The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) has cancelled the scheduled second 50-over match between England Lions and Pakistan Shaheens in Abu Dhabi because of rising security concerns in the Middle East. The decision was made on Saturday evening after the United States and Israel carried out strikes on Iran, targeting sites linked to the country’s nuclear programme. In retaliation, Iran launched missile strikes, with reports indicating that parts of Israel and other areas in the region were affected. This led to increased security alerts across the Middle East.&nbsp;Because of this situation, the ECB said the match at Zayed Cricket Stadium would not go ahead, following advice from the UK Government.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/-ordeal-continues-pv-sindhu-stranded-in-dubai-after-airspace-disruption-due-to-iran-us-tensions-1772336986868">‘Ordeal continues…’: PV Sindhu stranded in Dubai after airspace disruption due to Iran-US tensions</a>&nbsp;In a statement, the ECB said the safety of players and staff is its main concern. The board added that it is speaking with security experts and government officials and is following official guidance. It also confirmed that England Women’s scheduled tour to Abu Dhabi next week has been postponed.&nbsp;The board said it will continue to review the situation before making any further decisions about upcoming tours.&nbsp;“The safety and security of our teams and staff is our top priority,” the ECB said in a statement. “We are in contact with security experts and the Government in relation to current events in the Middle East, and are following official advice.&nbsp;“Tomorrow's second 50-over game between England Men's Lions and Pakistan Shaheens in Abu Dhabi will no longer go ahead, and we are delaying the departure of England Women for their proposed trip to Abu Dhabi next week.&nbsp;“We will continue to monitor and assess the situation and official advice in relation to the future of these trips.”&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/sachin-tendulkar-yuvraj-singh-and-others-congratulate-j-k-for-historic-ranji-trophy-triumph-1772287411958">Tendulkar, Yuvraj and others congratulate J&amp;K for historic Ranji Trophy triumph</a>&nbsp;However, England Men’s senior team will still travel to Mumbai as planned for the semi-final of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup. The situation remains fluid and sports organisations in the region are monitoring events closely before confirming future matches.

The ECB also confirmed that England Women’s scheduled tour to Abu Dhabi next week has been postponed

The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) has cancelled the scheduled second 50-over match between England Lions and Pakistan Shaheens in Abu Dhabi because of rising security concerns in the Middle East. The decision was made on Saturday evening after the United States and Israel carried out strikes on Iran, targeting sites linked to the country’s nuclear programme. In retaliation, Iran launched missile strikes, with reports indicating that parts of Israel and other areas in the region were affected. This led to increased security alerts across the Middle East. Because of this situation, the ECB said the match at Zayed Cricket Stadium would not go ahead, following advice from the UK Government. Also Read - ‘Ordeal continues…’: PV Sindhu stranded in Dubai after airspace disruption due to Iran-US tensions In a statement, the ECB said the safety of players and staff is its main concern. The board added that it is speaking with security experts and government officials and is following official guidance. It also confirmed that England Women’s scheduled tour to Abu Dhabi next week has been postponed. The board said it will continue to review the situation before making any further decisions about upcoming tours. “The safety and security of our teams and staff is our top priority,” the ECB said in a statement. “We are in contact with security experts and the Government in relation to current events in the Middle East, and are following official advice. “Tomorrow's second 50-over game between England Men's Lions and Pakistan Shaheens in Abu Dhabi will no longer go ahead, and we are delaying the departure of England Women for their proposed trip to Abu Dhabi next week. “We will continue to monitor and assess the situation and official advice in relation to the future of these trips.” Also Read - Tendulkar, Yuvraj and others congratulate J&K for historic Ranji Trophy triumph However, England Men’s senior team will still travel to Mumbai as planned for the semi-final of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup. The situation remains fluid and sports organisations in the region are monitoring events closely before confirming future matches.

The ECB also confirmed that England Women’s scheduled tour to Abu Dhabi next week has been postponed

ECB cancels England Lions vs Pakistan Shaheens clash in Abu Dhabi amid escalating UAE security concerns

The International Cricket Council (ICC) has snubbed BCCI’s request to host one of the next three World Test Championship (WTC) finals (in the current FTP till 2031) after granting England the hosting rights for the 2027, 2029 and 2031 editions. In the latest development, England will remain the host of the coveted WTC Finals, having staged the previous three (2021, 2023 and 2025). In a public announcement on Sunday (Jul 20), the ICC granted England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) the hosting rights after reviewing the board’s successful record of hosting the decider in the whites.&nbsp;“The Board also confirmed the awarding of hosting rights for the ICC World Test Championship Finals for the 2027, 2029, and 2031 editions to the England and Wales Cricket Board, following a successful track record in hosting recent finals,” the official release read. &nbsp;Meanwhile, the decision was taken during the ICC’s Annual General Meeting (AGM) held in Singapore. &nbsp;While the Rose Bowl in Southampton hosted the maiden WTC Final (in 2021), where New Zealand beat India to win their first ICC title since the Champions Trophy win in 2000, Australia beat Rohit Sharma-led Indian Team in the next edition’s final in 2023 at the Oval in London. However, in the latest WTC Final between the defending champions Australia and South Africa, the Proteas won the contest, bagging their first ICC trophy in 27 years. The Lord’s in London hosted the 2025 WTC Final.&nbsp;Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-eng-2025-india-might-play-jasprit-bumrah-in-4th-test-manchester-after-two-pacers-ruled-out-with-injuries-1753015605627">IND vs ENG 2025: India might play Bumrah in Manchester after two fast bowlers ruled out with injuries</a> &nbsp;A PTI report in May also read that the BCCI contemplated hosting the WTC Final in the 2025-2027 window, with discussions (regarding the same) held during the ICC’s chief executives committee in Zimbabwe earlier this year. This time, at the Lord’s, India failed to reach the summit clash despite leading the points tally for most of the previous cycle, with South Africa and Australia winning the race.&nbsp; &nbsp;“Lord’s is a place synonymous with Test cricket and this was a match fitting of both the occasion and the venue,” ICC Chair Jay Shah had said in a statement shortly after South Africa’s triumph. “This was the third instalment of the ICC World Test Championship Final, the first at Lord’s, and those involved in preparing the playing surfaces, delivering the match and hosting the teams and supporters should be very proud of the show they helped put on.” &nbsp;Meanwhile, the current WTC cycle (2025-2027) has Australia leading the chart with three wins in as many games, with India sitting in fourth place with just one win in three contested matches thus far.&nbsp;

In the latest development, England will remain the host of the coveted WTC Finals, having staged the previous three (2021, 2023 and 2025).

The International Cricket Council (ICC) has snubbed BCCI’s request to host one of the next three World Test Championship (WTC) finals (in the current FTP till 2031) after granting England the hosting rights for the 2027, 2029 and 2031 editions. In the latest development, England will remain the host of the coveted WTC Finals, having staged the previous three (2021, 2023 and 2025). In a public announcement on Sunday (Jul 20), the ICC granted England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) the hosting rights after reviewing the board’s successful record of hosting the decider in the whites. “The Board also confirmed the awarding of hosting rights for the ICC World Test Championship Finals for the 2027, 2029, and 2031 editions to the England and Wales Cricket Board, following a successful track record in hosting recent finals,” the official release read. Meanwhile, the decision was taken during the ICC’s Annual General Meeting (AGM) held in Singapore. While the Rose Bowl in Southampton hosted the maiden WTC Final (in 2021), where New Zealand beat India to win their first ICC title since the Champions Trophy win in 2000, Australia beat Rohit Sharma-led Indian Team in the next edition’s final in 2023 at the Oval in London. However, in the latest WTC Final between the defending champions Australia and South Africa, the Proteas won the contest, bagging their first ICC trophy in 27 years. The Lord’s in London hosted the 2025 WTC Final. Also read | IND vs ENG 2025: India might play Bumrah in Manchester after two fast bowlers ruled out with injuries A PTI report in May also read that the BCCI contemplated hosting the WTC Final in the 2025-2027 window, with discussions (regarding the same) held during the ICC’s chief executives committee in Zimbabwe earlier this year. This time, at the Lord’s, India failed to reach the summit clash despite leading the points tally for most of the previous cycle, with South Africa and Australia winning the race. “Lord’s is a place synonymous with Test cricket and this was a match fitting of both the occasion and the venue,” ICC Chair Jay Shah had said in a statement shortly after South Africa’s triumph. “This was the third instalment of the ICC World Test Championship Final, the first at Lord’s, and those involved in preparing the playing surfaces, delivering the match and hosting the teams and supporters should be very proud of the show they helped put on.” Meanwhile, the current WTC cycle (2025-2027) has Australia leading the chart with three wins in as many games, with India sitting in fourth place with just one win in three contested matches thus far.

In the latest development, England will remain the host of the coveted WTC Finals, having staged the previous three (2021, 2023 and 2025).

BCCI snubbed as ICC grants England hosting rights of WTC finals in 2027, 2029 and 2031

From Board of Control for Cricket in India(BCCI) to England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB), here 's a look at the top five richest cricket boards in the world.

From Board of Control for Cricket in India(BCCI) to England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB), here 's a look at the top five richest cricket boards in the world.

From BCCI to ECB: Top 5 richest cricket boards in the world, check where PCB stands

The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) has apologised for a social media post that joked the hospitalised Pope Francis “loves the Ashes”. Watch this report for more details!

ECB apologises for a joke made towards Pope Francis on X

Bangladesh all-rounder Shakib Al Hasan has been banned from bowling in England and Wales Cricket Board competitions due to an illegal action. Shakib was reported by umpires during the spinner's one-game appearance in the County Championship for Surrey in September.

The 37-year-old left-armer was signed specifically for the crucial clash with title rivals Somerset on a Taunton pitch that was expected to help spin bowling.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/bgt-gabba-test-australia-score-280-inside-first-session-as-rain-interrupts-play-on-day-one-783870">BGT, Gabba Test: Australia score 28/0 inside first session as rain interrupts play on day one</a>

Shakib took nine wickets across both innings' in Surrey's 111-run defeat, with his team going on to win the title despite that loss.

An ECB statement read: "Bangladesh all-rounder Shakib Al Hasan has been suspended from bowling in ECB competitions following an independent assessment of his bowling action.

"Shakib's action was reported by the standing umpires while he was playing for Surrey in the County Championship match against Somerset in September.

"Shakib completed an independent assessment at Loughborough University earlier this month, which found that the elbow extension in his bowling action exceeded the 15 degree threshold as defined in the regulations.

"This suspension takes effect from the receipt of the independent assessment on 10 December 2024."

Shakib, who has not signed a contract with an English county for the 2025 season, is ineligible to bowl in ECB competitions until he has passed an independent re-assessment of his bowling action.

He has played 71 Tests, 247 one-day internationals and 129 Twenty20s for Bangladesh, taking a combined 712 wickets.

Disclaimer:&nbsp;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.

Bangladesh all-rounder Shakib Al Hasan has been banned from bowling in England and Wales Cricket Board competitions due to an illegal action. Shakib was reported by umpires during the spinner's one-game appearance in the County Championship for Surrey in September.

