Pakistan Super League (PSL) could be held without star English players next season as ECB’s new policy denies NOCs to centrally contracted cricketers to skip premier domestic tournaments for T20-based franchise cricket coinciding with it. Per the latest report, the T20 freelancers claim to have been blindsided by the ECB’s new policy on NOCs as they seek legal action against the board.

Though the ECB chief executive Richard Gould feels the policy was designed to ‘protect the integrity of the sport’, the top-tier T20 freelancers, the players without national contracts and on white-ball-only deals with their respective counties, are of a different opinion, feeling this policy restricts their chances of plying their trade elsewhere.

While some players reacted furiously to this new policy, which the board approved on Wednesday, the others have discussed options with the Professional Cricketers' Association (PCA) and among themselves in a WhatsApp group chat.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/champions-trophy-2025-pakistan-likely-to-accept-hybrid-model-after-iccs-deadline-warning-780304">Champions Trophy 2025: Pakistan likely to accept hybrid model after ICC's deadline warning</a>

"The PCA's legal team is currently completing a thorough check of the implementation of the policy," Daryl Mitchell, the PCA's interim chief executive, said in a chat with ESPNcricinfo. "The PCA is continuing to source considered opinions and potential consequences of this policy from players and player representatives."

The ECB’s new policy is a response to curb the transfer of top talent drawn towards the franchise-based T20 Leagues worldwide, the most significant of which is the Major League Cricket (MLC), with the England players also featuring in Lanka Premier League (LPL), the T10 tournaments in the Cayman Islands and Zimbabwe, and also in well-established Caribbean Premier League (CPL).&nbsp;

Besides, in 2025, the PSL will also be staged during the April-May window, unlike in February-March for all these years, which will again coincide with the County Championship; the ECB is unlikely to grant NOCs to players with all-format county contracts to appear in that tournament.

This new policy will, however, impact players like Jason Roy and Alex Hales, who missed parts of Blast this year to feature in the MLC and LPL, respectively.&nbsp;

<h2>No harm to IPL</h2>

Though this policy restricts contracted players to skip all-format domestic tournaments for franchise-based leagues, IPL remains an exception, as promised by the ECB to the BCCI.&nbsp;

Per the earlier reports, all boards have written to the BCCI, promising the availability of their players (picked in the IPL 2025 mega auction) for the complete season for the upcoming three editions.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, IPL 2025 will get underway from March 14 onwards next year.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Pakistan Super League (PSL) could be held without star English players next season as ECB’s new policy denies NOCs to centrally contracted cricketers to skip premier domestic tournaments for T20-based franchise cricket coinciding with it.

Pakistan Super League (PSL) could be held without star English players next season as ECB’s new policy denies NOCs to centrally contracted cricketers to skip premier domestic tournaments for T20-based franchise cricket coinciding with it. Per the latest report, the T20 freelancers claim to have been blindsided by the ECB’s new policy on NOCs as they seek legal action against the board. Though the ECB chief executive Richard Gould feels the policy was designed to ‘protect the integrity of the sport’, the top-tier T20 freelancers, the players without national contracts and on white-ball-only deals with their respective counties, are of a different opinion, feeling this policy restricts their chances of plying their trade elsewhere. While some players reacted furiously to this new policy, which the board approved on Wednesday, the others have discussed options with the Professional Cricketers' Association (PCA) and among themselves in a WhatsApp group chat. ALSO READ: Champions Trophy 2025: Pakistan likely to accept hybrid model after ICC's deadline warning "The PCA's legal team is currently completing a thorough check of the implementation of the policy," Daryl Mitchell, the PCA's interim chief executive, said in a chat with ESPNcricinfo. "The PCA is continuing to source considered opinions and potential consequences of this policy from players and player representatives." The ECB’s new policy is a response to curb the transfer of top talent drawn towards the franchise-based T20 Leagues worldwide, the most significant of which is the Major League Cricket (MLC), with the England players also featuring in Lanka Premier League (LPL), the T10 tournaments in the Cayman Islands and Zimbabwe, and also in well-established Caribbean Premier League (CPL). Besides, in 2025, the PSL will also be staged during the April-May window, unlike in February-March for all these years, which will again coincide with the County Championship; the ECB is unlikely to grant NOCs to players with all-format county contracts to appear in that tournament. This new policy will, however, impact players like Jason Roy and Alex Hales, who missed parts of Blast this year to feature in the MLC and LPL, respectively. No harm to IPL Though this policy restricts contracted players to skip all-format domestic tournaments for franchise-based leagues, IPL remains an exception, as promised by the ECB to the BCCI. Per the earlier reports, all boards have written to the BCCI, promising the availability of their players (picked in the IPL 2025 mega auction) for the complete season for the upcoming three editions. Meanwhile, IPL 2025 will get underway from March 14 onwards next year. (With inputs from agencies)

