand lost the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup 2019, Ross Taylor thought he might have missed his last chance at winning a major final. Two years later, the Black Caps batsman is back in England, looking to make amends after the Super Over loss at Lord’s as New Zealand and India prepare to face off in the ICC World Test Championship Final in Southampton. And the 37-year-old admits that had he come out on the right side of that dramatic finale, there is a very good chance he would have called it a day. He said: “It was disappointing to have lost that match at Lord’s a couple of years ago. When you lose and you’re at the age that I was, you think that might be the last time I ever get to play a World Cup final, so it’s nice for me to be here. “If we had won that game, I might have retired after that, so I’m glad that I didn’t and that I’m here today. “I just think it’s really exciting to be here, the whole New Zealand side are really excited, it’s going to be a great occasion, playing against India. We’ve only been number one for a few weeks, they have been number one for five or six years so they are going to be a really hard opposition to play against, but we’re looking forward to that.” ALSO READ: WTC Final: 'Looking forward to the challenge' - Ross Taylor eager to face 'very tough opposition' India While Taylor was considering retirement in 2019, one man who will be calling time on his Test career after the Final is New Zealand wicket-keeper BJ Watling. The 35-year-old made his Test debut back in 2009 and is set to make his 75th and final appearance for New Zealand in the longest format of the game, earning high praise from his coach Gary Stead. Stead said: “BJ is a fantastic player, a great team man. He’s turned himself into, I think, one of the best keeper-batsmen in the world over the past 10 years of him playing. Let’s also remember he was a manufactured keeper as such, it wasn’t his first thing to do. The way he’s developed himself and continued to look to get better over that period of time is pretty amazing. “I don’t think we as a team will realise how much we’ll miss BJ in the dressing room and in the role he is in until he’s not there. He’s a quiet individual but when he speaks, people listen. He’s very popular among the whole team. He will be a sad loss for us but we want to celebrate in style hopefully, and send him out on the right note.” Pujara looking forward to WTC Final: For India batsman Cheteshwar Pujara, a Test specialist, the ICC World Test Championship offers a rare opportunity to play in a major final. And the 33-year-old is relishing the opportunity as India ramp up their preparations following an inter-squad warm-up match. He said: “Personally, it means a lot to me. Playing one format, the Test format, this is the first time we are playing the World Test Championship Finals. As a team we have worked over a period of time, you play so many series at home and away from home. To be at the top requires a lot of hard work. “It’s like playing a World Cup final in any format. This is the first time in the Test format, but playing an ODI World Cup final or even a T20 World Cup final, it’s very similar to that. Personally, I’m looking forward to it, and as a team we are looking forward to it. ALSO READ: Cricket: WTC format helps as Test cricket needs to survive, says Cheteshwar Pujara “It will be challenging but we have been through a lot of preparation recently. The time we have had here, in the last nine or 10 days, we have tried to use it to the fullest. As a team, we are very well-prepared. We have the experience, most of the guys have played in England in the past, so I think we are up for the challenge, so we are very confident.” The squads: India: Virat Kohli (captain), Rohit Sharma, Shubman Gill, Cheteshwar Pujara, Ajinkya Rahane, Hanuma Vihari, Rishabh Pant, Wriddhiman Saha, Ravichandran Ashwin, Ravindra Jadeja, Jasprit Bumrah, Ishant Sharma, Mohammad Shami, Md Siraj, Umesh Yadav. New Zealand: Kane Williamson (captain), Tom Blundell, Trent Boult, Devon Conway, Colin de Grandhomme, Matt Henry, Kyle Jamieson, Tom Latham, Henry Nicholls, Ajaz Patel, Tim Southee, Ross Taylor, Neil Wagner, BJ Watling, Will Young.

Cricket: Taylor targets Final redemption in ICC World Test Championship

Premier League on Wednesday announced the full fixtures for the 2021-22 season with the brand new edition of the English top-flight set to kick-start on August 14. Defending champions Manchester City open their season against Tottenham Hotspur while Liverpool will take on newly-promoted Norwich City.<o:p></o:p>

Brentford will host Arsenal in the first game-week while Chelsea will face Crystal Palace in the London derby. Manchester United lock horns with Leeds United at Old Trafford in what promises to be a thrilling opening round of fixtures. <o:p></o:p>

In the second game-week, Arsenal will take on Chelsea before travelling to Manchester City whereas Chelsea face Liverpool at Anfield on August 28.<o:p></o:p>

Liverpool will head to Old Trafford on October 23 with the north London derby between Arsenal and Tottenham scheduled for September 25 and January 15.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/coca-cola-loses-4-billion-as-cristiano-ronaldo-removes-soft-drink-bottles-at-a-presser-391777" hreflang="en">Coca Cola loses $4 billion as Cristiano Ronaldo removes soft drink bottles at a presser</a><o:p></o:p>

<h2 class="MsoNormal">The opening weekend games&nbsp;in Premier League 2021-22:<o:p></o:p></h2>

<ul>
	<li class="MsoNormal">Brentford vs Arsenal<o:p></o:p></li>
	<li class="MsoNormal">Burnley vs Brighton<o:p></o:p></li>
	<li class="MsoNormal">Chelsea vs Crystal Palace<o:p></o:p></li>
	<li class="MsoNormal">Everton vs Southampton<o:p></o:p></li>
	<li class="MsoNormal">Leicester City vs Wolverhampton<o:p></o:p></li>
	<li class="MsoNormal">Manchester United vs Leeds United<o:p></o:p></li>
	<li class="MsoNormal">Newcastle United vs West Ham United<o:p></o:p></li>
	<li class="MsoNormal">Norwich City vs Liverpool<o:p></o:p></li>
	<li class="MsoNormal">Tottenham Hotspur vs Manchester City<o:p></o:p></li>
	<li class="MsoNormal">Watford vs Aston Villa<o:p></o:p></li>
</ul>

<h2 class="MsoNormal">The Boxing Day games<o:p></o:p></h2>

<ul>
	<li class="MsoNormal">Brighton vs Brentford<o:p></o:p></li>
	<li class="MsoNormal">Burnley vs Everton<o:p></o:p></li>
	<li class="MsoNormal">Liverpool vs Leeds United<o:p></o:p></li>
	<li class="MsoNormal">Manchester City vs Leicester City<o:p></o:p></li>
	<li class="MsoNormal">Newcastle United vs Manchester United<o:p></o:p></li>
	<li class="MsoNormal">Norwich City vs Arsenal<o:p></o:p></li>
	<li class="MsoNormal">Tottenham Hotspur vs Crystal Palace<o:p></o:p></li>
	<li class="MsoNormal">West Ham United vs Southampton<o:p></o:p></li>
	<li class="MsoNormal">Wolverhampton vs Watford<o:p></o:p></li>
</ul>

<h2 class="MsoNormal">The final day games in Premier League 2021-22<o:p></o:p></h2>

<ul>
	<li class="MsoNormal">Arsenal vs Everton<o:p></o:p></li>
	<li class="MsoNormal">Brentford vs Leeds United<o:p></o:p></li>
	<li class="MsoNormal">Brighton vs West Ham United<o:p></o:p></li>
	<li class="MsoNormal">Burnley vs Newcastle United<o:p></o:p></li>
	<li class="MsoNormal">Chelsea vs Watford<o:p></o:p></li>
	<li class="MsoNormal">Crystal Palace vs Manchester United<o:p></o:p></li>
	<li class="MsoNormal">Leicester City vs Southampton<o:p></o:p></li>
	<li class="MsoNormal">Liverpool vs Wolverhampton<o:p></o:p></li>
	<li class="MsoNormal">Manchester City vs Aston Villa<o:p></o:p></li>
	<li class="MsoNormal">Norwich City vs Tottenham Hotspur<o:p></o:p></li>
</ul>

Premier League on Wednesday announced the full fixtures for the 2021-22 season with the brand new edition of the English top-flight set to kick-start on August 14.

Premier League on Wednesday announced the full fixtures for the 2021-22 season with the brand new edition of the English top-flight set to kick-start on August 14. Defending champions Manchester City open their season against Tottenham Hotspur while Liverpool will take on newly-promoted Norwich City. Brentford will host Arsenal in the first game-week while Chelsea will face Crystal Palace in the London derby. Manchester United lock horns with Leeds United at Old Trafford in what promises to be a thrilling opening round of fixtures. In the second game-week, Arsenal will take on Chelsea before travelling to Manchester City whereas Chelsea face Liverpool at Anfield on August 28. Liverpool will head to Old Trafford on October 23 with the north London derby between Arsenal and Tottenham scheduled for September 25 and January 15. ALSO READ: Coca Cola loses $4 billion as Cristiano Ronaldo removes soft drink bottles at a presser The opening weekend games in Premier League 2021-22: Brentford vs Arsenal Burnley vs Brighton Chelsea vs Crystal Palace Everton vs Southampton Leicester City vs Wolverhampton Manchester United vs Leeds United Newcastle United vs West Ham United Norwich City vs Liverpool Tottenham Hotspur vs Manchester City Watford vs Aston Villa The Boxing Day games Brighton vs Brentford Burnley vs Everton Liverpool vs Leeds United Manchester City vs Leicester City Newcastle United vs Manchester United Norwich City vs Arsenal Tottenham Hotspur vs Crystal Palace West Ham United vs Southampton Wolverhampton vs Watford The final day games in Premier League 2021-22 Arsenal vs Everton Brentford vs Leeds United Brighton vs West Ham United Burnley vs Newcastle United Chelsea vs Watford Crystal Palace vs Manchester United Leicester City vs Southampton Liverpool vs Wolverhampton Manchester City vs Aston Villa Norwich City vs Tottenham Hotspur

Football - Premier League 2021-22 schedule announced: Check all the key fixtures

BJ Watling will retire after the World Test Championship final against India at Southampton. Making his debut as an expert opening batsman in the 2009-10 season, BJ Watling developed into one of the best wicketkeeper-players in Test cricket. Wearing the gloves since 2012, he has arisen as New Zealand's best wicketkeeper-batsman.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-icc-announces-star-studded-commentary-panel-for-wtc-final-391597" hreflang="en">Cricket: ICC announces star-studded commentary panel for WTC Final</a>

The South Africa-conceived cricketer has played 73 Tests for New Zealand, scoring 3,789 runs at an average of 37.89, enlisting eight centuries. One of the best wicket-keeper of the time, BJ Watling likewise has 270 dismissals 262 catches, and eight stumpings to his name.&nbsp;

Gary Stead while addressing a virtual press conference said:&nbsp;“BJ is a fantastic player, a great team man. He’s turned himself into, I think, one of the best keeper-batsmen in the world over the past 10 years of him playing. Let’s also remember he was a manufactured keeper as such, it wasn’t his first thing to do. The way he’s developed himself and continued to look to get better over that period of time is pretty amazing. I don’t think we as a team will realize how much we’ll miss BJ in the dressing room and in the role he is in until he’s not there. He’s a quiet individual but when he speaks, people listen. He’s very popular among the whole team. He will be a sad loss for us but we want to celebrate in style hopefully, and send him out on the right note.”

The Test series win against England has helped New Zealand's certainty ahead of the World Test Championship last, however, head coach Gary Stead isn't willing to lay on the shrubs and demands that it will be an extreme fight against India.&nbsp;

“For us, it has been an interesting road getting here and we have played some good cricket over the past couple of years to get here. But we are aware of the strength of the Indian side and they are worthy finalists. We are looking forward to the battle” - he said.

“As a coach, I am pleased that we had some time here and had a couple of Test matches. I think it is good for us in getting ready for this Test match” - he added.

Discussing New Zealand's pace bowling attack, Stead conceded: 
“It is a nice problem to have” ahead of the big game. “Matt Henry bowled beautifully in that Test against England. He has been in the group more recently as a backup option for us. We know Matt’s ability as well and especially in English condition, he can provide, guess a little bit of a point of difference over other guys with his ability to swing the ball. Colin de Grandehomme came back in the squad of 15, so we have really got six seamers we can choose from for this final” - he added.

"I am not sure if it is an advantage or disadvantage really, it is nice that we have managed to get over her and play some cricket," said Gary Stead when asked if it was an advantage for New Zealand.

Stead remembered to specify that abbreviated IPL additionally implied that India's top stars got time to spruce up which wouldn't have been the situation if the T20 association would have proceeded till the end of May.&nbsp;

"I guess the advantage for India is that IPL being shortened, or people would still be playing from the Indian team. So it is a little bit of a different situation for us."

BJ Watling will retire after the World Test Championship final against India at Southampton. Making his debut as an expert opening batsman in the 2009-10 season, BJ Watling developed into one of the best wicketkeeper-players in Test cricket.

BJ Watling will retire after the World Test Championship final against India at Southampton. Making his debut as an expert opening batsman in the 2009-10 season, BJ Watling developed into one of the best wicketkeeper-players in Test cricket. Wearing the gloves since 2012, he has arisen as New Zealand's best wicketkeeper-batsman. ALSO READ: Cricket: ICC announces star-studded commentary panel for WTC Final The South Africa-conceived cricketer has played 73 Tests for New Zealand, scoring 3,789 runs at an average of 37.89, enlisting eight centuries. One of the best wicket-keeper of the time, BJ Watling likewise has 270 dismissals 262 catches, and eight stumpings to his name. Gary Stead while addressing a virtual press conference said: “BJ is a fantastic player, a great team man. He’s turned himself into, I think, one of the best keeper-batsmen in the world over the past 10 years of him playing. Let’s also remember he was a manufactured keeper as such, it wasn’t his first thing to do. The way he’s developed himself and continued to look to get better over that period of time is pretty amazing. I don’t think we as a team will realize how much we’ll miss BJ in the dressing room and in the role he is in until he’s not there. He’s a quiet individual but when he speaks, people listen. He’s very popular among the whole team. He will be a sad loss for us but we want to celebrate in style hopefully, and send him out on the right note.” The Test series win against England has helped New Zealand's certainty ahead of the World Test Championship last, however, head coach Gary Stead isn't willing to lay on the shrubs and demands that it will be an extreme fight against India. “For us, it has been an interesting road getting here and we have played some good cricket over the past couple of years to get here. But we are aware of the strength of the Indian side and they are worthy finalists. We are looking forward to the battle” - he said. “As a coach, I am pleased that we had some time here and had a couple of Test matches. I think it is good for us in getting ready for this Test match” - he added. Discussing New Zealand's pace bowling attack, Stead conceded: “It is a nice problem to have” ahead of the big game. “Matt Henry bowled beautifully in that Test against England. He has been in the group more recently as a backup option for us. We know Matt’s ability as well and especially in English condition, he can provide, guess a little bit of a point of difference over other guys with his ability to swing the ball. Colin de Grandehomme came back in the squad of 15, so we have really got six seamers we can choose from for this final” - he added. "I am not sure if it is an advantage or disadvantage really, it is nice that we have managed to get over her and play some cricket," said Gary Stead when asked if it was an advantage for New Zealand. Stead remembered to specify that abbreviated IPL additionally implied that India's top stars got time to spruce up which wouldn't have been the situation if the T20 association would have proceeded till the end of May. "I guess the advantage for India is that IPL being shortened, or people would still be playing from the Indian team. So it is a little bit of a different situation for us."

Cricket: BJ Watling is a fantastic player, a great team man: NZ head coach Gary Stead

Sachin Tendulkar has pushed for an 'ICC World Test Championship Final Series' rather than a one-off match.&nbsp;India and New Zealand will go facing each other in the final of the World Test Championship at the Rose Bowl in Southampton, which begins on June 18.&nbsp;

Tendulkar feels a WTC final series would be ideal to crown the victor. Expressing the explanation, the batting maestro referred to that each group has played in a few Test series including a few matches to get to this point.&nbsp;

In a conversation with Times of India, Sachin Tendulkar said: “In the case of Test cricket, to get to the final, you’re playing two or three-Test series, or for that matter, against four matches in a series. And then you play just one Test to decide the championship."

"Where’s the continuity? It should actually be a World Test Championship series, not just one match. Because to get to this point, you’ve played Test series involving two or three Tests or more. So, it shouldn’t have just been a World Test Championship Final but the World Test Championship Final Series. Because you’ve played series to get to this point.”&nbsp;

Nonetheless, the International Cricket Council has expressed a three-match arrangement is improbable even later on due to the rigorous plan followed by the global cricket schedule.&nbsp;

Numerous previous cricketers have supported the Black Caps to begin the much-awaited inaugural Final as top choices. Tendulkar additionally feels playing two matches against England paving the way to the WTC final will give New Zealand some edge over the Indians.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/wtc-final-rohit-to-struggle-against-swing-wagner-could-be-used-to-target-kohli-says-styris-391465" hreflang="en">WTC Final: Rohit to struggle against swing, Wagner could be used to target Kohli, says Styris</a>

“This is, without any doubt, another way to look at it. New Zealand will have that slight edge because they’ve played the two Tests against England while India hasn’t had practice matches except for playing between themselves” - he added.

Sachin Tendulkar feels the recently concluded series among England and New Zealand might have occurred after the WTC final as it no affected the worldwide competition.&nbsp;

“I don’t know when New Zealand vs England series was decided. I’d like to believe that it was decided way in advance, way before New Zealand booked their spot in the Final. Maybe it’s a coincidence. This England vs New Zealand series was not going to contribute to the WTC Final. So, maybe the WTC Final first and then this series could have been staged” - he signed off.

Sachin Tendulkar has pushed for an 'ICC World Test Championship Final Series' rather than a one-off match. India and New Zealand will go facing each other in the final of the World Test Championship at the Rose Bowl in Southampton, which begins on June 18.

Sachin Tendulkar has pushed for an 'ICC World Test Championship Final Series' rather than a one-off match. India and New Zealand will go facing each other in the final of the World Test Championship at the Rose Bowl in Southampton, which begins on June 18. Tendulkar feels a WTC final series would be ideal to crown the victor. Expressing the explanation, the batting maestro referred to that each group has played in a few Test series including a few matches to get to this point. In a conversation with Times of India, Sachin Tendulkar said: “In the case of Test cricket, to get to the final, you’re playing two or three-Test series, or for that matter, against four matches in a series. And then you play just one Test to decide the championship." "Where’s the continuity? It should actually be a World Test Championship series, not just one match. Because to get to this point, you’ve played Test series involving two or three Tests or more. So, it shouldn’t have just been a World Test Championship Final but the World Test Championship Final Series. Because you’ve played series to get to this point.” Nonetheless, the International Cricket Council has expressed a three-match arrangement is improbable even later on due to the rigorous plan followed by the global cricket schedule. Numerous previous cricketers have supported the Black Caps to begin the much-awaited inaugural Final as top choices. Tendulkar additionally feels playing two matches against England paving the way to the WTC final will give New Zealand some edge over the Indians. ALSO READ: WTC Final: Rohit to struggle against swing, Wagner could be used to target Kohli, says Styris “This is, without any doubt, another way to look at it. New Zealand will have that slight edge because they’ve played the two Tests against England while India hasn’t had practice matches except for playing between themselves” - he added. Sachin Tendulkar feels the recently concluded series among England and New Zealand might have occurred after the WTC final as it no affected the worldwide competition. “I don’t know when New Zealand vs England series was decided. I’d like to believe that it was decided way in advance, way before New Zealand booked their spot in the Final. Maybe it’s a coincidence. This England vs New Zealand series was not going to contribute to the WTC Final. So, maybe the WTC Final first and then this series could have been staged” - he signed off.