Bangladesh all-rounder Shakib Al Hasan has been banned from bowling in England and Wales Cricket Board competitions due to an illegal action. Shakib was reported by umpires during the spinner's one-game appearance in the County Championship for Surrey in September. The 37-year-old left-armer was signed specifically for the crucial clash with title rivals Somerset on a Taunton pitch that was expected to help spin bowling. ALSO READ: BGT, Gabba Test: Australia score 28/0 inside first session as rain interrupts play on day one Shakib took nine wickets across both innings' in Surrey's 111-run defeat, with his team going on to win the title despite that loss. An ECB statement read: "Bangladesh all-rounder Shakib Al Hasan has been suspended from bowling in ECB competitions following an independent assessment of his bowling action. "Shakib's action was reported by the standing umpires while he was playing for Surrey in the County Championship match against Somerset in September. "Shakib completed an independent assessment at Loughborough University earlier this month, which found that the elbow extension in his bowling action exceeded the 15 degree threshold as defined in the regulations. "This suspension takes effect from the receipt of the independent assessment on 10 December 2024." Shakib, who has not signed a contract with an English county for the 2025 season, is ineligible to bowl in ECB competitions until he has passed an independent re-assessment of his bowling action. He has played 71 Tests, 247 one-day internationals and 129 Twenty20s for Bangladesh, taking a combined 712 wickets. 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.

Bangladesh’s Shakib Al Hasan banned from all ECB competitions over illegal action

Be it the introduction of Bazball Cricket or Kookaburra balls in the County Championship, ECB is leaving no stone unturned to ensure England becomes the best Test team in the world.

Be it the introduction of Bazball Cricket or Kookaburra balls in the County Championship, ECB is leaving no stone unturned to ensure England becomes the best Test team in the world. Having already made waves with the ultra-attacking brand of cricket in the longer format, the ECB is now working towards preparing its bowlers for all conditions by making them bowl with Kookaburra and not Duke Balls in the early stages of County Championships. The use of the Kookaburra ball, dominantly played with during overseas series, was recommended in Sir Andrew Strauss' high-performance review in 2022 and was trialled last year had replaced the traditional Dukes Ball in the first two rounds of the County Championship this season. This change saw mixed reactions from the pundits, with some calling this a masterstroke, while others bashing it, calling it the ‘worst decision ever’. ECB’s Director of Cricket, Robert Key, has backed this idea of using the Kookaburra ball to ensure the bowlers, who cannot bowl express pace, must get used to this ball’s dynamics. Unlike the Dukes that assist seam and swing bowling, a preferred choice in the UK, given the conditions, Key insists that the usage of Kookaburra, which has a less prominent seam and goes softer earlier, will push the bowlers to become creative with their craft and master it by the time they get an international call-up. ALSO READ: IPL 2024: ‘MS Dhoni is a special person’ – KL Rahul recalls best moment with India legend ahead of LSG-CSK tie "My view is, the better the conditions for batting, the more you find out about your bowlers," Key said on Sky Sports Cricket Podcast. "Bowlers are so important in winning games. Batsmen set up games, and bowlers are the ones that win it." “I also believe that for us to have a great era of English cricket, which everyone in these sorts of jobs wants, it's about bowlers and being able to produce - not necessarily 95mph bowlers, but it's clear that for the best teams, it's sort of 85mph plus,” he continued. ‘We need to be best in this format’ Commenting on the criticism it has received, with former England great Alec Stewart calling it a mistake, Key feels with greater risks come greater rewards. "Playing against a Kookaburra in England is nothing like playing against it in South Africa or Australia," Stewart said. "The surfaces are different." "Our point of difference playing here is the Dukes ball, so why are we not playing here, being the best we can be with the Dukes ball so that when the touring sides come over, we hammer them." Meanwhile, Key said he must find ways to ensure England gets better in Tests, not just at home but outside too. "My view is that we sort of think, in our home conditions, we dominate - which a lot of teams do at the moment - but the truth is that England have been a middling Test team for 40-plus years. "I want us to go out there and be the best team in the world and have a really good era... and it's about trying to find ways of doing that,” Key concluded.

ECB's Robert Key explains how use of Kookaburra ball in County can help England become top Test team

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.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2024-jittery-nervous-excited-delhi-capitals-captain-rishabh-pant-ahead-of-opener-vs-pbks-703158">IPL 2024: 'Jittery, nervous, excited' - Delhi Capitals' captain Rishabh Pant ahead of opener vs PBKS</a>

"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.

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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

Cricket Australia chairman Mike Baird has raised concerns&nbsp;to save Test cricket and ensure all nations, outside of Big 3 (India, Australia and England), are getting equal opportunity to sustain at the top level and host more Tests in this emergence of franchise-based T20 league era.

Baird’s comments have come after Cricket South Africa picked a B-squad for the away New Zealand Tests with seven debutants and an uncapped player named as a captain on the team sheet. With all top-tier players deciding to play the SA20 league instead, CSA faced severe backlash from fans and the other boards, mainly Australia, for prioritising money over history.

However, South Africa’s Test team batting coach, Shukri Conrad, backed this call from the board, arguing that for cricket to survive in this part of the world, regular funding is required, and for which their newer domestic franchise-based T20 tournament must prosper.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/sa20-is-lifeblood-without-it-we-would-not-have-test-cricket-in-country-conrad-responds-to-steve-waugh-676778">'SA20 is lifeblood, without it we would not have Test cricket in country' - Conrad responds to Steve Waugh</a>

Speaking on the same lines, while considering the chunk the Big-3 make&nbsp;and how they can help other boards, Baird said that India, Australia, and England must share their wealth with other boards to ensure top players continue playing the longer format, and thus, Test cricket survives.

“If we’re in a position that national teams aren’t being prioritised, then we’ve got a lot of work to do,” Baird told Sydney Morning Herald.&nbsp;

“Ultimately, that might mean costs and consequences for the leading countries. There is undoubtedly an economic element. But there’s also a commonsense element in terms of the way we schedule and the way we collectively as members prioritise. So there is strong resolve, but we need to move, I think, at a much quicker pace,” he added.

<h2>‘We need to support, retain and grow Tests</h2>

Following a daddy jump in BCCI’s share in the ICC revenue (from 38.5% for the 2024-2027 cycle), Indian Cricket will earn $230 million in this period. Meanwhile, CA and ECB will also pocket 6.89 ($41 million) and 6.25 ($37.53 million) per cent, respectively.&nbsp;

Baird argued that the cricket world is running out of time to step up and make attempts to save the oldest format, as everyone must act on it following detailed discussions.&nbsp;

“We need to support, retain and grow Test cricket, and we’re going to have to think through our priorities, and part of that is how we distribute funding.&nbsp;

“I don’t think we can wait, so we have to look at how that funding is allocated, is it going to the right things, and yes, one of the solutions which has been put forward is increasing Test match payments to make them more competitive. They’re all the things we need to bring forward,” Baird added.

Cricket Australia chairman Mike Baird has raised concerns to save Test cricket and ensure all nations, outside of Big 3 (India, Australia and England), are getting equal opportunity to sustain at the top level and host more Tests in this emergence of franchise-based T20 league era.

Cricket Australia chairman Mike Baird has raised concerns to save Test cricket and ensure all nations, outside of Big 3 (India, Australia and England), are getting equal opportunity to sustain at the top level and host more Tests in this emergence of franchise-based T20 league era. Baird’s comments have come after Cricket South Africa picked a B-squad for the away New Zealand Tests with seven debutants and an uncapped player named as a captain on the team sheet. With all top-tier players deciding to play the SA20 league instead, CSA faced severe backlash from fans and the other boards, mainly Australia, for prioritising money over history. However, South Africa’s Test team batting coach, Shukri Conrad, backed this call from the board, arguing that for cricket to survive in this part of the world, regular funding is required, and for which their newer domestic franchise-based T20 tournament must prosper. ALSO READ: 'SA20 is lifeblood, without it we would not have Test cricket in country' - Conrad responds to Steve Waugh Speaking on the same lines, while considering the chunk the Big-3 make and how they can help other boards, Baird said that India, Australia, and England must share their wealth with other boards to ensure top players continue playing the longer format, and thus, Test cricket survives. “If we’re in a position that national teams aren’t being prioritised, then we’ve got a lot of work to do,” Baird told Sydney Morning Herald. “Ultimately, that might mean costs and consequences for the leading countries. There is undoubtedly an economic element. But there’s also a commonsense element in terms of the way we schedule and the way we collectively as members prioritise. So there is strong resolve, but we need to move, I think, at a much quicker pace,” he added. ‘We need to support, retain and grow Tests Following a daddy jump in BCCI’s share in the ICC revenue (from 38.5% for the 2024-2027 cycle), Indian Cricket will earn $230 million in this period. Meanwhile, CA and ECB will also pocket 6.89 ($41 million) and 6.25 ($37.53 million) per cent, respectively. Baird argued that the cricket world is running out of time to step up and make attempts to save the oldest format, as everyone must act on it following detailed discussions. “We need to support, retain and grow Test cricket, and we’re going to have to think through our priorities, and part of that is how we distribute funding. “I don’t think we can wait, so we have to look at how that funding is allocated, is it going to the right things, and yes, one of the solutions which has been put forward is increasing Test match payments to make them more competitive. They’re all the things we need to bring forward,” Baird added.

Cricket's 'Big 3' must share wealth with other nations to help sustain and grow Tests - Mike Baird

The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) reprimanded five former and current cricketers on Monday (October 10) over their old social media posts. The historical posts on social media by Jack Brooks, Andrew Gale, Azeem Rafiq and women's team star Danielle Wyatt and Evelyn Jones were found to be prejudicial in nature by the Cricket Discipline Commission (CDC) of the ECB.

The five cricketers had been charged earlier this year for breaching the ECB Directve 3.3 which mentions no such actions should be taken that "may be prejudicial to the interests of cricket or which may bring the game of cricket or any cricketer or group of cricketers into disrepute".

Jones and Wyatt also admitted to breaching the ECB Directive 3.4 which urges all cricketers to abide by the anti-discrimination code. The five players will face no further action as Chris Tickle, the CDC Adjucator decided that a reprimand will be enough in all five cases.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/made-a-mistake-carles-puyol-apologises-for-his-clumsy-joke-on-iker-casillas-i-am-gay-tweet-524054">'Made a mistake': Carles Puyol apologises for his 'clumsy joke' on Iker Casillas' 'I am gay' tweet</a>

Rafiq, who was under the spotlight last year and earlier this year after his accusations of institutional racism in the Yorkshire cricket club, was reprimanded for anti-semitic posts on Facebook. Former Yorkshire coach Gale was sanctioned for his offensive old posts on Twitter.

Rafiq, who had earlier spoken against facing racism in England cricket, said he was "ashamed and embarrassed" for his own ant-Semic comments during a social media exchange with his former England U-19 teammate Ateeq Javed in 2011. The duo had referred to a third unknown teammate as a 'Jew' for failing to pay his bill.

Reacting to the Cricket Discipline Commission's decision to reprimand him, Rafiq said the punishment is 'deserved' and that he will fully accept the panel's judgement. He also stated that he wishes to repeat his apology to the Jewish community.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/nepal-cricketer-sandeep-lamichhane-sent-to-7-day-police-remand-over-rape-allegations-524139">Nepal cricketer Sandeep Lamichhane sent to 7-day police remand over rape allegations</a>

Meanwhile, former Somerset all-rounder Brooks was reprimanded for a post on Twitter which included racist language directed towards current England pacer Tymal Mills. England cricket was rocked by racism claims last year and the board has since taken a strict stand against any incidents relating to discrimination and has been reprimanding the players for their previous actions.

