Joe Root continued his merry run and became England's highest Test run-scorer during the opening session of the first Test versus Pakistan in Multan on Wednesday (Oct 9). Root surpassed former England captain Alastair Cook's run-tally (12,472) to attain the historic feat. At the stroke of lunch, England ended the first session on Day 3 on a strong note, with Root unbeaten on 72 whereas opener Ben Duckett remained not out at 80 with England well-placed at 232 for 2 in response to Pakistan's 556. Root, who has three hundreds in his last ten innings, will look to go big in the second session.

Highest run-scorers for England in Tests:

Joe Root - 12,474*

Alastair Cook - 12,472

Graham Gooch - 8,900

Alec Stewart - 8,463

David Gower - 8,231

Kevin Pietersen - 8,181

Notably, Root already has the most Test centuries (34) for England, joint-sixth overall.&nbsp;

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HISTORY IS MADE! 🙌 
 
We are witnessing sheer greatness. 
 
🐐 Congratulations, Rooty! 👏<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/EnglandCricket?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#EnglandCricket</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/root66?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@root66</a> <a href="https://t.co/rSAXb3LKEo">pic.twitter.com/rSAXb3LKEo</a>
— England Cricket (@englandcricket) <a href="https://twitter.com/englandcricket/status/1843906549560811607?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 9, 2024</a></blockquote>
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The England Cricket Board's (ECB) official handle on X, formerly Twitter, also lauded Root for his recent landmark. ECB posted on X:

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Welcoming back our new leading men’s Test run scorer 👏 ❤️<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/EnglandCricket?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#EnglandCricket</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/root66?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Root66</a> <a href="https://t.co/6yh99J3pxE">pic.twitter.com/6yh99J3pxE</a>
— England Cricket (@englandcricket) <a href="https://twitter.com/englandcricket/status/1843915694636675083?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 9, 2024</a></blockquote>
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Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/pak-vs-eng-1st-test-watch-aamer-jamal-takes-sensational-one-handed-catch-to-dismiss-ollie-pope-765674">PAK vs ENG, 1st Test: WATCH | Aamer Jamal takes sensational one-handed catch to dismiss Ollie Pope</a>

Talking about the first session on Day 3, England batters added 136 runs in 25 overs, and lost a wicket, as Root and Duckett put on an unbroken 119-run third-wicket stand, off 124 balls. The visitors look set to post a big total in reply to Pakistan's 556 on a surface which has a lot on offer for the batters. Earlier in the contest, Pakistan won the toss and opted to bat first. The Asian giants rode on skipper Shan Masood's 151, Abdullah Shafique's 102 and&nbsp;Agha Salman's 104 not out to post a humongous total.

Joe Root continued his merry run and became England's highest Test run-scorer during the opening session of the first Test versus Pakistan in Multan on Wednesday (Oct 9).

Joe Root continued his merry run and became England's highest Test run-scorer during the opening session of the first Test versus Pakistan in Multan on Wednesday (Oct 9). Root surpassed former England captain Alastair Cook's run-tally (12,472) to attain the historic feat. At the stroke of lunch, England ended the first session on Day 3 on a strong note, with Root unbeaten on 72 whereas opener Ben Duckett remained not out at 80 with England well-placed at 232 for 2 in response to Pakistan's 556. Root, who has three hundreds in his last ten innings, will look to go big in the second session. Highest run-scorers for England in Tests: Joe Root - 12,474* Alastair Cook - 12,472 Graham Gooch - 8,900 Alec Stewart - 8,463 David Gower - 8,231 Kevin Pietersen - 8,181 Notably, Root already has the most Test centuries (34) for England, joint-sixth overall. HISTORY IS MADE! 🙌 We are witnessing sheer greatness. 🐐 Congratulations, Rooty! 👏#EnglandCricket | @root66 pic.twitter.com/rSAXb3LKEo — England Cricket (@englandcricket) October 9, 2024 × The England Cricket Board's (ECB) official handle on X, formerly Twitter, also lauded Root for his recent landmark. ECB posted on X: Welcoming back our new leading men’s Test run scorer 👏 ❤️#EnglandCricket | @Root66 pic.twitter.com/6yh99J3pxE — England Cricket (@englandcricket) October 9, 2024 × Also read: PAK vs ENG, 1st Test: WATCH | Aamer Jamal takes sensational one-handed catch to dismiss Ollie Pope Talking about the first session on Day 3, England batters added 136 runs in 25 overs, and lost a wicket, as Root and Duckett put on an unbroken 119-run third-wicket stand, off 124 balls. The visitors look set to post a big total in reply to Pakistan's 556 on a surface which has a lot on offer for the batters. Earlier in the contest, Pakistan won the toss and opted to bat first. The Asian giants rode on skipper Shan Masood's 151, Abdullah Shafique's 102 and Agha Salman's 104 not out to post a humongous total.

Pak vs Eng: Joe Root continues merry run, becomes England's highest run-scorer in Test cricket

The federal reserve is focusing more of its policy efforts on protecting the Labour market. The expectation that US Inflation likely eased at the end of the third quarter should reassure US Policymakers. US Inflation data is due this week, along with the minutes of the fed meeting in September, when the central bank cut rates by 0.5 percent.

FED & ECB Meeting Minutes in the Spotlight

On Wednesday (Oct 2), the England Cricket Board (ECB) announced a 14-man squad for the upcoming white-ball tour of the West Indies. It sees the return of limited-overs skipper Jos Buttler, who missed the home T20I and ODI series versus Australia due to a calf injury. Apart from Buttler, three uncapped players were some notable inclusions. Buttler missed The Hundred due to calf issues and, as a result, also skipped the three T20Is and five ODIs versus Australia at home. Phil Salt led the T20I team in his absence, with the three-match series ending at 1-1. In the five ODIs, Harry Brook took charge of the side and despite a good fight, the hosts lost to current ODI champions 3-2.

Speaking of the uncapped players, Jafer Chohan is a new addition altogether. He has claimed 22 wickets so far from 23 matches in his short career. In addition, fast bowler John Turner and spin-bowling all-rounder Dan Mousley are the other uncapped players. However, the duo were part of the ODI squad versus Australia but didn't get a game.

Turner, who was a part of the Caribbean tour last December as well, has accounted for 35 and 42 wickets in his List A and T20 career. On the other hand, Mousley has amassed 1,100 runs in his short T20 career along with 50 wickets from 63 matches.&nbsp;

Notably, two more players will join the 14-man squad ahead of England's third Test against Pakistan in Rawalpindi, beginning on Oct 24.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/after-babar-azams-resignation-pakistan-set-to-name-3-separate-captains-reports-764047">After Babar Azam's resignation, Pakistan set to name 3 separate captains: Reports</a>

<h2>England tour of WI</h2>

England's tour of West Indies comprises three ODIs and five T20Is. The ODI series kicks off on Oct 31 with the opening two games to be held at the Sir Vivian Richards Stadium, North Sound, Antigua whereas the third and final ODI will be played at Kensington Oval, Bridgetown, Barbados.

The T20Is will commence on Nov 09. The first two games will be played in Barbados while the remaining three T20Is will be hosted by Beausejour Stadium, Gros Islet, St Lucia.

England squad for West Indies tour: Jos Buttler (c), Jofra Archer, Jacob Bethell, Jafer Chohan, Sam Curran, Will Jacks, Liam Livingstone, Saqib Mahmood, Dan Mousley, Jamie Overton, Adil Rashid, Phil Salt, Reece Topley, John Turner

On Wednesday (Oct 2), the England Cricket Board (ECB) announced a 14-man squad for the upcoming white-ball tour of the West Indies. It sees the return of limited-overs skipper Jos Buttler, who missed the home T20I and ODI series versus Australia due to a calf injury.

On Wednesday (Oct 2), the England Cricket Board (ECB) announced a 14-man squad for the upcoming white-ball tour of the West Indies. It sees the return of limited-overs skipper Jos Buttler, who missed the home T20I and ODI series versus Australia due to a calf injury. Apart from Buttler, three uncapped players were some notable inclusions. Buttler missed The Hundred due to calf issues and, as a result, also skipped the three T20Is and five ODIs versus Australia at home. Phil Salt led the T20I team in his absence, with the three-match series ending at 1-1. In the five ODIs, Harry Brook took charge of the side and despite a good fight, the hosts lost to current ODI champions 3-2. Speaking of the uncapped players, Jafer Chohan is a new addition altogether. He has claimed 22 wickets so far from 23 matches in his short career. In addition, fast bowler John Turner and spin-bowling all-rounder Dan Mousley are the other uncapped players. However, the duo were part of the ODI squad versus Australia but didn't get a game. Turner, who was a part of the Caribbean tour last December as well, has accounted for 35 and 42 wickets in his List A and T20 career. On the other hand, Mousley has amassed 1,100 runs in his short T20 career along with 50 wickets from 63 matches. Notably, two more players will join the 14-man squad ahead of England's third Test against Pakistan in Rawalpindi, beginning on Oct 24. Also read: After Babar Azam's resignation, Pakistan set to name 3 separate captains: Reports England tour of WI England's tour of West Indies comprises three ODIs and five T20Is. The ODI series kicks off on Oct 31 with the opening two games to be held at the Sir Vivian Richards Stadium, North Sound, Antigua whereas the third and final ODI will be played at Kensington Oval, Bridgetown, Barbados. The T20Is will commence on Nov 09. The first two games will be played in Barbados while the remaining three T20Is will be hosted by Beausejour Stadium, Gros Islet, St Lucia. England squad for West Indies tour: Jos Buttler (c), Jofra Archer, Jacob Bethell, Jafer Chohan, Sam Curran, Will Jacks, Liam Livingstone, Saqib Mahmood, Dan Mousley, Jamie Overton, Adil Rashid, Phil Salt, Reece Topley, John Turner

Jos Buttler returns as ECB name 14-man squad for white-ball WI tour, three uncapped players included

The latest commentary from the Federal Reserve has emerged as a moment that does belong to global monetary policy, of course, but also especially to the Bank of England and the European Central Bank. Federal Reserve Bank of Chicago President Austan Goolsbee called for "measurable" interest rate cuts to safeguard the US labor market and economy and is advocating for "many more rate cuts over the next year."

This bold move will contrast strongly with hesitation seen in European central banks, who risk being left in the dust as fast-moving changes blossom in the economic landscape as detailed in a write-up on Bloomberg by Columnist, Marcus Ashworth.

Such clear messaging from the Fed underlines a trend of increasing divergence between the monetary policy path in the US and its European peers. The Bank of England (BOE) and European Central Bank (ECB) have lowered rates before, but are currently on the back foot, acting like they don't want to do something that will be taken as bold action. This will repeat the mistakes made in 2021 when markets did not capitalize on stabilization opportunities because of a lack of confidence in their actions.

In the past months, both the central banks have chosen a gradual cutting of the rates, usually reducing the rates by only 25 basis points in the quarter. That does not inspire leadership but instead reveals fear to act ahead of emerging data in the economy. In contrast, the Fed started its cutting cycle with a strong 50-basis-point cut and indicated its intention to take head-on the threats that economic downturns could pose in future cycles.

Current economic indicators are mixed. On the bright side, US September composite purchasing managers index is still strong and well within expansion territory at 54.4; however, inflation is still stuck at around 2.5 per cent, which is far from the target. The Fed's newfound interest in employment marks a recognition that proactive measures must be taken to keep the markets confident and risks relating to economic slowdown manageable.

The challenges of European central banks are simply unique to their economic topography. Purchasing manager surveys across the Eurozone suggest increasing recession risks, especially given that France and Italy face the harsh budgetary disciplines meted out by the European Commission. Both have been subjected to Excessive Deficit Procedure that entails some pretty bad fiscal consolidation.

Exports from Europe also face the pressures of a Chinese economy badly going through economic challenges. The recent stimulus measures taken by China and its rate cuts fail to impress me, in my opinion. According to the economists at Bloomberg, Euro-area growth is expected to be 0.7 per cent this year. This will be largely dominated by the southern European nations, but the major economies are still expected to remain lags for France and Germany.

Analysts argue that the BOE and ECB have to step up their rhetoric on rate-setting in light of these developments. Cutting official rates twice this year rather than the once in the case of BOE may help improve their efficacy in managing slowing economies, thus averting the possibility of having to cut rates very sharply going forward. If they do not get their act together, at least in terms of being bold and talking tough about waiting longer to hike rates, then bigger cuts than forecasted may be in store.

The situation for BOE is a bit less dire but still challenging. As inflation inches closer to the target while growth duds, UK consumer confidence has a long history of painful negative reiterations from policymakers. But even for Chancellor of the Exchequer Rachel Reeves, whose budget presentation comes on November 7 ahead of BOE's next quarterly review, which in turn will guide forward monetary policy choices.

With central banks everywhere dealing with growingly testing economic environments, the demand for urgent action could not be starker. Lessons from the Fed's bold policy action will guide both the BOE and ECB as they work their way through these raging waters. Steady but incrementally faster, instead of a choke hold, more incremental steps in rate-setting policies will better prepare Europe for whatever it might encounter in 2025 and beyond.

The latest commentary from the Federal Reserve has emerged as a moment that does belong to global monetary policy, of course, but also especially to the Bank of England and the European Central Bank.

The latest commentary from the Federal Reserve has emerged as a moment that does belong to global monetary policy, of course, but also especially to the Bank of England and the European Central Bank. Federal Reserve Bank of Chicago President Austan Goolsbee called for "measurable" interest rate cuts to safeguard the US labor market and economy and is advocating for "many more rate cuts over the next year." This bold move will contrast strongly with hesitation seen in European central banks, who risk being left in the dust as fast-moving changes blossom in the economic landscape as detailed in a write-up on Bloomberg by Columnist, Marcus Ashworth. Such clear messaging from the Fed underlines a trend of increasing divergence between the monetary policy path in the US and its European peers. The Bank of England (BOE) and European Central Bank (ECB) have lowered rates before, but are currently on the back foot, acting like they don't want to do something that will be taken as bold action. This will repeat the mistakes made in 2021 when markets did not capitalize on stabilization opportunities because of a lack of confidence in their actions. In the past months, both the central banks have chosen a gradual cutting of the rates, usually reducing the rates by only 25 basis points in the quarter. That does not inspire leadership but instead reveals fear to act ahead of emerging data in the economy. In contrast, the Fed started its cutting cycle with a strong 50-basis-point cut and indicated its intention to take head-on the threats that economic downturns could pose in future cycles. Current economic indicators are mixed. On the bright side, US September composite purchasing managers index is still strong and well within expansion territory at 54.4; however, inflation is still stuck at around 2.5 per cent, which is far from the target. The Fed's newfound interest in employment marks a recognition that proactive measures must be taken to keep the markets confident and risks relating to economic slowdown manageable. The challenges of European central banks are simply unique to their economic topography. Purchasing manager surveys across the Eurozone suggest increasing recession risks, especially given that France and Italy face the harsh budgetary disciplines meted out by the European Commission. Both have been subjected to Excessive Deficit Procedure that entails some pretty bad fiscal consolidation. Exports from Europe also face the pressures of a Chinese economy badly going through economic challenges. The recent stimulus measures taken by China and its rate cuts fail to impress me, in my opinion. According to the economists at Bloomberg, Euro-area growth is expected to be 0.7 per cent this year. This will be largely dominated by the southern European nations, but the major economies are still expected to remain lags for France and Germany. Analysts argue that the BOE and ECB have to step up their rhetoric on rate-setting in light of these developments. Cutting official rates twice this year rather than the once in the case of BOE may help improve their efficacy in managing slowing economies, thus averting the possibility of having to cut rates very sharply going forward. If they do not get their act together, at least in terms of being bold and talking tough about waiting longer to hike rates, then bigger cuts than forecasted may be in store. The situation for BOE is a bit less dire but still challenging. As inflation inches closer to the target while growth duds, UK consumer confidence has a long history of painful negative reiterations from policymakers. But even for Chancellor of the Exchequer Rachel Reeves, whose budget presentation comes on November 7 ahead of BOE's next quarterly review, which in turn will guide forward monetary policy choices. With central banks everywhere dealing with growingly testing economic environments, the demand for urgent action could not be starker. Lessons from the Fed's bold policy action will guide both the BOE and ECB as they work their way through these raging waters. Steady but incrementally faster, instead of a choke hold, more incremental steps in rate-setting policies will better prepare Europe for whatever it might encounter in 2025 and beyond.