Cricket: Should have been WTC Final 'series' and not just WTC Final, says Sachin Tendulkar

New Zealand batsman Ross Taylor is eager to take on “really hard opponent” India in the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) final in Southampton, starting from Friday.<o:p></o:p>

Taylor quipped that India have been the number one side for&nbsp;long and are a very tough opponent, no matter what side they play. <o:p></o:p>

“You go through the Indian line-up, and there are just world-class players throughout. Whatever side they decide to go with, it will have world-class players. India has been a world No. 1 side for a long time. They will be very tough opposition,” Taylor said during a media interaction on Tuesday.<o:p></o:p>

New Zealand head into the WTC final after playing a two-Test series against England, which they won 1-0. Taylor said that it was an ideal preparation to take on England and get a hang of the conditions.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-wtc-format-helps-as-test-cricket-needs-to-survive-says-cheteshwar-pujara-391685" hreflang="en">Cricket: WTC format helps as Test cricket needs to survive, says Cheteshwar Pujara</a><o:p></o:p>

“It was an ideal preparation, having played two Test matches against England in these conditions. Cannot think of anything better,” Taylor said.<o:p></o:p>

However, Taylor praised the Indian bowling attack for taking on Australia on their home soil as he said it was a great watch for New Zealanders to see some world-class bowling on Aussie soil. <o:p></o:p>

“But India has been a fantastic side for a long period of time -- not only their batters, but also their bowlers. They won a series against Australia in its home summer, and it was great to watch. (It was) nice for the New Zealand public to see some world-class bowling against a very good Australian attack. They have a fair lot of success here as well. I am sure in the warm-up games or bowling at the nets, they would have enjoyed the swing and the bounce that the Dukes ball has. We are looking forward to the challenge,” he added.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-bcci-announces-15-member-squad-for-wtc-final-against-new-zealand-391665" hreflang="en">Cricket: BCCI announces 15-member squad for WTC Final against New Zealand</a><o:p></o:p>

Taylor revealed that he would have retired had New Zealand won the ICC World Cup 2019. The Black Caps haven’t won an ICC event since 2000 but are looking forward to ending the long wait. <o:p></o:p>

“It is disappointing to have lost that match at Lord’s a couple of years ago. I guess, when you lose, you feel that it might be the last time you are playing a World Cup final, so it is nice for me to be here. If we did win that game, I might have retired after that. I am glad I did not, and I am here today,” he said

New Zealand batsman Ross Taylor is eager to take on “really hard opponent” India in the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) final in Southampton, starting from Friday.

New Zealand batsman Ross Taylor is eager to take on “really hard opponent” India in the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) final in Southampton, starting from Friday. Taylor quipped that India have been the number one side for long and are a very tough opponent, no matter what side they play. “You go through the Indian line-up, and there are just world-class players throughout. Whatever side they decide to go with, it will have world-class players. India has been a world No. 1 side for a long time. They will be very tough opposition,” Taylor said during a media interaction on Tuesday. New Zealand head into the WTC final after playing a two-Test series against England, which they won 1-0. Taylor said that it was an ideal preparation to take on England and get a hang of the conditions. ALSO READ: Cricket: WTC format helps as Test cricket needs to survive, says Cheteshwar Pujara “It was an ideal preparation, having played two Test matches against England in these conditions. Cannot think of anything better,” Taylor said. However, Taylor praised the Indian bowling attack for taking on Australia on their home soil as he said it was a great watch for New Zealanders to see some world-class bowling on Aussie soil. “But India has been a fantastic side for a long period of time -- not only their batters, but also their bowlers. They won a series against Australia in its home summer, and it was great to watch. (It was) nice for the New Zealand public to see some world-class bowling against a very good Australian attack. They have a fair lot of success here as well. I am sure in the warm-up games or bowling at the nets, they would have enjoyed the swing and the bounce that the Dukes ball has. We are looking forward to the challenge,” he added. ALSO READ: Cricket: BCCI announces 15-member squad for WTC Final against New Zealand Taylor revealed that he would have retired had New Zealand won the ICC World Cup 2019. The Black Caps haven’t won an ICC event since 2000 but are looking forward to ending the long wait. “It is disappointing to have lost that match at Lord’s a couple of years ago. I guess, when you lose, you feel that it might be the last time you are playing a World Cup final, so it is nice for me to be here. If we did win that game, I might have retired after that. I am glad I did not, and I am here today,” he said

WTC Final: 'Looking forward to the challenge' - Ross Taylor eager to face 'very tough opposition' India

Indian batsman Cheteshwar Pujara on Tuesday said that the World Test Championship Final means a lot to him personally while adding that the WTC format of playing the longest format of the game will help Test cricket survive. <o:p></o:p>

India and New Zealand lock horns in the WTC Final, starting June 18 in Southampton. With Pujara playing just one format for the Indian team, he said the WTC Final is equivalent to playing a 50-over or T20 World Cup final. <o:p></o:p>

"Personally, it means a lot to me This is the first time we are in a WTC final. We have worked hard over a period of time. It's just like playing in a 50-over or T20 World Cup final. Test cricket needs to survive, and a WTC format helps where every Test, every series is important. If we win, then many youngsters would want to play the Test format and be part of the final when the next cycle comes around," said Pujara.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/we-are-in-wtc-final-because-of-our-bowlers-cheteshwar-pujara-lauds-indian-bowling-attack-391673" hreflang="en">We are in WTC Final because of our bowlers: Cheteshwar Pujara lauds Indian bowling attack</a>

<o:p></o:p>

"It is a disadvantage, but this is something we can't control. These are challenging times in the world because of the pandemic, and you cannot have the luxury for extra preparation time. But the most important part is the game is still going on and that we're playing a final. Yes, preparation time is a bit of a disadvantage maybe, but if you're ready for the challenge, even if circumstances aren't favourable, you'd do well. We're confident as a team. Maybe a few extra days of preparation would've helped, but we can't complain. We're ready," said Pujara.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-preview-long-wait-comes-to-an-end-as-india-women-face-england-women-in-one-off-test-391636" hreflang="en">Cricket - Preview: Long wait comes to an end as India Women face England Women in one-off Test</a><o:p></o:p>

When asked about the playing conditions in Southampton, Pujara said: "We've utilised the time really well. Even during the centre-wicket simulation, we had some practice wickets available. When in the middle, you want to ensure things you're working on in the nets to come along." <o:p></o:p>

"For bowlers, it was important to get used to the workload again. They would have bowled 14-15 overs in the entire game, which is very important for their workload. For the batsmen, it was about spending time in the middle, having the discipline of leaving balls, playing shots you would in a game. So being in the middle and having a match scenarios is very important," he added. <o:p></o:p>

Indian batsman Cheteshwar Pujara on Tuesday said that the World Test Championship Final means a lot to him personally while adding that the WTC format of playing the longest format of the game will help Test cricket survive.

Indian batsman Cheteshwar Pujara on Tuesday said that the World Test Championship Final means a lot to him personally while adding that the WTC format of playing the longest format of the game will help Test cricket survive. India and New Zealand lock horns in the WTC Final, starting June 18 in Southampton. With Pujara playing just one format for the Indian team, he said the WTC Final is equivalent to playing a 50-over or T20 World Cup final. "Personally, it means a lot to me This is the first time we are in a WTC final. We have worked hard over a period of time. It's just like playing in a 50-over or T20 World Cup final. Test cricket needs to survive, and a WTC format helps where every Test, every series is important. If we win, then many youngsters would want to play the Test format and be part of the final when the next cycle comes around," said Pujara. ALSO READ: We are in WTC Final because of our bowlers: Cheteshwar Pujara lauds Indian bowling attack "It is a disadvantage, but this is something we can't control. These are challenging times in the world because of the pandemic, and you cannot have the luxury for extra preparation time. But the most important part is the game is still going on and that we're playing a final. Yes, preparation time is a bit of a disadvantage maybe, but if you're ready for the challenge, even if circumstances aren't favourable, you'd do well. We're confident as a team. Maybe a few extra days of preparation would've helped, but we can't complain. We're ready," said Pujara. ALSO READ: Cricket - Preview: Long wait comes to an end as India Women face England Women in one-off Test When asked about the playing conditions in Southampton, Pujara said: "We've utilised the time really well. Even during the centre-wicket simulation, we had some practice wickets available. When in the middle, you want to ensure things you're working on in the nets to come along." "For bowlers, it was important to get used to the workload again. They would have bowled 14-15 overs in the entire game, which is very important for their workload. For the batsmen, it was about spending time in the middle, having the discipline of leaving balls, playing shots you would in a game. So being in the middle and having a match scenarios is very important," he added.

Cricket: WTC format helps as Test cricket needs to survive, says Cheteshwar Pujara

The ICC World Test Championship Final featuring India and New Zealand will commence on June 18 at the Rose Bowl in Southampton. The two best sides in Test cricket in the course of recent years will lock horns for the desired title.&nbsp;

Since&nbsp;Cheteshwar Pujara plays only the Test format, the World Test Championship final is more or less huge, similar to some other worldwide competition final.&nbsp;

"Personally, it means a lot to me. This is the first time we are in a WTC final. We have worked hard over a period of time. It's just like playing in a 50-over or T20 World Cup final. Test cricket needs to survive, and a WTC format helps where every Test, every series is important. If we win, then many youngsters would want to play the Test format and be part of the final when the next cycle comes around."

Match practice is essential, and keeping in mind that India hasn't had any, New Zealand has recently completed a two-Test arrangement against England - and won it 1-0.&nbsp;

India went through about fourteen days in isolation in Mumbai. In the course of recent days, the team has partaken in workouts, aside from their standard wellness.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-bcci-announces-15-member-squad-for-wtc-final-against-new-zealand-391665" hreflang="en">Cricket: BCCI announces 15-member squad for WTC Final against New Zealand</a>

Cheteshwar Pujara said that the initial sessions in the UK were about getting back into rhythm.

"We've utilised the time really well. Even during the center-wicket simulation, we had some practice wickets available. When in the middle, you want to ensure things you're working on in the nets to come along" - he said.&nbsp;

Seeing an express Indian bowling lineup go through the resistance batting unit may be a normal thing to the youthful aficionados of Indian cricket, however, the past generation can surely appreciate the new sensation of complete mastery by the Indian bowlers. In this manner by setting up reliable exhibitions as a unit, the current pace bowling attack of India has given the conviction that they are fit for winning India coordinates in all formats of the game and in all conditions.&nbsp;India's accomplished bowlers need to lead from the front in the World Test Championship as well.

"The reason we have reached the WTC Final is because of our pacers and bowlers. They can take 20 wickets in any condition. And I am really happy to see them grow. And we have so many backup options and everyone is ready for the challenge" - Chtesthwar Pujara said.

The shortfall of an appropriate warm-up for India ahead of the WTC final is a 'bit of a disadvantage', however, the team is glad simply having the option to play cricket in a pandemic-hit world, as indicated by Cheteshwar Pujara.&nbsp;

"It is a disadvantage, but this is something we can't control. These are challenging times in the world because of the pandemic, and you can't have the luxury of extra preparation time. But the most important part is the game is still going on and that we're playing a final."&nbsp;

"Yes, preparation time is a bit of a disadvantage maybe, but if you're ready for the challenge, even if circumstances aren't favorable, you'd do well. We're confident as a team. Maybe a few extra days of preparation would've helped, but we can't complain. We're ready."

The ICC World Test Championship Final featuring India and New Zealand will commence on June 18 at the Rose Bowl in Southampton. The two best sides in Test cricket in the course of recent years will lock horns for the desired title.

The ICC World Test Championship Final featuring India and New Zealand will commence on June 18 at the Rose Bowl in Southampton. The two best sides in Test cricket in the course of recent years will lock horns for the desired title. Since Cheteshwar Pujara plays only the Test format, the World Test Championship final is more or less huge, similar to some other worldwide competition final. "Personally, it means a lot to me. This is the first time we are in a WTC final. We have worked hard over a period of time. It's just like playing in a 50-over or T20 World Cup final. Test cricket needs to survive, and a WTC format helps where every Test, every series is important. If we win, then many youngsters would want to play the Test format and be part of the final when the next cycle comes around." Match practice is essential, and keeping in mind that India hasn't had any, New Zealand has recently completed a two-Test arrangement against England - and won it 1-0. India went through about fourteen days in isolation in Mumbai. In the course of recent days, the team has partaken in workouts, aside from their standard wellness. ALSO READ: Cricket: BCCI announces 15-member squad for WTC Final against New Zealand Cheteshwar Pujara said that the initial sessions in the UK were about getting back into rhythm. "We've utilised the time really well. Even during the center-wicket simulation, we had some practice wickets available. When in the middle, you want to ensure things you're working on in the nets to come along" - he said. Seeing an express Indian bowling lineup go through the resistance batting unit may be a normal thing to the youthful aficionados of Indian cricket, however, the past generation can surely appreciate the new sensation of complete mastery by the Indian bowlers. In this manner by setting up reliable exhibitions as a unit, the current pace bowling attack of India has given the conviction that they are fit for winning India coordinates in all formats of the game and in all conditions. India's accomplished bowlers need to lead from the front in the World Test Championship as well. "The reason we have reached the WTC Final is because of our pacers and bowlers. They can take 20 wickets in any condition. And I am really happy to see them grow. And we have so many backup options and everyone is ready for the challenge" - Chtesthwar Pujara said. The shortfall of an appropriate warm-up for India ahead of the WTC final is a 'bit of a disadvantage', however, the team is glad simply having the option to play cricket in a pandemic-hit world, as indicated by Cheteshwar Pujara. "It is a disadvantage, but this is something we can't control. These are challenging times in the world because of the pandemic, and you can't have the luxury of extra preparation time. But the most important part is the game is still going on and that we're playing a final." "Yes, preparation time is a bit of a disadvantage maybe, but if you're ready for the challenge, even if circumstances aren't favorable, you'd do well. We're confident as a team. Maybe a few extra days of preparation would've helped, but we can't complain. We're ready."

We are in WTC Final because of our bowlers: Cheteshwar Pujara lauds Indian bowling attack

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) on Tuesday announced a 15-member squad for the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) Final, set to be played from June 18 to 22 at the Rose Bowl in Southampton.<o:p></o:p>

Virat Kohli will lead the Indian team for the WTC Final with Ajinkya Rahane being his deputy. The pace department have been completed by the likes of Jasprit Bumrah, Ishant Sharma, Mohammad Shami, Mohammed Siraj and Umesh Yadav while both Ravindra Jadeja and Ravichandran Ashwin complete the spin duo. <o:p></o:p>

The likes of Shardul Thakur and Washington Sundar miss out on a spot due to tight competition. The duo rose to the occasion when India missed their star players in the historic tour of Australia.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-rahul-dravid-will-be-indias-coach-for-sri-lanka-tour-confirms-sourav-ganguly-391621" hreflang="en">Cricket: Rahul Dravid will be India's coach for Sri Lanka tour, confirms Sourav Ganguly</a><o:p></o:p>

<h2 class="MsoNormal">India squad for World Test Championship Final vs New Zealand:<o:p></o:p></h2>

<ul>
	<li class="MsoNormal">Virat Kohli<o:p></o:p></li>
	<li class="MsoNormal">Rohit Sharma<o:p></o:p></li>
	<li class="MsoNormal">Shubman Gill<o:p></o:p></li>
	<li class="MsoNormal">Ajinkya Rahane</li>
	<li class="MsoNormal"><o:p>Cheteshwar Pujara</o:p></li>
	<li class="MsoNormal">Hanuma Vihari<o:p></o:p></li>
	<li class="MsoNormal">Rishabh Pant<o:p></o:p></li>
	<li class="MsoNormal">Wriddhiman Saha<o:p></o:p></li>
	<li class="MsoNormal">R Ashwin<o:p></o:p></li>
	<li class="MsoNormal">Ravindra Jadeja<o:p></o:p></li>
	<li class="MsoNormal">Jasprit Bumrah<o:p></o:p></li>
	<li class="MsoNormal">Mohammad Shami<o:p></o:p></li>
	<li class="MsoNormal">Umesh Yadav<o:p></o:p></li>
	<li class="MsoNormal">Mohammed Siraj</li>
	<li class="MsoNormal"><o:p>Ishant Sharma</o:p></li>
</ul>

However, given the quality of players at the helm, Indian management will be having some headaches in a bid to finalise the playing XI for the much-awaited WTC Final against New Zealand.

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) on Tuesday announced a 15-member squad for the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) Final, set to be played from June 18 to 22 at the Rose Bowl in Southampton.

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) on Tuesday announced a 15-member squad for the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) Final, set to be played from June 18 to 22 at the Rose Bowl in Southampton. Virat Kohli will lead the Indian team for the WTC Final with Ajinkya Rahane being his deputy. The pace department have been completed by the likes of Jasprit Bumrah, Ishant Sharma, Mohammad Shami, Mohammed Siraj and Umesh Yadav while both Ravindra Jadeja and Ravichandran Ashwin complete the spin duo. The likes of Shardul Thakur and Washington Sundar miss out on a spot due to tight competition. The duo rose to the occasion when India missed their star players in the historic tour of Australia. ALSO READ: Cricket: Rahul Dravid will be India's coach for Sri Lanka tour, confirms Sourav Ganguly India squad for World Test Championship Final vs New Zealand: Virat Kohli Rohit Sharma Shubman Gill Ajinkya Rahane Cheteshwar Pujara Hanuma Vihari Rishabh Pant Wriddhiman Saha R Ashwin Ravindra Jadeja Jasprit Bumrah Mohammad Shami Umesh Yadav Mohammed Siraj Ishant Sharma However, given the quality of players at the helm, Indian management will be having some headaches in a bid to finalise the playing XI for the much-awaited WTC Final against New Zealand.