&nbsp;

The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) reprimanded five former and current cricketers on Monday (October 10) over their old social media posts. The historical posts on social media by Jack Brooks, Andrew Gale, Azeem Rafiq and women's team star Danielle Wyatt and Evelyn Jones were found to be prejudicial in nature by the Cricket Discipline Commission (CDC) of the ECB.

The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) reprimanded five former and current cricketers on Monday (October 10) over their old social media posts. The historical posts on social media by Jack Brooks, Andrew Gale, Azeem Rafiq and women's team star Danielle Wyatt and Evelyn Jones were found to be prejudicial in nature by the Cricket Discipline Commission (CDC) of the ECB. The five cricketers had been charged earlier this year for breaching the ECB Directve 3.3 which mentions no such actions should be taken that "may be prejudicial to the interests of cricket or which may bring the game of cricket or any cricketer or group of cricketers into disrepute". Jones and Wyatt also admitted to breaching the ECB Directive 3.4 which urges all cricketers to abide by the anti-discrimination code. The five players will face no further action as Chris Tickle, the CDC Adjucator decided that a reprimand will be enough in all five cases. Also Read: 'Made a mistake': Carles Puyol apologises for his 'clumsy joke' on Iker Casillas' 'I am gay' tweet Rafiq, who was under the spotlight last year and earlier this year after his accusations of institutional racism in the Yorkshire cricket club, was reprimanded for anti-semitic posts on Facebook. Former Yorkshire coach Gale was sanctioned for his offensive old posts on Twitter. Rafiq, who had earlier spoken against facing racism in England cricket, said he was "ashamed and embarrassed" for his own ant-Semic comments during a social media exchange with his former England U-19 teammate Ateeq Javed in 2011. The duo had referred to a third unknown teammate as a 'Jew' for failing to pay his bill. Reacting to the Cricket Discipline Commission's decision to reprimand him, Rafiq said the punishment is 'deserved' and that he will fully accept the panel's judgement. He also stated that he wishes to repeat his apology to the Jewish community. Also Read: Nepal cricketer Sandeep Lamichhane sent to 7-day police remand over rape allegations Meanwhile, former Somerset all-rounder Brooks was reprimanded for a post on Twitter which included racist language directed towards current England pacer Tymal Mills. England cricket was rocked by racism claims last year and the board has since taken a strict stand against any incidents relating to discrimination and has been reprimanding the players for their previous actions.

Azeem Rafiq, Danielle Wyatt among five cricketers reprimanded by ECB for historic social media posts

As the entire nation mourns the unfortunate demise of its monarch, the&nbsp;England and Wales Cricket Board announced plans to resume the three-match Test series between England and South Africa. This comes shortly after play was suspended on&nbsp;Friday in the aftermath of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II's passing.

This seemingly comes as the direct result of the Government's latest update, allowing sporting authorities to resume or halt active play based on their personal discretion. However, it is interesting to note that footballing action across the country has come to a stop.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/throwback-when-queen-elizabeth-ii-met-virat-kohli-and-other-captains-ahead-of-2019-odi-world-cup-514580" hreflang="en">Throwback: When Queen Elizabeth II met Virat Kohli and other captains ahead of 2019 ODI World Cup</a>

The first day of the 3rd Test was washed out due to incessant rain. Friday's play at the Oval was postponed after news of Queen Elizabeth II's death broke. It was subsequently declared that Saturday's play will be considered as Day 3 of the series decider.

“Cricket will resume on Saturday to pay tribute to Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II and honour her remarkable life and service,” the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) said.

“Play will resume from Saturday including international, domestic, and recreational fixtures. The decision has been taken after consultation with DCMS and in line with Official National Mourning guidance.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/viral-elderly-fan-bows-down-to-virat-kohli-as-he-slams-71st-intl-ton-in-india-afghanistan-tie-watch-514611" hreflang="en">VIRAL: Elderly fan bows down to Virat Kohli as he slams 71st int'l ton in India-Afghanistan tie - WATCH</a>

“This means the Men's Test match between England and South Africa will begin at The Oval and the Women's IT20 match between England and India will also go ahead at the Riverside in Durham. The scheduled match between England and Sri Lanka Men's U19 along with recreational cricket fixtures will also take place as planned.

“Before each match, a minute's silence will be observed followed by the national anthem. All players and coaches will wear black armbands. Branded inventory will be replaced with messaging paying cricket's respects to The Queen.”

<nav>England's skipper Ben Stokes also offered fans some insight into his mindset going into the deciding match of the series, admitting that he is honoured to be in a position to be able to play in the Queen's memory.</nav>

As the entire nation mourns the unfortunate demise of its monarch, the England and Wales Cricket Board announced plans to resume the three-match Test series between England and South Africa.

As the entire nation mourns the unfortunate demise of its monarch, the England and Wales Cricket Board announced plans to resume the three-match Test series between England and South Africa. This comes shortly after play was suspended on Friday in the aftermath of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II's passing. This seemingly comes as the direct result of the Government's latest update, allowing sporting authorities to resume or halt active play based on their personal discretion. However, it is interesting to note that footballing action across the country has come to a stop. ALSO READ: Throwback: When Queen Elizabeth II met Virat Kohli and other captains ahead of 2019 ODI World Cup The first day of the 3rd Test was washed out due to incessant rain. Friday's play at the Oval was postponed after news of Queen Elizabeth II's death broke. It was subsequently declared that Saturday's play will be considered as Day 3 of the series decider. “Cricket will resume on Saturday to pay tribute to Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II and honour her remarkable life and service,” the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) said. “Play will resume from Saturday including international, domestic, and recreational fixtures. The decision has been taken after consultation with DCMS and in line with Official National Mourning guidance. ALSO READ: VIRAL: Elderly fan bows down to Virat Kohli as he slams 71st int'l ton in India-Afghanistan tie - WATCH “This means the Men's Test match between England and South Africa will begin at The Oval and the Women's IT20 match between England and India will also go ahead at the Riverside in Durham. The scheduled match between England and Sri Lanka Men's U19 along with recreational cricket fixtures will also take place as planned. “Before each match, a minute's silence will be observed followed by the national anthem. All players and coaches will wear black armbands. Branded inventory will be replaced with messaging paying cricket's respects to The Queen.” England's skipper Ben Stokes also offered fans some insight into his mindset going into the deciding match of the series, admitting that he is honoured to be in a position to be able to play in the Queen's memory.

England and South Africa to resume third test on Saturday to 'pay tribute' to Queen Elizabeth II, says ECB

Former England captain Michael Vaughan has been dropped from BBC show over shocking racism controversy that has engulfed the Yorkshire County Cricket Club. The England and Wales Cricket Board condemned the handling of the serious allegations made by former player Azeem Rafiq in September 2020. The board on Thursday (November 4) also suspended Yorkshire from staging international matches.&nbsp;

Rafiq had said last year he was made to feel like an outsider at Yorkshire and contemplated taking his own life. He even filed a legal complaint in December 2020 claiming to have suffered direct discrimination and harassment on the grounds of race. The 30-year-old previously stated the severe mental health issues he suffered as a result of his treatment by the club included depression.&nbsp;

IN PICS |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-azeem-rafiq-allegations-to-ecbs-response-all-you-need-to-know-about-yorkshire-cricket-racism-scandal-426962#who-is-azeem-rafiq-426912">From Azeem Rafiq allegations to ECB's response: All you need to know about Yorkshire cricket racism scandal</a>

In a shocking turn of events, one of the most popular England players and ex-captain Michael Vaughan was drawn into the racism row. He is accused of telling a group of Asian players, including Rafiq, in 2009 that "too many of you lot, we need to do something about it".&nbsp;

While writing in his Daily Telegraph column, he "completely and categorically" denied&nbsp;saying those words, but in the aftermath, Vaughan has been dropped from his BBC Radio 5 Live show on Monday.&nbsp;

"The BBC takes any allegations of racism extremely seriously," a BBC spokesperson said adding that the organisation "remains in discussions with Michael and his team".&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/england-should-handle-racism-row-at-yorkshire-cricket-club-head-on-eoin-morgan-426964">England should handle racism row at Yorkshire Cricket Club 'head on': Eoin Morgan</a>

"We have made the editorial decision that Michael won't appear as a presenter on 5 Live's Tuffers and Vaughan Show on Monday. The show focuses on topical discussion around current cricketing matters and given his personal involvement, we need to ensure we maintain the impartiality of the programme," the statement added.&nbsp;

Yorkshire chairman Roger Hutton resigned earlier on Friday, accusing the club's executives of failing to accept and learn from racism allegations raised by Rafiq. The club said that Hanif Malik and Stephen Willis had also stepped down from its board and that Lord Kamlesh Patel had been appointed to replace Hutton.

Former England captain Michael Vaughan has been dropped from BBC show over shocking racism controversy that has engulfed the Yorkshire County Cricket Club. The England and Wales Cricket Board condemned the handling of the serious allegations made by former player Azeem Rafiq in September 2020.

Former England captain Michael Vaughan has been dropped from BBC show over shocking racism controversy that has engulfed the Yorkshire County Cricket Club. The England and Wales Cricket Board condemned the handling of the serious allegations made by former player Azeem Rafiq in September 2020. The board on Thursday (November 4) also suspended Yorkshire from staging international matches. Rafiq had said last year he was made to feel like an outsider at Yorkshire and contemplated taking his own life. He even filed a legal complaint in December 2020 claiming to have suffered direct discrimination and harassment on the grounds of race. The 30-year-old previously stated the severe mental health issues he suffered as a result of his treatment by the club included depression. IN PICS | From Azeem Rafiq allegations to ECB's response: All you need to know about Yorkshire cricket racism scandal In a shocking turn of events, one of the most popular England players and ex-captain Michael Vaughan was drawn into the racism row. He is accused of telling a group of Asian players, including Rafiq, in 2009 that "too many of you lot, we need to do something about it". While writing in his Daily Telegraph column, he "completely and categorically" denied saying those words, but in the aftermath, Vaughan has been dropped from his BBC Radio 5 Live show on Monday. "The BBC takes any allegations of racism extremely seriously," a BBC spokesperson said adding that the organisation "remains in discussions with Michael and his team". ALSO READ | England should handle racism row at Yorkshire Cricket Club 'head on': Eoin Morgan "We have made the editorial decision that Michael won't appear as a presenter on 5 Live's Tuffers and Vaughan Show on Monday. The show focuses on topical discussion around current cricketing matters and given his personal involvement, we need to ensure we maintain the impartiality of the programme," the statement added. Yorkshire chairman Roger Hutton resigned earlier on Friday, accusing the club's executives of failing to accept and learn from racism allegations raised by Rafiq. The club said that Hanif Malik and Stephen Willis had also stepped down from its board and that Lord Kamlesh Patel had been appointed to replace Hutton.

Former England captain Michael Vaughan dropped from BBC show over racism allegations

Former West Indies fast bowler Michael Holding slammed England for abandoning the Pakistan tour after New Zealand cancelled their tour to the South Asian nation due to security reasons in September.