Central banks can't give in to inaction as Fed takes lead on rate cuts

England have announced the 16-member squad for the upcoming three-Test tour of Pakistan which starts next month. The ECB has included eight players from the 2022 tour when England won the series 3-0.

The eight players include skipper Ben Stokes who is coming back to the side after missing recent Sri Lanka Test series at home with injury. England won the three-Test series 2-1.

Other players who are included from the 2022 tour are: Rehan Ahmed, Harry Brook, Zak Crawley, Ben Duckett, Jack Leach, Ollie Pope and Joe Root.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/i-need-to-beat-him-aussie-steve-smith-on-indias-virat-kohli-ahead-of-upcoming-border-gavaskar-series-757521">'I need to beat him...,' Aussie Steve Smith on India's Virat Kohli ahead of upcoming Border-Gavaskar series</a>

England have also included pacer Josh Hull who made his debut in the Oval Test against Sri Lanka and took three wickets. The Three Lions have also included two uncapped players in Jordan Cox and Brydon Carse.

Spinner Jack Leach also made a comeback in the Test side for the first time since getting injured in the opening Test of India Test series earlier this year. He has been picked with Shoaib Bashir - England's first-choice spinner at home - and leggie Rehan Ahmed.

England squad for Pakistan tour: Ben Stokes (capt), Rehan Ahmed, Gus Atkinson, Shoaib Bashir, Harry Brook, Brydon Carse, Jordan Cox, Zak Crawley, Ben Duckett, Josh Hull, Jack Leach, Ollie Pope, Matthew Potts, Joe Root, Jamie Smith, Olly Stone, Chris Woakes.

<h2>Entire series to be played in Pakistan</h2>

Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has all but confirmed that the upcoming three-Test home series England will be played entirely in the country. The development was confirmed by PCB chief Mohsin Naqvi's spokesperson Mohammad Rafiullah

The news of series going to be held in Pakistan comes amid the reports of PCB thinking to move Karachi Test (second one) to outside the country. It is because of the ongoing renovation work at multiple venues, including Karachi, for the ICC Champions Trophy. Pakistan are scheduled to the ICC tournament in February-March next year. 
&nbsp;

England have announced the 16-member squad for the upcoming three-Test tour of Pakistan which starts next month. The ECB has included eight players from the 2022 tour when England won the series 3-0.

England have announced the 16-member squad for the upcoming three-Test tour of Pakistan which starts next month. The ECB has included eight players from the 2022 tour when England won the series 3-0. The eight players include skipper Ben Stokes who is coming back to the side after missing recent Sri Lanka Test series at home with injury. England won the three-Test series 2-1. Other players who are included from the 2022 tour are: Rehan Ahmed, Harry Brook, Zak Crawley, Ben Duckett, Jack Leach, Ollie Pope and Joe Root. Also Read: 'I need to beat him...,' Aussie Steve Smith on India's Virat Kohli ahead of upcoming Border-Gavaskar series England have also included pacer Josh Hull who made his debut in the Oval Test against Sri Lanka and took three wickets. The Three Lions have also included two uncapped players in Jordan Cox and Brydon Carse. Spinner Jack Leach also made a comeback in the Test side for the first time since getting injured in the opening Test of India Test series earlier this year. He has been picked with Shoaib Bashir - England's first-choice spinner at home - and leggie Rehan Ahmed. England squad for Pakistan tour: Ben Stokes (capt), Rehan Ahmed, Gus Atkinson, Shoaib Bashir, Harry Brook, Brydon Carse, Jordan Cox, Zak Crawley, Ben Duckett, Josh Hull, Jack Leach, Ollie Pope, Matthew Potts, Joe Root, Jamie Smith, Olly Stone, Chris Woakes. Entire series to be played in Pakistan Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has all but confirmed that the upcoming three-Test home series England will be played entirely in the country. The development was confirmed by PCB chief Mohsin Naqvi's spokesperson Mohammad Rafiullah The news of series going to be held in Pakistan comes amid the reports of PCB thinking to move Karachi Test (second one) to outside the country. It is because of the ongoing renovation work at multiple venues, including Karachi, for the ICC Champions Trophy. Pakistan are scheduled to the ICC tournament in February-March next year.

England announce Ben Stokes-led 16-member squad for upcoming Pakistan Test series

The European Central Bank is likely to cut interest rates Thursday, in a precursor to a US move the following week, as the global monetary cycle tips toward more uniform easing.

Eurozone officials have indicated they will deliver a second cut in borrowing costs, following up on July's move, which will be watched by investors for any hint of what policymakers may plan beyond that for the second half of this year. At least one more cut is likely in 2024.

With the Bank of Canada's rate move on Sept. 4, timing just days before the Federal Reserve's first cut expected Sept. 18, underlines how large advanced economies are moving in lockstep as officials pivot to supporting economic growth now they have judged that the risk of inflation has faded.

In the eurozone, easing in a key measure of wage growth during the second quarter will have helped to embolden policymakers.

On Wednesday, a US consumer-price report may likewise reassure Fed officials that inflation pressures are stabilising, just after data on Friday showed US hiring was below forecasts.

For investors, the question overhanging this month's meetings is the degree to which such rate cuts herald a deeper easing cycle that might not only remove constriction from major economies but also start to stimulate them.

Prospects for growth will be in focus when ECB President Christine Lagarde addresses journalists on Thursday, not least in light of just-released data showing that second-quarter expansion was weaker than initially reported.

Governing Council officials are believed to favour making rate moves at meetings such as the upcoming one when they have newly compiled quarterly forecasts in hand. That would leave them more likely to make a further reduction in December than at their next meeting, Oct. 17.

The European Central Bank is likely to cut interest rates Thursday, in a precursor to a US move the following week, as the global monetary cycle tips toward more uniform easing.

The European Central Bank is likely to cut interest rates Thursday, in a precursor to a US move the following week, as the global monetary cycle tips toward more uniform easing. Eurozone officials have indicated they will deliver a second cut in borrowing costs, following up on July's move, which will be watched by investors for any hint of what policymakers may plan beyond that for the second half of this year. At least one more cut is likely in 2024. With the Bank of Canada's rate move on Sept. 4, timing just days before the Federal Reserve's first cut expected Sept. 18, underlines how large advanced economies are moving in lockstep as officials pivot to supporting economic growth now they have judged that the risk of inflation has faded. In the eurozone, easing in a key measure of wage growth during the second quarter will have helped to embolden policymakers. On Wednesday, a US consumer-price report may likewise reassure Fed officials that inflation pressures are stabilising, just after data on Friday showed US hiring was below forecasts. For investors, the question overhanging this month's meetings is the degree to which such rate cuts herald a deeper easing cycle that might not only remove constriction from major economies but also start to stimulate them. Prospects for growth will be in focus when ECB President Christine Lagarde addresses journalists on Thursday, not least in light of just-released data showing that second-quarter expansion was weaker than initially reported. Governing Council officials are believed to favour making rate moves at meetings such as the upcoming one when they have newly compiled quarterly forecasts in hand. That would leave them more likely to make a further reduction in December than at their next meeting, Oct. 17.

ECB set to cut rates again as global easing momentum builds

According to a report by CNBC, the harmonised German consumer price index eased to 2 per cent in August, preliminary data from the country’s statistics office Destatis said Thursday. This was lower than the 2.3 per cent forecast in a Reuters poll of analysts. The poll forecasted that the Consumer Price Index (CPI) would be 2.3 per cent.&nbsp;

This decline in inflation can be attributed to several key factors, such as the reduction of energy costs, weakening core inflation, lower-than-expected Consumer Price Index (CPI), and fading growth momentum.&nbsp;

In July, the harmonised CPI figure was 2.6 per cent on an annual basis. Further, the harmonised CPI dipped by 0.2 per cent on a monthly basis. Inflation readings are harmonised in the euro area and in the European Union to ensure comparability. This is done through the Harmonized Index of Consumer Prices.&nbsp;

What Is the Harmonized Index of Consumer Prices (HICP) and its relevance?&nbsp;

The Harmonized Index of Consumer Prices (HICP) is a measure of inflation in the European Union (EU). It reflects change over time in the prices paid by households for a representative basket of goods and services.&nbsp;

The European Central Bank (ECB) uses the HICP for Eurozone, comprising the 20 European Union states, using the euro common currency to pursue its price stability objective, defined as 2 per cent annualised inflation over the medium term.&nbsp;

How was the core inflation number as per the nation’s statistics office?

Core inflation, which strips out energy and food costs, came in at 2.8 per cent compared with the same period last year, slightly lower than the 2.9 per cent in July. Destatis data showed a 5.1 per cent annual drop in energy costs in August.&nbsp;

Several major German states had reported easing inflation earlier in the day Thursday. The data came a day before euro area inflation figures. They are due to be released, which investors will be closely watching for clues about the outlook for forthcoming interest rate cuts from the European Central Bank.&nbsp;

Questions about a potential September rate trim have been swirling after the central bank held rates steady in July. It had reduced interest rates in June.&nbsp;

“If confirmed by tomorrow’s eurozone inflation data, today’s German data should make the decision to cut interest rates at the September meeting a bit easier for the ECB,” Carsten Brzeski, global head of macro for ING Research, said in a note Thursday.&nbsp;

“Fading inflationary pressure combined with fading growth momentum offers an almost perfect macro backdrop for another rate cut.”&nbsp;

However, forward-looking inflation indicators, including wage growth and selling price expectations, suggest caution is still needed, Brzeski noted.

According to a report by CNBC, the harmonised German consumer price index eased to 2 per cent in August, preliminary data from the country’s statistics office Destatis said Thursday.

According to a report by CNBC, the harmonised German consumer price index eased to 2 per cent in August, preliminary data from the country’s statistics office Destatis said Thursday. This was lower than the 2.3 per cent forecast in a Reuters poll of analysts. The poll forecasted that the Consumer Price Index (CPI) would be 2.3 per cent. This decline in inflation can be attributed to several key factors, such as the reduction of energy costs, weakening core inflation, lower-than-expected Consumer Price Index (CPI), and fading growth momentum. In July, the harmonised CPI figure was 2.6 per cent on an annual basis. Further, the harmonised CPI dipped by 0.2 per cent on a monthly basis. Inflation readings are harmonised in the euro area and in the European Union to ensure comparability. This is done through the Harmonized Index of Consumer Prices. What Is the Harmonized Index of Consumer Prices (HICP) and its relevance? The Harmonized Index of Consumer Prices (HICP) is a measure of inflation in the European Union (EU). It reflects change over time in the prices paid by households for a representative basket of goods and services. The European Central Bank (ECB) uses the HICP for Eurozone, comprising the 20 European Union states, using the euro common currency to pursue its price stability objective, defined as 2 per cent annualised inflation over the medium term. How was the core inflation number as per the nation’s statistics office? Core inflation, which strips out energy and food costs, came in at 2.8 per cent compared with the same period last year, slightly lower than the 2.9 per cent in July. Destatis data showed a 5.1 per cent annual drop in energy costs in August. Several major German states had reported easing inflation earlier in the day Thursday. The data came a day before euro area inflation figures. They are due to be released, which investors will be closely watching for clues about the outlook for forthcoming interest rate cuts from the European Central Bank. Questions about a potential September rate trim have been swirling after the central bank held rates steady in July. It had reduced interest rates in June. “If confirmed by tomorrow’s eurozone inflation data, today’s German data should make the decision to cut interest rates at the September meeting a bit easier for the ECB,” Carsten Brzeski, global head of macro for ING Research, said in a note Thursday. “Fading inflationary pressure combined with fading growth momentum offers an almost perfect macro backdrop for another rate cut.” However, forward-looking inflation indicators, including wage growth and selling price expectations, suggest caution is still needed, Brzeski noted.

Why has German inflation posted a surprise drop to 2% in August?

The&nbsp;battle to get inflation back to the ECB's target of 2 per cent is far from over, and interest rates must be at least as high as needed to do so without excessively hurting the economy, the European Central Bank's chief economist, Philip Lane, said.

"The return to target is not yet secure," Lane said Saturday. "In particular, the monetary stance will have to remain in restrictive territory for as long as is needed to shepherd the disinflation process towards a timely return to the target."

However, in prepared remarks for a panel at the Federal Reserve's annual conference in Jackson Hole, he warned that too-tight policy also poses dangers — particularly to a eurozone economy that data suggest is losing momentum.

"The return to target needs to be sustainable," Lane said. "A rate path that is too high for too long would deliver chronically below-target inflation over the medium term and would be inefficient in terms of minimising the side effects on output and employment."

The comments come as more and more policymakers are joining the chorus of expectations in markets for a second cut in borrowing costs at the ECB's next meeting, in September. Some also signal that another one or two cuts are possible this year beyond that.

The ECB started to cut rates in June, citing greater confidence that inflation would come back to target in the second half of 2025. Most officials see recent data as consistent with that projection, although there is a firm sense they have become more worried about the deteriorating economic backdrop.

Speaking later on the panel, Lane was more sanguine.

"There's a lot of momentum in the European economy," he said. "There should be a lot of recovery."

"There has been good progress in delivering the overriding goal of making sure that inflation returns to target in a timely manner," Lane said. "Crucially, this disinflation process has been underpinned by the forceful transmission of monetary policy to the financial system, the level of demand and inflation expectations."

The battle to get inflation back to the ECB's target of 2 per cent is far from over, and interest rates must be at least as high as needed to do so without excessively hurting the economy, the European Central Bank's chief economist, Philip Lane, said.