Cricket: BCCI announces 15-member squad for WTC Final against New Zealand

Rahul Dravid will travel to Sri Lanka as the coach of the Indian cricket team for the limited-overs tour, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) president Sourav Ganguly has confirmed. The Indian squad for the Sri Lanka tour started their 14-day institutional quarantine in Mumbai on Monday.<o:p></o:p>

&nbsp;“Rahul Dravid will be the coach for the India tour to Sri Lanka,” Ganguly told The Indian Express.<o:p></o:p>

Dravid has made a solid mark with the India Under-19 and India-A set-up as a coach for the past few years and has been held crucial to India’s cracking bench strength.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-icc-announces-star-studded-commentary-panel-for-wtc-final-391597" hreflang="en">Cricket: ICC announces star-studded commentary panel for WTC Final</a><o:p></o:p>

Ganguly further opened up about the tax exemption issue for the T20 World Cup 2021, still scheduled to be hosted by India. However, the marquee event could be shifted to the UAE and Oman due to the COVID-19 situation in the country. <o:p></o:p>

“We have written to the Indian government on tax exemption. We are awaiting for their response. We still have time. The board will take decision on it soon,” the BCCI president explained.<o:p></o:p>

According to the report, the Indian board has also started working on the logistical challenges in the UAE for the T20 World Cup while also blocking hotel bookings for the tournament. The ICC and BCCI have also approached Oman in a bid to host the World Cup qualifiers. Notably, ICC has already said that BCCI will retain the hosting rights in case the T20 World Cup is shifted to the UAE.<o:p></o:p>

Rahul Dravid will travel to Sri Lanka as the coach of the Indian cricket team for the limited-overs tour, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) president Sourav Ganguly has confirmed.

Rahul Dravid will travel to Sri Lanka as the coach of the Indian cricket team for the limited-overs tour, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) president Sourav Ganguly has confirmed. The Indian squad for the Sri Lanka tour started their 14-day institutional quarantine in Mumbai on Monday. “Rahul Dravid will be the coach for the India tour to Sri Lanka,” Ganguly told The Indian Express. Dravid has made a solid mark with the India Under-19 and India-A set-up as a coach for the past few years and has been held crucial to India’s cracking bench strength. ALSO READ: Cricket: ICC announces star-studded commentary panel for WTC Final Ganguly further opened up about the tax exemption issue for the T20 World Cup 2021, still scheduled to be hosted by India. However, the marquee event could be shifted to the UAE and Oman due to the COVID-19 situation in the country. “We have written to the Indian government on tax exemption. We are awaiting for their response. We still have time. The board will take decision on it soon,” the BCCI president explained. According to the report, the Indian board has also started working on the logistical challenges in the UAE for the T20 World Cup while also blocking hotel bookings for the tournament. The ICC and BCCI have also approached Oman in a bid to host the World Cup qualifiers. Notably, ICC has already said that BCCI will retain the hosting rights in case the T20 World Cup is shifted to the UAE.

Cricket: Rahul Dravid will be India's coach for Sri Lanka tour, confirms Sourav Ganguly

Subsequent to pounding England in the Edgbaston Test, Kane Williamson-led New Zealand have shown up in Southampton for the much-anticipated World Test Championship final against India, which starts on Friday. A series win against England will unquestionably give certainty to the Kiwis prior to participate in the challenge against India. In any case,&nbsp;New Zealand speedster Trent Boult says the victory against England will not tally a lot.&nbsp;

New Zealand crushed Joe Root's England by eight wickets in the last Test to win the series 1-0. Tom Latham captained the side without Kane Williamson, who was ruled out due to injury but is fit for the WTC final.&nbsp;

Many have promoted New Zealand as the top choice considering the Blackcaps have gotten more opportunity to become acclimated to the English conditions. Regardless of outmaneuvering England and winning a Test arrangement in the country interestingly since 1999, Trent Boult feels it will be a fresh start when the WTC Final comes around.&nbsp;

"I don't think it means a lot. Great arrangement, and useful for everybody to have a hit out and get some time added to their repertoire. Very anticipating this week, can hardly wait, and ideally, we can forge ahead our great structure," said Boult who himself made a re-visitation of serious cricket with match figures of 6-119 in the subsequent Test.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-icc-announces-star-studded-commentary-panel-for-wtc-final-391597" hreflang="en">Cricket: ICC announces star-studded commentary panel for WTC Final</a>

Boult is probably going to face his Mumbai Indians colleagues like Rohit Sharma and Jasprit Bumrah when the ICC show-stopper occasion starts off on June 18.&nbsp;

He addressed the media after showing up in Southampton, talking about the "unique situation" in the development to the last.&nbsp;

"It's somewhat unique,&nbsp;a couple of IPL players and folks we're comfortable with from specific groups. I haven't seen any of my kindred Mumbai Indians at this point and I'm certain there will be a touch of exchange and a couple of grins shared. Clearly, with social removing, everybody is staying away and it's one of those interesting circumstances," Boult said.&nbsp;

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Both teams are staying at the venue for the <a href="https://twitter.com/ICC?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ICC</a> World Test Championship Final in Southampton and that means seeing some familiar faces for Trent Boult like his <a href="https://twitter.com/mipaltan?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@mipaltan</a> teammates. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WTC21?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WTC21</a> <a href="https://t.co/2g8TPjtWQs">pic.twitter.com/2g8TPjtWQs</a>
— BLACKCAPS (@BLACKCAPS) <a href="https://twitter.com/BLACKCAPS/status/1404552042321006592?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 14, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Boult set it all up in the wake of coming into the side after a merited break. Playing in the subsequent Test, the left-arm fast returned match figures of 6/119 as New Zealand frolicked to an eight-wicket triumph at Edgbaston.

Subsequent to pounding England in the Edgbaston Test, Kane Williamson-led New Zealand have shown up in Southampton for the much-anticipated World Test Championship final against India, which starts on Friday.

Subsequent to pounding England in the Edgbaston Test, Kane Williamson-led New Zealand have shown up in Southampton for the much-anticipated World Test Championship final against India, which starts on Friday. A series win against England will unquestionably give certainty to the Kiwis prior to participate in the challenge against India. In any case, New Zealand speedster Trent Boult says the victory against England will not tally a lot. New Zealand crushed Joe Root's England by eight wickets in the last Test to win the series 1-0. Tom Latham captained the side without Kane Williamson, who was ruled out due to injury but is fit for the WTC final. Many have promoted New Zealand as the top choice considering the Blackcaps have gotten more opportunity to become acclimated to the English conditions. Regardless of outmaneuvering England and winning a Test arrangement in the country interestingly since 1999, Trent Boult feels it will be a fresh start when the WTC Final comes around. "I don't think it means a lot. Great arrangement, and useful for everybody to have a hit out and get some time added to their repertoire. Very anticipating this week, can hardly wait, and ideally, we can forge ahead our great structure," said Boult who himself made a re-visitation of serious cricket with match figures of 6-119 in the subsequent Test. ALSO READ: Cricket: ICC announces star-studded commentary panel for WTC Final Boult is probably going to face his Mumbai Indians colleagues like Rohit Sharma and Jasprit Bumrah when the ICC show-stopper occasion starts off on June 18. He addressed the media after showing up in Southampton, talking about the "unique situation" in the development to the last. "It's somewhat unique, a couple of IPL players and folks we're comfortable with from specific groups. I haven't seen any of my kindred Mumbai Indians at this point and I'm certain there will be a touch of exchange and a couple of grins shared. Clearly, with social removing, everybody is staying away and it's one of those interesting circumstances," Boult said. Both teams are staying at the venue for the @ICC World Test Championship Final in Southampton and that means seeing some familiar faces for Trent Boult like his @mipaltan teammates. #WTC21 pic.twitter.com/2g8TPjtWQs — BLACKCAPS (@BLACKCAPS) June 14, 2021 × Boult set it all up in the wake of coming into the side after a merited break. Playing in the subsequent Test, the left-arm fast returned match figures of 6/119 as New Zealand frolicked to an eight-wicket triumph at Edgbaston.

Cricket: I am sure there’ll be a bit of banter, says Trent Boult ahead of WTC final

The International Cricket Council (ICC) on Tuesday announced a star-studded commentary panel for the inaugural ICC World Test Championship (WTC) Final, set to be played between India and New Zealand in Southampton from June 18 to 22.<o:p></o:p>

The commentary panel for the inaugural ICC WTC Final will include stalwarts of the game, experienced broadcasters, and fresh, young voices. ICC Hall of Famers and Test match legends Sunil Gavaskar and Kumar Sangakkara will be joined by experienced broadcasters Nasser Hussain, Simon Doull, Isa Guha, Ian Bishop and Michael Atherton. Bringing fresh perspective on the two finalists will be former New Zealand player-turned-batting coach Craig McMillan and India’s Dinesh Karthik.<o:p></o:p>

There has been immense anticipation surrounding the WTC final with fans eagerly waiting to see who will lift the ICC Test Mace after winning the summit clash at the Rose Bowl. <o:p></o:p>

The star-studded commentary panel will ensure the fans get the proper insights into the game in what has been tipped as a match for ages between the two top Test-playing nations.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-vvs-laxman-suggests-changes-to-make-world-test-championship-more-interesting-391583" hreflang="en">Cricket: VVS Laxman suggests changes to make World Test Championship more interesting</a><o:p></o:p>

Commenting on the inaugural ICC World Test Championship Final, Dinesh Karthik said: “The inaugural WTC Final is the much-anticipated pinnacle event in Test cricket, and I am looking forward to an exciting match between India and New Zealand. There is so much at stake here, both teams look evenly matched and what makes it even more interesting is that they are going to be playing at a neutral venue. It’s an honour to work as a broadcaster on this historic event.”<o:p></o:p>

Nasser Hussain added: “We have seen some fantastic Test cricket being played in the last two years as part of the World Test Championship, some newer heroes of the game have emerged and the Test format has seen increased interest across the globe, especially over the last few months. The inaugural WTC final will be an exciting contest between two very worthy opponents. I am looking forward to this contest.” <o:p></o:p>

Kumar Sangakkara added: “India and New Zealand have both earned their place in the World Test Championship Final. I am looking forward to some glorious cricket from both sides and wish the teams the very best in this highly anticipated tournament finale.”<o:p></o:p>

The International Cricket Council (ICC) on Tuesday announced a star-studded commentary panel for the inaugural ICC World Test Championship (WTC) Final, set to be played between India and New Zealand in Southampton from June 18 to 22.

The International Cricket Council (ICC) on Tuesday announced a star-studded commentary panel for the inaugural ICC World Test Championship (WTC) Final, set to be played between India and New Zealand in Southampton from June 18 to 22. The commentary panel for the inaugural ICC WTC Final will include stalwarts of the game, experienced broadcasters, and fresh, young voices. ICC Hall of Famers and Test match legends Sunil Gavaskar and Kumar Sangakkara will be joined by experienced broadcasters Nasser Hussain, Simon Doull, Isa Guha, Ian Bishop and Michael Atherton. Bringing fresh perspective on the two finalists will be former New Zealand player-turned-batting coach Craig McMillan and India’s Dinesh Karthik. There has been immense anticipation surrounding the WTC final with fans eagerly waiting to see who will lift the ICC Test Mace after winning the summit clash at the Rose Bowl. The star-studded commentary panel will ensure the fans get the proper insights into the game in what has been tipped as a match for ages between the two top Test-playing nations. ALSO READ: Cricket: VVS Laxman suggests changes to make World Test Championship more interesting Commenting on the inaugural ICC World Test Championship Final, Dinesh Karthik said: “The inaugural WTC Final is the much-anticipated pinnacle event in Test cricket, and I am looking forward to an exciting match between India and New Zealand. There is so much at stake here, both teams look evenly matched and what makes it even more interesting is that they are going to be playing at a neutral venue. It’s an honour to work as a broadcaster on this historic event.” Nasser Hussain added: “We have seen some fantastic Test cricket being played in the last two years as part of the World Test Championship, some newer heroes of the game have emerged and the Test format has seen increased interest across the globe, especially over the last few months. The inaugural WTC final will be an exciting contest between two very worthy opponents. I am looking forward to this contest.” Kumar Sangakkara added: “India and New Zealand have both earned their place in the World Test Championship Final. I am looking forward to some glorious cricket from both sides and wish the teams the very best in this highly anticipated tournament finale.”

Cricket: ICC announces star-studded commentary panel for WTC Final

As covid has wreaked havoc on the minds of everyone, it has affected specially-abled people more. And to overcome the mental pressures, a group of specially-abled people in Kashmir has come out to ease their tensions by holding cricket matches across the Valley.&nbsp;

These specially-abled people have made a group where they are motivating people with special abilities to join and play a sport. They have started with cricket and are being appreciated by everyone.&nbsp;

''There is a lot of stress among people these days and more because of covid. And people with special abilities are more stressed about work and sitting idle at home. Sports is one such thing which will help in reducing the stress level. There is a lot of scope in sports and I want to send across a message to all the people with special abilities to come out of their homes, there will be issues in the beginning but we all need to make such efforts. '' said Danish Ahmad, a sportsman.&nbsp;

<img alt="SA" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="bc5ee133-1c53-4001-b2d4-3de2e6dd3aa9" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/SA.JPG" />

These sports activities are inspiring hundreds of specially-abled to come out of their homes and be a part of these matches. Physical fitness among the specially abled is more important to develop their strengths.

ALSO READ: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/exclusive-marnus-labuschagne-thriving-to-be-the-best-316956">EXCLUSIVE | Marnus Labuschagne Interview&nbsp;</a>

''A lot of people are getting inspired by watching us, and I want everyone to come forward and play. Sports are important for everyone. A person remains fit. I want everyone who is stressed, specially-abled or involved in drugs, to come and play sports, it takes away all your tensions. '' said Sheikh Zaid, a sportsperson. &nbsp;

This whole group was brought together by Wasim Feroz, a specially-abled person himself. Wasim put all his efforts to make sure people from every district join and start playing these sports. He dreams of making it into a big club with thousands of specially-abled people.&nbsp;

''I made a WhatsApp group called Unique person group where I added specially-abled people. We started sharing our stories. We all came together as we are all physically challenged and we understand each other better. I was a player myself in the Nationals of Wheelchair basketball team of Jammu and Kashmir. I started talking to people from outside Kashmir who helped me with new ideas. We have been on it since last one year,'' says Wasim Feroz, President Wheelchair Cricket Association.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-icc-world-test-championship-final-details-of-wtc-prize-money-announced-391411" hreflang="en">Cricket: ICC World Test Championship Final - Details of WTC prize money announced</a>

<img alt="SA " data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="46f1ad5a-cb9c-4411-a376-03a604d36695" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/SA-2.JPG" />

These specially-abled players are spending their own money to sponsor these activities. They are hoping that the government will come forward and help them in making it better for people with special abilities.&nbsp;

''We appeal to people with special abilities to come forward and show their talent. We also appeal to the Lt Governor and administration that we want to organise a big tournament in the valley and we have no funds for it. Whatever we have done so far has been on our own. We want them to support us so that we can make it a success,'' said Tariq Ahmad, Organiser.&nbsp;

As covid has wreaked havoc on the minds of everyone, it has affected specially-abled people more. And to overcome the mental pressures, a group of specially-abled people in Kashmir has come out to ease their tensions by holding cricket matches across the Valley.

As covid has wreaked havoc on the minds of everyone, it has affected specially-abled people more. And to overcome the mental pressures, a group of specially-abled people in Kashmir has come out to ease their tensions by holding cricket matches across the Valley. These specially-abled people have made a group where they are motivating people with special abilities to join and play a sport. They have started with cricket and are being appreciated by everyone. ''There is a lot of stress among people these days and more because of covid. And people with special abilities are more stressed about work and sitting idle at home. Sports is one such thing which will help in reducing the stress level. There is a lot of scope in sports and I want to send across a message to all the people with special abilities to come out of their homes, there will be issues in the beginning but we all need to make such efforts. '' said Danish Ahmad, a sportsman. These sports activities are inspiring hundreds of specially-abled to come out of their homes and be a part of these matches. Physical fitness among the specially abled is more important to develop their strengths. ALSO READ: EXCLUSIVE | Marnus Labuschagne Interview ''A lot of people are getting inspired by watching us, and I want everyone to come forward and play. Sports are important for everyone. A person remains fit. I want everyone who is stressed, specially-abled or involved in drugs, to come and play sports, it takes away all your tensions. '' said Sheikh Zaid, a sportsperson. This whole group was brought together by Wasim Feroz, a specially-abled person himself. Wasim put all his efforts to make sure people from every district join and start playing these sports. He dreams of making it into a big club with thousands of specially-abled people. ''I made a WhatsApp group called Unique person group where I added specially-abled people. We started sharing our stories. We all came together as we are all physically challenged and we understand each other better. I was a player myself in the Nationals of Wheelchair basketball team of Jammu and Kashmir. I started talking to people from outside Kashmir who helped me with new ideas. We have been on it since last one year,'' says Wasim Feroz, President Wheelchair Cricket Association. ALSO READ: Cricket: ICC World Test Championship Final - Details of WTC prize money announced These specially-abled players are spending their own money to sponsor these activities. They are hoping that the government will come forward and help them in making it better for people with special abilities. ''We appeal to people with special abilities to come forward and show their talent. We also appeal to the Lt Governor and administration that we want to organise a big tournament in the valley and we have no funds for it. Whatever we have done so far has been on our own. We want them to support us so that we can make it a success,'' said Tariq Ahmad, Organiser.

Specially-abled hold cricket matches across valley to help relieve stress amid COVID-19

VVS Laxman praised the International Cricket Council for acquainting the World Test Championship by keeping the significance of Test cricket in context.

"The World Test Championship is a welcome addition to the cricketing landscape. I must compliment the International Cricket Council for lending greater context and relevance to the longer format. Especially for players like me who never played in a World Cup, to be able to compete in a World Championship is massive. I know cricket has evolved tremendously and we have made a lot of adjustments to provide entertainment and enjoyment to the fans, but it is important to make sure that we also look after the players. Towards that end, the WTC is a step in the right direction."

Although, VVS Laxman wants to see some changes be carried out in the following pattern of the World Test Championship. He wants all Test having countries to be a part of the occasion, proposing groups could be parted into two gatherings of six to oblige the new contestants.&nbsp;

The inaugural edition of the World Test Championship will attract to a nearby with the India versus New Zealand final this week. A sum of nine countries partook in the principal version of the competition, with Ireland, Afghanistan, and Zimbabwe missing out.&nbsp;

In his column for The Times of India, VVS Laxman clarified how adding more countries could improve Test cricket all in all.&nbsp;

"I would like a few changes, though, to make it more inclusive and competitive. While the two-year cycle is just about right, I feel all 12 Test-playing nations should be a part of the competition. Maybe they could be split into two groups of six, with the two group toppers playing a best-of-three final. What that will mean is that the teams ranked in the bottom half of the ICC Test ratings can host some of the top sides, which will not only reignite interest in those respective countries but also bolster their financial resources. Otherwise, it will be extremely difficult to bridge the already humongous gulf between the big names and the rest.”