Former West Indies fast bowler Michael Holding slammed England for abandoning the Pakistan tour after New Zealand cancelled their tour to the South Asian nation due to security reasons in September. He called it "Western arrogance" and said that he is "absolutely sure" they would not have done that to India. England's men's and women's white ball teams were due to tour this month but the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) pulled out of both because of concerns over "mental and physical well-being". "The ECB statement doesn't wash with me. No substance," said Holding, who played 60 Tests and 102 one-day internationals in his glittering career. "Nobody wants to come forward and face up to anything because they know what they did was wrong. So they put out a statement and hid behind a statement. It just reminds me of the rubbish they did with Black Lives Matter," he added. ALSO READ | 'The reason why he is more successful': Gautam Gambhir opens up on Virat Kohli's playing style "I won't go back into that because I've said enough about that. But what that signal sends to me, is the same Western arrogance. I will treat you how I feel like treating you, it doesn't matter what you think, I'll just do what I want," he further said. New Zealand Cricket called off their first tour of Pakistan in 18 years just as the first one-day international was due to start in Rawalpindi. Soon after that, England also cancelled their scheduled short tour. It was a massive blow to a country, which was shunned by all after a deadly 2009 attack on the Sri Lanka team bus in Lahore and Pakistan have been trying to organise bilateral series. Pakistan have only hosted South Africa, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh and Zimbabwe since the 2009 attacks. ALSO READ | IPL 2021: Man of many talents! Rohit Sharma imitates MI legends, shares video on Instagram - WATCH At the time of its withdrawal, the ECB acknowledged the news would not go down well with opponents who helped rescue England's 2020 summer by travelling in restrictive bubble environments at the height of the coronavirus pandemic. "Pakistan went to England before vaccines were available for six or seven weeks," said Holding, a respected television commentator since his retirement from the game in 1987 and author of 'Why We Kneel, How We Rise', a sober account of racial discrimination. "They stayed, they played their cricket, they honoured what England wanted them to honour, to save England's butt, to put it mildly. "Four days in Pakistan? I'm absolutely sure they would not have done that to India, because India is rich and powerful." (With inputs from agencies)

'Western arrogance': Michael Holding slams England for pulling out of Pakistan tour, says 'would not have done that to India'

The England and Wales Cricket Board expects the uncertainty over the team’s Ashes tour due to Australia’s stringent COVID-19 quarantine measures to continue till the last moment, chairman Ian Watmore has said.

England players have threatened to pull out of the series unless they get assurances that their family members will be allowed to join them in Australia during the five-test series in December and January.

Australia’s borders are effectively shut in an effort to control the pandemic, with caps on international arrivals and limited places available in the country’s mandatory hotel quarantine regime.

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"There is no simple date it must be decided by, apart from when that plane goes to Australia," Watmore told the Daily Mail.

"Joe (Root) and the players not involved in the (Twenty20) World Cup will be leaving in the first week of November so we have until then to change things.

"We are trying to build up a picture, either confident or less confident, of the conditions. There are issues to sort out with Cricket Australia, there are issues for CA to sort out with their government and for the federal government to sort out with state governments. It is a complicated picture."

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson said that he has asked his Australian counterpart, Scott Morrison, to help ease strict quarantine rules when they met in Washington last week.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2021-why-does-he-have-to-be-that-guy-again-asks-shane-warne-on-r-ashwin-eoin-morgan-altercation-416770">IPL 2021: Why does he have to be that guy again, asks Shane Warne on R Ashwin-Eoin Morgan altercation</a>

Australia plans to ease border and quarantine restrictions by the end of 2021 when at least 80% of adults are expected to have received two COVID-19 vaccination shots but some individual states might have separate rules.

Watmore said the players were eager to travel, considering the importance of the Ashes rivalry.

"CA know what we need to make the tour successful and they`re working to deliver it. We need to see the detail, check it out with the players and management and either push back or commit," said Watmore.

"It’s not a red-line type of discussion, but we’re working hard to provide an environment in which our players and their families want to go and perform to their best.

"If Australia can deliver that, great, if not we may have to have more challenging discussions." 
<o:p></o:p>

The England and Wales Cricket Board expects the uncertainty over the team’s Ashes tour due to Australia’s stringent COVID-19 quarantine measures to continue till the last moment, chairman Ian Watmore has said.

The England and Wales Cricket Board expects the uncertainty over the team’s Ashes tour due to Australia’s stringent COVID-19 quarantine measures to continue till the last moment, chairman Ian Watmore has said. England players have threatened to pull out of the series unless they get assurances that their family members will be allowed to join them in Australia during the five-test series in December and January. Australia’s borders are effectively shut in an effort to control the pandemic, with caps on international arrivals and limited places available in the country’s mandatory hotel quarantine regime. ALSO READ | Trouble for Virat Kohli? Senior cricketers complained about Indian skipper's attitude to BCCI's Jay Shah: Report "There is no simple date it must be decided by, apart from when that plane goes to Australia," Watmore told the Daily Mail. "Joe (Root) and the players not involved in the (Twenty20) World Cup will be leaving in the first week of November so we have until then to change things. "We are trying to build up a picture, either confident or less confident, of the conditions. There are issues to sort out with Cricket Australia, there are issues for CA to sort out with their government and for the federal government to sort out with state governments. It is a complicated picture." British Prime Minister Boris Johnson said that he has asked his Australian counterpart, Scott Morrison, to help ease strict quarantine rules when they met in Washington last week. ALSO READ | IPL 2021: Why does he have to be that guy again, asks Shane Warne on R Ashwin-Eoin Morgan altercation Australia plans to ease border and quarantine restrictions by the end of 2021 when at least 80% of adults are expected to have received two COVID-19 vaccination shots but some individual states might have separate rules. Watmore said the players were eager to travel, considering the importance of the Ashes rivalry. "CA know what we need to make the tour successful and they`re working to deliver it. We need to see the detail, check it out with the players and management and either push back or commit," said Watmore. "It’s not a red-line type of discussion, but we’re working hard to provide an environment in which our players and their families want to go and perform to their best. "If Australia can deliver that, great, if not we may have to have more challenging discussions."

England board chief says Ashes remains a 'complicated picture'

Seven members&nbsp;- three cricketers and four management staff members&nbsp;- of the England squad, have tested positive for coronavirus, the England and Wales Board (ECB) announced on Tuesday.&nbsp;

The news came ahead of the limited-overs series against Pakistan. However, the ECB has said that the series will go as per the schedule, which means the ODI series between England and Pakistan will kick off on July 8 at Cardiff.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-england-vs-india-test-series-to-be-played-in-front-of-full-capacity-crowd-396172" hreflang="en">Cricket: England vs India Test series to be played in front of full-capacity crowd</a>

"Following PCR tests administered yesterday (Monday) in Bristol, The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) can confirm that seven members - three players and four management team members- of the England Men's ODI party have tested positive for COVID-19," said ECB in an official release.

"Those impacted will now observe a period of self-isolation from July 4 following the UK Government's protocol on quarantine.

"The remaining members of the party have been deemed close contacts and will also isolate," the release further mentioned.

The ECB has also confirmed that the squad for the limited-overs series will be announced later today and Ben Stokes will be named the captain of the squad.&nbsp;

"Ben Stokes will return to England duties and captain the squad – which will be named in the next few hours. Incoming squad and support team members will follow PCR tests and bridging protocols to ensure safe entry to camp," said ECB.

Tom Harrison, Chief Executive Officer, commented: "We have been mindful that the emergence of the Delta variant, along with our move away from the stringent enforcement of bio secure environments, could increase the chances of an outbreak. We made a strategic choice to try to adapt protocols, in order to support the overall wellbeing of our players and management staff who have spent much of the last 14 months living in very restricted conditions."

"Overnight we have worked swiftly to identify a new squad, and we are grateful to Ben Stokes who will return to England duties to Captain. We also recognise the impact this news will have on our First Class Counties and their Men’s playing squads and thank them, along with our partners Sky and Royal London, for their ongoing support in dealing with this pandemic."

Seven members - three cricketers and four management staff members - of the England squad, have tested positive for coronavirus, the England and Wales Board (ECB) announced on Tuesday.

Seven members - three cricketers and four management staff members - of the England squad, have tested positive for coronavirus, the England and Wales Board (ECB) announced on Tuesday. The news came ahead of the limited-overs series against Pakistan. However, the ECB has said that the series will go as per the schedule, which means the ODI series between England and Pakistan will kick off on July 8 at Cardiff. ALSO READ: Cricket: England vs India Test series to be played in front of full-capacity crowd "Following PCR tests administered yesterday (Monday) in Bristol, The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) can confirm that seven members - three players and four management team members- of the England Men's ODI party have tested positive for COVID-19," said ECB in an official release. "Those impacted will now observe a period of self-isolation from July 4 following the UK Government's protocol on quarantine. "The remaining members of the party have been deemed close contacts and will also isolate," the release further mentioned. The ECB has also confirmed that the squad for the limited-overs series will be announced later today and Ben Stokes will be named the captain of the squad. "Ben Stokes will return to England duties and captain the squad – which will be named in the next few hours. Incoming squad and support team members will follow PCR tests and bridging protocols to ensure safe entry to camp," said ECB. Tom Harrison, Chief Executive Officer, commented: "We have been mindful that the emergence of the Delta variant, along with our move away from the stringent enforcement of bio secure environments, could increase the chances of an outbreak. We made a strategic choice to try to adapt protocols, in order to support the overall wellbeing of our players and management staff who have spent much of the last 14 months living in very restricted conditions." "Overnight we have worked swiftly to identify a new squad, and we are grateful to Ben Stokes who will return to England duties to Captain. We also recognise the impact this news will have on our First Class Counties and their Men’s playing squads and thank them, along with our partners Sky and Royal London, for their ongoing support in dealing with this pandemic."

Cricket- Seven members of England squad test positive for COVID-19 ahead of Pak series: ECB

The England and Wales Board (ECB) have announced their revised squad for the ODI series with Pakistan after seven members, three cricketers and four management staff members, had tested positive for coronavirus.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-seven-members-of-england-squad-test-positive-for-covid-19-ahead-of-pak-series-ecb-396200" hreflang="en">Cricket- Seven members of England squad test positive for COVID-19 ahead of Pak series: ECB</a>

However, former England skipper Michael Vaughan rather found it absurd to send the whole squad into isolation after cases emerged within the team.&nbsp;

He took to Twitter and cited the example of Scottish footballer Billy Gilmour. He tweeted: "Billy Gilmour tests positive &amp; not one Scotland team member or staff has to isolate … England cricket team members do &amp; the whole squad has to go !?????? &nbsp;VERY VERY Strange times … I guess we will or should see Alex Hales again though … #OnOn"

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Billy Gilmour tests positive &amp; not one Scotland team member or staff has to isolate … England cricket team members do &amp; the whole squad has to go !?????? VERY VERY Strange times … I guess we will or should see Alex Hales again though … <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/OnOn?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#OnOn</a>
— Michael Vaughan (@MichaelVaughan) <a href="https://twitter.com/MichaelVaughan/status/1412331551170383872?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 6, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Vaughan's reaction came after the ECB decided to go ahead with a brand new squad for the Pakistan series.&nbsp;

Nine uncapped players have been added to the revised squad and Ben Stokes has been named the captain of the side.&nbsp;

The uncapped contingent consists of Brydon Carse, Zak Crawley, Lewis Gregory, Will Jacks, Tom Helm, Dan Lawrence, David Payne, Phil Salt and John Simpson, although Crawley, Gregory and Lawrence have represented England in other formats.

Tom Harrison, Chief Executive Officer, commented: "We have been mindful that the emergence of the Delta variant, along with our move away from the stringent enforcement of bio secure environments, could increase the chances of an outbreak. We made a strategic choice to try to adapt protocols, in order to support the overall wellbeing of our players and management staff who have spent much of the last 14 months living in very restricted conditions."