The battle to get inflation back to the ECB's target of 2 per cent is far from over, and interest rates must be at least as high as needed to do so without excessively hurting the economy, the European Central Bank's chief economist, Philip Lane, said. "The return to target is not yet secure," Lane said Saturday. "In particular, the monetary stance will have to remain in restrictive territory for as long as is needed to shepherd the disinflation process towards a timely return to the target." However, in prepared remarks for a panel at the Federal Reserve's annual conference in Jackson Hole, he warned that too-tight policy also poses dangers — particularly to a eurozone economy that data suggest is losing momentum. "The return to target needs to be sustainable," Lane said. "A rate path that is too high for too long would deliver chronically below-target inflation over the medium term and would be inefficient in terms of minimising the side effects on output and employment." The comments come as more and more policymakers are joining the chorus of expectations in markets for a second cut in borrowing costs at the ECB's next meeting, in September. Some also signal that another one or two cuts are possible this year beyond that. The ECB started to cut rates in June, citing greater confidence that inflation would come back to target in the second half of 2025. Most officials see recent data as consistent with that projection, although there is a firm sense they have become more worried about the deteriorating economic backdrop. Speaking later on the panel, Lane was more sanguine. "There's a lot of momentum in the European economy," he said. "There should be a lot of recovery." "There has been good progress in delivering the overriding goal of making sure that inflation returns to target in a timely manner," Lane said. "Crucially, this disinflation process has been underpinned by the forceful transmission of monetary policy to the financial system, the level of demand and inflation expectations."

ECB's Lane says 2 per cent inflation target remains unsecured

Former England opener and one of their assistant coaches, Marcus Trescothick, admits being undecided over considering the white-ball head coach role. In the absence of Matthew Mott - former ODI and T20I head coach, who parted ways following the recently concluded T20 World Cup in the Americas, Marcus will be England’s interim coach for the white-ball series against Australia starting next month.

Marcus is working with England’s Test side for their ongoing home series against Sri Lanka, and although he admits to enjoying his role while planning for the upcoming series, Marcus hasn’t sat and thought about pouncing on the opportunity to become England’s white-ball head coach.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, because of the tight scheduling, where England will play their first T20I against Australia on September 11 in Southampton – just a day after England and Sri Lanka’s scheduled close of play on the fifth day of their third and final Test at the Kia Oval, Marcus will leave the Test set up after the second game to linkup with the white-ball squad.

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“It's not something I'd ever thought about before until I got this opportunity now,” Trescothick said. “I'm not necessarily thinking any further ahead than the end of the Australia series. I've been very much focused on the job we're doing here [with the Test team].

“You plan your winter: we're off to Pakistan, then New Zealand. I'm so ingrained in that at the moment, I've not really sat down and said, 'Right, this is where I'll try to go, this is what I'll try to do'. I'm looking forward to the opportunity, for sure. I'm really excited about doing the job. We'll work it out a little bit more from there,” he continued.

<h2>ECB has a decision to make</h2>

The ECB is yet to advertise the white-ball head coach role vacated by Mott, and Marcus could become the lead contender if England does well against Australia at home.

Besides, his former teammate Andrew Flintoff is also in the race to become their white-ball coach, although chances of that are lesser because he hasn’t ‘gelled’ with Jos Buttler, per a report in the Telegraph.&nbsp;

Outside of these two, another contender for the head coach role is former Sri Lanka captain and batting great Kumar Sangakkara, who is yet to confirm applying for the post.&nbsp;

(With&nbsp;inputs from agencies)

Former England opener and one of their assistant coaches, Marcus Trescothick, admits being undecided over considering the white-ball head coach role. In the absence of Matthew Mott - former ODI and T20I head coach, who parted ways following the recently concluded T20 World Cup in the Americas, Marcus will be England’s interim coach for the white-ball series against Australia starting next month.

Former England opener and one of their assistant coaches, Marcus Trescothick, admits being undecided over considering the white-ball head coach role. In the absence of Matthew Mott - former ODI and T20I head coach, who parted ways following the recently concluded T20 World Cup in the Americas, Marcus will be England’s interim coach for the white-ball series against Australia starting next month. Marcus is working with England’s Test side for their ongoing home series against Sri Lanka, and although he admits to enjoying his role while planning for the upcoming series, Marcus hasn’t sat and thought about pouncing on the opportunity to become England’s white-ball head coach. Meanwhile, because of the tight scheduling, where England will play their first T20I against Australia on September 11 in Southampton – just a day after England and Sri Lanka’s scheduled close of play on the fifth day of their third and final Test at the Kia Oval, Marcus will leave the Test set up after the second game to linkup with the white-ball squad. ALSO READ: Tim Southee urges boards, franchise leagues to come together to solve ‘club vs country debate’ “It's not something I'd ever thought about before until I got this opportunity now,” Trescothick said. “I'm not necessarily thinking any further ahead than the end of the Australia series. I've been very much focused on the job we're doing here [with the Test team]. “You plan your winter: we're off to Pakistan, then New Zealand. I'm so ingrained in that at the moment, I've not really sat down and said, 'Right, this is where I'll try to go, this is what I'll try to do'. I'm looking forward to the opportunity, for sure. I'm really excited about doing the job. We'll work it out a little bit more from there,” he continued. ECB has a decision to make The ECB is yet to advertise the white-ball head coach role vacated by Mott, and Marcus could become the lead contender if England does well against Australia at home. Besides, his former teammate Andrew Flintoff is also in the race to become their white-ball coach, although chances of that are lesser because he hasn’t ‘gelled’ with Jos Buttler, per a report in the Telegraph. Outside of these two, another contender for the head coach role is former Sri Lanka captain and batting great Kumar Sangakkara, who is yet to confirm applying for the post. (With inputs from agencies)

Marcus Trescothick undecided on England’s white-ball head coach role, admits ‘not thinking any further’

Ahead of their upcoming home series, England has dealt with a huge blow as Test captain Ben Stokes has been ruled out for the remainder of the English summer after tearing his hamstring. Stokes injured his hamstring recently during&nbsp;The Hundred, being held in England and Wales. The England all-rounder was carried off the pitch, while representing the&nbsp;Manchester Originals, and now has subsequently been ruled out of the entire summer season.

The England Cricket Board (ECB) statement read, "England Men's Test Captain Ben Stokes has been ruled out for the rest of the summer after tearing his left hamstring while playing for Northern Superchargers in The Hundred on Sunday. As a result of the scans conducted in Leeds on Tuesday, Stokes will miss England's three-match Rothesay Test series against Sri Lanka, which begins at Emirates Old Trafford on Wednesday, 21 August. There will be no addition to the squad for this series."

<section>
England squad for Sri Lanka Tests:&nbsp;Ollie Pope (captain), Gus Atkinson, Shoaib Bashir, Harry Brook, Jordan Cox, Ben Duckett, Dan Lawrence, Matthew Potts, Joe Root, Jamie Smith, Olly Stone, Chris Woakes, Mark Wood
</section>

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ECB also stated that Stokes will be aiming to return for England's tour of Pakistan, later this year. In the veteran's absence, vice-captain Ollie Pope will lead the Three Lions in the upcoming three-match Test series versus Sri Lanka, starting later this month on Aug 21. After the Test series, England's white-ball team will take centrestage in the remaining English summer, where they will host arch-rivals Australia in three T20Is and five ODIs in September.&nbsp;

Stokes, with&nbsp;6,508 runs and 203 wickets in 105 Tests, will be missed by the Test side during their Lanka home series, with vital points up for grabs in the ongoing 2023-25 ICC World Test Championship cycle.

Ahead of their upcoming home series, England has dealt with a huge blow as Test captain Ben Stokes has been ruled out for the remainder of the English summer after tearing his hamstring.

Ahead of their upcoming home series, England has dealt with a huge blow as Test captain Ben Stokes has been ruled out for the remainder of the English summer after tearing his hamstring. Stokes injured his hamstring recently during The Hundred, being held in England and Wales. The England all-rounder was carried off the pitch, while representing the Manchester Originals, and now has subsequently been ruled out of the entire summer season. The England Cricket Board (ECB) statement read, "England Men's Test Captain Ben Stokes has been ruled out for the rest of the summer after tearing his left hamstring while playing for Northern Superchargers in The Hundred on Sunday. As a result of the scans conducted in Leeds on Tuesday, Stokes will miss England's three-match Rothesay Test series against Sri Lanka, which begins at Emirates Old Trafford on Wednesday, 21 August. There will be no addition to the squad for this series." England squad for Sri Lanka Tests: Ollie Pope (captain), Gus Atkinson, Shoaib Bashir, Harry Brook, Jordan Cox, Ben Duckett, Dan Lawrence, Matthew Potts, Joe Root, Jamie Smith, Olly Stone, Chris Woakes, Mark Wood Also read: West Indies vs South Africa, 2nd Test Live Streaming: When and Where to watch WI vs SA series decider ECB also stated that Stokes will be aiming to return for England's tour of Pakistan, later this year. In the veteran's absence, vice-captain Ollie Pope will lead the Three Lions in the upcoming three-match Test series versus Sri Lanka, starting later this month on Aug 21. After the Test series, England's white-ball team will take centrestage in the remaining English summer, where they will host arch-rivals Australia in three T20Is and five ODIs in September. Stokes, with 6,508 runs and 203 wickets in 105 Tests, will be missed by the Test side during their Lanka home series, with vital points up for grabs in the ongoing 2023-25 ICC World Test Championship cycle.

ENG vs SL: Big blow! England captain Ben Stokes ruled out of remaining English summer after hamstring tear

England Cricket Board (ECB) and Cricket Scotland could explore the opportunity to represent as one nation at the Los Angeles Olympics in 2028. Talks are still at the initial stage as both nations could combine to represent Team Great Britain at the Los Angeles Games in 2028. With four years still to go, there is a firm belief that Scottish and English players could come together to form Team Great Britain at the Los Angeles Games where cricket will return to the list of games after an absence of 128 years.

<h2>England, Scotland players to play together at LA 2028?</h2>

"With the Los Angeles Olympics four years away, it's very early stages, but we're talking to Team GB and Cricket Scotland about the next steps we need to take," an ECB spokesperson told ESPNcricinfo.

"Once again Great Britain's Olympians have captured the national imagination with their exploits in Paris this year, and we look forward to working together to compete when cricket returns to the Olympic stage in 2028.”

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It is worth noting that, at the Olympics, England and Scotland are not represented separately instead Great Britain (England, Scotland and Wales) form the core of the team. The preposition could mean England and Scotland players along with Welsh players will form Team Great Britain. While not many cricketers are expected to come from Wales, both Scotland and England could be represented heavily if either team meets the qualification criteria (yet to be revealed).

The same preposition has been seen in the past when Great Britain’s football team played at the London Olympics Games in 2012. The football team was made up of players from England, Scotland, and Wales as the likes of Daniel Sturridge and Ryan Giggs shared the same dressing room.

Scotland players are likely to profit from Great Britain’s inclusion at the LA 2028 Games, considering their national team may not meet the qualification criteria or may not qualify if there is a qualifying round.

England Cricket Board (ECB) and Cricket Scotland could explore the opportunity to represent as one nation at the Los Angeles Olympics in 2028. Talks are still at the initial stage as both nations could combine to represent Team Great Britain at the Los Angeles Games in 2028.

England Cricket Board (ECB) and Cricket Scotland could explore the opportunity to represent as one nation at the Los Angeles Olympics in 2028. Talks are still at the initial stage as both nations could combine to represent Team Great Britain at the Los Angeles Games in 2028. With four years still to go, there is a firm belief that Scottish and English players could come together to form Team Great Britain at the Los Angeles Games where cricket will return to the list of games after an absence of 128 years. England, Scotland players to play together at LA 2028? "With the Los Angeles Olympics four years away, it's very early stages, but we're talking to Team GB and Cricket Scotland about the next steps we need to take," an ECB spokesperson told ESPNcricinfo. "Once again Great Britain's Olympians have captured the national imagination with their exploits in Paris this year, and we look forward to working together to compete when cricket returns to the Olympic stage in 2028.” ALSO READ | Neeraj Chopra-Manu Bhaker: Fans manifest romantic bond between the two. Her father reacts It is worth noting that, at the Olympics, England and Scotland are not represented separately instead Great Britain (England, Scotland and Wales) form the core of the team. The preposition could mean England and Scotland players along with Welsh players will form Team Great Britain. While not many cricketers are expected to come from Wales, both Scotland and England could be represented heavily if either team meets the qualification criteria (yet to be revealed). The same preposition has been seen in the past when Great Britain’s football team played at the London Olympics Games in 2012. The football team was made up of players from England, Scotland, and Wales as the likes of Daniel Sturridge and Ryan Giggs shared the same dressing room. Scotland players are likely to profit from Great Britain’s inclusion at the LA 2028 Games, considering their national team may not meet the qualification criteria or may not qualify if there is a qualifying round.

ECB, Cricket Scotland to explore opportunity to send Team Great Britain for Los Angeles Olympics

Former Australia captain and batting great Ricky Ponting has turned down any possibility of taking over England’s white-ball head coach role. Since Matthew Mott’s departure, the ECB has been actively looking out for a high-profile name to replace him with the single aim of winning ICC titles, and Ponting’s name was one of the options discussed, British media reports&nbsp;suggested. Ponting, however, hasn’t ruled out a potential return to the IPL in the leadership group.

Knowing he has his hands full regarding coaching and other commitments and being transparent about maintaining his work-life balance, Ponting feels he is far from taking up a national team's head coach job.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-ashish-nehras-future-at-gujarat-titans-in-limbo-dravid-to-replace-sangakkara-as-rr-head-coach-reports-748766">IPL: Ashish Nehra’s future at Gujarat Titans in limbo; Dravid to replace Sangakkara as RR head coach - Reports</a>

He, however, sounded hesitant in taking up England’s white-ball coach role, considering the age-old history between the two behemoths of world cricket.&nbsp;

"No, I wouldn't ever consider doing that actually," he said on The ICC Review podcast, as per news agency PTI.&nbsp;

"I'm on record saying that international jobs, for me right now, are not really where my life is at, as there's just so much more time taken up with an international job.

"Coaching other international teams is one thing, and coaching England for an Australian is probably something slightly different, but right now, there's sort of enough on my plate as I've got a bit more coming up in the next couple of months in the UK," Ponting added.

<h2>Ponting wishes to return to IPL</h2>

After parting ways with the Delhi Capitals in the IPL, with whom he spent seven years at the head coach position, Ponting is keen on retrying his luck with some other franchise ahead of IPL 2025. At DC, he could guide them to an IPL final only once (in 2020), failing to bring home the silverware during his tenure.

"I'd love to coach again in the IPL. I've had a great time every year that I've been involved, whether that was in the early days as a player or the couple of years I had at Mumbai as head coach there," Ponting said.&nbsp;

He added, "I've had seven seasons at Delhi, which unfortunately didn't really work out the way that I would have wanted and certainly the way that the franchise would have wanted."

"Me going there was all about trying to bring some silverware to the team, and that didn't happen," Ponting noted.