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-new-zealand-announce-15-member-squad-for-wtc-final-versus-india-391560" hreflang="en">Cricket: New Zealand announce 15-member squad for WTC Final versus India</a>

The ICC as of late declared plans to make cricket more comprehensive, with the ODI World Cup in the following cycle growing to a 14-group occasion. The T20 World Cup will include 20 groups later on, and more groups playing Test cricket will surely help in globalising the game.&nbsp;

Nonetheless, VVS Laxman's idea to make the World Test Championship Final a three-Test shootout may not be a practical suggestion. ICC acting CEO Geoff Allardice as of late guaranteed that a best-of-three last was impractically attributable to a stuffed worldwide schedule.&nbsp;

The CEO additionally asserted that the points system for the following release of the World Test Championship Final will be changed, with equivalent focuses granted for wins independent of the length of the arrangement. VVS Laxman made a comparative idea in his segment, itemising how ICC could change the current framework.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-should-have-been-wtc-final-series-and-not-just-wtc-final-says-sachin-tendulkar-391562" hreflang="en">Cricket: Should&nbsp;have been WTC&nbsp;Final 'series' and not just WTC&nbsp;Final, says Sachin Tendulkar</a>

"The points system could do with a tweak as well. Perhaps the way to go would be to cap all WTC series at three matches. The marquee series, like the Ashes or India vs England or Australia, could still be over four or five Tests, but only the first three should be taken into consideration for points for the WTC. That will remove the inequity that exists now, where the same number of points are offered for both a two-Test and a five-Test series."

VVS Laxman nonetheless, doesn't need a static focuses scoring framework. He wants teams to be compensated with extra points in the event that they figure out how to win away from home.&nbsp;

"I'd like to see additional weightage given for wins overseas. It's definitely not easy winning at home, but you have an edge because you know your conditions. Winning away is that much more challenging, and should come with a greater reward” - he added.&nbsp;

The new World Test Championship cycle will begin with India versus England series in August. The ICC will declare the framework of the new points system before the series however affirmed they will stay with the parentage of the points system to choose the positions.

VVS Laxman praised the International Cricket Council for acquainting the World Test Championship by keeping the significance of Test cricket in context. "The World Test Championship is a welcome addition to the cricketing landscape.

VVS Laxman praised the International Cricket Council for acquainting the World Test Championship by keeping the significance of Test cricket in context. "The World Test Championship is a welcome addition to the cricketing landscape. I must compliment the International Cricket Council for lending greater context and relevance to the longer format. Especially for players like me who never played in a World Cup, to be able to compete in a World Championship is massive. I know cricket has evolved tremendously and we have made a lot of adjustments to provide entertainment and enjoyment to the fans, but it is important to make sure that we also look after the players. Towards that end, the WTC is a step in the right direction." Although, VVS Laxman wants to see some changes be carried out in the following pattern of the World Test Championship. He wants all Test having countries to be a part of the occasion, proposing groups could be parted into two gatherings of six to oblige the new contestants. The inaugural edition of the World Test Championship will attract to a nearby with the India versus New Zealand final this week. A sum of nine countries partook in the principal version of the competition, with Ireland, Afghanistan, and Zimbabwe missing out. In his column for The Times of India, VVS Laxman clarified how adding more countries could improve Test cricket all in all. "I would like a few changes, though, to make it more inclusive and competitive. While the two-year cycle is just about right, I feel all 12 Test-playing nations should be a part of the competition. Maybe they could be split into two groups of six, with the two group toppers playing a best-of-three final. What that will mean is that the teams ranked in the bottom half of the ICC Test ratings can host some of the top sides, which will not only reignite interest in those respective countries but also bolster their financial resources. Otherwise, it will be extremely difficult to bridge the already humongous gulf between the big names and the rest.” ALSO READ: Cricket: New Zealand announce 15-member squad for WTC Final versus India The ICC as of late declared plans to make cricket more comprehensive, with the ODI World Cup in the following cycle growing to a 14-group occasion. The T20 World Cup will include 20 groups later on, and more groups playing Test cricket will surely help in globalising the game. Nonetheless, VVS Laxman's idea to make the World Test Championship Final a three-Test shootout may not be a practical suggestion. ICC acting CEO Geoff Allardice as of late guaranteed that a best-of-three last was impractically attributable to a stuffed worldwide schedule. The CEO additionally asserted that the points system for the following release of the World Test Championship Final will be changed, with equivalent focuses granted for wins independent of the length of the arrangement. VVS Laxman made a comparative idea in his segment, itemising how ICC could change the current framework. ALSO READ: Cricket: Should have been WTC Final 'series' and not just WTC Final, says Sachin Tendulkar "The points system could do with a tweak as well. Perhaps the way to go would be to cap all WTC series at three matches. The marquee series, like the Ashes or India vs England or Australia, could still be over four or five Tests, but only the first three should be taken into consideration for points for the WTC. That will remove the inequity that exists now, where the same number of points are offered for both a two-Test and a five-Test series." VVS Laxman nonetheless, doesn't need a static focuses scoring framework. He wants teams to be compensated with extra points in the event that they figure out how to win away from home. "I'd like to see additional weightage given for wins overseas. It's definitely not easy winning at home, but you have an edge because you know your conditions. Winning away is that much more challenging, and should come with a greater reward” - he added. The new World Test Championship cycle will begin with India versus England series in August. The ICC will declare the framework of the new points system before the series however affirmed they will stay with the parentage of the points system to choose the positions.

Cricket: VVS Laxman suggests changes to make World Test Championship more interesting

The ICC World Test Championship final between India and New Zealand at the Hampshire Bowl in Southampton, starting from June 18, is set to witness a pacy and bouncy pitch. <o:p></o:p>

Head groundsman at Southampton, Simon Lee is aiming to produce a competitive track with early help for pacers and with some assistance for spinners later in the summit clash.<o:p></o:p>

"Pitch preparation for this Test is a little simpler as we are a neutral venue, we are guided by the ICC, but we all want is a good pitch that offers an even contest between the teams," Lee told ESPNcricinfo.<o:p></o:p>

"For me personally I just want to get something out that has some pace, bounce and carry in the pitch.<o:p></o:p>

"It can be a hard thing to do in England as the weather doesn't help us most of the time, but the forecast in the build-up is good with a lot of sun, so we are hopeful that we'll get some pace and a hard pitch without over-rolling it and killing it."

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-kathryn-bryce-mushfiqur-rahim-voted-icc-players-of-the-month-for-may-2021-391336" hreflang="en">Cricket: Kathryn Bryce, Mushfiqur Rahim voted ICC players of the month for May 2021</a><o:p></o:p>

With both India and New Zealand having high-quality pace attacks, Lee intends to keep them in the match at all times.<o:p></o:p>

"Pace just makes red-ball cricket exciting, I'm a cricket fan and I want to produce a pitch where the cricket lovers have to watch every ball in case they miss something, be that some class batting or an amazing spell of bowling.<o:p></o:p>

"A maiden over can be quite exciting if it's a battle of skill between both bowler and batter. So, yeah, if we can get some pace and bounce in the pitch, but not too one-sided towards seam movement, we'll be happy," he said.<o:p></o:p>

However, Lee added that due to the forecast being fine for cricket, the pitches tend to dry out quickly and hence, bringing the spinners into the game. While India have two world class spinners in Ravichandran Ashwin and Ravindra Jadeja, New Zealand are thin on this department.<o:p></o:p>

"As I said, the forecast is looking okay, the pitches dry out very quickly here as we do have some sand mixed into our cricket loam, which helped it hold together when the pitches were re-laid some 10 years ago, but it can help it spin as well.<o:p></o:p>

"To get to that point we'll need the seamers to bowl, some runs scored, and make some rough along the way. The pitch will always get talked about a lot, but you need the players to play their part to make a good game," the curator said.<o:p></o:p>

"...so if we produce a pitch that allows the players to show their skills at the top level and we have an entertaining game for the fans, we will be more than satisfied."<o:p></o:p>

India will look to win their first ICC trophy under the captaincy of Virat Kohli while New Zealand would be looking to pull the strings to register a win for ages.<o:p></o:p>

The ICC World Test Championship final between India and New Zealand at the Hampshire Bowl in Southampton, starting from June 18, is set to witness a pacy and bouncy pitch.

The ICC World Test Championship final between India and New Zealand at the Hampshire Bowl in Southampton, starting from June 18, is set to witness a pacy and bouncy pitch. Head groundsman at Southampton, Simon Lee is aiming to produce a competitive track with early help for pacers and with some assistance for spinners later in the summit clash. "Pitch preparation for this Test is a little simpler as we are a neutral venue, we are guided by the ICC, but we all want is a good pitch that offers an even contest between the teams," Lee told ESPNcricinfo. "For me personally I just want to get something out that has some pace, bounce and carry in the pitch. "It can be a hard thing to do in England as the weather doesn't help us most of the time, but the forecast in the build-up is good with a lot of sun, so we are hopeful that we'll get some pace and a hard pitch without over-rolling it and killing it." ALSO READ: Cricket: Kathryn Bryce, Mushfiqur Rahim voted ICC players of the month for May 2021 With both India and New Zealand having high-quality pace attacks, Lee intends to keep them in the match at all times. "Pace just makes red-ball cricket exciting, I'm a cricket fan and I want to produce a pitch where the cricket lovers have to watch every ball in case they miss something, be that some class batting or an amazing spell of bowling. "A maiden over can be quite exciting if it's a battle of skill between both bowler and batter. So, yeah, if we can get some pace and bounce in the pitch, but not too one-sided towards seam movement, we'll be happy," he said. However, Lee added that due to the forecast being fine for cricket, the pitches tend to dry out quickly and hence, bringing the spinners into the game. While India have two world class spinners in Ravichandran Ashwin and Ravindra Jadeja, New Zealand are thin on this department. "As I said, the forecast is looking okay, the pitches dry out very quickly here as we do have some sand mixed into our cricket loam, which helped it hold together when the pitches were re-laid some 10 years ago, but it can help it spin as well. "To get to that point we'll need the seamers to bowl, some runs scored, and make some rough along the way. The pitch will always get talked about a lot, but you need the players to play their part to make a good game," the curator said. "...so if we produce a pitch that allows the players to show their skills at the top level and we have an entertaining game for the fans, we will be more than satisfied." India will look to win their first ICC trophy under the captaincy of Virat Kohli while New Zealand would be looking to pull the strings to register a win for ages.

Cricket: How will the pitch play during WTC Final? Southampton head groundsman reveals details

Former New Zealand all-rounder Scott Styris has weighed his opinion on key Indian batters Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli ahead of the much-awaited ICC World Test Championship final, scheduled to be played in Southampton from June 18.<o:p></o:p>

Styris has said that opener Rohit Sharma will struggle if New Zealand pacers are able to move the ball around during the WTC final citing the past frailties of ‘Hitman’ against swinging deliveries as he pointed that Rohit’s static feet movement could become troublesome for him.<o:p></o:p>

“It is pitch-dependent. I can’t stress that enough. I think if the ball is moving around then Rohit will have his struggles. We have done demonstrations after demonstrations (in the studio) about how Rohit doesn’t really move his feet a lot early in his innings. If that is the case, then the swinging ball could be a problem for him," said Styris on Star Sports.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-icc-world-test-championship-final-details-of-wtc-prize-money-announced-391411" hreflang="en">Cricket: ICC World Test Championship Final - Details of WTC prize money announced</a><o:p></o:p>

The 45-year-old further said that the likes of Tim Southee, Trent Boult, Kyle Jamieson/Colin de Grandhomme could be the operator with the new ball with Neil Wagner coming into the scene during middle-overs when Virat Kohli is expected to be on the crease. <o:p></o:p>

“There is no secret to New Zealand’s fast bowling plan if you like and that is Southee, Boult and either Jamieson or de Grandhomme will be the third seamer and they bowled till about the 22nd to 28th over with a new ball. And then Neil Wagner comes into the equation," added Styris.<o:p></o:p>

“So when you talk about Wagner, it is his ability to be aggressive and be a genuine wicket-taking option for somebody like Kohli in those middle-overs till the new ball comes around," said Styris.<o:p></o:p>

The winners of the much-awaited ICC World Test Championship (WTC) Final between India and New Zealand will take home a purse of $ 1.6 million along with the ICC Test Championship Mace.<o:p></o:p>

Former New Zealand all-rounder Scott Styris has weighed his opinion on key Indian batters Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli ahead of the much-awaited ICC World Test Championship final, scheduled to be played in Southampton from June 18.

Former New Zealand all-rounder Scott Styris has weighed his opinion on key Indian batters Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli ahead of the much-awaited ICC World Test Championship final, scheduled to be played in Southampton from June 18. Styris has said that opener Rohit Sharma will struggle if New Zealand pacers are able to move the ball around during the WTC final citing the past frailties of ‘Hitman’ against swinging deliveries as he pointed that Rohit’s static feet movement could become troublesome for him. “It is pitch-dependent. I can’t stress that enough. I think if the ball is moving around then Rohit will have his struggles. We have done demonstrations after demonstrations (in the studio) about how Rohit doesn’t really move his feet a lot early in his innings. If that is the case, then the swinging ball could be a problem for him," said Styris on Star Sports. ALSO READ: Cricket: ICC World Test Championship Final - Details of WTC prize money announced The 45-year-old further said that the likes of Tim Southee, Trent Boult, Kyle Jamieson/Colin de Grandhomme could be the operator with the new ball with Neil Wagner coming into the scene during middle-overs when Virat Kohli is expected to be on the crease. “There is no secret to New Zealand’s fast bowling plan if you like and that is Southee, Boult and either Jamieson or de Grandhomme will be the third seamer and they bowled till about the 22nd to 28th over with a new ball. And then Neil Wagner comes into the equation," added Styris. “So when you talk about Wagner, it is his ability to be aggressive and be a genuine wicket-taking option for somebody like Kohli in those middle-overs till the new ball comes around," said Styris. The winners of the much-awaited ICC World Test Championship (WTC) Final between India and New Zealand will take home a purse of $ 1.6 million along with the ICC Test Championship Mace.

WTC Final: Rohit to struggle against swing, Wagner could be used to target Kohli, says Styris

India Women will kick-start their one-off Test against England Women on June 16 at Bristol with the much-awaited match in the longest format of the game coming for the Mithali Raj-led outfit after a long gap of almost seven years. <o:p></o:p>

India Women’s Test vice-captain Harmapreet Kaur on Monday addressed a range of questions ahead of the Test as she revealed that players have picked the brains of men’s Test deputy Ajinkya Rahane ahead of the game against England.<o:p></o:p>

India are also scheduled to play three ODIs and as many T20Is against England after the one-off Test. <o:p></o:p>

"I have not played much of red-ball cricket, I have played just two Tests. This time we got a chance to speak to Ajinkya Rahane, we picked his brain on how to bat in the longer format, mentally we are prepared. Even in the nets, we try to be in the right frame of mind. When you are happy, you play good cricket. We try to play to our strengths. We had an easy and friendly talk with Rahane, he is very experienced, we had a chance to talk to him and we did exactly that," said Harmanpreet during a virtual press conference on Monday.<o:p></o:p>

India head into the Test without much preparation. Having only spent some time at the nets, the team hasn’t had ideal preparations before the highly anticipated match.<o:p></o:p>

"I know we did not get much time to prepare, we did not get enough time to practice but as players, we need to adapt. Wickets here are different, today and tomorrow, we need to do the needful to prepare ourselves. Well, it is totally different scenario when you play red-ball cricket, it is important to get used to the conditions. We did not get domestic games with the red ball, but in the coming years, we will get more red-ball games," she added.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-icc-world-test-championship-final-details-of-wtc-prize-money-announced-391411" hreflang="en">Cricket: ICC World Test Championship Final - Details of WTC prize money announced</a><o:p></o:p>

Harmanpreet also recalled the last Test match played between India Women and England Women in 2014 wherein the former came victorious with a six-wicket win. While Harmanpreet didn’t get many runs in the match, it was Mithali Raj, Jhulan Goswami, Niranjana Nagarajan and Smriti Mandhana, who returned with valuable contributions with bat and ball. <o:p></o:p>

“We have very good memories from our previous Test in England. The last partnership between Shikha Pandey and Mithali Raj was crucial and overall it was one of the memorable experiences,” Harmanpreet said. &nbsp;<o:p></o:p>

When asked about the possible impact of Jhulan Goswami in the Test match, Harmanpreet said: "Well, Jhulan is someone who always takes the lead, she is always special for us. She will always give us breakthroughs whenever we need them. In Tests, you need breakthroughs, and you need someone who can deliver the wickets. I think she will be fantastic in this Test match as well."<o:p></o:p>

India Women will kick-start their one-off Test against England Women on June 16 at Bristol with the much-awaited match in the longest format of the game coming for the Mithali Raj-led outfit after a long gap of almost seven years.

India Women will kick-start their one-off Test against England Women on June 16 at Bristol with the much-awaited match in the longest format of the game coming for the Mithali Raj-led outfit after a long gap of almost seven years. India Women’s Test vice-captain Harmapreet Kaur on Monday addressed a range of questions ahead of the Test as she revealed that players have picked the brains of men’s Test deputy Ajinkya Rahane ahead of the game against England. India are also scheduled to play three ODIs and as many T20Is against England after the one-off Test. "I have not played much of red-ball cricket, I have played just two Tests. This time we got a chance to speak to Ajinkya Rahane, we picked his brain on how to bat in the longer format, mentally we are prepared. Even in the nets, we try to be in the right frame of mind. When you are happy, you play good cricket. We try to play to our strengths. We had an easy and friendly talk with Rahane, he is very experienced, we had a chance to talk to him and we did exactly that," said Harmanpreet during a virtual press conference on Monday. India head into the Test without much preparation. Having only spent some time at the nets, the team hasn’t had ideal preparations before the highly anticipated match. "I know we did not get much time to prepare, we did not get enough time to practice but as players, we need to adapt. Wickets here are different, today and tomorrow, we need to do the needful to prepare ourselves. Well, it is totally different scenario when you play red-ball cricket, it is important to get used to the conditions. We did not get domestic games with the red ball, but in the coming years, we will get more red-ball games," she added. ALSO READ: Cricket: ICC World Test Championship Final - Details of WTC prize money announced Harmanpreet also recalled the last Test match played between India Women and England Women in 2014 wherein the former came victorious with a six-wicket win. While Harmanpreet didn’t get many runs in the match, it was Mithali Raj, Jhulan Goswami, Niranjana Nagarajan and Smriti Mandhana, who returned with valuable contributions with bat and ball. “We have very good memories from our previous Test in England. The last partnership between Shikha Pandey and Mithali Raj was crucial and overall it was one of the memorable experiences,” Harmanpreet said. When asked about the possible impact of Jhulan Goswami in the Test match, Harmanpreet said: "Well, Jhulan is someone who always takes the lead, she is always special for us. She will always give us breakthroughs whenever we need them. In Tests, you need breakthroughs, and you need someone who can deliver the wickets. I think she will be fantastic in this Test match as well."

Players picked Ajinkya Rahane's brain about batting in Test cricket: Harmanpreet Kaur ahead of England match

The winners of the much-awaited ICC World Test Championship (WTC) Final between India and New Zealand will take home a purse of $ 1.6 million along with the ICC Test Championship Mace, the International Cricket Council announced on Monday.