He also added that the board worked overnight to revise the squad in order to go ahead with the series as planned.&nbsp;

"Overnight we have worked swiftly to identify a new squad, and we are grateful to Ben Stokes who will return to England duties to Captain. We also recognise the impact this news will have on our First Class Counties and their Men’s playing squads and thank them, along with our partners Sky and Royal London, for their ongoing support in dealing with this pandemic."

The England and Wales Board (ECB) have announced their revised squad for the ODI series with Pakistan after seven members, three cricketers and four management staff members, had tested positive for coronavirus.

The England and Wales Board (ECB) have announced their revised squad for the ODI series with Pakistan after seven members, three cricketers and four management staff members, had tested positive for coronavirus. ALSO READ: Cricket- Seven members of England squad test positive for COVID-19 ahead of Pak series: ECB However, former England skipper Michael Vaughan rather found it absurd to send the whole squad into isolation after cases emerged within the team. He took to Twitter and cited the example of Scottish footballer Billy Gilmour. He tweeted: "Billy Gilmour tests positive & not one Scotland team member or staff has to isolate … England cricket team members do & the whole squad has to go !?????? VERY VERY Strange times … I guess we will or should see Alex Hales again though … #OnOn" Billy Gilmour tests positive & not one Scotland team member or staff has to isolate … England cricket team members do & the whole squad has to go !?????? VERY VERY Strange times … I guess we will or should see Alex Hales again though … #OnOn — Michael Vaughan (@MichaelVaughan) July 6, 2021 × Vaughan's reaction came after the ECB decided to go ahead with a brand new squad for the Pakistan series. Nine uncapped players have been added to the revised squad and Ben Stokes has been named the captain of the side. The uncapped contingent consists of Brydon Carse, Zak Crawley, Lewis Gregory, Will Jacks, Tom Helm, Dan Lawrence, David Payne, Phil Salt and John Simpson, although Crawley, Gregory and Lawrence have represented England in other formats. Tom Harrison, Chief Executive Officer, commented: "We have been mindful that the emergence of the Delta variant, along with our move away from the stringent enforcement of bio secure environments, could increase the chances of an outbreak. We made a strategic choice to try to adapt protocols, in order to support the overall wellbeing of our players and management staff who have spent much of the last 14 months living in very restricted conditions." He also added that the board worked overnight to revise the squad in order to go ahead with the series as planned. "Overnight we have worked swiftly to identify a new squad, and we are grateful to Ben Stokes who will return to England duties to Captain. We also recognise the impact this news will have on our First Class Counties and their Men’s playing squads and thank them, along with our partners Sky and Royal London, for their ongoing support in dealing with this pandemic."

'Very strange times': Michael Vaughan reacts to ECB naming revised squad after COVID-19 cases

The England and Wales Board (ECB) have announced their revised squad for the ODI series with Pakistan after seven members, three cricketers and four management staff members, had tested positive for coronavirus.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-seven-members-of-england-squad-test-positive-for-covid-19-ahead-of-pak-series-ecb-396200" hreflang="en">Cricket- Seven members of England squad test positive for COVID-19 ahead of Pak series :ECB</a>

Nine uncapped players have been added to the revised squad and Ben Stokes has been named the captain of the side.&nbsp;

The uncapped contingent consists of Brydon Carse, Zak Crawley, Lewis Gregory, Will Jacks, Tom Helm, Dan Lawrence, David Payne, Phil Salt and John Simpson, although Crawley, Gregory and Lawrence have represented England in other formats.

"Ben Stokes will return to England duties and captain the squad – which will be named in the next few hours. Incoming squad and support team members will follow PCR tests and bridging protocols to ensure safe entry to camp," said ECB.

Tom Harrison, Chief Executive Officer, commented: "We have been mindful that the emergence of the Delta variant, along with our move away from the stringent enforcement of bio secure environments, could increase the chances of an outbreak. We made a strategic choice to try to adapt protocols, in order to support the overall wellbeing of our players and management staff who have spent much of the last 14 months living in very restricted conditions."

He also added that the board worked overnight to revise the squad in order to go ahead with the series as planned.&nbsp;

"Overnight we have worked swiftly to identify a new squad, and we are grateful to Ben Stokes who will return to England duties to Captain. We also recognise the impact this news will have on our First Class Counties and their Men’s playing squads and thank them, along with our partners Sky and Royal London, for their ongoing support in dealing with this pandemic."

<h2>England squad:&nbsp;</h2>

Ben Stokes (Captain), Jake Ball, Danny Briggs, Brydon Carse, Zak Crawley, Ben Duckett, Lewis Gregory, Tom Helm, Will Jacks, Daniel Lawrence, Saqib Mahmood, Dawid Malan, Craig Overton, Matt Parkinson, David Payne, Phil Salt, John Simpson, James Vince

The England and Wales Board (ECB) have announced their revised squad for the ODI series with Pakistan after seven members, three cricketers and four management staff members, had tested positive for coronavirus. ALSO READ: Cricket- Seven members of England squad test positive for COVID-19 ahead of Pak series :ECB Nine uncapped players have been added to the revised squad and Ben Stokes has been named the captain of the side. The uncapped contingent consists of Brydon Carse, Zak Crawley, Lewis Gregory, Will Jacks, Tom Helm, Dan Lawrence, David Payne, Phil Salt and John Simpson, although Crawley, Gregory and Lawrence have represented England in other formats. "Ben Stokes will return to England duties and captain the squad – which will be named in the next few hours. Incoming squad and support team members will follow PCR tests and bridging protocols to ensure safe entry to camp," said ECB. Tom Harrison, Chief Executive Officer, commented: "We have been mindful that the emergence of the Delta variant, along with our move away from the stringent enforcement of bio secure environments, could increase the chances of an outbreak. We made a strategic choice to try to adapt protocols, in order to support the overall wellbeing of our players and management staff who have spent much of the last 14 months living in very restricted conditions." He also added that the board worked overnight to revise the squad in order to go ahead with the series as planned. "Overnight we have worked swiftly to identify a new squad, and we are grateful to Ben Stokes who will return to England duties to Captain. We also recognise the impact this news will have on our First Class Counties and their Men’s playing squads and thank them, along with our partners Sky and Royal London, for their ongoing support in dealing with this pandemic." England squad: Ben Stokes (Captain), Jake Ball, Danny Briggs, Brydon Carse, Zak Crawley, Ben Duckett, Lewis Gregory, Tom Helm, Will Jacks, Daniel Lawrence, Saqib Mahmood, Dawid Malan, Craig Overton, Matt Parkinson, David Payne, Phil Salt, John Simpson, James Vince

Cricket: England revise squad overnight after Covid-19 cases emerge; nine uncapped players added

English debutant Ollie Robinson was suspended from representing his country with immediate effect by the ECB over discriminatory tweets he posted from 2012-13. However, West Indies legend Michael Holding said that the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) should not "come down too hard" on Ollie Robinson for the old tweets.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-ollie-robinson-got-full-support-of-england-team-says-james-anderson-390200" hreflang="en">Cricket: Ollie Robinson got full support of England team, says James Anderson</a>

"(It was) eight, nine years ago. Can the ECB find out please, if beyond that time, Robinson has kept on behaving like that, saying things like that, tweeting things like that?" Holding told Sky Sports on Tuesday.

"If he has done something like that nine years ago, and since then he has learnt and done nothing like that and he has changed his ways in recent years, then I don't think you should come down too hard on him."

"You don't allow him to continue playing while an investigation is going on at the same time, because if you find out things that are horrible coming out in that investigation," he said. "But do it quickly, let's get it over with quickly."

Ollie Robinson came out and apologised after the end of Day 1 of the first Test against New Zealand. The tweets he posted when he was 18, which were bigoted and misogynist in nature, reemerged during the first day of the Test and Robinson was near tears as he gave a statement of regret after stumps.

"On the biggest day of my career so far, I am embarrassed by the racist and sexist tweets that I posted over eight years ago, which have today become public. I want to make it clear that I'm not racist and I'm not sexist. I deeply regret my actions, and I am ashamed of making such remarks. I don’t want something that happened eight years ago to diminish the efforts of my teammates and the ECB as they continue to build meaningful action with their comprehensive initiatives and efforts, which I fully endorse and support.

"I will continue to educate myself, look for advice and work with the support network that is available to me to learn more about getting better in this area. I am sorry, and I have certainly learned my lesson today."

The contention encompassing Ollie Robinson's old tweets removed all the sparkle based on what was a great debut. Ollie Robinson made his test debut in the first match of the series at Lord's, taking seven wickets across New Zealand's two innings.

English debutant Ollie Robinson was suspended from representing his country with immediate effect by the ECB over discriminatory tweets he posted from 2012-13. However, West Indies legend Michael Holding said that the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) should not "come down too hard" on Ollie Robinson for the old tweets.

English debutant Ollie Robinson was suspended from representing his country with immediate effect by the ECB over discriminatory tweets he posted from 2012-13. However, West Indies legend Michael Holding said that the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) should not "come down too hard" on Ollie Robinson for the old tweets. ALSO READ: Cricket: Ollie Robinson got full support of England team, says James Anderson "(It was) eight, nine years ago. Can the ECB find out please, if beyond that time, Robinson has kept on behaving like that, saying things like that, tweeting things like that?" Holding told Sky Sports on Tuesday. "If he has done something like that nine years ago, and since then he has learnt and done nothing like that and he has changed his ways in recent years, then I don't think you should come down too hard on him." "You don't allow him to continue playing while an investigation is going on at the same time, because if you find out things that are horrible coming out in that investigation," he said. "But do it quickly, let's get it over with quickly." Ollie Robinson came out and apologised after the end of Day 1 of the first Test against New Zealand. The tweets he posted when he was 18, which were bigoted and misogynist in nature, reemerged during the first day of the Test and Robinson was near tears as he gave a statement of regret after stumps. "On the biggest day of my career so far, I am embarrassed by the racist and sexist tweets that I posted over eight years ago, which have today become public. I want to make it clear that I'm not racist and I'm not sexist. I deeply regret my actions, and I am ashamed of making such remarks. I don’t want something that happened eight years ago to diminish the efforts of my teammates and the ECB as they continue to build meaningful action with their comprehensive initiatives and efforts, which I fully endorse and support. "I will continue to educate myself, look for advice and work with the support network that is available to me to learn more about getting better in this area. I am sorry, and I have certainly learned my lesson today." The contention encompassing Ollie Robinson's old tweets removed all the sparkle based on what was a great debut. Ollie Robinson made his test debut in the first match of the series at Lord's, taking seven wickets across New Zealand's two innings.

Cricket: 'Too hard on him': Michael Holding reacts to ECB suspending Ollie Robinson

The ECB on Wednesday&nbsp;confirmed the award of Central Contracts for England Men's Test and White Ball cricket for 2020/21. The selectors have awarded 12 Test Central Contracts and 12 White Ball Central Contracts, as well as four Increment Contracts and three Pace Bowling Development Contracts.

Kent’s Zak Crawley, Surrey’s Ollie Pope and Warwickshire’s Dom Sibley all receive Test Central Contracts for the first time off the back of a 12-month period in which all three scored their maiden Test centuries.

Surrey all-rounder Tom Curran has progressed to a White Ball Central Contract, having been in possession of an Increment Contract for 2019/20.