Explaining what happened behind the scenes, Ponting said the DC management was honest about what they want, saying they are looking for an Indian coach who can also remain available beyond the IPL season.

"What you'll find is that they'll probably end up with an Indian-based head coach. Certainly, that's some of the dialogue that I've had with them anyway.

"They made it pretty clear that they wanted to head in a different direction with someone that could give them a bit more time and a bit more availability through the off-season," Ponting added.

(With inputs from agencies)

Former Australia captain and batting great Ricky Ponting has turned down any possibility of taking over England’s white-ball head coach role. Since Matthew Mott’s departure, the ECB has been actively looking out for a high-profile name to replace him with the single aim of winning ICC titles, and Ponting’s name was one of the options discussed, British media reports suggested.

Former Australia captain and batting great Ricky Ponting has turned down any possibility of taking over England’s white-ball head coach role. Since Matthew Mott’s departure, the ECB has been actively looking out for a high-profile name to replace him with the single aim of winning ICC titles, and Ponting’s name was one of the options discussed, British media reports suggested. Ponting, however, hasn’t ruled out a potential return to the IPL in the leadership group. Knowing he has his hands full regarding coaching and other commitments and being transparent about maintaining his work-life balance, Ponting feels he is far from taking up a national team's head coach job. ALSO READ: IPL: Ashish Nehra’s future at Gujarat Titans in limbo; Dravid to replace Sangakkara as RR head coach - Reports He, however, sounded hesitant in taking up England’s white-ball coach role, considering the age-old history between the two behemoths of world cricket. "No, I wouldn't ever consider doing that actually," he said on The ICC Review podcast, as per news agency PTI. "I'm on record saying that international jobs, for me right now, are not really where my life is at, as there's just so much more time taken up with an international job. "Coaching other international teams is one thing, and coaching England for an Australian is probably something slightly different, but right now, there's sort of enough on my plate as I've got a bit more coming up in the next couple of months in the UK," Ponting added. Ponting wishes to return to IPL After parting ways with the Delhi Capitals in the IPL, with whom he spent seven years at the head coach position, Ponting is keen on retrying his luck with some other franchise ahead of IPL 2025. At DC, he could guide them to an IPL final only once (in 2020), failing to bring home the silverware during his tenure. "I'd love to coach again in the IPL. I've had a great time every year that I've been involved, whether that was in the early days as a player or the couple of years I had at Mumbai as head coach there," Ponting said. He added, "I've had seven seasons at Delhi, which unfortunately didn't really work out the way that I would have wanted and certainly the way that the franchise would have wanted." "Me going there was all about trying to bring some silverware to the team, and that didn't happen," Ponting noted. Explaining what happened behind the scenes, Ponting said the DC management was honest about what they want, saying they are looking for an Indian coach who can also remain available beyond the IPL season. "What you'll find is that they'll probably end up with an Indian-based head coach. Certainly, that's some of the dialogue that I've had with them anyway. "They made it pretty clear that they wanted to head in a different direction with someone that could give them a bit more time and a bit more availability through the off-season," Ponting added. (With inputs from agencies)

Ricky Ponting turns down England white-ball head coach role; hints at IPL return

Former England great and coach Graham Thrope passed away, aged 55, on Monday (Aug&nbsp;5), the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) confirmed in an official statement. Dubbed as the most complete England batter since Graham Gooch, Thorpe played 100 Tests and 82 ODIs, scoring 6744 and 2380 runs, respectively. The ECB expressed 'deep shock' in the announcement.

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“It is with great sadness that we share the news that Graham Thorpe, MBE, has passed away,” the England and Wales Cricket Board said on X.&nbsp;“There seem to be no appropriate words to describe the deep shock we feel at Graham’s death. More than one of England’s finest-ever batters, he was a beloved member of the cricket family and revered by fans all over the world.”

“His skill was unquestioned and his abilities and achievements across a 13-year international career brought so much happiness to his team-mates and England and Surrey CCC supporters alike. Later, as a coach, he guided the best England Men’s talent to some incredible victories across all formats of the game.”

“The cricket world is in mourning today. Our hearts go out to his wife Amanda, his children, father Geoff, and all of his family and friends during this unimaginably difficult time. We will always remember Graham for his extraordinary contributions to the sport.”

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It is with great sadness that we share the news that Graham Thorpe, MBE, has passed away. 
 
There seem to be no appropriate words to describe the deep shock we feel at Graham's death. <a href="https://t.co/VMXqxVJJCh">pic.twitter.com/VMXqxVJJCh</a>
— England and Wales Cricket Board (@ECB_cricket) <a href="https://twitter.com/ECB_cricket/status/1820354724014547104?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 5, 2024</a></blockquote>
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Thorpe was a fluent left-handed middle-order batter, having represented Surrey in 189 first-class matches, scoring 49 centuries and averaging 45.04. He announced his retirement in 2005.

Meanwhile, growing up, Thorpe was good enough in football to be selected for England Schoolboys and was to be offered a trial with Brentford; however, he decided against going ahead with that and instead joined Surrey, where he spent his professional career as a cricketer.&nbsp;

<h2>Break and return</h2>

Following a successful stint in England colours, Thorpe took an indefinite break from cricket in 2002 owing to issues in his private life. Following the drawn-out collapse of his first marriage and the public humiliation that came with it, Thorpe completely broke down.&nbsp;

He, however, returned after a 13-month gap during the home South Africa series in 2003, hitting a hundred at The Oval. In 2004, he performed his best, averaging 73.15 in 20 Tests, batting at number five.

A year later, in 2005, after being dropped for the first Ashes Test, Thorpe decided to call it quits.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Former England great and coach Graham Thrope passed away, aged 55, on Monday (Aug 5), the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) confirmed in an official statement.

Former England great and coach Graham Thrope passed away, aged 55, on Monday (Aug 5), the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) confirmed in an official statement. Dubbed as the most complete England batter since Graham Gooch, Thorpe played 100 Tests and 82 ODIs, scoring 6744 and 2380 runs, respectively. The ECB expressed 'deep shock' in the announcement. ALSO READ: Injuries force England to drop Zak Crawley, include two youngsters for Sri Lanka Tests as squad announced “It is with great sadness that we share the news that Graham Thorpe, MBE, has passed away,” the England and Wales Cricket Board said on X. “There seem to be no appropriate words to describe the deep shock we feel at Graham’s death. More than one of England’s finest-ever batters, he was a beloved member of the cricket family and revered by fans all over the world.” “His skill was unquestioned and his abilities and achievements across a 13-year international career brought so much happiness to his team-mates and England and Surrey CCC supporters alike. Later, as a coach, he guided the best England Men’s talent to some incredible victories across all formats of the game.” “The cricket world is in mourning today. Our hearts go out to his wife Amanda, his children, father Geoff, and all of his family and friends during this unimaginably difficult time. We will always remember Graham for his extraordinary contributions to the sport.” It is with great sadness that we share the news that Graham Thorpe, MBE, has passed away. There seem to be no appropriate words to describe the deep shock we feel at Graham's death. pic.twitter.com/VMXqxVJJCh — England and Wales Cricket Board (@ECB_cricket) August 5, 2024 × Thorpe was a fluent left-handed middle-order batter, having represented Surrey in 189 first-class matches, scoring 49 centuries and averaging 45.04. He announced his retirement in 2005. Meanwhile, growing up, Thorpe was good enough in football to be selected for England Schoolboys and was to be offered a trial with Brentford; however, he decided against going ahead with that and instead joined Surrey, where he spent his professional career as a cricketer. Break and return Following a successful stint in England colours, Thorpe took an indefinite break from cricket in 2002 owing to issues in his private life. Following the drawn-out collapse of his first marriage and the public humiliation that came with it, Thorpe completely broke down. He, however, returned after a 13-month gap during the home South Africa series in 2003, hitting a hundred at The Oval. In 2004, he performed his best, averaging 73.15 in 20 Tests, batting at number five. A year later, in 2005, after being dropped for the first Ashes Test, Thorpe decided to call it quits. (With inputs from agencies)

Graham Thorpe, former England great, dies at 55, ECB confirms

Former World Cup-winning England Captain Eoin Morgan has vouched for India’s Rahul Dravid and New Zealand’s Brendon McCullum - England’s Test team coach, among the options for England’s white-ball coach.&nbsp;

Since Matthew Mott’s resignation following England’s failed campaigns in the past two ICC events, the ECB is seeking a high-profile name to replace him at the top, with Morgan feeling McCullum is the lead contender, calling him ‘one of the best in the world’.

The ECB confirmed the change at the top after England failed to defend their crown in the T20 World Cup in the Americas under Mott, losing to eventual winners India in the semis.&nbsp;

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The 2019 WC winners also got knocked out of the group stages during the 2023 World Cup, losing to Australia, India and Afghanistan. Mott stepped down last week after two years in charge of England’s white-ball side.

Speaking of the changes the ECB must bring to ensure England stays at the top of the white-ball side, Morgan suggested a few big names to take over.

"In my eyes, at the moment, you would go to Rahul Dravid, Ricky Ponting, Stephen Fleming and Brendon McCullum," Morgan said during a chat with Sky Sports.

“I say that because I believe he is one of the best coaches in the world. You can see what he did with the England Test team.

"Yes, the big question will be how he makes it fit over the course of the 12 months, but from Rob Key's point of view, he needs to make the job attractive,” he continued.

Stating clearly why the board must appoint a proven coach and not bring in someone new, Morgan said, "The option is not to have someone come in and let them grow in the job. You're talking about winning World Cups and winning Champions trophies.

"This is not an opportunity for a young guy to come in. You want the best person on the planet to come in and help Jos Buttler and the England cricket team get better,” the former England captain noted.

<h2>Dravid is out of job</h2>

The former India great and a T20 World Cup-winning coach, Rahul Dravid, has been out of work since his contract ended with the Indian Team in July.&nbsp;Although the BCCI offered him a new contract, Dravid declined, citing spending more time with family as one of the reasons.

Meanwhile, Dravid is not seeking a full-time job, but earlier reports suggested that he remains in the fray to coach an IPL team&nbsp;next season onwards.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Former World Cup-winning England Captain Eoin Morgan has vouched for India’s Rahul Dravid and New Zealand’s Brendon McCullum - England’s Test team coach, among the options for England’s white-ball coach.

Former World Cup-winning England Captain Eoin Morgan has vouched for India’s Rahul Dravid and New Zealand’s Brendon McCullum - England’s Test team coach, among the options for England’s white-ball coach. Since Matthew Mott’s resignation following England’s failed campaigns in the past two ICC events, the ECB is seeking a high-profile name to replace him at the top, with Morgan feeling McCullum is the lead contender, calling him ‘one of the best in the world’. The ECB confirmed the change at the top after England failed to defend their crown in the T20 World Cup in the Americas under Mott, losing to eventual winners India in the semis. ALSO READ: IPL franchises urge two-year ban on foreign players for pulling out of season without legitimate cause The 2019 WC winners also got knocked out of the group stages during the 2023 World Cup, losing to Australia, India and Afghanistan. Mott stepped down last week after two years in charge of England’s white-ball side. Speaking of the changes the ECB must bring to ensure England stays at the top of the white-ball side, Morgan suggested a few big names to take over. "In my eyes, at the moment, you would go to Rahul Dravid, Ricky Ponting, Stephen Fleming and Brendon McCullum," Morgan said during a chat with Sky Sports. “I say that because I believe he is one of the best coaches in the world. You can see what he did with the England Test team. "Yes, the big question will be how he makes it fit over the course of the 12 months, but from Rob Key's point of view, he needs to make the job attractive,” he continued. Stating clearly why the board must appoint a proven coach and not bring in someone new, Morgan said, "The option is not to have someone come in and let them grow in the job. You're talking about winning World Cups and winning Champions trophies. "This is not an opportunity for a young guy to come in. You want the best person on the planet to come in and help Jos Buttler and the England cricket team get better,” the former England captain noted. Dravid is out of job The former India great and a T20 World Cup-winning coach, Rahul Dravid, has been out of work since his contract ended with the Indian Team in July. Although the BCCI offered him a new contract, Dravid declined, citing spending more time with family as one of the reasons. Meanwhile, Dravid is not seeking a full-time job, but earlier reports suggested that he remains in the fray to coach an IPL team next season onwards. (With inputs from agencies)

Eoin Morgan picks Rahul Dravid, Brendon McCullum as options for England’s white-ball coach

England's Australian white-ball coach Matthew Mott has resigned from the post with immediate effect ahead of Jos Buttler-led side's home series versus arch-rivals Australia in September. Thus, assistant coach Marcus Trescothick will take charge of the side for the Australia series -- comprising three T20Is and five ODIs -- amid the England Cricket Board's (ECB) search for Mott's successor.

Notably, Mott came into the England setup following a celebrated time with the Australia women's team. He came into the England setup in early 2022, with the national side focusing on split-coaching. While Brendon McCullum took over the Test line-up, Mott became the white-ball coach and led Jos Buttler &amp; Co. to the 2022 T20 World Cup title. Under him, England won the white-ball series against Australia, Bangladesh, Ireland, New Zealand, Netherlands and Pakistan but fell flat in the 2023 ODI World Cup. At one point, England also risked not qualifying for the 2025 Champions Trophy during a forgettable ODI WC campaign in India. However, they finished the mega event with a qualification berth. Further, Mott also guided England to the semifinals of this year's T20 WC, in the West Indies and the USA.

Mott summed up his coaching stint with England and said, "I am immensely proud to have coached the England Men's team; it has been an honour. We have put everything into trying to achieve success over the past two years, and I am incredibly proud of the character and passion that the team has displayed during that period, including a magnificent T20 World Cup victory in 2022."

"I would like to thank the players, management, and everyone at the ECB for their commitment, support, and hard work during my time. I leave with many great friendships and incredible memories. Finally, I would like to thank the England fans, who have always backed us and given us fantastic support wherever we have travelled around the world," he added.

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Rob Key, Managing Director of England men's cricket, stated, "After three World Cup cycles in a short space of time, I now feel the team needs a new direction to prepare for the challenges ahead. This decision was not made lightly, but I believe it is the right time for the team's future success. With our focus shifting towards the Champions Trophy early next year and the next cycle of white-ball competition, it is crucial that we ensure the team is focused and prepared."

Key opined, "Marcus Trescothick is well respected in the dressing room and will take charge of team affairs alongside white-ball captain Jos Buttler. Marcus and Jos have a good rapport, and I think their partnership will help us maintain continuity and stability." He added, "The search for a full-time replacement will now begin. It is essential that we go through the right process to ensure we get the best person for the job."

Meanwhile, Trescothick, the interim white-ball coach, spoke at length about the future plans, keeping in mind the 2025 Champions Trophy in Pakistan and said, "The focus is building towards the series against Australia and our plans for next year's Champions Trophy campaign," Thescothick said. "England cricket is in a strong position, and the potential is huge, given the quality we have available. It is about harnessing that potential and developing the work that has already been put in place by Mathew Mott and the rest of the set-up. I'm excited about the challenge and shaping how we want to play."