The losing team will get $ 800,000 for finishing second in the nine-team competition, which was played over a near two-year cycle, adding context to Test cricket and to crown the first official world champions in the longest format of the game.

The prize money for the team finishing third in the ICC World Test Championship Standings&nbsp;is $ 450,000. The team fourth on the table will be awarded $ 350,000, the one that finishes fifth gets $ 200,000 while the remaining four teams will get $ 100,000 each.

The Test Mace, previously given to teams topping the ICC Men’s Test Team Rankings will now be given to the WTC winners. In case the final ends in a draw or a tie, the finalists will split the prize money for the first and second places and share possession of the Mace during the time they remain champions.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-india-not-worried-about-new-zealands-advantage-in-wtc-final-says-cheteshwar-pujara-391376" hreflang="en">Cricket: India 'not worried' about New Zealand's advantage in WTC Final, says Cheteshwar Pujara</a>

About the Mace: The Mace, designed by English luxury brand Thomas Lyte, is based around the global nature of Test cricket and the competing nations.

The focal point of the Mace is the cricket ball since it is at the core of the game whether being bowled, hit or fielded. Encircling the ball is the globe, referencing the global reach of Test cricket and one can see the silver-gilt cricket ball through the oceans of the map.

The countries of the world are supported on the longitude lines you see on a globe – this allows for an interesting interplay of light on the different surfaces, especially as the mace is moved and catches that light. The world is surrounded by a central belt carrying the insignia of all 12 competing Test nations, with space to add others in the future.

A silver-gilt laurel band spirals up the shaft of the mace – the shaft itself styled as a stump – a reference to the all-important wicket.

The winners of the much-awaited ICC World Test Championship (WTC) Final between India and New Zealand will take home a purse of $ 1.6 million along with the ICC Test Championship Mace, the International Cricket Council announced on Monday.

The winners of the much-awaited ICC World Test Championship (WTC) Final between India and New Zealand will take home a purse of $ 1.6 million along with the ICC Test Championship Mace, the International Cricket Council announced on Monday. The losing team will get $ 800,000 for finishing second in the nine-team competition, which was played over a near two-year cycle, adding context to Test cricket and to crown the first official world champions in the longest format of the game. The prize money for the team finishing third in the ICC World Test Championship Standings is $ 450,000. The team fourth on the table will be awarded $ 350,000, the one that finishes fifth gets $ 200,000 while the remaining four teams will get $ 100,000 each. The Test Mace, previously given to teams topping the ICC Men’s Test Team Rankings will now be given to the WTC winners. In case the final ends in a draw or a tie, the finalists will split the prize money for the first and second places and share possession of the Mace during the time they remain champions. ALSO READ: Cricket: India 'not worried' about New Zealand's advantage in WTC Final, says Cheteshwar Pujara About the Mace: The Mace, designed by English luxury brand Thomas Lyte, is based around the global nature of Test cricket and the competing nations. The focal point of the Mace is the cricket ball since it is at the core of the game whether being bowled, hit or fielded. Encircling the ball is the globe, referencing the global reach of Test cricket and one can see the silver-gilt cricket ball through the oceans of the map. The countries of the world are supported on the longitude lines you see on a globe – this allows for an interesting interplay of light on the different surfaces, especially as the mace is moved and catches that light. The world is surrounded by a central belt carrying the insignia of all 12 competing Test nations, with space to add others in the future. A silver-gilt laurel band spirals up the shaft of the mace – the shaft itself styled as a stump – a reference to the all-important wicket.

Cricket: ICC World Test Championship Final - Details of WTC prize money announced

Indian players are heading into the ICC World Test Championship final against New Zealand with a ‘positive’ mindset, key batsman Cheteshwar Pujara has said.<o:p></o:p>

The final of WTC, set to be played in Southampton from June 18, comes after two years of Test series to find the world’s top two Test teams.<o:p></o:p>

The Blackcaps head into the summit clash with a confidence-boosting 1-0 Test series win against hosts England whereas Virat Kohli and Co continue to gear up for the match by playing an intra-squad friendly match. <o:p></o:p>

"We are not worried about that," Pujara said about New Zealand's recent Test series in England. <o:p></o:p>

"We will try and focus on these 10 to 12 days which we have for our preparation," the batsman said in a video shared on the Board of Control for Cricket in India's (BCCI) website.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-how-the-pitch-will-play-during-wtc-final-southampton-head-groundsman-reveals-details-391371" hreflang="en">Cricket: How the pitch will play during WTC Final? Southampton head groundsman reveals details</a><o:p></o:p>

"If we utilise these days well I feel that our team will be up for the final."<o:p></o:p>

New Zealand won the second Test in Birmingham after drawing the first Test at Lord’s.<o:p></o:p>

"When it comes to finals we will give our best and we know that our team has the potential to do well and win the Championship," Pujara said. <o:p></o:p>

Pujara, who has the experience of playing County cricket in England, said adjusting to the weather conditions will be crucial to India’s success in the WTC final.<o:p></o:p>

"Playing in different conditions in a single day here is the most challenging part for a batsman because if it rains you go off the field and then suddenly it stops raining and you start again," said Pujara.<o:p></o:p>

"So there are breaks in between and this is where you need to understand and accept the challenge. Mentally you have to be strong; your concentration needs to be up to the mark."<o:p></o:p>

The World Test Championship final will bring the first-ever such cycle to an end and after that, the new cycle will begin with a five-Test series between England and India, starting from August 4.<o:p></o:p>

Indian players are heading into the ICC World Test Championship final against New Zealand with a ‘positive’ mindset, key batsman Cheteshwar Pujara has said. The final of WTC, set to be played in Southampton from June 18, comes after two years of Test series to find the world’s top two Test teams.

Indian players are heading into the ICC World Test Championship final against New Zealand with a ‘positive’ mindset, key batsman Cheteshwar Pujara has said. The final of WTC, set to be played in Southampton from June 18, comes after two years of Test series to find the world’s top two Test teams. The Blackcaps head into the summit clash with a confidence-boosting 1-0 Test series win against hosts England whereas Virat Kohli and Co continue to gear up for the match by playing an intra-squad friendly match. "We are not worried about that," Pujara said about New Zealand's recent Test series in England. "We will try and focus on these 10 to 12 days which we have for our preparation," the batsman said in a video shared on the Board of Control for Cricket in India's (BCCI) website. ALSO READ: Cricket: How the pitch will play during WTC Final? Southampton head groundsman reveals details "If we utilise these days well I feel that our team will be up for the final." New Zealand won the second Test in Birmingham after drawing the first Test at Lord’s. "When it comes to finals we will give our best and we know that our team has the potential to do well and win the Championship," Pujara said. Pujara, who has the experience of playing County cricket in England, said adjusting to the weather conditions will be crucial to India’s success in the WTC final. "Playing in different conditions in a single day here is the most challenging part for a batsman because if it rains you go off the field and then suddenly it stops raining and you start again," said Pujara. "So there are breaks in between and this is where you need to understand and accept the challenge. Mentally you have to be strong; your concentration needs to be up to the mark." The World Test Championship final will bring the first-ever such cycle to an end and after that, the new cycle will begin with a five-Test series between England and India, starting from August 4.

Cricket: India 'not worried' about New Zealand's advantage in WTC Final, says Cheteshwar Pujara

The International Cricket Council (ICC) on Monday announced the winners of the ICC Player of the Month Awards for May 2021 which recognise and celebrate the best performances from both male and female cricketers across all forms of international cricket throughout the year.<o:p></o:p>

All-rounder Kathryn Bryce from Scotland was deservingly voted the ICC Women’s Player of the Month for May 2021. She is the first player from Scotland, male, or female, to make it to the top 10 of the batting or bowling lists in the ICC Player Rankings released recently. Kathryn played four T20Is against Ireland where she scored 96 runs and took 5 wickets with an economy rate of 4.76 in the month of May.<o:p></o:p>

Commenting on Kathryn’s performance in May, Ramiz Raja representing the ICC Voting Academy said: “Kathryn’s all-round game came through in a series that her team lost. She batted with flair and bowled well too and deserved to be the player of the month for May.”

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-cook-fears-england-batsmen-cant-handle-test-cricket-after-new-zealand-loss-391219" hreflang="en">Cricket: Cook fears England batsmen 'can't handle Test cricket' after New Zealand loss</a><o:p></o:p>

From the Bangladesh camp, Mushfiqur Rahim was deservingly named the ICC Men’s Player of the Month for May 2021. Mushfiqur played one Test and three ODIs against Sri Lanka in the month of May where he helped Bangladesh win their first ODI series against Sri Lanka by scoring 125 in the second ODI.<o:p></o:p>

Commenting on Rahim’s performance in May, VVS Laxman representing the ICC Voting Academy added: “Even after 15 years at the highest level, Mushfiqur has not lost his appetite for run-making. He was at his imperious best in the one-day series at home against Sri Lanka, a picture of consistency with the highlight being 125 in the second match which helped his side secure a winning 2-0 lead in the three-match series. What made his feat even more notable was that it was Bangladesh’s first-ever ODI series triumph against the 1996 World Cup champions. To shore up the middle order and don the wicket-keeping gloves speaks volumes of his fitness and skills.”<o:p></o:p>

The International Cricket Council (ICC) on Monday announced the winners of the ICC Player of the Month Awards for May 2021 which recognise and celebrate the best performances from both male and female cricketers across all forms of international cricket throughout the year.

The International Cricket Council (ICC) on Monday announced the winners of the ICC Player of the Month Awards for May 2021 which recognise and celebrate the best performances from both male and female cricketers across all forms of international cricket throughout the year. All-rounder Kathryn Bryce from Scotland was deservingly voted the ICC Women’s Player of the Month for May 2021. She is the first player from Scotland, male, or female, to make it to the top 10 of the batting or bowling lists in the ICC Player Rankings released recently. Kathryn played four T20Is against Ireland where she scored 96 runs and took 5 wickets with an economy rate of 4.76 in the month of May. Commenting on Kathryn’s performance in May, Ramiz Raja representing the ICC Voting Academy said: “Kathryn’s all-round game came through in a series that her team lost. She batted with flair and bowled well too and deserved to be the player of the month for May.” ALSO READ: Cricket: Cook fears England batsmen 'can't handle Test cricket' after New Zealand loss From the Bangladesh camp, Mushfiqur Rahim was deservingly named the ICC Men’s Player of the Month for May 2021. Mushfiqur played one Test and three ODIs against Sri Lanka in the month of May where he helped Bangladesh win their first ODI series against Sri Lanka by scoring 125 in the second ODI. Commenting on Rahim’s performance in May, VVS Laxman representing the ICC Voting Academy added: “Even after 15 years at the highest level, Mushfiqur has not lost his appetite for run-making. He was at his imperious best in the one-day series at home against Sri Lanka, a picture of consistency with the highlight being 125 in the second match which helped his side secure a winning 2-0 lead in the three-match series. What made his feat even more notable was that it was Bangladesh’s first-ever ODI series triumph against the 1996 World Cup champions. To shore up the middle order and don the wicket-keeping gloves speaks volumes of his fitness and skills.”

Cricket: Kathryn Bryce, Mushfiqur Rahim voted ICC players of the month for May 2021

Nasser Hussain has lashed out at the England batting line-up after they abdicated against New Zealand on Day 3 of the Edgbaston Test. Nasser Hussain scrutinized the strategies of the players and their 'idiosyncratic movements.'&nbsp;

The hosts fell to 122 for 9 in their second innings in Birmingham, and are gazing at a specific loss, with a thin lead of 37 runs. Mark Wood top-scored for England with 29 while Ollie Pope made 23. No other English batsman could arrive at the 20-run mark.&nbsp;

Nasser Hussain demands English batsmen critically need to rethink their methods and get back to nuts and bolts - at Test level, however, all through the province game - on the off chance that they are to improve in the future.&nbsp;

Addressing Sky Sports, Nasser Hussain reprimanded the England players for a pitiable show. He said:&nbsp;

‘It was just an abject batting performance. It is like they are reinventing the wheel. They have all these odd techniques and idiosyncratic movements. In county cricket, they are all standing on an off-stump and flashing at balls outside off. It’s like everyone else is wrong &nbsp;all those great players of the past, people like Sir Viv Richards and Graham Gooch, and they are right.”

He also called attention to that while England was fixed by spin in India, there was no such pardon playing at home. He added:&nbsp;

“These days everyone seems to want to get their left leg out of the way but if they know what they’re doing where are the runs to back that up? In Sri Lanka, Joe Root carried them. We were told that the problem in India was that the ball spun but we don’t have the excuse of the pitches turning here. I just don’t understand the techniques I am witnessing.”

Various England batsmen like Rory Burns, Zak Crawley, and Ollie Pope have received unconventional batting techniques. In any case, the outcomes have been a long way from successful.&nbsp;

While England's batsmen have attempted to go the offbeat way, Nasser Hussain commended New Zealand for adhering to the essentials and playing appropriate Test cricket. He further said:&nbsp;

“Compare them to those of New Zealand, who are committed to orthodox Test match batting. It’s just chalk and cheese. Technically gifted, sound batsmen playing the way the game is supposed to be played, New Zealand. Let the ball come to you, leave it well, play it with a straight bat.”

Reacting to England's first-innings complete of 303, the Kiwis made 388. Britain then, at that point imploded to 76 for 6 preceding some lower-request opposition empowered them to forestall a loss inside three days.

Nasser Hussain has lashed out at the England batting line-up after they abdicated against New Zealand on Day 3 of the Edgbaston Test. Nasser Hussain scrutinized the strategies of the players and their 'idiosyncratic movements.

Nasser Hussain has lashed out at the England batting line-up after they abdicated against New Zealand on Day 3 of the Edgbaston Test. Nasser Hussain scrutinized the strategies of the players and their 'idiosyncratic movements.' The hosts fell to 122 for 9 in their second innings in Birmingham, and are gazing at a specific loss, with a thin lead of 37 runs. Mark Wood top-scored for England with 29 while Ollie Pope made 23. No other English batsman could arrive at the 20-run mark. Nasser Hussain demands English batsmen critically need to rethink their methods and get back to nuts and bolts - at Test level, however, all through the province game - on the off chance that they are to improve in the future. Addressing Sky Sports, Nasser Hussain reprimanded the England players for a pitiable show. He said: ‘It was just an abject batting performance. It is like they are reinventing the wheel. They have all these odd techniques and idiosyncratic movements. In county cricket, they are all standing on an off-stump and flashing at balls outside off. It’s like everyone else is wrong all those great players of the past, people like Sir Viv Richards and Graham Gooch, and they are right.” He also called attention to that while England was fixed by spin in India, there was no such pardon playing at home. He added: “These days everyone seems to want to get their left leg out of the way but if they know what they’re doing where are the runs to back that up? In Sri Lanka, Joe Root carried them. We were told that the problem in India was that the ball spun but we don’t have the excuse of the pitches turning here. I just don’t understand the techniques I am witnessing.” Various England batsmen like Rory Burns, Zak Crawley, and Ollie Pope have received unconventional batting techniques. In any case, the outcomes have been a long way from successful. While England's batsmen have attempted to go the offbeat way, Nasser Hussain commended New Zealand for adhering to the essentials and playing appropriate Test cricket. He further said: “Compare them to those of New Zealand, who are committed to orthodox Test match batting. It’s just chalk and cheese. Technically gifted, sound batsmen playing the way the game is supposed to be played, New Zealand. Let the ball come to you, leave it well, play it with a straight bat.” Reacting to England's first-innings complete of 303, the Kiwis made 388. Britain then, at that point imploded to 76 for 6 preceding some lower-request opposition empowered them to forestall a loss inside three days.

Cricket: 'It was just an abject batting performance': Nasser Hussain lashes out at England batting line-up

Michael Vaughan has hit out at the English batsmen, expressing they get no opportunity of winning the Ashes later in the year on the off chance that they continue with their fragile batting show.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-england-were-not-good-enough-against-new-zealand-chris-silverwood-391124" hreflang="en">Cricket: England were 'not good enough' against New Zealand: Chris Silverwood</a>

England gave in on day three of the second Test in Edgbaston against New Zealand. The hosts are swaying at 122-9 in the subsequent innings, with their lead at only 37.&nbsp;

The Blackcaps have an incredible opportunity to win their first Test arrangement in England in 22 years notwithstanding rolling out various changes to their setup.&nbsp;

After the third day's play, Michael Vaughan attacked the England batting line-up and said on the BBC Test Match Special:&nbsp;

All through 2021 England have pivoted their squad, an approach they say is intended to battle a pressed schedule and the Covid upheld conditions matches have been played in. They won two Tests in Sri Lanka and the first on their visit through India recently, however look set to slip to a fourth loss in five matches on Sunday.&nbsp;

Micheal Vaughan, who made 18 centuries in Tests, additionally scrutinized England's rotation policy and proposed that they aren't sufficient yet to fiddle with their group a lot.&nbsp;

"England have tinkered too much. Everything has gone downhill for England since they went up 1-0 in India. Don't muck about with Test cricket. England aren't a good enough team to muck about."

Zak Crawley, scored 17 in the second innings at Edgbaston, his second-highest score in his previous 12 Test innings. Ollie Pope, has gone eight Tests without a half-century, while 25-year-old Dom Sibley has gone past 16 just twice in his previous 11 innings.&nbsp;

"They now have just five chances to sort the batting out before the Ashes. They can't arrive in Australia with a batting line-up this fragile. They'd have no chance. This batting line-up is fragile and we have to now start looking at players and wondering if they are good enough, because they keep getting out cheaply."

England retaliated with the ball on the third evening at Edgbaston to bowl New Zealand out for 388 and limit their first-innings lead to 85.&nbsp;

Notwithstanding, they got themselves 30-3 and 76-7, requiring a remain of 44 between Mark Wood and Olly Stone to bring the game into the fourth day.

Michael Vaughan has hit out at the English batsmen, expressing they get no opportunity of winning the Ashes later in the year on the off chance that they continue with their fragile batting show.