Kent’s Joe Denly misses out on a White Ball Central Contract, and Jonny Bairstow a Test Central Contract.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/serena-williams-pulls-out-of-roland-garros-due-to-achilles-injury-331427" hreflang="en">Serena Williams pulls out of Roland Garros due to Achilles injury</a>

In addition to Test and White Ball central contracts, selectors can award a limited number of Increment Contracts and Pace Bowling Developmental Contracts

Dom Bess, Chris Jordan, Dawid Malan and Jack Leach receive Increment Contracts, with Saqib Mahmood, Olly Stone and Craig Overton retaining their Pace Bowling Development Contracts.

Recipients of Test Central Contracts and White Ball Central Contracts have their salaries paid in full by the ECB.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2020-csk-ceo-gives-update-on-ambati-rayudu-and-dwayne-bravos-fitness-331418" hreflang="en">IPL 2020: CSK CEO gives update on Ambati Rayudu and Dwayne Bravo's fitness</a>

Under the structure, players in both formats receive a ‘ranking’ based on their performances on the pitch, as well as a number of other factors, including off-field contribution, fielding and fitness. Those rankings then correlate with the level of remuneration.

In light of the impact of COVID-19 on the finances of the game, the Team England Player Partnership, on behalf of the players, and the ECB are currently finalising the levels of player remuneration for the next 12 months. A further statement will be made once these discussions have concluded.

WATCH:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/ipl-shorts-why-ms-dhonis-csk-are-struggling-in-ipl-2020-monty-panesar-gives-his-take-330744" hreflang="en">IPL Shorts: Why MS Dhoni's CSK are struggling in IPL 2020? Monty Panesar gives his take</a>

The contracts, which cover a 12-month period commencing 1 October 2020, have been awarded to the following players:

Test Central Contracts

James Anderson (Lancashire), Jofra Archer (Sussex), Stuart Broad (Nottinghamshire), Rory Burns (Surrey), Jos Buttler (Lancashire), Zak Crawley (Kent), Sam Curran (Surrey), Ollie Pope (Surrey), Joe Root (Yorkshire), Dom Sibley (Warwickshire), Ben Stokes (Durham), Chris Woakes (Warwickshire).

White Ball Central Contracts

Moeen Ali (Worcestershire), Jofra Archer (Sussex), Jonny Bairstow (Yorkshire), Jos Buttler (Lancashire), Tom Curran (Surrey), Eoin Morgan (Middlesex), Adil Rashid (Yorkshire), Joe Root (Yorkshire), Jason Roy (Surrey), Ben Stokes (Durham), Chris Woakes (Warwickshire), Mark Wood (Durham).

Increment Contracts

Dom Bess (Somerset), Chris Jordan (Sussex), Dawid Malan (Yorkshire), Jack Leach (Somerset)

Pace Bowling Development Contracts

Saqib Mahmood (Lancashire), Craig Overton (Somerset), Olly Stone (Warwickshire)

The ECB on Wednesday confirmed the award of Central Contracts for England Men's Test and White Ball cricket for 2020/21. The selectors have awarded 12 Test Central Contracts and 12 White Ball Central Contracts, as well as four Increment Contracts and three Pace Bowling Development Contracts.

The ECB on Wednesday confirmed the award of Central Contracts for England Men's Test and White Ball cricket for 2020/21. The selectors have awarded 12 Test Central Contracts and 12 White Ball Central Contracts, as well as four Increment Contracts and three Pace Bowling Development Contracts. Kent’s Zak Crawley, Surrey’s Ollie Pope and Warwickshire’s Dom Sibley all receive Test Central Contracts for the first time off the back of a 12-month period in which all three scored their maiden Test centuries. Surrey all-rounder Tom Curran has progressed to a White Ball Central Contract, having been in possession of an Increment Contract for 2019/20. Kent’s Joe Denly misses out on a White Ball Central Contract, and Jonny Bairstow a Test Central Contract. ALSO READ: Serena Williams pulls out of Roland Garros due to Achilles injury In addition to Test and White Ball central contracts, selectors can award a limited number of Increment Contracts and Pace Bowling Developmental Contracts Dom Bess, Chris Jordan, Dawid Malan and Jack Leach receive Increment Contracts, with Saqib Mahmood, Olly Stone and Craig Overton retaining their Pace Bowling Development Contracts. Recipients of Test Central Contracts and White Ball Central Contracts have their salaries paid in full by the ECB. ALSO READ: IPL 2020: CSK CEO gives update on Ambati Rayudu and Dwayne Bravo's fitness Under the structure, players in both formats receive a ‘ranking’ based on their performances on the pitch, as well as a number of other factors, including off-field contribution, fielding and fitness. Those rankings then correlate with the level of remuneration. In light of the impact of COVID-19 on the finances of the game, the Team England Player Partnership, on behalf of the players, and the ECB are currently finalising the levels of player remuneration for the next 12 months. A further statement will be made once these discussions have concluded. WATCH: IPL Shorts: Why MS Dhoni's CSK are struggling in IPL 2020? Monty Panesar gives his take The contracts, which cover a 12-month period commencing 1 October 2020, have been awarded to the following players: Test Central Contracts James Anderson (Lancashire), Jofra Archer (Sussex), Stuart Broad (Nottinghamshire), Rory Burns (Surrey), Jos Buttler (Lancashire), Zak Crawley (Kent), Sam Curran (Surrey), Ollie Pope (Surrey), Joe Root (Yorkshire), Dom Sibley (Warwickshire), Ben Stokes (Durham), Chris Woakes (Warwickshire). White Ball Central Contracts Moeen Ali (Worcestershire), Jofra Archer (Sussex), Jonny Bairstow (Yorkshire), Jos Buttler (Lancashire), Tom Curran (Surrey), Eoin Morgan (Middlesex), Adil Rashid (Yorkshire), Joe Root (Yorkshire), Jason Roy (Surrey), Ben Stokes (Durham), Chris Woakes (Warwickshire), Mark Wood (Durham). Increment Contracts Dom Bess (Somerset), Chris Jordan (Sussex), Dawid Malan (Yorkshire), Jack Leach (Somerset) Pace Bowling Development Contracts Saqib Mahmood (Lancashire), Craig Overton (Somerset), Olly Stone (Warwickshire)

ECB announces England Men’s Central Contracts for 2020/21 season

The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) is looking to cut 62 job positions within the organization due to massive financial impact of the COVID-19, chief executive Tom Harrison said on Tuesday.&nbsp;

With professional cricket in the UK hit badly for many months due to the dreaded coronavirus, Harrison said that the sport had witnessed losses to the tune of more than 100 million pounds ($128.92 million) with the figures expected to rise to 200 million pounds if there are further disruptions to the calendar year in 2021.&nbsp;

ECB’s brainchild – The Hundred – was likely to add 11 million pounds of revenue to the sport in its first year but the tournament was postponed until 2021.&nbsp;

“The entire cricket network has pulled together to get us through this challenge so far and overcoming it will mean continuing to make tough decisions as we have done this year,” Harrison said in a statement.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/mentally-challenging-jofra-archer-opts-out-of-big-bash-league-to-spend-time-with-family-327663" hreflang="en">'Mentally challenging...' - Jofra Archer opts out of Big Bash League to spend time with family</a>

“Over recent weeks we have thoroughly reviewed the ECB’s structures and budgets in order to reduce central costs without compromising on our ambitions....

“These proposals include a 20% reduction in our workforce budget, which will equate to the removal of 62 roles from our structure.” 
Earlier, the ECB had used short-term cost-cutting measures, including furloughing staff, pay cuts and recruitment freeze at the onset of financial crisis. However, Harrison explained that a long-term solution is needed.&nbsp;

“It is an irrefutable fact that the impact of this pandemic is significant and will be long-lasting. There is deep uncertainty about the future and it is vital we take more steps to ensure the future financial sustainability of cricket in England and Wales,” he said.

<h2>Full statement by ECB’s Tom Harrison:</h2>

The COVID-19 pandemic has left cricket facing its most significant challenge of the modern era. The game has already lost more than £100m, and the financial impact is likely to be £200m if there is further disruption next year, which many are expecting.

Getting cricket back on this summer – at a recreational, domestic and international level, for both men and women - has been a remarkable achievement by everyone across the game. It has been the result of true partnership in action; across our first class counties and recreational game, from our broadcast and commercial partners and with Government and local public health agencies.

When the crisis first hit, the ECB put in place a range of measures to save money in the short term including furloughing staff and significant pay reductions across the organisation, in addition to a recruitment freeze. I am very proud of the work that has been done by my colleagues across the business and the sacrifices made at a time when we asked them to work harder than ever before, while managing their own personal experiences of COVID. It is now an irrefutable fact however, that the impact of this pandemic is significant and will be long-lasting. There is also deep uncertainty about the future, and it is vital we take more steps now to ensure the future financial sustainability of cricket in England and Wales.

The entire cricket network has pulled together to get us through this challenge so far and overcoming it will mean continuing to work in partnership and continuing to make tough decisions as we have done this year. We must reduce the cost base across the game - and that requires the ECB to lead the way by reducing its own cost base.

Given this new reality, if we are to safeguard cricket’s long-term future and still deliver on the growth ambitions of our Inspiring Generations strategy, it is clear the ECB will need to become a leaner and more agile organisation.

Over recent weeks we have thoroughly reviewed the ECB’s structures and budgets in order to reduce central costs without compromising on our ambitions. We have now shared with colleagues our Board-approved proposals, which will generate significant savings. Every part of the ECB is affected by these changes, and these savings will only be possible by reducing our headcount.

These proposals include a 20% reduction in our workforce budget, which will equate to the removal of 62 roles from our structure – a number which is largely made up of existing headcount and a small number of vacant positions. Additionally, we are also proposing further cost savings by changing a number of current posts into flexible working roles. ECB staff have been informed and a collective consultation will begin imminently.

Seven months ago, sharing a message of this nature was unthinkable. The position we had created to come together as a game and grow cricket on the back of a remarkable year in 2019 was truly game-changing. Our ambition and energy are unchanged, but how we get there now needs to look significantly different to what we originally planned for.

I am extremely proud of the work everyone at the ECB and the wider county, county board and club network has done this summer. In the most trying of circumstances, with uncertainty the only guarantee, we have come together to deliver a compelling summer of cricket at all levels. When the pressure has been on, our sport has come together and shown cricket in its best light.

Over the coming weeks we will be supporting our colleagues affected by these proposals as we seek to safeguard the future of our sport. We will share more news as this process progresses. 
&nbsp;

The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) is looking to cut 62 job positions within the organization due to massive financial impact of the COVID-19, chief executive Tom Harrison said on Tuesday.