England's Australian white-ball coach Matthew Mott has resigned from the post with immediate effect ahead of Jos Buttler-led side's home series versus arch-rivals Australia in September.

England's Australian white-ball coach Matthew Mott has resigned from the post with immediate effect ahead of Jos Buttler-led side's home series versus arch-rivals Australia in September. Thus, assistant coach Marcus Trescothick will take charge of the side for the Australia series -- comprising three T20Is and five ODIs -- amid the England Cricket Board's (ECB) search for Mott's successor. Notably, Mott came into the England setup following a celebrated time with the Australia women's team. He came into the England setup in early 2022, with the national side focusing on split-coaching. While Brendon McCullum took over the Test line-up, Mott became the white-ball coach and led Jos Buttler & Co. to the 2022 T20 World Cup title. Under him, England won the white-ball series against Australia, Bangladesh, Ireland, New Zealand, Netherlands and Pakistan but fell flat in the 2023 ODI World Cup. At one point, England also risked not qualifying for the 2025 Champions Trophy during a forgettable ODI WC campaign in India. However, they finished the mega event with a qualification berth. Further, Mott also guided England to the semifinals of this year's T20 WC, in the West Indies and the USA. Mott summed up his coaching stint with England and said, "I am immensely proud to have coached the England Men's team; it has been an honour. We have put everything into trying to achieve success over the past two years, and I am incredibly proud of the character and passion that the team has displayed during that period, including a magnificent T20 World Cup victory in 2022." "I would like to thank the players, management, and everyone at the ECB for their commitment, support, and hard work during my time. I leave with many great friendships and incredible memories. Finally, I would like to thank the England fans, who have always backed us and given us fantastic support wherever we have travelled around the world," he added. Also read: India to host 2025 Asia Cup, Bangladesh named hosts for 2027 edition, confirms ACC Rob Key, Managing Director of England men's cricket, stated, "After three World Cup cycles in a short space of time, I now feel the team needs a new direction to prepare for the challenges ahead. This decision was not made lightly, but I believe it is the right time for the team's future success. With our focus shifting towards the Champions Trophy early next year and the next cycle of white-ball competition, it is crucial that we ensure the team is focused and prepared." Key opined, "Marcus Trescothick is well respected in the dressing room and will take charge of team affairs alongside white-ball captain Jos Buttler. Marcus and Jos have a good rapport, and I think their partnership will help us maintain continuity and stability." He added, "The search for a full-time replacement will now begin. It is essential that we go through the right process to ensure we get the best person for the job." Meanwhile, Trescothick, the interim white-ball coach, spoke at length about the future plans, keeping in mind the 2025 Champions Trophy in Pakistan and said, "The focus is building towards the series against Australia and our plans for next year's Champions Trophy campaign," Thescothick said. "England cricket is in a strong position, and the potential is huge, given the quality we have available. It is about harnessing that potential and developing the work that has already been put in place by Mathew Mott and the rest of the set-up. I'm excited about the challenge and shaping how we want to play."

'I am immensely...': England's Matthew Mott steps down as white-ball coach ahead of Australia series

England Cricket Board (ECB) CEO Richard Gould has backed Pakistan to host the Champions Trophy 2025 amid reports of uncertainty over India's travel.

The comments were made during the BBC Test Match special on the Day 1 tea break of the ongoing third Test between England and West Indies.

"There's a great deal of determination to make sure it [Champions Trophy] is [hosted in Pakistan next year]," Gould said. "Particularly from the PCB and the ECB."

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There have been growing clouds of doubt about whether India will travel to Pakistan for the tournament or not. The International Cricket Council (ICC), meanwhile, has put aside some complementary funds in the budget approved in case India plays their matches outside the host country.

The development was reported by the news agency PTI after the conclusion of ICC's Annual General Meeting (AGM) in Colombo, Sri Lanka from July 19-22.

"The ICC has kept supplementary expenses in its tournament budget to meet any situation where the Indian team has to play its matches outside Pakistan," reported PTI.

The news agency also reported that the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has left the responsibility to convince the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) to travel for the tournament up to the ICC.&nbsp;

"It is now up to the ICC how soon they circulate, discuss and finalize the schedule of the Champions Trophy. The PCB for its part in the draft schedule has suggested hosting all of India's games in Lahore including a semi-final (if India qualifies) and final," the source added.&nbsp;

Last year, India decided not to travel to Pakistan for the regional Asia Cup. The tournament was eventually played in a hybrid model with India playing all their matches in Sri Lanka.

Pakistan, however, travelled to India for the ODI World Cup 2023 which was played right after the Asia Cup.&nbsp;

England Cricket Board (ECB) CEO Richard Gould has backed Pakistan to host the Champions Trophy 2025 amid reports of uncertainty over India's travel. The comments were made during the BBC Test Match special on the Day 1 tea break of the ongoing third Test between England and West Indies.

England Cricket Board (ECB) CEO Richard Gould has backed Pakistan to host the Champions Trophy 2025 amid reports of uncertainty over India's travel. The comments were made during the BBC Test Match special on the Day 1 tea break of the ongoing third Test between England and West Indies. "There's a great deal of determination to make sure it [Champions Trophy] is [hosted in Pakistan next year]," Gould said. "Particularly from the PCB and the ECB." Also read: 'I hope he will...,' Suryakumar reacts on becoming India T20I skipper over Hardik Pandya There have been growing clouds of doubt about whether India will travel to Pakistan for the tournament or not. The International Cricket Council (ICC), meanwhile, has put aside some complementary funds in the budget approved in case India plays their matches outside the host country. The development was reported by the news agency PTI after the conclusion of ICC's Annual General Meeting (AGM) in Colombo, Sri Lanka from July 19-22. "The ICC has kept supplementary expenses in its tournament budget to meet any situation where the Indian team has to play its matches outside Pakistan," reported PTI. The news agency also reported that the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has left the responsibility to convince the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) to travel for the tournament up to the ICC. "It is now up to the ICC how soon they circulate, discuss and finalize the schedule of the Champions Trophy. The PCB for its part in the draft schedule has suggested hosting all of India's games in Lahore including a semi-final (if India qualifies) and final," the source added. Last year, India decided not to travel to Pakistan for the regional Asia Cup. The tournament was eventually played in a hybrid model with India playing all their matches in Sri Lanka. Pakistan, however, travelled to India for the ODI World Cup 2023 which was played right after the Asia Cup.

'Determination to make sure...,' ECB backs PCB to host Champions Trophy 2025 amid doubts over India's travel

Matthew Mott's future as head coach of the England men's white-ball team was left hanging in the air after the chief executive of the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) failed to offer the under-pressure Australian "the dreaded vote of confidence" on Friday.

The 50-year-old Mott, previously in charge of the all-conquering Australian women's side, has seen his position come under intense scrutiny after disappointing England title defences in both last year's 50-over World Cup and the more recent T20 World Cup.

Both Mott and white-ball captain Jos Buttler have faced searching questions about their leadership, with several British media reports saying both men could lose their respective posts.&nbsp;

ECB chief Richard Gould did little to stem the tide of speculation when speaking to BBC Radio on the opening day of the third Test between England and the West Indies at Edgbaston.

He did confirm, however, that it was "certainly not true" to say Mott had already been sacked, with Gould also telling the BBC's Test Match Special programme: "We are always assessing options. That's what happens in high performance sport.

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"You're always assessing your options but you never want to be drawn into giving the dreaded vote of confidence or anything like that," added Gould, the son of former professional footballer and manager Bobby Gould.

"That's what competitive sport is, it always brings scrutiny and decisions. We always want to make sure we do the right thing by the sport, the team and the individuals.

"We'll always use whatever time we've got to make the best decisions possible; we won't be pressured into anything other than that."

England certainly have no need to make an immediate decision regarding their white-ball coach and captain as they are not in limited-overs action again until the first of eight matches -- three Twenty20 internationals and five one-day internationals -- at home to arch-rivals Australia in September.

Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Matthew Mott's future as head coach of the England men's white-ball team was left hanging in the air after the chief executive of the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) failed to offer the under-pressure Australian "the dreaded vote of confidence" on Friday.

Matthew Mott's future as head coach of the England men's white-ball team was left hanging in the air after the chief executive of the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) failed to offer the under-pressure Australian "the dreaded vote of confidence" on Friday. The 50-year-old Mott, previously in charge of the all-conquering Australian women's side, has seen his position come under intense scrutiny after disappointing England title defences in both last year's 50-over World Cup and the more recent T20 World Cup. Both Mott and white-ball captain Jos Buttler have faced searching questions about their leadership, with several British media reports saying both men could lose their respective posts. ECB chief Richard Gould did little to stem the tide of speculation when speaking to BBC Radio on the opening day of the third Test between England and the West Indies at Edgbaston. He did confirm, however, that it was "certainly not true" to say Mott had already been sacked, with Gould also telling the BBC's Test Match Special programme: "We are always assessing options. That's what happens in high performance sport. ALSO READ | India tour of Sri Lanka: Match dates, venues, timings, teams and all you need to know "You're always assessing your options but you never want to be drawn into giving the dreaded vote of confidence or anything like that," added Gould, the son of former professional footballer and manager Bobby Gould. "That's what competitive sport is, it always brings scrutiny and decisions. We always want to make sure we do the right thing by the sport, the team and the individuals. "We'll always use whatever time we've got to make the best decisions possible; we won't be pressured into anything other than that." England certainly have no need to make an immediate decision regarding their white-ball coach and captain as they are not in limited-overs action again until the first of eight matches -- three Twenty20 internationals and five one-day internationals -- at home to arch-rivals Australia in September. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Matthew Mott's England future uncertain as ECB chief Richard Gould fails to offer support

England Test captain and veteran all-rounder Ben Stokes announced his ODI retirement earlier to escape cramped schedule chaos, aiming to prolong and protect his Test career. Although he forced his way into making a U-turn on that to play the 50-over World Cup last year, Stokes remains firm about striking the balance between playing all formats, with franchise cricket added to the mix.

Every top team, barring Australia, has a packed international schedule coming up, and Stokes, who will lead England in the third Test against the West Indies in Birmingham on Friday (July 26), feels such a tight window for both red and white ball teams will eventually have a negative impact on its development.

While Stokes is focused on building up for next year’s&nbsp;Ashes, the future of white-ball head coach Matthew Motts and Captain Jos Buttler will soon be decided following England’s embarrassing loss at the hands of India in the T20 World Cup semis.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, the England Test captain is aware of the problems tagging along with such cramped schedules, urging the apex body – the ICC and the ECB, to consider what players think of how the game’s ecosystem could survive before producing the Future Tours Programme (FTP).

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"It is something that does need to be addressed,” Stokes said of cricket’s stakeholders addressing working on the tight windows.

"Who knows what international cricket is going to look like, with all the franchise stuff that is going on as well? It does need to get looked at. The landscape is constantly changing. I don't think anyone can put their hand on their heart and say they know what cricket is going to look like in even two years' time.

"I think some consultation might be quite nice, obviously to Jos (Buttler) and myself. The FTP could maybe see the people playing in it consulted, and I think we could have some good input in that,” England’s Test captain continued.

<h2>England’s upcoming schedule</h2>

Right after this ongoing series, England will host Sri Lanka for three Tests starting August 21. A day after the third Test is due to finish in September, England will face Australia in five T20Is at home. An ODI series will follow this, with England wrapping that up just eight days before the start of their three-match away Test series against Pakistan in October.&nbsp;

Three days after the Pakistan Tests, England will travel to the Caribbean for the ODI series, which ends with the final game in St. Lucia.&nbsp;

Eight days afterwards, England will be in Christchurch, New Zealand, for the first Test.&nbsp;

Thankfully, England will not play any cricket in the first half of January 2025, but they will arrive in India for five ODIs just ahead of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 in Pakistan in February-March.&nbsp;

With plenty of English players getting involved in the IPL 2025, they will return for an extended home season next year, with Ireland ODIs and five Tests against India.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

England Test captain and veteran all-rounder Ben Stokes announced his ODI retirement earlier to escape cramped schedule chaos, aiming to prolong and protect his Test career.

England Test captain and veteran all-rounder Ben Stokes announced his ODI retirement earlier to escape cramped schedule chaos, aiming to prolong and protect his Test career. Although he forced his way into making a U-turn on that to play the 50-over World Cup last year, Stokes remains firm about striking the balance between playing all formats, with franchise cricket added to the mix. Every top team, barring Australia, has a packed international schedule coming up, and Stokes, who will lead England in the third Test against the West Indies in Birmingham on Friday (July 26), feels such a tight window for both red and white ball teams will eventually have a negative impact on its development. While Stokes is focused on building up for next year’s Ashes, the future of white-ball head coach Matthew Motts and Captain Jos Buttler will soon be decided following England’s embarrassing loss at the hands of India in the T20 World Cup semis. Meanwhile, the England Test captain is aware of the problems tagging along with such cramped schedules, urging the apex body – the ICC and the ECB, to consider what players think of how the game’s ecosystem could survive before producing the Future Tours Programme (FTP). ALSO READ: UP’s Greater Noida to host historic one-off Test between New Zealand and Afghanistan "It is something that does need to be addressed,” Stokes said of cricket’s stakeholders addressing working on the tight windows. "Who knows what international cricket is going to look like, with all the franchise stuff that is going on as well? It does need to get looked at. The landscape is constantly changing. I don't think anyone can put their hand on their heart and say they know what cricket is going to look like in even two years' time. "I think some consultation might be quite nice, obviously to Jos (Buttler) and myself. The FTP could maybe see the people playing in it consulted, and I think we could have some good input in that,” England’s Test captain continued. England’s upcoming schedule Right after this ongoing series, England will host Sri Lanka for three Tests starting August 21. A day after the third Test is due to finish in September, England will face Australia in five T20Is at home. An ODI series will follow this, with England wrapping that up just eight days before the start of their three-match away Test series against Pakistan in October. Three days after the Pakistan Tests, England will travel to the Caribbean for the ODI series, which ends with the final game in St. Lucia. Eight days afterwards, England will be in Christchurch, New Zealand, for the first Test. Thankfully, England will not play any cricket in the first half of January 2025, but they will arrive in India for five ODIs just ahead of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 in Pakistan in February-March. With plenty of English players getting involved in the IPL 2025, they will return for an extended home season next year, with Ireland ODIs and five Tests against India. (With inputs from agencies)

Packed international calendar worries Stokes as England Test captain calls for more player input

Former England captain Eoin Morgan has denied rumours of him getting the coaching role for the national side after he spoke out on the current situation. Morgan, England’s captain when they won their only ODI World Cup in 2019, has been linked with the national team job for the limited-overs format. However, those rumours were quickly rested when Morgan was commentating during The Hundred on Tuesday (July 24).

<h2>Eoin Morgan ends coaching job rumours</h2>

"This news is actually news to me," Morgan said while commentating.

"It's obviously not nice when a coach comes under fire and there is a lot of speculation about his future, but only time will tell what will happen.

"I've been asked a lot [in the media] over the past couple of months about the role, and if I would take it on," Morgan said.