Michael Vaughan has hit out at the English batsmen, expressing they get no opportunity of winning the Ashes later in the year on the off chance that they continue with their fragile batting show. ALSO READ: Cricket: England were 'not good enough' against New Zealand: Chris Silverwood England gave in on day three of the second Test in Edgbaston against New Zealand. The hosts are swaying at 122-9 in the subsequent innings, with their lead at only 37. The Blackcaps have an incredible opportunity to win their first Test arrangement in England in 22 years notwithstanding rolling out various changes to their setup. After the third day's play, Michael Vaughan attacked the England batting line-up and said on the BBC Test Match Special: All through 2021 England have pivoted their squad, an approach they say is intended to battle a pressed schedule and the Covid upheld conditions matches have been played in. They won two Tests in Sri Lanka and the first on their visit through India recently, however look set to slip to a fourth loss in five matches on Sunday. Micheal Vaughan, who made 18 centuries in Tests, additionally scrutinized England's rotation policy and proposed that they aren't sufficient yet to fiddle with their group a lot. "England have tinkered too much. Everything has gone downhill for England since they went up 1-0 in India. Don't muck about with Test cricket. England aren't a good enough team to muck about." Zak Crawley, scored 17 in the second innings at Edgbaston, his second-highest score in his previous 12 Test innings. Ollie Pope, has gone eight Tests without a half-century, while 25-year-old Dom Sibley has gone past 16 just twice in his previous 11 innings. "They now have just five chances to sort the batting out before the Ashes. They can't arrive in Australia with a batting line-up this fragile. They'd have no chance. This batting line-up is fragile and we have to now start looking at players and wondering if they are good enough, because they keep getting out cheaply." England retaliated with the ball on the third evening at Edgbaston to bowl New Zealand out for 388 and limit their first-innings lead to 85. Notwithstanding, they got themselves 30-3 and 76-7, requiring a remain of 44 between Mark Wood and Olly Stone to bring the game into the fourth day.

Cricket: England's batting line-up is fragile, says Michael Vaughan

Chris Silverwood, the England head coach, has conceded the hosts were "not good enough" on day three of the second Test against New Zealand.&nbsp;

England disintegrated on day three preceding taking a slim lead of 37 runs before the finish of the play. The hosts finished the day at 122/9 subsequent to losing seven wickets in the last session of the day.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/wtc-finals-tim-southee-will-trouble-the-indians-the-most-says-monty-panesar-391054" hreflang="en">WTC Finals: 'Tim Southee will trouble the Indians the most', says Monty Panesar</a>

Chris Silverwood yielded England team&nbsp;"needs to improve" and the youthful firearms would be "disappointed" to not get the chance.&nbsp;

As cited by ESPNcricinfo, Chris Silverwood said:&nbsp;

"It's obviously not good enough. We need to improve, there's no doubt about that. There are things to work on without a shadow of a doubt. No one is going to hide from that or deny it."&nbsp;

England have had some intense time off the field throughout the most recent couple of days, since the time Ollie Robinson's authentic 'misogynist' and 'bigot' tweets went to the front during his Test debut at Lord's. From that point forward, old tweets from James Anderson, Jos Buttler, and Eoin Morgan have likewise gone under the scanner.&nbsp;

Nonetheless, as per Chris Silverwood, England have bent over backward to focus on cricket in the midst of the online media furor. Talking after England gave in to 122 for 9 on Day 3 of the subsequent Test, he said:&nbsp;

"I don't think it has been a disruption. We've tried very hard to make sure that the noise on the outside has been quietened down to try and concentrate on cricket. Obviously, it's not easy, but that's what we've had to try and do because we had a Test match to try and compete in. There were plenty of lessons out there to learn from. It's a case of watching and learning what we can from how the New Zealand players go about their business, the methods they use, and the way they apply themselves."

Chris Silverwood, nonetheless, called attention to that the shortfall of large names like Ben Stokes and Jos Buttler hurt England, expressing that skipper Joe Root is the solitary batsman with a lot of involvement. He added:&nbsp;

"Let's have a little bit of perspective. We have got a very young batting line-up with limited experience. Joe Root is the one guy you would say has a heap of experience in that top seven. Getting the experience of Buttler and Stokes back will help the young players, as well. We've seen in the past that, if you put the inexperienced players in between the experienced ones, it helps them learn. That's what I'm hoping will happen in the India series.”&nbsp;

New Zealand have not won a Test series in England since 1999. That dry season looks set to end as England finished Day 3.&nbsp;

Chris Silverwood, the England head coach, has conceded the hosts were "not good enough" on day three of the second Test against New Zealand. England disintegrated on day three preceding taking a slim lead of 37 runs before the finish of the play.

Chris Silverwood, the England head coach, has conceded the hosts were "not good enough" on day three of the second Test against New Zealand. England disintegrated on day three preceding taking a slim lead of 37 runs before the finish of the play. The hosts finished the day at 122/9 subsequent to losing seven wickets in the last session of the day. ALSO READ: WTC Finals: 'Tim Southee will trouble the Indians the most', says Monty Panesar Chris Silverwood yielded England team "needs to improve" and the youthful firearms would be "disappointed" to not get the chance. As cited by ESPNcricinfo, Chris Silverwood said: "It's obviously not good enough. We need to improve, there's no doubt about that. There are things to work on without a shadow of a doubt. No one is going to hide from that or deny it." England have had some intense time off the field throughout the most recent couple of days, since the time Ollie Robinson's authentic 'misogynist' and 'bigot' tweets went to the front during his Test debut at Lord's. From that point forward, old tweets from James Anderson, Jos Buttler, and Eoin Morgan have likewise gone under the scanner. Nonetheless, as per Chris Silverwood, England have bent over backward to focus on cricket in the midst of the online media furor. Talking after England gave in to 122 for 9 on Day 3 of the subsequent Test, he said: "I don't think it has been a disruption. We've tried very hard to make sure that the noise on the outside has been quietened down to try and concentrate on cricket. Obviously, it's not easy, but that's what we've had to try and do because we had a Test match to try and compete in. There were plenty of lessons out there to learn from. It's a case of watching and learning what we can from how the New Zealand players go about their business, the methods they use, and the way they apply themselves." Chris Silverwood, nonetheless, called attention to that the shortfall of large names like Ben Stokes and Jos Buttler hurt England, expressing that skipper Joe Root is the solitary batsman with a lot of involvement. He added: "Let's have a little bit of perspective. We have got a very young batting line-up with limited experience. Joe Root is the one guy you would say has a heap of experience in that top seven. Getting the experience of Buttler and Stokes back will help the young players, as well. We've seen in the past that, if you put the inexperienced players in between the experienced ones, it helps them learn. That's what I'm hoping will happen in the India series.” New Zealand have not won a Test series in England since 1999. That dry season looks set to end as England finished Day 3.

Cricket: England were 'not good enough' against New Zealand: Chris Silverwood

England great Alastair Cook delivered a stinging rebuke to the current team's batsmen by saying they "can't handle" the pressure of Test cricket as they suffered a humiliating series loss to New Zealand at Edgbaston on Sunday.&nbsp;

New Zealand won a two-match contest 1-0, taking just 11 overs and 52 minutes' playing time on the fourth day to complete a convincing eight-wicket win in the second Test after being set a meagre target of 38.

Tailender Olly Stone was out to the very first ball of Sunday's fourth day but by then the damage had long since been done, with England resuming on their overnight 122-9.

That actually represented a recovery after they had subsided to 76-7 in their second innings inside 27 overs on Saturday.

Although Joe Root, Cook's successor as England captain, boasts an impressive Test average of 48.68, the next best in his side belongs to opener Rory Burns, with 33.23 -- a worrying sign ahead of their bid to regain the Ashes in Australia later this year.

Meanwhile, the form of batsmen Dom Sibley, Zak Crawley and Ollie Pope remains a concern, not least to Essex opener Cook, who retired from Test duty in 2018 as England's leading scorer with 12,472 runs at 45.35 including 33 hundreds. &nbsp;

"From what I've seen of this batting line-up, when the pressure comes on, the intensity of Test cricket, the scrutiny of it, they can't handle it," said Cook while commentating for BBC Radio's Test Match Special on Sunday.&nbsp;

"They have quirky techniques, but they've scored a lot of runs in county cricket and at times scored Test runs.&nbsp;

"When the pressure comes they are not handling the mental pressure that you need to do," he added.&nbsp;

"It is a massive area of concern for me."

<h2>- 'Outplayed' -</h2>

Sunday's defeat, which followed a draw at Lord's, meant England had lost a home Test series for the first time since a 1-0 reverse against Sri Lanka in 2014. &nbsp;&nbsp;

But Root, ahead of a five-match series at home to India -- who face New Zealand in next week's inaugural World Test Championship final at Southampton -- warned against wholesale changes.

"It would be the wrong time to start panicking and rip up all the hard work we have done for such a long period of time," he said.

"Historically we've done that going into major tournaments and going into major series and it's made things even worse."

He added:&nbsp;"We've been outplayed in all three departments and particularly the batting."

England entered this match amid the off-field furore caused by the suspension of Ollie Robinson for historic racist and sexist Twitter posts.

Root, however, insisted: "I don't think that dripped into the way we played and it would be a bit of an excuse, to be honest."

England, already without the injured Ben Stokes and Jofra Archer, rested Jos Buttler, Chris Woakes, Jonny Bairstow and Moeen Ali from this series after their return from the Indian Premier League.

Rest and rotation, initially a response to the pressures of 'bubble' life amid the coronavirus pandemic, has been a feature of England selection for more than a year.

England coach Chris Silverwood, now in sole charge of picking the side after the abolition of Ed Smith's post as national selector, has repeatedly defended the policy.

But England, beaten 3-1 in India earlier this year, appear to be nowhere near good enough to avoid selecting their best-available team.

"That's out of my hands, to a degree," said Root. "In terms of having our best XI, I'd like to think that if we are all fit and ready that will be the case for the five Test matches against India."

England great Alastair Cook delivered a stinging rebuke to the current team's batsmen by saying they "can't handle" the pressure of Test cricket as they suffered a humiliating series loss to New Zealand at Edgbaston on Sunday.

England great Alastair Cook delivered a stinging rebuke to the current team's batsmen by saying they "can't handle" the pressure of Test cricket as they suffered a humiliating series loss to New Zealand at Edgbaston on Sunday. New Zealand won a two-match contest 1-0, taking just 11 overs and 52 minutes' playing time on the fourth day to complete a convincing eight-wicket win in the second Test after being set a meagre target of 38. Tailender Olly Stone was out to the very first ball of Sunday's fourth day but by then the damage had long since been done, with England resuming on their overnight 122-9. That actually represented a recovery after they had subsided to 76-7 in their second innings inside 27 overs on Saturday. Although Joe Root, Cook's successor as England captain, boasts an impressive Test average of 48.68, the next best in his side belongs to opener Rory Burns, with 33.23 -- a worrying sign ahead of their bid to regain the Ashes in Australia later this year. Meanwhile, the form of batsmen Dom Sibley, Zak Crawley and Ollie Pope remains a concern, not least to Essex opener Cook, who retired from Test duty in 2018 as England's leading scorer with 12,472 runs at 45.35 including 33 hundreds. "From what I've seen of this batting line-up, when the pressure comes on, the intensity of Test cricket, the scrutiny of it, they can't handle it," said Cook while commentating for BBC Radio's Test Match Special on Sunday. "They have quirky techniques, but they've scored a lot of runs in county cricket and at times scored Test runs. "When the pressure comes they are not handling the mental pressure that you need to do," he added. "It is a massive area of concern for me." - 'Outplayed' - Sunday's defeat, which followed a draw at Lord's, meant England had lost a home Test series for the first time since a 1-0 reverse against Sri Lanka in 2014. But Root, ahead of a five-match series at home to India -- who face New Zealand in next week's inaugural World Test Championship final at Southampton -- warned against wholesale changes. "It would be the wrong time to start panicking and rip up all the hard work we have done for such a long period of time," he said. "Historically we've done that going into major tournaments and going into major series and it's made things even worse." He added: "We've been outplayed in all three departments and particularly the batting." England entered this match amid the off-field furore caused by the suspension of Ollie Robinson for historic racist and sexist Twitter posts. Root, however, insisted: "I don't think that dripped into the way we played and it would be a bit of an excuse, to be honest." England, already without the injured Ben Stokes and Jofra Archer, rested Jos Buttler, Chris Woakes, Jonny Bairstow and Moeen Ali from this series after their return from the Indian Premier League. Rest and rotation, initially a response to the pressures of 'bubble' life amid the coronavirus pandemic, has been a feature of England selection for more than a year. England coach Chris Silverwood, now in sole charge of picking the side after the abolition of Ed Smith's post as national selector, has repeatedly defended the policy. But England, beaten 3-1 in India earlier this year, appear to be nowhere near good enough to avoid selecting their best-available team. "That's out of my hands, to a degree," said Root. "In terms of having our best XI, I'd like to think that if we are all fit and ready that will be the case for the five Test matches against India."

Cricket: Cook fears England batsmen 'can't handle Test cricket' after New Zealand loss

The International Cricket Council (ICC) on Sunday announced a special edition intake of 10 cricket icons into the ICC Hall of Fame to celebrate the prestigious history of Test cricket, and to coincide with the first-ever ICC World Test Championship Final. The 10 legends of the game to be inducted have all made a significant contribution to the history of Test cricket, and join an illustrious list of ICC Hall of Famers, taking the total number to 103 as a result of this intake.

The special inductions of the ICC Hall of Fame from the following five eras join the ranks of the world’s greatest players:

<h2>EARLY CRICKET ERA - Players whose greatest contributions to the game were prior to 1918</h2>

<ul>
	<li>Aubrey Faulkner of South Africa played 25 Tests, scored 1,754 runs at 40.79, took 82 wickets at 26.58, and was one of the pioneers of the “googly” at the time. Faulkner was the only man to head both the MRF Tyres ICC Batting and Bowling rankings in Test cricket. He was one of the greatest all-rounders and later one of the best coaches. He was a part of the famous ‘googly quartet’ that so characterised South African cricket in the first decade of the 20th century and he peaked with the bat in the 1910-11 series in Australia when he made 732 runs in the five Tests.</li>
	<li>Monty Noble of Australia played 42 Tests, scored 1,997 runs at 30.25, took 121 wickets at 25.00, and was one of the greatest Australian all-rounders. He is still the fastest from that country to achieve the 1,000 run / 100 wicket Test double. He played 42 Tests, captaining his side in 15 of them, and he was a trailblazing captain, abandoning mammoth bowling spells to keep bowlers fresh. A true all-rounder, Noble was a banker and a qualified dentist outside of being a prolific cricketer of that time.</li>
</ul>

<h2>INTER-WAR ERA - Players whose greatest contributions to the game were from 1918-1945</h2>

<ul>
	<li>Sir Learie Constantine of West Indies played 18 Tests, scored 635 runs at 19.24, took 58 wickets at 30.10, and can be considered the first great West Indian all-rounder, playing with a flair and freedom that was decades ahead of his time. He was a champion not only amongst players but for his people too in their political and legal fight against racial discrimination. He was also the first black member of the House of Lords.</li>
	<li>Stan McCabe of Australia played 39 Tests, scored 2,748 runs at 48.21, took 36 wickets at 42.86, and was a right-handed batsman of the highest class, he played three memorable innings and defied the “Bodyline tactics” that were predominant at the time within the England camp with 187 not out at Sydney. He further struck an unbeaten 189 at Johannesburg in 1935 and then 232 in less than four hours at Nottingham in the 1938 Ashes Test. He was touted as one of the greatest batsmen of the game by his captain Sir Don Bradman.</li>
</ul>

<h2>POST-WAR ERA - Players whose greatest contributions to the game were from 1946-1970</h2>

<ul>
	<li>Ted Dexter of England played 62 Tests, scored 4,502 runs at 47.89, took 66 wickets at 34.93, and was a superb batsman who combined a firm defence with the ability to destroy any bowling attack off both the front and back foot. His innings of 70 in the 1963 Lord’s Test lives long in the memory of all who saw it. He was an effective partnership breaker with his medium-fast seam bowling and later in life served as England’s Chairman of Selectors and played an influential role in developing what is today’s MRF Tyres ICC Player Rankings.</li>
	<li>Vinoo Mankad of India played 44 Tests, scored 2,109 runs at 31.47, took 162 wickets at 32.32, and was an opening batsman and slow left arm orthodox bowler, known as one of India’s greatest-ever all-rounders. His most famous feat was against England at Lord's in 1952 when he scored 72 and 184 and bowled 97 overs in the match. He is one of only three cricketers to have batted in every position during his Test career. In later life, he also coached another legendary cricketer and fellow ICC Hall of Fame member from his country, Sunil Gavaskar in Mumbai, India.</li>
</ul>

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"A terrific cricketer. A stylish batsman." 
 
Next to be inducted into the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ICCHallOfFame?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ICCHallOfFame</a> 2021 is England's Ted Dexter 👏 <a href="https://t.co/YxuupcKWzR">pic.twitter.com/YxuupcKWzR</a>
— ICC (@ICC) <a href="https://twitter.com/ICC/status/1404059191774355463?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 13, 2021</a></blockquote>
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ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-new-zealand-seal-first-away-test-series-win-against-england-since-1999-391181" hreflang="en">Cricket: New Zealand seal first away Test series win against England since 1999</a>

<h2>ODI ERA - Players whose greatest contributions to the game were from 1971-1995</h2>

<ul>
	<li>Desmond Haynes of the West Indies played 116 Tests, scored 7,487 runs at 42.29 and was one half of the most prolific opening batting partnership in Test history alongside Gordon Greenidge. He was capable of some destructive innings and combined impeccable timing with power in his stroke making and has played four ICC World Cups in that era.</li>
	<li>Bob Willis of England played 90 Tests taking 325 wickets at 25.20 and spearheaded the English bowling attack during some of their most memorable moments during this period. Standing two metres tall, he could make the ball bounce awkwardly on most pitches and possessed an excellent yorker and bouncer, both of which he used to great effect over the course of his career. His greatest triumph was the famous eight for 43 that beat Australia at Headingley in 1981 and after retirement became a popular, and often polarising member of the Sky TV commentary box.</li>
</ul>

<h2>MODERN CRICKET ERA - Players whose greatest contributions to the game were between 1996-2015</h2>

<ul>
	<li>Andy Flower of Zimbabwe played 63 Tests, scoring 4,794 runs at 51.54, took 151 catches with nine stumpings as a left-handed wicket-keeper batsmen. First Zimbabwe player to be inducted in the ICC Hall of Fame. His grit, determination and will to succeed meant at one point he was ranked number 1 batsman in the world. Andy carried his country's batting for long periods, setting the record for the highest Test score by a wicketkeeper with an innings of 232 not out against India at Nagpur in 2000. Later, he became a hugely successful coach, leading England to the number 1 spot in the&nbsp;ICC Test Rankings for Men.</li>
	<li>Kumar Sangakkara of Sri Lanka played 134 Tests, scored 12,400 runs at 57.40, took 182 catches and 20 stumpings, and was grace personified at the crease. Sangakkara ended his career as the most prolific run-scorer his country had ever known, with double-hundreds flowing from his bat with consummate ease. In 2014 he struck 319 and 105 in the same Test match against Bangladesh and in 2017 fell just 16 runs short of striking six successive centuries in first-class cricket.</li>
</ul>

The 10 icons inducted as part of this special edition were voted for by the ICC Hall of Fame Voting Academy, comprising living Hall of Fame members, a FICA representative, prominent cricket journalists and senior ICC figures.