The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) is looking to cut 62 job positions within the organization due to massive financial impact of the COVID-19, chief executive Tom Harrison said on Tuesday. With professional cricket in the UK hit badly for many months due to the dreaded coronavirus, Harrison said that the sport had witnessed losses to the tune of more than 100 million pounds ($128.92 million) with the figures expected to rise to 200 million pounds if there are further disruptions to the calendar year in 2021. ECB’s brainchild – The Hundred – was likely to add 11 million pounds of revenue to the sport in its first year but the tournament was postponed until 2021. “The entire cricket network has pulled together to get us through this challenge so far and overcoming it will mean continuing to make tough decisions as we have done this year,” Harrison said in a statement. ALSO READ: 'Mentally challenging...' - Jofra Archer opts out of Big Bash League to spend time with family “Over recent weeks we have thoroughly reviewed the ECB’s structures and budgets in order to reduce central costs without compromising on our ambitions.... “These proposals include a 20% reduction in our workforce budget, which will equate to the removal of 62 roles from our structure.” Earlier, the ECB had used short-term cost-cutting measures, including furloughing staff, pay cuts and recruitment freeze at the onset of financial crisis. However, Harrison explained that a long-term solution is needed. “It is an irrefutable fact that the impact of this pandemic is significant and will be long-lasting. There is deep uncertainty about the future and it is vital we take more steps to ensure the future financial sustainability of cricket in England and Wales,” he said. Full statement by ECB’s Tom Harrison: The COVID-19 pandemic has left cricket facing its most significant challenge of the modern era. The game has already lost more than £100m, and the financial impact is likely to be £200m if there is further disruption next year, which many are expecting. Getting cricket back on this summer – at a recreational, domestic and international level, for both men and women - has been a remarkable achievement by everyone across the game. It has been the result of true partnership in action; across our first class counties and recreational game, from our broadcast and commercial partners and with Government and local public health agencies. When the crisis first hit, the ECB put in place a range of measures to save money in the short term including furloughing staff and significant pay reductions across the organisation, in addition to a recruitment freeze. I am very proud of the work that has been done by my colleagues across the business and the sacrifices made at a time when we asked them to work harder than ever before, while managing their own personal experiences of COVID. It is now an irrefutable fact however, that the impact of this pandemic is significant and will be long-lasting. There is also deep uncertainty about the future, and it is vital we take more steps now to ensure the future financial sustainability of cricket in England and Wales. The entire cricket network has pulled together to get us through this challenge so far and overcoming it will mean continuing to work in partnership and continuing to make tough decisions as we have done this year. We must reduce the cost base across the game - and that requires the ECB to lead the way by reducing its own cost base. Given this new reality, if we are to safeguard cricket’s long-term future and still deliver on the growth ambitions of our Inspiring Generations strategy, it is clear the ECB will need to become a leaner and more agile organisation. Over recent weeks we have thoroughly reviewed the ECB’s structures and budgets in order to reduce central costs without compromising on our ambitions. We have now shared with colleagues our Board-approved proposals, which will generate significant savings. Every part of the ECB is affected by these changes, and these savings will only be possible by reducing our headcount. These proposals include a 20% reduction in our workforce budget, which will equate to the removal of 62 roles from our structure – a number which is largely made up of existing headcount and a small number of vacant positions. Additionally, we are also proposing further cost savings by changing a number of current posts into flexible working roles. ECB staff have been informed and a collective consultation will begin imminently. Seven months ago, sharing a message of this nature was unthinkable. The position we had created to come together as a game and grow cricket on the back of a remarkable year in 2019 was truly game-changing. Our ambition and energy are unchanged, but how we get there now needs to look significantly different to what we originally planned for. I am extremely proud of the work everyone at the ECB and the wider county, county board and club network has done this summer. In the most trying of circumstances, with uncertainty the only guarantee, we have come together to deliver a compelling summer of cricket at all levels. When the pressure has been on, our sport has come together and shown cricket in its best light. Over the coming weeks we will be supporting our colleagues affected by these proposals as we seek to safeguard the future of our sport. We will share more news as this process progresses.

ECB planning to cut 62 jobs due to financial ramifications of COVID-19

England&nbsp;off-spinner&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/womens-world-cup-final-history-awaits-ladies-in-blue-18195">Laura&nbsp;Marsh</a> has ended her&nbsp;international&nbsp;career in a 13-year span that included three World Cup wins, the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/new-zealand-boosts-test-security-after-archer-racially-abused-264531">England&nbsp;and Wales Cricket Board</a> (ECB) has said.

The 33-year-old made her debut as a pace bowler in 2006 before switching to spin and signs&nbsp;off&nbsp;with 217&nbsp;international&nbsp;wickets, making her the most successful women's&nbsp;spinner&nbsp;in English cricket history.

"Laura&nbsp;has been a fantastic servant to English cricket and we're so grateful for everything she has contributed," <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/icc-may-consider-scrapping-toss-in-test-cricket-137768/amp">Clare Connor</a>, the ECB's managing director of women's cricket said in a statement.

"Her record ranks amongst the very best bowlers in the history of our game ... She's been the complete team player and a role model for&nbsp;England&nbsp;women's cricket and she will be missed."

England off-spinner Laura Marsh has ended her international career in a 13-year span that included three World Cup wins, the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) has said.

England off-spinner Laura Marsh has ended her international career in a 13-year span that included three World Cup wins, the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) has said. The 33-year-old made her debut as a pace bowler in 2006 before switching to spin and signs off with 217 international wickets, making her the most successful women's spinner in English cricket history. "Laura has been a fantastic servant to English cricket and we're so grateful for everything she has contributed," Clare Connor, the ECB's managing director of women's cricket said in a statement. "Her record ranks amongst the very best bowlers in the history of our game ... She's been the complete team player and a role model for England women's cricket and she will be missed."

England off-spinner Laura March announces international retirement

Jos Buttler refused to put a limit on his rapid run-scoring as hosts England go in search of a first men's World Cup title.&nbsp;

Despite appearing in every World Cup since the inaugural edition in 1975, England have never lifted the trophy, with the last of their three losing appearances in the final back in 1992.&nbsp;

But hopes are high that 2019 may finally be their year, with key batsman Buttler coming into form ahead of England's tournament opener against South Africa at The Oval on May 30 courtesy of a stunning century in a 12-run win over Pakistan in the second one-day international at Southampton on Saturday.&nbsp;

The 28-year-old went to three figures in just 50 balls, celebrating the landmark with a baby-rocking gesture as wife Louise and new daughter Georgia looked on from the stands. &nbsp;

Only Buttler himself, with a 46-ball effort against Pakistan in November 2015, has scored a quicker ODI hundred for England.

But the 28-year-old, who has five of England quickest 10 ODI hundreds to his credit, believes a new national record could be within his reach.

"Absolutely," he said following his match-winning 110 not out against Pakistan

"When the opportunities arise, it gives you lots of confidence. We've seen other guys around the world show it's possible."

'Worked things out'

Buttler, England's one-day wicket-keeper, has also made his mark in global franchise tournaments such as the Twenty20 Indian Premier League and Australia's Big Bash.&nbsp;

"In the last few years, I've had some brilliant experiences.&nbsp;

"A couple more years older and worked things out a bit better, managing to drip-feed them into my game really well.&nbsp;

"I'm really chasing that consistency and want to perform every day. That's been a big part of the last few years to try and be more consistent."&nbsp;

While Buttler's World Cup place is assured barring injury, the same cannot be said for several of England's bowlers with the arrival of recently qualified Sussex quick Jofra Archer turning the five-match Pakistan series into something of a 'bowl-out'.&nbsp;

England are due to announced their 15-man squad for the World Cup at Lord's on May 21, with white-ball captain Eoin Morgan relishing the competition for places.

"I think they are all pushing each other," said Morgan ahead of Tuesday's third ODI in Bristol.

"It's a bit like our batting unit the last two or three years. Guys have come in and done well.

"And guys will miss out," the former Ireland batsman added.

Archer's arrival on the England scene has turned the spotlight on the likes of fellow quick bowlers Liam Plunkett and David Willey.

With Archer rested at Southampton, left-armer Willey took two important wickets in a fine return of two for 57 in his maximum 10 overs, with Plunkett returning figures of two for 64.&nbsp;

Jos Buttler refused to put a limit on his rapid run-scoring as hosts England go in search of a first men's World Cup title. Despite appearing in every World Cup since the inaugural edition in 1975, England have never lifted the trophy, with the last of their three losing appearances in the final back in 1992.

Jos Buttler refused to put a limit on his rapid run-scoring as hosts England go in search of a first men's World Cup title. Despite appearing in every World Cup since the inaugural edition in 1975, England have never lifted the trophy, with the last of their three losing appearances in the final back in 1992. But hopes are high that 2019 may finally be their year, with key batsman Buttler coming into form ahead of England's tournament opener against South Africa at The Oval on May 30 courtesy of a stunning century in a 12-run win over Pakistan in the second one-day international at Southampton on Saturday. The 28-year-old went to three figures in just 50 balls, celebrating the landmark with a baby-rocking gesture as wife Louise and new daughter Georgia looked on from the stands. Only Buttler himself, with a 46-ball effort against Pakistan in November 2015, has scored a quicker ODI hundred for England. But the 28-year-old, who has five of England quickest 10 ODI hundreds to his credit, believes a new national record could be within his reach. "Absolutely," he said following his match-winning 110 not out against Pakistan "When the opportunities arise, it gives you lots of confidence. We've seen other guys around the world show it's possible." 'Worked things out' Buttler, England's one-day wicket-keeper, has also made his mark in global franchise tournaments such as the Twenty20 Indian Premier League and Australia's Big Bash. "In the last few years, I've had some brilliant experiences. "A couple more years older and worked things out a bit better, managing to drip-feed them into my game really well. "I'm really chasing that consistency and want to perform every day. That's been a big part of the last few years to try and be more consistent." While Buttler's World Cup place is assured barring injury, the same cannot be said for several of England's bowlers with the arrival of recently qualified Sussex quick Jofra Archer turning the five-match Pakistan series into something of a 'bowl-out'. England are due to announced their 15-man squad for the World Cup at Lord's on May 21, with white-ball captain Eoin Morgan relishing the competition for places. "I think they are all pushing each other," said Morgan ahead of Tuesday's third ODI in Bristol. "It's a bit like our batting unit the last two or three years. Guys have come in and done well. "And guys will miss out," the former Ireland batsman added. Archer's arrival on the England scene has turned the spotlight on the likes of fellow quick bowlers Liam Plunkett and David Willey. With Archer rested at Southampton, left-armer Willey took two important wickets in a fine return of two for 57 in his maximum 10 overs, with Plunkett returning figures of two for 64.

'When the opportunities arise, it gives you lots of confidence,' Jos Buttler on England's win probability

England captain Eoin Morgan said <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/alex-hales-withdrawn-from-englands-world-cup-squad-214471&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjh8KLz6v7hAhVx73MBHXjlAvEQFjABegQIEBAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw06d_yH9NwGWSeSKBauqTrq">Alex Hales</a>'&nbsp;actions showed "complete disregard" for values his team had built in recent years and confirmed it was the senior players who wanted the batsman to play no part in their World Cup preparations.

The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) dropped Hales from England`s preliminary World Cup squad after the Guardian reported the player had tested positive for recreational drugs.

Speaking ahead of England's one-off one-dayer against Ireland, Morgan discussed the process by which Hales was removed from the squad.

"I spoke to the coach (Trevor Bayliss) at depth and I spoke to all of our senior players - I actually called the meeting with the senior players to discuss moving forward, how it would affect the team and the team culture'', Morgan said.

"We've been working extremely hard over the last 18 months to try and build that team culture and established values that we could adhere to. But with this Alex has clearly demonstrated a lack of respect for these values, and there has been a complete breakdown of trust between the team and Alex. Out of that meeting, everybody agreed that the best decision was for Alex to be de-selected", Morgan added.

Hales was fined and suspended for his part in a nightclub altercation which also involved teammate Ben Stokes in 2017.

Morgan said the decision to remove Hales from the group had been reached after consulting with Joe Root, Moeen Ali, Stokes, Jos Buttler and Chris Woakes at the team’s training camp in Cardiff last weekend.