"My answer has simply been that the timing for everything in my life at the moment is not right. Yes, I want to coach down the line. But I have a young family, and I spend a lot more time at home and watching cricket doing this [commentary]. I'm absolutely loving what I'm doing,"&nbsp;he added.

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England have enjoyed stellar success in the Test format in the last two years where they have beaten all nations in the Test series except India and Australia. However, things have changed in the limited-overs format in the last couple of years after winning the T20 World Cup in Australia in 2022. England under Jos Buttler were favourites to win the ODI World Cup in India in 2023 but faced a humiliating exit in the league stage which started the downfall.

The team was also lucky to get into the semifinals of the 2024 T20 World Cup where they faced a humiliating defeat to India before exiting. Current head coach Matthew Mott and Buttler are both under review according to reports with big changes expected in the coming days. The long-term plan of the ECB remains to prioritise the ODI World Cup in 2027 rather than the 2026 T20 World Cup in India and Sri Lanka.

Former England captain Eoin Morgan has denied rumours of him getting the coaching role for the national side after he spoke out on the current situation. Morgan, England’s captain when they won their only ODI World Cup in 2019, has been linked with the national team job for the limited-overs format.

Former England captain Eoin Morgan has denied rumours of him getting the coaching role for the national side after he spoke out on the current situation. Morgan, England’s captain when they won their only ODI World Cup in 2019, has been linked with the national team job for the limited-overs format. However, those rumours were quickly rested when Morgan was commentating during The Hundred on Tuesday (July 24). Eoin Morgan ends coaching job rumours "This news is actually news to me," Morgan said while commentating. "It's obviously not nice when a coach comes under fire and there is a lot of speculation about his future, but only time will tell what will happen. "I've been asked a lot [in the media] over the past couple of months about the role, and if I would take it on," Morgan said. "My answer has simply been that the timing for everything in my life at the moment is not right. Yes, I want to coach down the line. But I have a young family, and I spend a lot more time at home and watching cricket doing this [commentary]. I'm absolutely loving what I'm doing," he added. ALSO READ | Paris Olympics 2024: IOC reviews Palestinian letter to ban Israeli athletes from Summer Games England have enjoyed stellar success in the Test format in the last two years where they have beaten all nations in the Test series except India and Australia. However, things have changed in the limited-overs format in the last couple of years after winning the T20 World Cup in Australia in 2022. England under Jos Buttler were favourites to win the ODI World Cup in India in 2023 but faced a humiliating exit in the league stage which started the downfall. The team was also lucky to get into the semifinals of the 2024 T20 World Cup where they faced a humiliating defeat to India before exiting. Current head coach Matthew Mott and Buttler are both under review according to reports with big changes expected in the coming days. The long-term plan of the ECB remains to prioritise the ODI World Cup in 2027 rather than the 2026 T20 World Cup in India and Sri Lanka.

Former England captain Eoin Morgan denies rumours of taking over as white-ball coach

The European Central Bank (ECB) will probably reduce interest rates further this year, with any additional easing contingent on inflation declining towards its 2 per cent target, a policymaker was quoted to have said.

The ECB cut rates in June but said it would not do so again as inflation was already above 2 per cent and there was significant doubt whether the target would be met.

While recent statistics paint a picture of continued wage and service price growth, Belgium’s central bank governor, Pierre Wunsch agrees that the initial cuts were simple decisions.

Wunsch said a second-rate cut is likely “if we have no major negative surprises” based on current forecasts. He dismissed it as a statement that the ECB can wait until September for improved projections.

Although inflation is expected to have eased marginally in June, the ECB is expecting a volatile trend from here on, possibly remaining at these levels for the rest of the year.

This could delay further cuts until a more distinct downward trend towards 2 per cent emerges. “To continue with cuts, I would need to be more confident that inflation is declining from 2. 5 per cent towards something closer to 2 per cent,” Wunsch said.

He raised worries about taking real interest rates below 1 per cent. At the moment, the ECB’s deposit rate stands at 3 per cent. 75 per cent, and markets expect one or two more this year, implying that there can be four cuts within the next 18 months.

The economic trends suggest slow economic growth and sound markets, although France elects a far-right president. Wunsch admitted there might be more political instability as several countries are in for necessary fiscal correction after years of fiscal recklessness. 
“We now have five countries in excessive deficit procedures,” Wunsch said. “It will be difficult for all of them.” 
Nevertheless, Wunsch was scathing of the suggestion that the ECB would have to turn to buying bonds in an emergency due to political market pressure.

Recent events have not represented unwarranted and disorderly market moves before intervention, and this is supported by the ECB officials.

‘We need to avoid any appearance of predictability; we cannot afford to imply any kind of mechanistic restrictions on our behaviour,’ Wunsch said. ’The judgment call depends on whether market movements are erratic and excessive’.

The European Central Bank (ECB) will probably reduce interest rates further this year, with any additional easing contingent on inflation declining towards its 2 per cent target, a policymaker was quoted to have said.

The European Central Bank (ECB) will probably reduce interest rates further this year, with any additional easing contingent on inflation declining towards its 2 per cent target, a policymaker was quoted to have said. The ECB cut rates in June but said it would not do so again as inflation was already above 2 per cent and there was significant doubt whether the target would be met. While recent statistics paint a picture of continued wage and service price growth, Belgium’s central bank governor, Pierre Wunsch agrees that the initial cuts were simple decisions. Wunsch said a second-rate cut is likely “if we have no major negative surprises” based on current forecasts. He dismissed it as a statement that the ECB can wait until September for improved projections. Although inflation is expected to have eased marginally in June, the ECB is expecting a volatile trend from here on, possibly remaining at these levels for the rest of the year. This could delay further cuts until a more distinct downward trend towards 2 per cent emerges. “To continue with cuts, I would need to be more confident that inflation is declining from 2. 5 per cent towards something closer to 2 per cent,” Wunsch said. He raised worries about taking real interest rates below 1 per cent. At the moment, the ECB’s deposit rate stands at 3 per cent. 75 per cent, and markets expect one or two more this year, implying that there can be four cuts within the next 18 months. The economic trends suggest slow economic growth and sound markets, although France elects a far-right president. Wunsch admitted there might be more political instability as several countries are in for necessary fiscal correction after years of fiscal recklessness. “We now have five countries in excessive deficit procedures,” Wunsch said. “It will be difficult for all of them.” Nevertheless, Wunsch was scathing of the suggestion that the ECB would have to turn to buying bonds in an emergency due to political market pressure. Recent events have not represented unwarranted and disorderly market moves before intervention, and this is supported by the ECB officials. ‘We need to avoid any appearance of predictability; we cannot afford to imply any kind of mechanistic restrictions on our behaviour,’ Wunsch said. ’The judgment call depends on whether market movements are erratic and excessive’.

ECB considers further rate cuts, but eyes inflation target

The European central bank took a cautious step towards easing monetary policy today, cutting interest rates for the first time since 2019.

ECB implements first rate cut since 2019, citing 2.6% Eurozone inflation

England speedster Brydon Carse has been handed a 16-month ban from playing any form of cricket after an anti-corruption investigation by the newly formed Cricket Regulator on Friday (May 31). Carse, who does not have a history of breaching the betting rules, will serve only three months of his suspension as he cooperated with the investigation with the rest of the 13 months suspended unless he is found guilty again. This makes him ineligible for any kind of selection as the ban will be served until August 28, meaning he will miss the early stage of The Hundred and England duties.

<h2>Carse handed suspended ban</h2>

An ECB spokesperson said: "We take these matters extremely seriously and do not condone any form of anti-corruption breach in cricket.

"We support the Cricket Regulator's decision and their consideration of the mitigating factors in Brydon's case. He has co-operated and shown remorse for his actions. We are satisfied that Brydon has shown growth in the five years since this breach and has demonstrated a greater understanding of his responsibilities."

It is reported that Carse placed 303 bets during 2017 and 2019 including matches for Durham, where he plays his domestic cricket. However, he did not place bets on the matches he played for Durham, thereby avoiding match-fixing charges. He also cooperated with the agencies which saw his ban being reduced to an initial 16 months to just three. He will now miss England duties while also missing the rest of the ongoing T20 Blast.

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He will be eligible again for selection from August 29 but must not repeat any of the betting offences. If found guilty, Carse must serve the entire 16 months of his suspension which was handed by the cricket regulator.

<h2>Other high-profile cases</h2>

Earlier, Premier League players in England also served bans for betting breaches with national team striker Ivan Tooney suspended for nine months. He was not involved for the first few months of the 2023-24 Premier League season while Newcastle United player Sando Tonali will miss Euro 2024 as he continues to serve a ban for betting in Italy during his time at AC Milan.

England speedster Brydon Carse has been handed a 16-month ban from playing any form of cricket after an anti-corruption investigation by the newly formed Cricket Regulator on Friday (May 31).

England speedster Brydon Carse has been handed a 16-month ban from playing any form of cricket after an anti-corruption investigation by the newly formed Cricket Regulator on Friday (May 31). Carse, who does not have a history of breaching the betting rules, will serve only three months of his suspension as he cooperated with the investigation with the rest of the 13 months suspended unless he is found guilty again. This makes him ineligible for any kind of selection as the ban will be served until August 28, meaning he will miss the early stage of The Hundred and England duties. Carse handed suspended ban An ECB spokesperson said: "We take these matters extremely seriously and do not condone any form of anti-corruption breach in cricket. "We support the Cricket Regulator's decision and their consideration of the mitigating factors in Brydon's case. He has co-operated and shown remorse for his actions. We are satisfied that Brydon has shown growth in the five years since this breach and has demonstrated a greater understanding of his responsibilities." It is reported that Carse placed 303 bets during 2017 and 2019 including matches for Durham, where he plays his domestic cricket. However, he did not place bets on the matches he played for Durham, thereby avoiding match-fixing charges. He also cooperated with the agencies which saw his ban being reduced to an initial 16 months to just three. He will now miss England duties while also missing the rest of the ongoing T20 Blast. ALSO READ | T20 World Cup 2024: Virat Kohli lands in United States, unlikely to participate in warm-up match He will be eligible again for selection from August 29 but must not repeat any of the betting offences. If found guilty, Carse must serve the entire 16 months of his suspension which was handed by the cricket regulator. Other high-profile cases Earlier, Premier League players in England also served bans for betting breaches with national team striker Ivan Tooney suspended for nine months. He was not involved for the first few months of the 2023-24 Premier League season while Newcastle United player Sando Tonali will miss Euro 2024 as he continues to serve a ban for betting in Italy during his time at AC Milan.

England pacer Brydon Carse handed three-month suspension for breaching betting regulations

England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) have appointed&nbsp;David Young as their new psychologist as the side prepares for the upcoming T20 World Cup in the USA and West Indies. Young, who will be on a short spell with the England&nbsp;side&nbsp;is employed&nbsp;by Premier League champions Manchester City. He has been instrumental in Man&nbsp;City’s&nbsp;excellent form&nbsp;which&nbsp;recently saw them lift their fourth consecutive Premier League title.&nbsp;

<h2>Young returns with England</h2>

Young comes with a successful CV as a psychologist, having&nbsp;helped England win the ODI World Cup during his first spell with the side. He was the chief psychologist during 2016 and 2020 before switching his alliances to football with Manchester City. His arrival was welcomed by white-ball skipper Jos Buttler and Matthew Mott as they look to defend their T20 World Cup crown&nbsp;which&nbsp;they won in 2022 in Australia.&nbsp;

"He's&nbsp;previously been with the team&nbsp;and&nbsp;he's&nbsp;already been a great ally in messages back to me, making sure my messages are clear.&nbsp;It's&nbsp;always good to have someone&nbsp;who's&nbsp;a little bit removed from the squad to&nbsp;make sure&nbsp;you're&nbsp;landing your messages…&nbsp;He's&nbsp;still doing other roles&nbsp;but&nbsp;we've&nbsp;got him for this&nbsp;series,&nbsp;and the start of the World Cup&nbsp;as well,"&nbsp;Mott said.

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During&nbsp;Young’s&nbsp;tenure with Man City, the side&nbsp;also&nbsp;won the Champions League along with FA Cup and Premier League titles. He will now look to replicate the same success with England as they look to put behind a disappointing ODI World Cup in India.&nbsp;

England are paired with arch-rivals Australia in group B and will be favourites to make the reach round. They will rely on the services of captain Jos Buttler, Sam Curran, Harry Brook and others in an attempt to replicate the 2022 T20 World Cup success.&nbsp;

England squad

Jos Buttler (c), Phil Salt, Will Jacks, Jonny Bairstow, Ben Duckett, Harry Brook, Liam Livingstone, Moeen Ali (vice-captain), Sam Curran, Chris Jordan, Tom Hartley, Adil Rashid, Jofra Archer, Mark Wood, Reece Topley.

England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) have appointed David Young as their new psychologist as the side prepares for the upcoming T20 World Cup in the USA and West Indies.

England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) have appointed David Young as their new psychologist as the side prepares for the upcoming T20 World Cup in the USA and West Indies. Young, who will be on a short spell with the England side is employed by Premier League champions Manchester City. He has been instrumental in Man City’s excellent form which recently saw them lift their fourth consecutive Premier League title. Young returns with England Young comes with a successful CV as a psychologist, having helped England win the ODI World Cup during his first spell with the side. He was the chief psychologist during 2016 and 2020 before switching his alliances to football with Manchester City. His arrival was welcomed by white-ball skipper Jos Buttler and Matthew Mott as they look to defend their T20 World Cup crown which they won in 2022 in Australia. "He's previously been with the team and he's already been a great ally in messages back to me, making sure my messages are clear. It's always good to have someone who's a little bit removed from the squad to make sure you're landing your messages… He's still doing other roles but we've got him for this series, and the start of the World Cup as well," Mott said. ALSO READ | Bayern Munich close to signing relegated Burnley boss Vincent Kompany as next manager During Young’s tenure with Man City, the side also won the Champions League along with FA Cup and Premier League titles. He will now look to replicate the same success with England as they look to put behind a disappointing ODI World Cup in India. England are paired with arch-rivals Australia in group B and will be favourites to make the reach round. They will rely on the services of captain Jos Buttler, Sam Curran, Harry Brook and others in an attempt to replicate the 2022 T20 World Cup success. England squad Jos Buttler (c), Phil Salt, Will Jacks, Jonny Bairstow, Ben Duckett, Harry Brook, Liam Livingstone, Moeen Ali (vice-captain), Sam Curran, Chris Jordan, Tom Hartley, Adil Rashid, Jofra Archer, Mark Wood, Reece Topley.

T20 World Cup 2024: ECB appoints Manchester City's David Young as team psychologist

England cricket team will face a&nbsp;major&nbsp;obstacle in replacing retiring James Anderson after being dealt a blow on Friday (May 17). England&nbsp;are likely to&nbsp;be without star pacer Josh Tongue&nbsp;as he continues to recover from a long-term injury&nbsp;issue, according to a statement.