Commenting on getting inducted in the ICC Hall of Fame, Ted Dexter (England) said: “Well I wasn’t completely aware of the ICC Hall of Fame until I found out I was going to be inducted, so after looking at some of the names in it and knowing that cricket deserves to have a Hall of Fame, I was really chuffed to hear the news. The names in the ICC Hall of Fame include some super players, some of whom I played with, against, and some of whom I had a lot to do with when I was working in English cricket.

“My fondest memory as a player is probably the New Year’s Ashes Test 1962/63 against the might of Benaud’s Australia. We needed almost 240 to win the match on the final day and boy did I feel good when we got over the line! That is something I will never forget.

“After my playing career, not in my wildest dreams did I think I would end up being a top administrator of the game. I thought I would get on with life after playing and build my PR business. Suddenly along came the opportunity to become Chairman of Selectors, and at the time we were expected to beat most of the emerging Test nations. I was aware that time had moved on so unless we thought differently and planned ahead, we were going to be left behind.

“There are many moments in my life in cricket of which I am very proud; as a player, an administrator and in establishing what is today’s rankings system. I also take great pride in having simplified the means of producing on-screen captions and scorecards when I was working as a television commentator, something which you take for granted when watching cricket today. My work in cricket is all very gratifying and I am really proud of everything I have achieved. Being recognized by the ICC for what I have achieved is very satisfying and knowing that I’ve been chosen by my peers and so many great names makes me blush, and I’m thrilled along with my family by this honour.”

Speaking on his induction, Desmond Haynes said: “I have played Cricket with some of the greats of the game from the West Indies who are also inducted in the ICC Hall of Fame. That team from 1978 till about the 1990s was a fantastic team. As a young boy growing up in Barbados, I never dreamt that I would be one day inducted in the ICC Hall of Fame. I have really come a long way and I am very happy for this honour. The journey was not smooth, I started playing cricket in a little area of St. James in Barbados where I was loved by everyone in the community, who also helped me stay out of trouble. This is also for my grandmother, my mum and my wife, all of whom supported me in my journey.”

Speaking on Vinoo Mankad’s induction, fellow ICC Hall of Fame member, Sunil Gavaskar said: “Vinoo Mankad’s legacy has been to tell the aspiring Indian cricketer to believe in oneself. He was a great proponent of self-belief. He was the one who kept saying to me that you need to keep scoring runs and keep at it. When you get a 100, let that be the knock on the selector’s door. If it is unheard, then score that double hundred and let that knock be even louder. You can have the best technique, but if you do not have the temperament to support it you will not succeed, you have to keep hanging in there and have that self-belief. That was the greatest lesson I learnt from him.”

Commenting on Bob Willis’s induction into the ICC Hall of Fame, his wife Lauren Clark said: “We are incredibly honoured as a family that Bob is getting inducted in the ICC Hall of Fame and it is sad that he is not here to accept it himself. He deserves to be here; he played 90 Tests for England and took 325 Test wickets and he worked really hard for those wickets, and we are really honoured and proud of him.”

Commenting on receiving the ICC Hall of Fame posthumously, granddaughter of Monty Noble, Elizabeth Noble said: “It is a great honour for us as a family to have my grandfather, inducted in the ICC Hall of Fame. We are delighted and truly humbled that his contributions to cricket have been recognized and celebrated in such a way.”

Reacting to the honour on her father being inducted in the ICC Hall of Fame posthumously, daughter of Stan McCabe, Christine Hancock said: “I was thrilled when I heard about his induction, and very proud of this honour. He was a good father and we spent a lot of good times together. He was very generous and humble in the family home. He would tell me about his innings at Trent Bridge in 1938 and that while he was batting, Don Bradman told the whole team to go out onto the balcony to watch my father’s innings, telling them they’ll never see anything like it ever again! Although I didn’t see him play a lot myself, I always heard stories about him as this fluid, swashbuckling sort of player. He didn’t talk much about his cricket career at home. He would always rather be known as the father of Geoff and Chris McCabe than as a cricketer.”

The International Cricket Council (ICC) on Sunday announced a special edition intake of 10 cricket icons into the ICC Hall of Fame to celebrate the prestigious history of Test cricket, and to coincide with the first-ever ICC World Test Championship Final.

The International Cricket Council (ICC) on Sunday announced a special edition intake of 10 cricket icons into the ICC Hall of Fame to celebrate the prestigious history of Test cricket, and to coincide with the first-ever ICC World Test Championship Final. The 10 legends of the game to be inducted have all made a significant contribution to the history of Test cricket, and join an illustrious list of ICC Hall of Famers, taking the total number to 103 as a result of this intake. The special inductions of the ICC Hall of Fame from the following five eras join the ranks of the world’s greatest players: EARLY CRICKET ERA - Players whose greatest contributions to the game were prior to 1918 Aubrey Faulkner of South Africa played 25 Tests, scored 1,754 runs at 40.79, took 82 wickets at 26.58, and was one of the pioneers of the “googly” at the time. Faulkner was the only man to head both the MRF Tyres ICC Batting and Bowling rankings in Test cricket. He was one of the greatest all-rounders and later one of the best coaches. He was a part of the famous ‘googly quartet’ that so characterised South African cricket in the first decade of the 20th century and he peaked with the bat in the 1910-11 series in Australia when he made 732 runs in the five Tests. Monty Noble of Australia played 42 Tests, scored 1,997 runs at 30.25, took 121 wickets at 25.00, and was one of the greatest Australian all-rounders. He is still the fastest from that country to achieve the 1,000 run / 100 wicket Test double. He played 42 Tests, captaining his side in 15 of them, and he was a trailblazing captain, abandoning mammoth bowling spells to keep bowlers fresh. A true all-rounder, Noble was a banker and a qualified dentist outside of being a prolific cricketer of that time. INTER-WAR ERA - Players whose greatest contributions to the game were from 1918-1945 Sir Learie Constantine of West Indies played 18 Tests, scored 635 runs at 19.24, took 58 wickets at 30.10, and can be considered the first great West Indian all-rounder, playing with a flair and freedom that was decades ahead of his time. He was a champion not only amongst players but for his people too in their political and legal fight against racial discrimination. He was also the first black member of the House of Lords. Stan McCabe of Australia played 39 Tests, scored 2,748 runs at 48.21, took 36 wickets at 42.86, and was a right-handed batsman of the highest class, he played three memorable innings and defied the “Bodyline tactics” that were predominant at the time within the England camp with 187 not out at Sydney. He further struck an unbeaten 189 at Johannesburg in 1935 and then 232 in less than four hours at Nottingham in the 1938 Ashes Test. He was touted as one of the greatest batsmen of the game by his captain Sir Don Bradman. POST-WAR ERA - Players whose greatest contributions to the game were from 1946-1970 Ted Dexter of England played 62 Tests, scored 4,502 runs at 47.89, took 66 wickets at 34.93, and was a superb batsman who combined a firm defence with the ability to destroy any bowling attack off both the front and back foot. His innings of 70 in the 1963 Lord’s Test lives long in the memory of all who saw it. He was an effective partnership breaker with his medium-fast seam bowling and later in life served as England’s Chairman of Selectors and played an influential role in developing what is today’s MRF Tyres ICC Player Rankings. Vinoo Mankad of India played 44 Tests, scored 2,109 runs at 31.47, took 162 wickets at 32.32, and was an opening batsman and slow left arm orthodox bowler, known as one of India’s greatest-ever all-rounders. His most famous feat was against England at Lord's in 1952 when he scored 72 and 184 and bowled 97 overs in the match. He is one of only three cricketers to have batted in every position during his Test career. In later life, he also coached another legendary cricketer and fellow ICC Hall of Fame member from his country, Sunil Gavaskar in Mumbai, India. "A terrific cricketer. A stylish batsman." Next to be inducted into the #ICCHallOfFame 2021 is England's Ted Dexter 👏 pic.twitter.com/YxuupcKWzR — ICC (@ICC) June 13, 2021 × ALSO READ: Cricket: New Zealand seal first away Test series win against England since 1999 ODI ERA - Players whose greatest contributions to the game were from 1971-1995 Desmond Haynes of the West Indies played 116 Tests, scored 7,487 runs at 42.29 and was one half of the most prolific opening batting partnership in Test history alongside Gordon Greenidge. He was capable of some destructive innings and combined impeccable timing with power in his stroke making and has played four ICC World Cups in that era. Bob Willis of England played 90 Tests taking 325 wickets at 25.20 and spearheaded the English bowling attack during some of their most memorable moments during this period. Standing two metres tall, he could make the ball bounce awkwardly on most pitches and possessed an excellent yorker and bouncer, both of which he used to great effect over the course of his career. His greatest triumph was the famous eight for 43 that beat Australia at Headingley in 1981 and after retirement became a popular, and often polarising member of the Sky TV commentary box. MODERN CRICKET ERA - Players whose greatest contributions to the game were between 1996-2015 Andy Flower of Zimbabwe played 63 Tests, scoring 4,794 runs at 51.54, took 151 catches with nine stumpings as a left-handed wicket-keeper batsmen. First Zimbabwe player to be inducted in the ICC Hall of Fame. His grit, determination and will to succeed meant at one point he was ranked number 1 batsman in the world. Andy carried his country's batting for long periods, setting the record for the highest Test score by a wicketkeeper with an innings of 232 not out against India at Nagpur in 2000. Later, he became a hugely successful coach, leading England to the number 1 spot in the ICC Test Rankings for Men. Kumar Sangakkara of Sri Lanka played 134 Tests, scored 12,400 runs at 57.40, took 182 catches and 20 stumpings, and was grace personified at the crease. Sangakkara ended his career as the most prolific run-scorer his country had ever known, with double-hundreds flowing from his bat with consummate ease. In 2014 he struck 319 and 105 in the same Test match against Bangladesh and in 2017 fell just 16 runs short of striking six successive centuries in first-class cricket. The 10 icons inducted as part of this special edition were voted for by the ICC Hall of Fame Voting Academy, comprising living Hall of Fame members, a FICA representative, prominent cricket journalists and senior ICC figures. Commenting on getting inducted in the ICC Hall of Fame, Ted Dexter (England) said: “Well I wasn’t completely aware of the ICC Hall of Fame until I found out I was going to be inducted, so after looking at some of the names in it and knowing that cricket deserves to have a Hall of Fame, I was really chuffed to hear the news. The names in the ICC Hall of Fame include some super players, some of whom I played with, against, and some of whom I had a lot to do with when I was working in English cricket. “My fondest memory as a player is probably the New Year’s Ashes Test 1962/63 against the might of Benaud’s Australia. We needed almost 240 to win the match on the final day and boy did I feel good when we got over the line! That is something I will never forget. “After my playing career, not in my wildest dreams did I think I would end up being a top administrator of the game. I thought I would get on with life after playing and build my PR business. Suddenly along came the opportunity to become Chairman of Selectors, and at the time we were expected to beat most of the emerging Test nations. I was aware that time had moved on so unless we thought differently and planned ahead, we were going to be left behind. “There are many moments in my life in cricket of which I am very proud; as a player, an administrator and in establishing what is today’s rankings system. I also take great pride in having simplified the means of producing on-screen captions and scorecards when I was working as a television commentator, something which you take for granted when watching cricket today. My work in cricket is all very gratifying and I am really proud of everything I have achieved. Being recognized by the ICC for what I have achieved is very satisfying and knowing that I’ve been chosen by my peers and so many great names makes me blush, and I’m thrilled along with my family by this honour.” Speaking on his induction, Desmond Haynes said: “I have played Cricket with some of the greats of the game from the West Indies who are also inducted in the ICC Hall of Fame. That team from 1978 till about the 1990s was a fantastic team. As a young boy growing up in Barbados, I never dreamt that I would be one day inducted in the ICC Hall of Fame. I have really come a long way and I am very happy for this honour. The journey was not smooth, I started playing cricket in a little area of St. James in Barbados where I was loved by everyone in the community, who also helped me stay out of trouble. This is also for my grandmother, my mum and my wife, all of whom supported me in my journey.” Speaking on Vinoo Mankad’s induction, fellow ICC Hall of Fame member, Sunil Gavaskar said: “Vinoo Mankad’s legacy has been to tell the aspiring Indian cricketer to believe in oneself. He was a great proponent of self-belief. He was the one who kept saying to me that you need to keep scoring runs and keep at it. When you get a 100, let that be the knock on the selector’s door. If it is unheard, then score that double hundred and let that knock be even louder. You can have the best technique, but if you do not have the temperament to support it you will not succeed, you have to keep hanging in there and have that self-belief. That was the greatest lesson I learnt from him.” Commenting on Bob Willis’s induction into the ICC Hall of Fame, his wife Lauren Clark said: “We are incredibly honoured as a family that Bob is getting inducted in the ICC Hall of Fame and it is sad that he is not here to accept it himself. He deserves to be here; he played 90 Tests for England and took 325 Test wickets and he worked really hard for those wickets, and we are really honoured and proud of him.” Commenting on receiving the ICC Hall of Fame posthumously, granddaughter of Monty Noble, Elizabeth Noble said: “It is a great honour for us as a family to have my grandfather, inducted in the ICC Hall of Fame. We are delighted and truly humbled that his contributions to cricket have been recognized and celebrated in such a way.” Reacting to the honour on her father being inducted in the ICC Hall of Fame posthumously, daughter of Stan McCabe, Christine Hancock said: “I was thrilled when I heard about his induction, and very proud of this honour. He was a good father and we spent a lot of good times together. He was very generous and humble in the family home. He would tell me about his innings at Trent Bridge in 1938 and that while he was batting, Don Bradman told the whole team to go out onto the balcony to watch my father’s innings, telling them they’ll never see anything like it ever again! Although I didn’t see him play a lot myself, I always heard stories about him as this fluid, swashbuckling sort of player. He didn’t talk much about his cricket career at home. He would always rather be known as the father of Geoff and Chris McCabe than as a cricketer.”

Cricket: ICC announces Hall of Fame special inductions to mark inaugural World Test Championship Final

New Zealand on Sunday hammered England by eight wickets in the second Test to seal the two-match series 1-0 at the Edgbaston. Taking the field with a target of 38 to win, New Zealand batsmen finished the job quickly to register the memorable win on English soil. <o:p></o:p>

Tom Latham, leading the New Zealand team in place of injured Kane Williamson, smashed the winning boundary to win the match after a drawn Test at Lord’s last week.<o:p></o:p>

This is New Zealand’s third win in 18 Test series in England and first after their historic wins in 1986 and 1999. Whereas, this was England’s first home series defeat since 2014, wherein they lost against Sri Lanka.<o:p></o:p>

New Zealand will gain plenty of confidence heading into the World Test Championship final against India, scheduled to start from June 18 in Southampton.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-shubman-gill-shares-stories-about-his-on-field-visits-with-rohit-sharma-and-mayank-agarwal-391165" hreflang="en">Cricket: Shubman Gill shares stories about his on-field visits with Rohit Sharma and Mayank Agarwal</a><o:p></o:p>

"It's great to get an extra day of rest before India but we'll celebrate as well -- we've not won here since 1999 so it's important to celebrate those achievements," said Latham at the presentation ceremony.<o:p></o:p>

"It hasn't been our best week, has it?" England captain Joe Root told BBC Radio after his side came into this match missing Ollie Robinson, with the Sussex seamer suspended after a promising on-field Test debut at Lord's for historic racist and sexist Twitter posts.<o:p></o:p>

"I think we've massively underperformed. Credit to New Zealand, they have outperformed us throughout the game."<o:p></o:p>

Having wrapped up the England innings early on the day, New Zealand lost two wickets in their chase but the target was too small for the visitors to be bothered about.<o:p></o:p>

Stuart Broad dismissed Black Caps player of the series Devon Conway for three before Olly Stone dismissed Will Young.<o:p></o:p>

However, England reached their target in just 10.5 overs to wrap up the match and series.<o:p></o:p>

Henry was named player of the match following overall figures of 6-114.<o:p></o:p>

"It's pretty easy to get motivated to play for your country," said fast bowler Henry. "We've had a strong squad for a while and every time you get the opportunity you want to do your best."<o:p></o:p>

New Zealand on Sunday hammered England by eight wickets in the second Test to seal the two-match series 1-0 at the Edgbaston. Taking the field with a target of 38 to win, New Zealand batsmen finished the job quickly to register the memorable win on English soil.

New Zealand on Sunday hammered England by eight wickets in the second Test to seal the two-match series 1-0 at the Edgbaston. Taking the field with a target of 38 to win, New Zealand batsmen finished the job quickly to register the memorable win on English soil. Tom Latham, leading the New Zealand team in place of injured Kane Williamson, smashed the winning boundary to win the match after a drawn Test at Lord’s last week. This is New Zealand’s third win in 18 Test series in England and first after their historic wins in 1986 and 1999. Whereas, this was England’s first home series defeat since 2014, wherein they lost against Sri Lanka. New Zealand will gain plenty of confidence heading into the World Test Championship final against India, scheduled to start from June 18 in Southampton. ALSO READ: Cricket: Shubman Gill shares stories about his on-field visits with Rohit Sharma and Mayank Agarwal "It's great to get an extra day of rest before India but we'll celebrate as well -- we've not won here since 1999 so it's important to celebrate those achievements," said Latham at the presentation ceremony. "It hasn't been our best week, has it?" England captain Joe Root told BBC Radio after his side came into this match missing Ollie Robinson, with the Sussex seamer suspended after a promising on-field Test debut at Lord's for historic racist and sexist Twitter posts. "I think we've massively underperformed. Credit to New Zealand, they have outperformed us throughout the game." Having wrapped up the England innings early on the day, New Zealand lost two wickets in their chase but the target was too small for the visitors to be bothered about. Stuart Broad dismissed Black Caps player of the series Devon Conway for three before Olly Stone dismissed Will Young. However, England reached their target in just 10.5 overs to wrap up the match and series. Henry was named player of the match following overall figures of 6-114. "It's pretty easy to get motivated to play for your country," said fast bowler Henry. "We've had a strong squad for a while and every time you get the opportunity you want to do your best."

Cricket: New Zealand seal first away Test series win against England since 1999

Indian opener Shubman Gill has shared some stories about his on-field visits with accomplices Rohit Sharma and Mayank Agarwal.&nbsp;

Shubman Gill reviewed how both senior openers gave him the advantage from not taking&nbsp;the strike on the first ball&nbsp;during his debut Test series against Australia.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-bangladesh-all-rounder-shakib-al-hasan-suspended-for-three-matches-over-umpire-outburst-391140" hreflang="en">Cricket: Bangladesh all-rounder Shakib Al Hasan suspended for three matches over umpire outburst</a>

He likewise recalled his bungle in the second Test against England, where he, when all is said and done, requested the strike and got out for a three-ball duck. Shubman Gill said he actually doesn't have a clarification for why he did it yet stated that he wouldn't rehash a similar mix-up at any point in the near future.&nbsp;

In a conversation with The Grade Cricketer, Shubman Gill said: "Never! I remember in my debut innings that Mayank was kind enough to say 'Okay, I know you are under pressure so I will take the strike' and he took the strike in both innings. And then in the next match, I was supposed to take the strike but Mayank didn't play, Rohit bhai played."