"We will need at least 15 men to win that World Cup," Morgan said.&nbsp;

"For whatever way Alex would have dealt with it, the other 14 people would have been dragged down and that would have been quite a weight taken forward, and that didn`t outweigh his performance", Morgan added.

Morgan confirmed all-rounder Jofra Archer will make his much-anticipated England debut against Ireland, while Dawid Malan and wicketkeeper Ben Foakes will also feature for the first time.

England captain Eoin Morgan said Alex Hales' actions showed "complete disregard" for values his team had built in recent years and confirmed it was the senior players who wanted the batsman to play no part in their World Cup preparations.

England captain Eoin Morgan said Alex Hales' actions showed "complete disregard" for values his team had built in recent years and confirmed it was the senior players who wanted the batsman to play no part in their World Cup preparations. The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) dropped Hales from England`s preliminary World Cup squad after the Guardian reported the player had tested positive for recreational drugs. Speaking ahead of England's one-off one-dayer against Ireland, Morgan discussed the process by which Hales was removed from the squad. "I spoke to the coach (Trevor Bayliss) at depth and I spoke to all of our senior players - I actually called the meeting with the senior players to discuss moving forward, how it would affect the team and the team culture'', Morgan said. "We've been working extremely hard over the last 18 months to try and build that team culture and established values that we could adhere to. But with this Alex has clearly demonstrated a lack of respect for these values, and there has been a complete breakdown of trust between the team and Alex. Out of that meeting, everybody agreed that the best decision was for Alex to be de-selected", Morgan added. Hales was fined and suspended for his part in a nightclub altercation which also involved teammate Ben Stokes in 2017. Morgan said the decision to remove Hales from the group had been reached after consulting with Joe Root, Moeen Ali, Stokes, Jos Buttler and Chris Woakes at the team’s training camp in Cardiff last weekend. "We will need at least 15 men to win that World Cup," Morgan said. "For whatever way Alex would have dealt with it, the other 14 people would have been dragged down and that would have been quite a weight taken forward, and that didn`t outweigh his performance", Morgan added. Morgan confirmed all-rounder Jofra Archer will make his much-anticipated England debut against Ireland, while Dawid Malan and wicketkeeper Ben Foakes will also feature for the first time.

Alex Hales showed 'lack of respect' for England teammates, says captain Eoin Morgan

Former Pakistan leg-spinner Danish Kaneria has admitted his role in a spot-fixing case involving former Essex teammate Mervyn Westfield on Thursday, more than six years after he was banned by the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB).

Westfield was jailed for four months after pleading guilty to accepting a payment to concede a set number of runs off an over in a 40-overs English county match against Durham in 2009.

Kaneria, who had repeatedly denied any involvement in trying to engineer particular situations in a game, was banned for life by the ECB in June 2012 for "cajoling and pressurising" Westfield into accepting money.

"My name is Danish Kaneria and I admit that I was guilty of the two charges brought against me by the England and Wales Cricket Board in 2012," the 37-year-old told Al Jazeera.&nbsp;

"I have become strong enough to make this decision, because you cannot live a life with lies."

Kaneria remains Pakistan`s most successful spinner with 261 wickets in 61 tests.&nbsp;

He last played for Pakistan against England at Trent Bridge Test in 2010, and has not appeared in any first-class game since March 2012.

"I want to apologise to Mervyn Westfield, my Essex team-mates, my Essex cricket club, my Essex cricket fans. I say sorry to Pakistan," Kaneria added.

"If the ECB and ICC (The International Cricket Council) and other bodies would give me a second chance I can help to educate young people in cricket, teach them that if you do wrong you are finished like me."

Former Pakistan leg-spinner Danish Kaneria has admitted his role in a spot-fixing case involving former Essex teammate Mervyn Westfield on Thursday, more than six years after he was banned by the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB).

Former Pakistan leg-spinner Danish Kaneria has admitted his role in a spot-fixing case involving former Essex teammate Mervyn Westfield on Thursday, more than six years after he was banned by the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB). Westfield was jailed for four months after pleading guilty to accepting a payment to concede a set number of runs off an over in a 40-overs English county match against Durham in 2009. Kaneria, who had repeatedly denied any involvement in trying to engineer particular situations in a game, was banned for life by the ECB in June 2012 for "cajoling and pressurising" Westfield into accepting money. "My name is Danish Kaneria and I admit that I was guilty of the two charges brought against me by the England and Wales Cricket Board in 2012," the 37-year-old told Al Jazeera. "I have become strong enough to make this decision, because you cannot live a life with lies." Kaneria remains Pakistan`s most successful spinner with 261 wickets in 61 tests. He last played for Pakistan against England at Trent Bridge Test in 2010, and has not appeared in any first-class game since March 2012. "I want to apologise to Mervyn Westfield, my Essex team-mates, my Essex cricket club, my Essex cricket fans. I say sorry to Pakistan," Kaneria added. "If the ECB and ICC (The International Cricket Council) and other bodies would give me a second chance I can help to educate young people in cricket, teach them that if you do wrong you are finished like me."

Ex-Pakistan spinner Danish Kaneria admits role in Westfield spot-fixing case

England cricketer Ben Stokes has lost his sponsorship contract with sportswear giant New Balance following his arrest outside a nightclub which also left his Ashes series in doubt.

Stokes, who was arrested on suspicion of causing actual bodily harm, also issued an apology after a video emerged of him mimicking the disabled son of British celebrity Katie Price.

American firm New Balance said it &quot;does not condone&quot; behavior by Stokes, who is also believed to be the subject of a damning video showing a man throwing multiple punches outside the Bristol nightspot.

&quot;New Balance does not condone behavior by our global athletes that do not match our brand culture and values, and therefore we have ended our relationship with Ben Stokes, effective October 11, 2017,&quot; the company said, in a statement which was widely reported by British media.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/watch-ben-stokes-englands-test-vice-captain-caught-in-a-brawl-in-manchester-20787" target="_blank">WATCH: England Test vice-captain Ben Stokes caught in brawl outside Manchester bar</a>

The talismanic all-rounder&#39;s career has been plunged into turmoil following his arrest last month, which prompted his suspension until further notice by the England and Wales Cricket Board.

No final decision has been taken on whether the Test vice-captain will play the Ashes series in Australia but he will not travel with the other players on October 28, the ECB has said.

Separately, the embattled Stokes posted an apology on Twitter after his mocking impersonation of a TV appearance by 15-year-old Harvey Price, who suffers from a genetic disorder, drew strong condemnation.

&quot;I should never have done this and I am so sorry,&quot; Stokes wrote. &quot;It was absolutely not my intention to offend Harvey, Katie or anybody else...I do hope I can put this right.&quot;

The Test vice-captain's place on the Ashes squad is also in doubt after he was arrested for brawling outside a nightclub in Manchester

England cricketer Ben Stokes has lost his sponsorship contract with sportswear giant New Balance following his arrest outside a nightclub which also left his Ashes series in doubt. Stokes, who was arrested on suspicion of causing actual bodily harm, also issued an apology after a video emerged of him mimicking the disabled son of British celebrity Katie Price. American firm New Balance said it "does not condone" behavior by Stokes, who is also believed to be the subject of a damning video showing a man throwing multiple punches outside the Bristol nightspot. "New Balance does not condone behavior by our global athletes that do not match our brand culture and values, and therefore we have ended our relationship with Ben Stokes, effective October 11, 2017," the company said, in a statement which was widely reported by British media. WATCH: England Test vice-captain Ben Stokes caught in brawl outside Manchester bar The talismanic all-rounder's career has been plunged into turmoil following his arrest last month, which prompted his suspension until further notice by the England and Wales Cricket Board. No final decision has been taken on whether the Test vice-captain will play the Ashes series in Australia but he will not travel with the other players on October 28, the ECB has said. Separately, the embattled Stokes posted an apology on Twitter after his mocking impersonation of a TV appearance by 15-year-old Harvey Price, who suffers from a genetic disorder, drew strong condemnation. "I should never have done this and I am so sorry," Stokes wrote. "It was absolutely not my intention to offend Harvey, Katie or anybody else...I do hope I can put this right."

After brawl, England cricketer Ben Stokes loses New Balance contract

Cricket Australia (CA) will push for up to two day-night Tests at next year&#39;s Ashes series despite the misgivings of captain Steven Smith and his England counterpart Alastair Cook. 
 
Both skippers said they felt the game&#39;s most enduring series could survive without being played under lights but CA CEO James Sutherland said he felt it was a &quot;natural progression&quot;. &quot;I respect the views of Steven and Alastair,&quot; he told reporters in Melbourne today. 
 
&quot;The Ashes is a great contest and will no doubt attract a huge audience both at the grounds and on television, but the facts of the matter are by playing day-night Tests, we&#39;re going to get even bigger audiences at the game and on television.&nbsp;The Ashes series is still a long way off and we want to get through this summer first but we will play somewhere between zero and two day-night Tests during the Ashes in 18 months&#39; time.&quot; 
 
Australia played the maiden day-night Test against New Zealand at Adelaide Oval last November and have just agreed another flood-lit match with South Africa at the same venue during the home summer. 
 
The hosts will also play their series-opener against Pakistan with the pink ball in Brisbane for the first time in December. 
 
Smith has backed day-night cricket repeatedly but said he did not feel it necessary for the Ashes, which reliably draws big crowds.&nbsp;&quot;I think it works pretty well with the red ball,&quot; he told media while on tour in the Caribbean.&nbsp;&quot;It&#39;s been around for years and I think playing against England we always get the viewers and the crowds out,&quot; added Smith. 
 
Cook echoed Smith&#39;s position. &quot;It&#39;s probably not a series where you need to do it exactly at this time,&quot; he said. 
 
England and Wales Cricket board chairman Colin Graves has also backed day-night cricket, saying it was only a matter of time that a match would be played in England.

Cricket Australia CEO James Sutherland believes that day-night tests will draw bigger audiences to the game and on television

Cricket Australia (CA) will push for up to two day-night Tests at next year's Ashes series despite the misgivings of captain Steven Smith and his England counterpart Alastair Cook. Both skippers said they felt the game's most enduring series could survive without being played under lights but CA CEO James Sutherland said he felt it was a "natural progression". "I respect the views of Steven and Alastair," he told reporters in Melbourne today. "The Ashes is a great contest and will no doubt attract a huge audience both at the grounds and on television, but the facts of the matter are by playing day-night Tests, we're going to get even bigger audiences at the game and on television. The Ashes series is still a long way off and we want to get through this summer first but we will play somewhere between zero and two day-night Tests during the Ashes in 18 months' time." Australia played the maiden day-night Test against New Zealand at Adelaide Oval last November and have just agreed another flood-lit match with South Africa at the same venue during the home summer. The hosts will also play their series-opener against Pakistan with the pink ball in Brisbane for the first time in December. Smith has backed day-night cricket repeatedly but said he did not feel it necessary for the Ashes, which reliably draws big crowds. "I think it works pretty well with the red ball," he told media while on tour in the Caribbean. "It's been around for years and I think playing against England we always get the viewers and the crowds out," added Smith. Cook echoed Smith's position. "It's probably not a series where you need to do it exactly at this time," he said. England and Wales Cricket board chairman Colin Graves has also backed day-night cricket, saying it was only a matter of time that a match would be played in England.

Cricket Australia pushing for two day-night Ashes Tests