The pectoral injury will keep the English pacer away from action with no time scale on his return, with&nbsp;Brendon&nbsp;McCullum’s&nbsp;side already set to be without Anderson after the&nbsp;Lord’s&nbsp;Test against the West Indies&nbsp;which&nbsp;starts on July 10.

<h2>Tongue unlikely to play against West Indies&nbsp;</h2>

"Josh has had a setback to his original injury. There is no timescale on when&nbsp;he'll&nbsp;return to action,"&nbsp;the England &amp; Wales Cricket Board said in a statement.

Tongue&nbsp;made his debut&nbsp;for England last year before the home Ashes when Ben&nbsp;Stokes’&nbsp;side beat Ireland in a historic one-off contest at Lords.

Interestingly, both&nbsp;of&nbsp;Tongue’s&nbsp;Test matches have&nbsp;been played&nbsp;at&nbsp;Lord’s&nbsp;with&nbsp;his second contest in the red-ball format coming against Australia in the Ashes.

In his two Test matches for the side, he has scalped&nbsp;10&nbsp;wickets with a best of 66/5.&nbsp;

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He has a proven track record with Worcestershire in the First Class circuit with 177 wickets in 50 matches.

His injury could also force him to sit out of The&nbsp;Hundred&nbsp;where he represents the Manchester Originals.&nbsp;

The last 12 months have seen&nbsp;major&nbsp;revolutions in England's pace bowling unit after Stuart Broad announced his Test retirement.

Broad hung his boots after the home Ashes last year&nbsp;leaving&nbsp;big shoes to fill.&nbsp;

England have enjoyed a stellar run of form under Brendon McCullum ever since he took charge of the side in June 2022.

They are yet to lose a home Test series under his coaching.&nbsp;

His only series defeat came earlier this year when India got the better of Stokes and company 4-1.&nbsp;

England cricket team will face a major obstacle in replacing retiring James Anderson after being dealt a blow on Friday (May 17). England are likely to be without star pacer Josh Tongue as he continues to recover from a long-term injury issue, according to a statement.

England cricket team will face a major obstacle in replacing retiring James Anderson after being dealt a blow on Friday (May 17). England are likely to be without star pacer Josh Tongue as he continues to recover from a long-term injury issue, according to a statement. The pectoral injury will keep the English pacer away from action with no time scale on his return, with Brendon McCullum’s side already set to be without Anderson after the Lord’s Test against the West Indies which starts on July 10. Tongue unlikely to play against West Indies "Josh has had a setback to his original injury. There is no timescale on when he'll return to action," the England & Wales Cricket Board said in a statement. Tongue made his debut for England last year before the home Ashes when Ben Stokes’ side beat Ireland in a historic one-off contest at Lords. Interestingly, both of Tongue’s Test matches have been played at Lord’s with his second contest in the red-ball format coming against Australia in the Ashes. In his two Test matches for the side, he has scalped 10 wickets with a best of 66/5. ALSO READ | MI vs LSG, IPL 2024, Match 67: Head-to-head, playing XI, prediction, pitch report | All you need to know He has a proven track record with Worcestershire in the First Class circuit with 177 wickets in 50 matches. His injury could also force him to sit out of The Hundred where he represents the Manchester Originals. The last 12 months have seen major revolutions in England's pace bowling unit after Stuart Broad announced his Test retirement. Broad hung his boots after the home Ashes last year leaving big shoes to fill. England have enjoyed a stellar run of form under Brendon McCullum ever since he took charge of the side in June 2022. They are yet to lose a home Test series under his coaching. His only series defeat came earlier this year when India got the better of Stokes and company 4-1.

England likely to start home summer without Josh Tongue as plans to replace retiring James Anderson stumble

Former India captain and batting great Sunil Gavaskar has called for a substantial pay cut in the salaries of overseas players for cutting short their IPL campaign for national duties or whatever reasons.

Former India captain and batting great Sunil Gavaskar has called for a substantial pay cut in the salaries of overseas players for cutting short their IPL campaign for national duties or whatever reasons. The cricketer-turned-broadcaster said he’s all up for players choosing their countries over franchise-based tournaments; however, despite assuring their respective franchises of their availability for the whole season, pulling out last minute should come with a cost. Gavaskar’s comments have come after the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) announced that 2024 T20 World Cup-bound players playing in IPL 2024 will miss the knockout matches to remain available for selection for the home T20I series against Pakistan. While IPL 2024 playoffs begin on May 21, the first of the four T20Is between England and Pakistan will get underway on May 22 in Leeds. Considering only four teams will make the playoffs, the English players in all those potential ones, including Jos Buttler (Rajasthan Royals), Phil Salt (Kolkata Knight Riders) and Moeen Ali (Chennai Super Kings), among others, will miss the knockout matches, having performed and contributed to their team’s success till here. ALSO READ: BCCI proposes changes in Ranji Trophy schedule to avoid weather disruption, players’ exertion Writing for Mid-day, Gavaskar said overseas players should be penalised for breaching whole-season commitment to their respective teams. “I am all for players choosing country before anything else, but having assured various franchises about their availability for the full season, if they pull out now, it will be letting down the franchises which probably pay them more money in one IPL season, which they don’t earn in a few seasons with their country,” Gavaskar wrote in his column for Mid-day. “The franchises should not only be allowed to deduct a substantial amount from the fee that the player was bought for but also not give the Board, to which the player belongs, the stated 10 per cent commission of the fee that each player gets,” the former India captain noted. Everyone’s gearing up for T20 World Cup The showpiece event will take place in the Caribbean and the USA starting June 1, with 20 teams participating. The format is such that five teams are drawn into four groups each, with the top two teams from each group moving forward in the Super Eight stage. While the Asian giants – India and Pakistan are placed in Group A, with their marquee match scheduled to take place in New York on June 9, defending champions England is placed in Group B alongside nemesis Australia. Though three chosen venues in the USA will co-host the league stage matches with the Caribbean, the knockouts, including the semis and the final, will take place in the West Indies.

Sunil Gavaskar calls for ‘substantial’ pay cut for overseas players for leaving IPL midway

Former England captain and batting great Joe Root has called on concerned authorities to take care of players’ well-being by micromanaging the tight travel schedule to avoid burnout.

Former England captain and batting great Joe Root has called on concerned authorities to take care of players’ well-being by micromanaging the tight travel schedule to avoid burnout. Playing for Yorkshire in the ongoing County Championship, Root says he enjoys playing this tournament and gearing up for the international summer but admits that the board must address this. "I am fortunate to play a significant part of the season for Yorkshire this year, and looking at the fixture list from a physical well-being, and high-performance angle does cause me concern," Root said. "County cricket is the breeding ground for some of the best talent in the game, and this requires world-leading structures to allow players to reach their full potential. This is a benefit for everybody in the game." "Having space to recover, prepare and improve your game during the season is crucial, and the creation of minimum standards to protect travel windows and player welfare is non-negotiable,” he added. Constant travel troubling players Meanwhile, following a pre-season survey done by the Professional Cricketers' Association (PCA) on all 18 participating Counties led to the organisation calling out the County schedule as ‘unfit for purpose’. As per the report, 81 per cent of County cricketers fear physical exertion, while every eight out of 10 cricketers admit remaining concerned about their well-being due to a packed season. Also, 76 per cent have expressed concerns about travel safety in between their fixtures. ALSO READ: Confident Cummins breaks internet with savage reply on possible T20 WC semi-finalists "Back-to-back games have gone up considerably, and are only looked at through a commercial lens," Daryl Mitchell, the PCA chief operating officer, said. "We understand that, but there needs to be a balance." "Over 10 per cent of our membership accessed our mental health services last year. It's difficult to get away from the pressure of being professional, but I think the relentless schedule is a factor,” he continued. While most players and teams travel via bus, issues occur when players drive themselves to work or home during odd hours. "There are reports of players who have got off the team bus, driven home and forgotten how they got there, almost on autopilot. Switching off while driving has an element of danger. We want to pre-empt it before anything disastrous happens." "Our CEO, Rob [Lynch] is worried about getting the call in the early hours of the morning when someone has driven off the M1. That scares us. Seventy-six per cent of players have concerns about safety when travelling, which is a high number,” he added. However, responding to the PCA’s report, the English Cricket Board (ECB) said in an official statement, "As the PCA recognises, the men's domestic schedule is a complex issue. The players have an important voice in discussions around this, and we are committed to working with them and the First Class Counties to discuss the best ways of overcoming some of the challenges.”

Joe Root calls out tight travel schedule as 81 per cent County cricketers fear overexertion

A decade since its last edition, the Champions League T20, fondly known as CLT20 among cricket fans, could be back, Nick Cummins - Cricket Victoria CEO, hinted. The game’s three biggest boards – the BCCI, ECB and CA, have begun talks on bringing back the competition, which Nick feels was ahead of its time. However, the only challenge is to find a window for this.

Cummins said the T20 landscape wasn’t mature 10 years ago, but now it is, adding, for the first time, a CLT20 for women could also be introduced.

"I think the Champions League was ahead of its time. The T20 landscape wasn't mature enough at that point. I think it is now," Cummins said on the sidelines of an event in Mumbai on Tuesday.&nbsp;

"I know that there's an active conversation between Cricket Australia, the ECB, and the BCCI about the Champions League."

"It's just trying to find a window as to when you actually play that because you've also got all the ICC tournaments as well. It may be that the first iteration of the Champions League will be of the women… [it may involve cricketers playing in] the WPL, the Hundred and the WBBL,” Cummins added.

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Meanwhile, the introduction of CLT20 raised quite a few eyebrows back in the day, with six editions from 2009 to 2014 being successfully held, four times in India and twice in South Africa. The Indian Premier League’s defending champions Chennai Super Kings (CSK) won the last edition against Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) in Bengaluru in 2014.&nbsp;

At that time in the competition, three teams from India, two each from Australia and South Africa, and one each from Pakistan, West Indies and New Zealand were part of it.

While CSK and Mumbai Indians (MI) won the tournament twice, New South Wales and Sydney Sixers won it on the remaining two occasions.

<h2>Big 3 to decide CLT20 future</h2>

Cummins said he is in talks with Cricket Australia’s CEO Nick Hockley, with the BCCI secretary Jay Shah yet to have his say on this matter.

"I'm constantly talking to Nick Hockley, Cricket Australia CEO, for a Champions League, because I think it's pretty important to bring that back," Cummins said.&nbsp;

"There are talks about it. It's probably a question to ask Jay Shah. But certainly, from an Australian cricket perspective, we are very open to the idea of the Champions League. It's just about finding a window in the FTP, but I think that's the next step in the evolution of cricket,” he said.&nbsp;

A decade since its last edition, the Champions League T20, fondly known as CLT20 among cricket fans, could be back, Nick Cummins - Cricket Victoria CEO, hinted. The game’s three biggest boards – the BCCI, ECB and CA, have begun talks on bringing back the competition, which Nick feels was ahead of its time.

A decade since its last edition, the Champions League T20, fondly known as CLT20 among cricket fans, could be back, Nick Cummins - Cricket Victoria CEO, hinted. The game’s three biggest boards – the BCCI, ECB and CA, have begun talks on bringing back the competition, which Nick feels was ahead of its time. However, the only challenge is to find a window for this. Cummins said the T20 landscape wasn’t mature 10 years ago, but now it is, adding, for the first time, a CLT20 for women could also be introduced. "I think the Champions League was ahead of its time. The T20 landscape wasn't mature enough at that point. I think it is now," Cummins said on the sidelines of an event in Mumbai on Tuesday. "I know that there's an active conversation between Cricket Australia, the ECB, and the BCCI about the Champions League." "It's just trying to find a window as to when you actually play that because you've also got all the ICC tournaments as well. It may be that the first iteration of the Champions League will be of the women… [it may involve cricketers playing in] the WPL, the Hundred and the WBBL,” Cummins added. ALSO READ: Retired official Marais Erasmus admits umpires made ‘two crucial errors’ in 2019 World Cup final Meanwhile, the introduction of CLT20 raised quite a few eyebrows back in the day, with six editions from 2009 to 2014 being successfully held, four times in India and twice in South Africa. The Indian Premier League’s defending champions Chennai Super Kings (CSK) won the last edition against Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) in Bengaluru in 2014. At that time in the competition, three teams from India, two each from Australia and South Africa, and one each from Pakistan, West Indies and New Zealand were part of it. While CSK and Mumbai Indians (MI) won the tournament twice, New South Wales and Sydney Sixers won it on the remaining two occasions. Big 3 to decide CLT20 future Cummins said he is in talks with Cricket Australia’s CEO Nick Hockley, with the BCCI secretary Jay Shah yet to have his say on this matter. "I'm constantly talking to Nick Hockley, Cricket Australia CEO, for a Champions League, because I think it's pretty important to bring that back," Cummins said. "There are talks about it. It's probably a question to ask Jay Shah. But certainly, from an Australian cricket perspective, we are very open to the idea of the Champions League. It's just about finding a window in the FTP, but I think that's the next step in the evolution of cricket,” he said.

Champions League T20 could return as BCCI and two other boards begin talks

On Tuesday (April 2), Ben Stokes announced his withdrawal from England's title-defence in the upcoming 2024 T20 World Cup, to be held in West Indies and USA in June. Stokes was part of the Jos Buttler-led England squad that won the last edition, held in Australia, in 2022. In the final, against Pakistan, Stokes stood tall in a 138-run chase with an unbeaten 49-ball 52 as England won by five wickets at the MCG, Melbourne.

The England Test captain, who was last seen in action during the Three Lions' five-match Test series versus hosts India in January-March, has taken the tough call in order to regain full fitness since his knee surgery in November 2023.

<h2>'Opting out of the IPL and the World Cup will hopefully be a sacrifice'</h2>

In a statement shared by the England Cricket Board (ECB), Stokes said, "I’m working hard and focusing on building my bowling fitness back up to fulfil a full role as an all-rounder in all formats of cricket. Opting out of the IPL and the World Cup will hopefully be a sacrifice that allows me to be the all-rounder I want to be for the foreseeable future."

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The statement further added, "The recent Test tour of India highlighted how far behind I was from a bowling point of view after my knee surgery and nine months without bowling. I’m looking forward to playing for Durham in the County Championship before the start of our Test summer. I wish Jos, Motty and all the team the best of luck in defending our title."

Stokes has not been fully fit in recent times. In Ashes 2023, at home, the England captain played a limited role with the ball, bowling 29 overs in four innings from five Tests. He didn't bowl a single over in the ODI World Cup, where he returned to the format after coming out of retirement, and played the five Tests against India by bowling only five overs in the final Test in Dharamsala. He has played mostly as a batter due to his knee issues, to manage&nbsp;his workload.

Thus, Stokes also opted out of IPL 2024 -- after playing only a few games for MS Dhoni-led Chennai Super Kings (CSK) in IPL 2023 -- and wants to return after regaining full fitness to prolong his career.

Notably, Jos Buttler-led England are placed in Group B in the upcoming T20 WC, alongside arch-rivals Australia,&nbsp;Namibia, Scotland and Oman.