"Rohit himself said: 'I know you are a youngster, so I will take the strike.' From there on, he took the strike every game until that match against England. I don't know why I told him that I will take the strike and obviously, that didn't work for me, I got out on the 3rd or 4th ball on a duck. But yes, that won't happen again anytime soon."

When asked how well before the game he and Rohit Sharma would choose who takes the strike, Shubman Gill timidly answered that it could happen whenever, even minutes before a game.&nbsp;

"Honestly, it can happen anytime. Like once, I remember we were almost in the middle, we were tapping our bats and I asked Rohit 'Can you please take the strike?'. Because Mitchell Starc was going on his run-up and I was trying to search the non-striker's end,"

Shubman Gill additionally scored a 135-ball 85 in an intra-squad match as of late, hence solidifying his place considerably further for the World Test Championship that will commence on 18th June.

Indian opener Shubman Gill has shared some stories about his on-field visits with accomplices Rohit Sharma and Mayank Agarwal. Shubman Gill reviewed how both senior openers gave him the advantage from not taking the strike on the first ball during his debut Test series against Australia.

Indian opener Shubman Gill has shared some stories about his on-field visits with accomplices Rohit Sharma and Mayank Agarwal. Shubman Gill reviewed how both senior openers gave him the advantage from not taking the strike on the first ball during his debut Test series against Australia. ALSO READ: Cricket: Bangladesh all-rounder Shakib Al Hasan suspended for three matches over umpire outburst He likewise recalled his bungle in the second Test against England, where he, when all is said and done, requested the strike and got out for a three-ball duck. Shubman Gill said he actually doesn't have a clarification for why he did it yet stated that he wouldn't rehash a similar mix-up at any point in the near future. In a conversation with The Grade Cricketer, Shubman Gill said: "Never! I remember in my debut innings that Mayank was kind enough to say 'Okay, I know you are under pressure so I will take the strike' and he took the strike in both innings. And then in the next match, I was supposed to take the strike but Mayank didn't play, Rohit bhai played." "Rohit himself said: 'I know you are a youngster, so I will take the strike.' From there on, he took the strike every game until that match against England. I don't know why I told him that I will take the strike and obviously, that didn't work for me, I got out on the 3rd or 4th ball on a duck. But yes, that won't happen again anytime soon." When asked how well before the game he and Rohit Sharma would choose who takes the strike, Shubman Gill timidly answered that it could happen whenever, even minutes before a game. "Honestly, it can happen anytime. Like once, I remember we were almost in the middle, we were tapping our bats and I asked Rohit 'Can you please take the strike?'. Because Mitchell Starc was going on his run-up and I was trying to search the non-striker's end," Shubman Gill additionally scored a 135-ball 85 in an intra-squad match as of late, hence solidifying his place considerably further for the World Test Championship that will commence on 18th June.

Cricket: Shubman Gill shares stories about his on-field visits with Rohit Sharma and Mayank Agarwal

​Ace Bangladesh all-rounder Shakib Al Hasan has been handed a three-match suspension for “showing aggressive behavior towards the umpire” during a Dhaka Premier Division T20 Cricket League.<o:p></o:p>

Shakib, the top-ranked all-rounder in ICC ODI rankings, kicked the stumps after an LBW decision was turned down by the umpire during a match between Abahani Limited and Mohammedan Sporting Club on Friday.<o:p></o:p>

Shakib later pulled out all three stumps and threw them aside after the umpire stopped the game due to rain.<o:p></o:p>

The Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) found Shakib guilty of two counts of misconduct and banned him for three matches in the tournament while fining him 500,000 taka (US$5,900).<o:p></o:p>

"Shakib was found guilty of conduct that is contrary to the spirit of the game after showing aggressive behaviour towards the umpire," the BCB said in a statement Saturday.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-england-were-not-good-enough-against-new-zealand-chris-silverwood-391124" hreflang="en">Cricket: England were 'not good enough' against New Zealand: Chris Silverwood</a><o:p></o:p>

The 34-year-old also brought cricket into disrepute by using offensive language and dangerous conduct with the umpires. <o:p></o:p>

Shakib wrote on Facebook that he was "extremely sorry for losing my temper".<o:p></o:p>

"An experienced player like me should not have reacted that way but sometimes against all odds it happens unfortunately."<o:p></o:p>

However, the fans were unhappy with Shakib’s usage of the word “hopefully” as the Bangladesh all-rounder said, he won’t repeat the same mistake in future.<o:p></o:p>

There was massive outrage on social media as fans lashed out at Shakib for his reckless behaviour during the Dhaka T20 League match. <o:p></o:p>

Ace Bangladesh all-rounder Shakib Al Hasan has been handed a three-match suspension for “showing aggressive behavior towards the umpire” during a Dhaka Premier Division T20 Cricket League.

Ace Bangladesh all-rounder Shakib Al Hasan has been handed a three-match suspension for “showing aggressive behavior towards the umpire” during a Dhaka Premier Division T20 Cricket League. Shakib, the top-ranked all-rounder in ICC ODI rankings, kicked the stumps after an LBW decision was turned down by the umpire during a match between Abahani Limited and Mohammedan Sporting Club on Friday. Shakib later pulled out all three stumps and threw them aside after the umpire stopped the game due to rain. The Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) found Shakib guilty of two counts of misconduct and banned him for three matches in the tournament while fining him 500,000 taka (US$5,900). "Shakib was found guilty of conduct that is contrary to the spirit of the game after showing aggressive behaviour towards the umpire," the BCB said in a statement Saturday. ALSO READ: Cricket: England were 'not good enough' against New Zealand: Chris Silverwood The 34-year-old also brought cricket into disrepute by using offensive language and dangerous conduct with the umpires. Shakib wrote on Facebook that he was "extremely sorry for losing my temper". "An experienced player like me should not have reacted that way but sometimes against all odds it happens unfortunately." However, the fans were unhappy with Shakib’s usage of the word “hopefully” as the Bangladesh all-rounder said, he won’t repeat the same mistake in future. There was massive outrage on social media as fans lashed out at Shakib for his reckless behaviour during the Dhaka T20 League match.

Cricket: Bangladesh all-rounder Shakib Al Hasan suspended for three matches over umpire outburst

England Men’s Head Coach Chris Silverwood has named a 16-player squad for T20I series against Sri Lanka starting at Sophia Gardens, Cardiff on June 23.

England T20I&nbsp;Squad

<ul>
	<li data-ogsc="rgb(85, 85, 85)">Eoin Morgan (Middlesex) Captain</li>
	<li data-ogsc="rgb(85, 85, 85)">Moeen Ali (Worcestershire)</li>
	<li data-ogsc="rgb(85, 85, 85)">Jonathan Bairstow (Yorkshire)</li>
	<li data-ogsc="rgb(85, 85, 85)">Sam Billings (Kent)</li>
	<li data-ogsc="rgb(85, 85, 85)">Jos Buttler (Lancashire)</li>
	<li data-ogsc="rgb(85, 85, 85)">Sam Curran (Surrey)</li>
	<li data-ogsc="rgb(85, 85, 85)">Tom Curran (Surrey)</li>
	<li data-ogsc="rgb(85, 85, 85)">Liam Dawson (Hampshire)</li>
	<li data-ogsc="rgb(85, 85, 85)">Chris Jordan (Sussex)</li>
	<li data-ogsc="rgb(85, 85, 85)">Liam Livingstone (Lancashire)</li>
	<li data-ogsc="rgb(85, 85, 85)">Dawid Malan (Yorkshire)</li>
	<li data-ogsc="rgb(85, 85, 85)">Adil Rashid (Yorkshire)</li>
	<li data-ogsc="rgb(85, 85, 85)">Jason Roy (Surrey)</li>
	<li data-ogsc="rgb(85, 85, 85)">David Willey (Yorkshire)</li>
	<li data-ogsc="rgb(85, 85, 85)">Chris Woakes (Warwickshire)</li>
	<li data-ogsc="rgb(85, 85, 85)">Mark Wood (Durham)</li>
</ul>

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-im-preparing-to-play-and-perform-at-my-best-wes-agar-gears-up-for-his-debut-391002" hreflang="en">Cricket: I'm preparing to play and perform at my best: Wes Agar gears up for his debut</a>

Warwickshire all-rounder Chris Woakes returns to the squad for the first time since 2015. His last international cap in this format came in November 2015 against Pakistan.

Yorkshire seamer David Willey last played at this level in May 2019 and will be looking to add to his 28 caps.

Hampshire spinner Liam Dawson, who last played a T20I for England in February 2018 in New Zealand, is one of three specialist spinners named.

Durham all-rounder Ben Stokes (fractured finger), Sussex seamer Jofra Archer (right elbow) and Surrey’s Reece Topley (side strain) were not considered for selection due to ongoing injuries.

England Men’s Head Coach, Chris Silverwood, said: “With the T20 World Cup only a few months away, this summer is about perfecting our team and continue to progress on the field. We want to approach every series with an influx of players aiming to win every match and giving us the best preparation as we get closer to the tournament.

“With several high-profile players missing through injury, it allows me to look at some of our experienced players who have not featured at this level for some time. The likes of Chris Woakes and David Willey are very experienced cricketers, and to have them both in the mix is exciting and shows the depth of squad we have available.

“I want our team to play an attacking form of the game. I hope we can continue to excite the England fans with our approach.”

The England T20I squad will report to its Cardiff base on Saturday 19 June.

<h2 data-ogsc="rgb(85, 85, 85)">England vs Sri Lanka, T20I Series: Full Schedule</h2>

1st T20I: England v Sri Lanka, Wednesday 23 June 2021, Sophia Gardens, Cardiff (6.30pm BST)

2nd T20I: England v Sri Lanka, Thursday 24 June 2021, Sophia Gardens, Cardiff (6.30pm BST)

3rd T20I: England v Sri Lanka, Saturday 26 June 2021, Ageas Bowl, Southampton (2.30pm BST)

England Men’s Head Coach Chris Silverwood has named a 16-player squad for T20I series against Sri Lanka starting at Sophia Gardens, Cardiff on June 23. England T20I Squad Eoin Morgan (Middlesex) Captain Moeen Ali (Worcestershire) Jonathan Bairstow (Yorkshire) Sam Billings (Kent) Jos Buttler (Lancashire) Sam Curran (Surrey) Tom Curran (Surrey) Liam Dawson (Hampshire) Chris Jordan (Sussex) Liam Livingstone (Lancashire) Dawid Malan (Yorkshire) Adil Rashid (Yorkshire) Jason Roy (Surrey) David Willey (Yorkshire) Chris Woakes (Warwickshire) Mark Wood (Durham) ALSO READ: Cricket: I'm preparing to play and perform at my best: Wes Agar gears up for his debut Warwickshire all-rounder Chris Woakes returns to the squad for the first time since 2015.

England Men’s Head Coach Chris Silverwood has named a 16-player squad for T20I series against Sri Lanka starting at Sophia Gardens, Cardiff on June 23. England T20I Squad Eoin Morgan (Middlesex) Captain Moeen Ali (Worcestershire) Jonathan Bairstow (Yorkshire) Sam Billings (Kent) Jos Buttler (Lancashire) Sam Curran (Surrey) Tom Curran (Surrey) Liam Dawson (Hampshire) Chris Jordan (Sussex) Liam Livingstone (Lancashire) Dawid Malan (Yorkshire) Adil Rashid (Yorkshire) Jason Roy (Surrey) David Willey (Yorkshire) Chris Woakes (Warwickshire) Mark Wood (Durham) ALSO READ: Cricket: I'm preparing to play and perform at my best: Wes Agar gears up for his debut Warwickshire all-rounder Chris Woakes returns to the squad for the first time since 2015. His last international cap in this format came in November 2015 against Pakistan. Yorkshire seamer David Willey last played at this level in May 2019 and will be looking to add to his 28 caps. Hampshire spinner Liam Dawson, who last played a T20I for England in February 2018 in New Zealand, is one of three specialist spinners named. Durham all-rounder Ben Stokes (fractured finger), Sussex seamer Jofra Archer (right elbow) and Surrey’s Reece Topley (side strain) were not considered for selection due to ongoing injuries. England Men’s Head Coach, Chris Silverwood, said: “With the T20 World Cup only a few months away, this summer is about perfecting our team and continue to progress on the field. We want to approach every series with an influx of players aiming to win every match and giving us the best preparation as we get closer to the tournament. “With several high-profile players missing through injury, it allows me to look at some of our experienced players who have not featured at this level for some time. The likes of Chris Woakes and David Willey are very experienced cricketers, and to have them both in the mix is exciting and shows the depth of squad we have available. “I want our team to play an attacking form of the game. I hope we can continue to excite the England fans with our approach.” The England T20I squad will report to its Cardiff base on Saturday 19 June. England vs Sri Lanka, T20I Series: Full Schedule 1st T20I: England v Sri Lanka, Wednesday 23 June 2021, Sophia Gardens, Cardiff (6.30pm BST) 2nd T20I: England v Sri Lanka, Thursday 24 June 2021, Sophia Gardens, Cardiff (6.30pm BST) 3rd T20I: England v Sri Lanka, Saturday 26 June 2021, Ageas Bowl, Southampton (2.30pm BST)

Cricket: England announce 16-member squad for T20I series versus Sri Lanka

Kuldeep Yadav has been quite possibly the one of most discussed Indian cricketers in the course of recent years. The left-arm wrist-spinner burst onto the scene in the U19 World Cup back in 2014 where he got a hat-trick. Despite the fact that he needed to stand by some time to make his worldwide debut, there was no thinking back for the adolescent.&nbsp;

Swindling the resistance batsmen with his inconspicuous varieties, Kuldeep Yadav before long turned into a fan top choice and was one of India's greatest match-victors in white-ball cricket. In any case, the group's mix just as the appearance of new ability has seen the 26-year-old get fewer possibilities than he would have enjoyed.

In a chat with Sportskeeda, Kuldeep Yadav opened up on his stint with Kolkata Knight Riders, his objectives for the Sri Lanka visit, and significantly more.

While it is a well-known fact that it was the incredible Shane Warne who roused Kuldeep to be a wrist-spinner, his excursion from being an Under-19 cricketer to turning into a bowler for India wouldn't have been conceivable without one man – previous India batsman and KKR skipper Gautam Gambhir, whom the chinaman bowler credits for managing and mentoring him massively right since his journey began.

"When you watch international cricket, you see that there's that hunger within Virat Kohli to do well and take the team forward and win. When Gauti bhai played for KKR, even he had the same mindset that the team should win. Then I think KKR were lacking in that regard and wasn't thinking in that way, or maybe they weren't taking this tournament seriously or thinking about their approach if they lost games. These things matter a lot and I think those things were missing," Kuldeep Yadav opined.

Notwithstanding KKR's battles, Kuldeep Yadav played only 14 games and wasn't featured in the playing XI. The 26-year-old is yet to play a solitary game in the IPL 2021 season. He expressed:&nbsp;

"Somewhere it does feel unfair that when you play for India but you still don't get to play franchise cricket. You do feel bad but there is nothing you can do, you can only work hard and ask for reasons. When you do ask for reasons you get some explanation but maybe the kind of backing that I was expecting from KKR I didn't get. The kind of trust Gauti bhai showed in me, maybe I didn't get that in this team."

With the T20 World Cup set to be played not long from now, just as the following version of the competition in Australia one year from now, Kuldeep Yadav has his eyes set on the Sri Lanka visit. He feels if can capitalize on his odds, he may highlight in, at any rate, one of the two show-stopper occasions.&nbsp;

"If I do get a chance on the Sri Lanka tour or in the second half of the IPL then I will be able to make an impact in the T20 World Cup. And there is another World Cup next year Down Under, so it's not that this is my last chance. I might be effective in Australia if I get a chance," Kuldeep Yadav signed off" - he concluded 
&nbsp;

Kuldeep Yadav has been quite possibly the one of most discussed Indian cricketers in the course of recent years. The left-arm wrist-spinner burst onto the scene in the U19 World Cup back in 2014 where he got a hat-trick.

Kuldeep Yadav has been quite possibly the one of most discussed Indian cricketers in the course of recent years. The left-arm wrist-spinner burst onto the scene in the U19 World Cup back in 2014 where he got a hat-trick. Despite the fact that he needed to stand by some time to make his worldwide debut, there was no thinking back for the adolescent. Swindling the resistance batsmen with his inconspicuous varieties, Kuldeep Yadav before long turned into a fan top choice and was one of India's greatest match-victors in white-ball cricket. In any case, the group's mix just as the appearance of new ability has seen the 26-year-old get fewer possibilities than he would have enjoyed. In a chat with Sportskeeda, Kuldeep Yadav opened up on his stint with Kolkata Knight Riders, his objectives for the Sri Lanka visit, and significantly more. While it is a well-known fact that it was the incredible Shane Warne who roused Kuldeep to be a wrist-spinner, his excursion from being an Under-19 cricketer to turning into a bowler for India wouldn't have been conceivable without one man – previous India batsman and KKR skipper Gautam Gambhir, whom the chinaman bowler credits for managing and mentoring him massively right since his journey began. "When you watch international cricket, you see that there's that hunger within Virat Kohli to do well and take the team forward and win. When Gauti bhai played for KKR, even he had the same mindset that the team should win. Then I think KKR were lacking in that regard and wasn't thinking in that way, or maybe they weren't taking this tournament seriously or thinking about their approach if they lost games. These things matter a lot and I think those things were missing," Kuldeep Yadav opined. Notwithstanding KKR's battles, Kuldeep Yadav played only 14 games and wasn't featured in the playing XI. The 26-year-old is yet to play a solitary game in the IPL 2021 season. He expressed: "Somewhere it does feel unfair that when you play for India but you still don't get to play franchise cricket. You do feel bad but there is nothing you can do, you can only work hard and ask for reasons. When you do ask for reasons you get some explanation but maybe the kind of backing that I was expecting from KKR I didn't get. The kind of trust Gauti bhai showed in me, maybe I didn't get that in this team." With the T20 World Cup set to be played not long from now, just as the following version of the competition in Australia one year from now, Kuldeep Yadav has his eyes set on the Sri Lanka visit. He feels if can capitalize on his odds, he may highlight in, at any rate, one of the two show-stopper occasions. "If I do get a chance on the Sri Lanka tour or in the second half of the IPL then I will be able to make an impact in the T20 World Cup. And there is another World Cup next year Down Under, so it's not that this is my last chance. I might be effective in Australia if I get a chance," Kuldeep Yadav signed off" - he concluded

Cricket: KKR weren't taking the tournament seriously, says Kuldeep Yadav

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