On Tuesday (April 2), Ben Stokes announced his withdrawal from England's title-defence in the upcoming 2024 T20 World Cup, to be held in West Indies and USA in June.

On Tuesday (April 2), Ben Stokes announced his withdrawal from England's title-defence in the upcoming 2024 T20 World Cup, to be held in West Indies and USA in June. Stokes was part of the Jos Buttler-led England squad that won the last edition, held in Australia, in 2022. In the final, against Pakistan, Stokes stood tall in a 138-run chase with an unbeaten 49-ball 52 as England won by five wickets at the MCG, Melbourne. The England Test captain, who was last seen in action during the Three Lions' five-match Test series versus hosts India in January-March, has taken the tough call in order to regain full fitness since his knee surgery in November 2023. 'Opting out of the IPL and the World Cup will hopefully be a sacrifice' In a statement shared by the England Cricket Board (ECB), Stokes said, "I’m working hard and focusing on building my bowling fitness back up to fulfil a full role as an all-rounder in all formats of cricket. Opting out of the IPL and the World Cup will hopefully be a sacrifice that allows me to be the all-rounder I want to be for the foreseeable future." Also read: Shaheen Afridi to hold talks with PCB chairman over ‘fake quotes on Babar’s return’ as white-ball captain The statement further added, "The recent Test tour of India highlighted how far behind I was from a bowling point of view after my knee surgery and nine months without bowling. I’m looking forward to playing for Durham in the County Championship before the start of our Test summer. I wish Jos, Motty and all the team the best of luck in defending our title." Stokes has not been fully fit in recent times. In Ashes 2023, at home, the England captain played a limited role with the ball, bowling 29 overs in four innings from five Tests. He didn't bowl a single over in the ODI World Cup, where he returned to the format after coming out of retirement, and played the five Tests against India by bowling only five overs in the final Test in Dharamsala. He has played mostly as a batter due to his knee issues, to manage his workload. Thus, Stokes also opted out of IPL 2024 -- after playing only a few games for MS Dhoni-led Chennai Super Kings (CSK) in IPL 2023 -- and wants to return after regaining full fitness to prolong his career. Notably, Jos Buttler-led England are placed in Group B in the upcoming T20 WC, alongside arch-rivals Australia, Namibia, Scotland and Oman.

England’s Ben Stokes withdraws from 2024 T20 World Cup, to work on regaining full fitness

England’s managing director, Robert Key, believes former all-rounder Andrew Flintoff has it in him to become an excellent head coach one day. Key believes Flintoff has this natural similar gift for man-management to that of Ben Stokes and Test coach Brendon McCullum and can run for the position any time he wishes to.

Key, considered to be a close friend of Flintoff, helped him return to the public eye following a dreadful accident he suffered while shooting an episode of Top Gear in December 2022.&nbsp;

Flintoff was roped in for an unpaid role in England’s white-ball setup for their away tour against New Zealand. Later, he mentored the England Lions before becoming head coach of Northern Superchargers for this year's Hundred.

Speaking to the local publication The Telegraph, Key revealed that Flintoff is added to England’s backroom staff for the T20 World Cup later in June. Reflecting on this call, Key said he firmly believes, with the knowledge and cricketing sense he has, Flintoff will make a top-notch head coach one day.

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"Without question, I think he would be an excellent head coach," Key said.

"Who knows where he ends up in the future? He will be a worthy candidate going forward. When that time comes and whoever is in this job, and it might be outside of my time, they would be stupid not to look at him," Key added.

<h2>'He is a leader like Stokes'</h2>

Having undergone several surgeries during his playing career, Flintoff knows more about setbacks than most players around. Speaking on the same lines, Key said such instances in his life helped him develop the emotional intelligence that will help him deal with high-pressure situations better.&nbsp;

Key also mentioned that Flintoff has a smart head on his shoulders and has leadership skills as Stokes.

"Flintoff is a leader like [Ben] Stokes," Key said. "Just having someone who knows what it is like to struggle and come out the other end is so relatable to those players. When they have had a bad day he can explain it. He is one of those people when he talks to you, he is working you out.

"He has high emotional intelligence, so he understands when you need a bit of an arm around your shoulder or blunt honesty. Those are the skills that make a great leader. Leadership is about making the people around you feel better, and he is someone who is like that. He has a lot to offer,” ECB’s Key added.&nbsp;

England’s managing director, Robert Key, believes former all-rounder Andrew Flintoff has it in him to become an excellent head coach one day. Key believes Flintoff has this natural similar gift for man-management to that of Ben Stokes and Test coach Brendon McCullum and can run for the position any time he wishes to.

England’s managing director, Robert Key, believes former all-rounder Andrew Flintoff has it in him to become an excellent head coach one day. Key believes Flintoff has this natural similar gift for man-management to that of Ben Stokes and Test coach Brendon McCullum and can run for the position any time he wishes to. Key, considered to be a close friend of Flintoff, helped him return to the public eye following a dreadful accident he suffered while shooting an episode of Top Gear in December 2022. Flintoff was roped in for an unpaid role in England’s white-ball setup for their away tour against New Zealand. Later, he mentored the England Lions before becoming head coach of Northern Superchargers for this year's Hundred. Speaking to the local publication The Telegraph, Key revealed that Flintoff is added to England’s backroom staff for the T20 World Cup later in June. Reflecting on this call, Key said he firmly believes, with the knowledge and cricketing sense he has, Flintoff will make a top-notch head coach one day. ALSO READ: IPL 2024: 'Jittery, nervous, excited' - Delhi Capitals' captain Rishabh Pant ahead of opener vs PBKS "Without question, I think he would be an excellent head coach," Key said. "Who knows where he ends up in the future? He will be a worthy candidate going forward. When that time comes and whoever is in this job, and it might be outside of my time, they would be stupid not to look at him," Key added. 'He is a leader like Stokes' Having undergone several surgeries during his playing career, Flintoff knows more about setbacks than most players around. Speaking on the same lines, Key said such instances in his life helped him develop the emotional intelligence that will help him deal with high-pressure situations better. Key also mentioned that Flintoff has a smart head on his shoulders and has leadership skills as Stokes. "Flintoff is a leader like [Ben] Stokes," Key said. "Just having someone who knows what it is like to struggle and come out the other end is so relatable to those players. When they have had a bad day he can explain it. He is one of those people when he talks to you, he is working you out. "He has high emotional intelligence, so he understands when you need a bit of an arm around your shoulder or blunt honesty. Those are the skills that make a great leader. Leadership is about making the people around you feel better, and he is someone who is like that. He has a lot to offer,” ECB’s Key added.

'Andrew Flintoff is a leader like Stokes, he’d be an excellent head coach one day,' says ECB’s Robert Key

The Independent Commission for Equity in Cricket (ICEC) has slammed the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) for remaining silent and lacking a “moral backbone” on the matter of&nbsp;Sir Ian Botham and his remarks on racism, sexism and class-based discrimination report. Botham, regarded as one of the greatest players to play the game for England, had claimed the ICEC report to be “nonsense” in 2023. ICEC Chairman Cindy Butts on Tuesday (Feb 20) came out and took a dig at the former player and the ECB for remaining a silent stand on the issue.

<h2>ICEC chairman slams ECB</h2>

“The ECB didn’t see fit to come out and actually say: ‘This is wrong,’” she said. “And I think that not only did they stay quiet, they resisted calls from stakeholders and people who were concerned about Botham’s comments and they chose to stay silent. I think they should have had a moral backbone on this issue,” Butts commented on the ongoing issue to slam the ECB.

“My feeling was that we’re trying to reconcile, we’re trying to move forward and heal,” she said. “Lord Botham’s entitled to his views. I didn’t agree with them. I made it very clear to him that I didn’t agree with them. But we live in a democracy and he’s allowed to say those things,” the statement from Butts added.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/ind-vs-eng-unfit-kl-rahul-out-of-fourth-test-jasprit-bumrah-rested-bcci-confirms-692111">IND vs ENG: Unfit KL Rahul out of fourth Test; Jasprit Bumrah rested, BCCI confirms</a>

The report by Butts further adds that Botham, now chairman of Durham, had spoken several untruths. She also claims that Botham was invited to give evidence to the ICEC regarding the discrimination issues in the game. Butts, however, has backed the ECB’s new leadership to tackle the issue of racism and discrimination.

English domestic cricket in recent times has been affected by racism and discriminatory acts in the bigger picture despite the country’s success worldwide. Yorkshire whistleblower Azeem Rafiq was also affected by racism recently as criticism was drawn at Chairman Colin Graves for having failed to apologise in person to the player despite suffering. Rafiq’s family home had been attacked again last week, causing concern for players suffering from racism and discriminatory violence.

The Independent Commission for Equity in Cricket (ICEC) has slammed the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) for remaining silent and lacking a “moral backbone” on the matter of Sir Ian Botham and his remarks on racism, sexism and class-based discrimination report.

The Independent Commission for Equity in Cricket (ICEC) has slammed the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) for remaining silent and lacking a “moral backbone” on the matter of Sir Ian Botham and his remarks on racism, sexism and class-based discrimination report. Botham, regarded as one of the greatest players to play the game for England, had claimed the ICEC report to be “nonsense” in 2023. ICEC Chairman Cindy Butts on Tuesday (Feb 20) came out and took a dig at the former player and the ECB for remaining a silent stand on the issue. ICEC chairman slams ECB “The ECB didn’t see fit to come out and actually say: ‘This is wrong,’” she said. “And I think that not only did they stay quiet, they resisted calls from stakeholders and people who were concerned about Botham’s comments and they chose to stay silent. I think they should have had a moral backbone on this issue,” Butts commented on the ongoing issue to slam the ECB. “My feeling was that we’re trying to reconcile, we’re trying to move forward and heal,” she said. “Lord Botham’s entitled to his views. I didn’t agree with them. I made it very clear to him that I didn’t agree with them. But we live in a democracy and he’s allowed to say those things,” the statement from Butts added. ALSO READ | IND vs ENG: Unfit KL Rahul out of fourth Test; Jasprit Bumrah rested, BCCI confirms The report by Butts further adds that Botham, now chairman of Durham, had spoken several untruths. She also claims that Botham was invited to give evidence to the ICEC regarding the discrimination issues in the game. Butts, however, has backed the ECB’s new leadership to tackle the issue of racism and discrimination. English domestic cricket in recent times has been affected by racism and discriminatory acts in the bigger picture despite the country’s success worldwide. Yorkshire whistleblower Azeem Rafiq was also affected by racism recently as criticism was drawn at Chairman Colin Graves for having failed to apologise in person to the player despite suffering. Rafiq’s family home had been attacked again last week, causing concern for players suffering from racism and discriminatory violence.

ICEC slams ECB for lack of 'moral backbone' for failing to call out Ian Botham over comment on racism report

Sri Lanka seamer Dushmantha Chameera has replaced England’s Gus Atkinson in the Kolkata Knight Riders squad for the upcoming IPL 2024. KKR snapped up Chameera, who went unsold at the auction last year, for INR 50 lakh (USD 60,000 approx). The right-arm pacer walks in with IPL experience, having played for several teams, including Rajasthan Royals, Royal Challengers Bangalore and Lucknow Super Giants, for brief stints.

Chameera can clock up to 140 kmph and is lethal with the new ball in hand. In his most recent game, playing for Dubai Capitals against Abu Dhabi in ILT20, Chameera picked two for 20 in four overs.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/nz-v-aus-david-warner-recalls-early-days-in-franchise-cricket-ahead-of-farewell-tour-691699">NZ v AUS: David Warner recalls early days in franchise cricket ahead of farewell tour</a>

Meanwhile, in a dozen IPL matches played to date, Chameera has picked nine wickets at 8.73. Alongside him, only Mitchell Starc is the overseas bowler KKR has in their squad. The former two-time winners bought Starc for a whopping INR 24.65 crore (USD 2.98 million approx.) at the auction, making him the most expensive player in the tournament's history.

<h2>ECB’s focus on workload management</h2>

Atkinson, who joined KKR for INR 1 crore (USD 120,000 approx) in a December auction last year, was pulled out by the England Cricket Board (ECB) in a move to manage his workload and protect him for the T20 World Cup in the Caribbean and the USA in June.

The ECB had, earlier, pulled out Mark Wood from the upcoming season, with his franchise Lucknow Super Giants calling in Gabba Test hero Shamar Joseph as a replacement.&nbsp;

The board had also barred recovering Jofra Archer from putting his name in the IPL auction last year, trying to protect him and have him refresh ahead of the marquee tournament.&nbsp;

Considering the 20-team tournament is the only major ICC event scheduled this year, defending champions England will try and put their best foot forward, with their most-suited players available for selection.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, the 17th edition of the Indian Premier League will get underway in mid-March, the final date of which is yet to be announced.&nbsp;

Sri Lanka seamer Dushmantha Chameera has replaced England’s Gus Atkinson in the Kolkata Knight Riders squad for the upcoming IPL 2024. KKR snapped up Chameera, who went unsold at the auction last year, for INR 50 lakh (USD 60,000 approx).

Sri Lanka seamer Dushmantha Chameera has replaced England’s Gus Atkinson in the Kolkata Knight Riders squad for the upcoming IPL 2024. KKR snapped up Chameera, who went unsold at the auction last year, for INR 50 lakh (USD 60,000 approx). The right-arm pacer walks in with IPL experience, having played for several teams, including Rajasthan Royals, Royal Challengers Bangalore and Lucknow Super Giants, for brief stints. Chameera can clock up to 140 kmph and is lethal with the new ball in hand. In his most recent game, playing for Dubai Capitals against Abu Dhabi in ILT20, Chameera picked two for 20 in four overs. ALSO READ: NZ v AUS: David Warner recalls early days in franchise cricket ahead of farewell tour Meanwhile, in a dozen IPL matches played to date, Chameera has picked nine wickets at 8.73. Alongside him, only Mitchell Starc is the overseas bowler KKR has in their squad. The former two-time winners bought Starc for a whopping INR 24.65 crore (USD 2.98 million approx.) at the auction, making him the most expensive player in the tournament's history. ECB’s focus on workload management Atkinson, who joined KKR for INR 1 crore (USD 120,000 approx) in a December auction last year, was pulled out by the England Cricket Board (ECB) in a move to manage his workload and protect him for the T20 World Cup in the Caribbean and the USA in June. The ECB had, earlier, pulled out Mark Wood from the upcoming season, with his franchise Lucknow Super Giants calling in Gabba Test hero Shamar Joseph as a replacement. The board had also barred recovering Jofra Archer from putting his name in the IPL auction last year, trying to protect him and have him refresh ahead of the marquee tournament. Considering the 20-team tournament is the only major ICC event scheduled this year, defending champions England will try and put their best foot forward, with their most-suited players available for selection. Meanwhile, the 17th edition of the Indian Premier League will get underway in mid-March, the final date of which is yet to be announced.

IPL 2024: Chameera replaces Atkinson at KKR amid ECB’s focus on seamers’ ‘workload management’

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