Blow to PSL as ECB to deny NOCs to centrally contracted players for T20 franchise league under new policy

IND vs ENG Test: In an unexpected turn of events, England’s spinner Shoaib Bashir was ruled out of the first Test match between India and England due to some visa issues. The uncapped cricketer had to return home after he was denied entry to India for the series over a visa issue.

The incident upset the England side as they were looking forward to starting their Test campaign on January 25 with Surrey-born Bashir. As per media reports, the 20-year-old had some visa issues due to his Pakistani heritage, though nothing of this sort has been confirmed by the Indian authorities involved.

<h2>Who is Shoaib Bashir? England cricketer ruled out of first IND vs ENG Test in India over visa issue</h2>

Shoaib Bashir is a right-hand batsman and a right-arm off-break bowler from England. He is of Pakistani heritage and was born in 2003 in Surrey and plays cricket for Somerset County Cricket Club.&nbsp;

He made his first-class debut for Somerset against Essex in June 2023. He made his T20 Blast debut for Somerset against Hampshire also in June 2023.

His uncle was a wicket-keeper batsman for Guildford City Cricket Club, who encouraged Bashir to choose cricket as a career.&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-vs-england-virat-kohlis-rcb-teammate-rajat-patidar-replaces-him-for-first-two-tests-683022">India vs England: Virat Kohli's RCB teammate Rajat Patidar replaces him for first two Tests</a>

Before signing with Somerset in 2022, Bashir played club cricket for Guildford, age-group cricket with Surrey and Middlesex, and Minor Counties cricket for Berkshire. He spent the winter of 2022-2023 playing club cricket in Australia.

In terms of his international career, he played for the England Lions cricket team for the first time in October 2023. In his international debut against Afghanistan B, he took six wickets for 42 runs in 15 overs across both innings.

Bashir has shown exceptional skill as an off-spinner despite his height. He is 6ft 4in tall, which is considered relatively tall for an off-spinner.&nbsp;

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We've named our XI for the first Test in Hyderabad! 🏏 
 
🇮🇳 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvENG?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDvENG</a> 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿 | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/EnglandCricket?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#EnglandCricket</a>
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On 11 December 2023, Bashir received his awaited debut call-up to the senior England side, being included in the 16-player squad for the Test tour of India. He was part of the squad during their preparations for the India series in Abu Dhabi but couldn’t join them in India following a delay with his visa application.&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/history-made-palestine-enter-asian-cup-last-16-for-first-time-as-china-bow-out-683090">HISTORY MADE! Palestine enter Asian Cup last 16 for first time as China bow out</a>

While the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) hoped to count on assistance from the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) to resolve the issue before the series opener, this has not been the case.&nbsp;

Thus, the travelling British media in India reported&nbsp;on Tuesday (Jan 24)&nbsp;that Bashir had been asked to return to London with his passport to get the correct paperwork at the Indian High Commission.

(With inputs from agencies)

IND vs ENG Test: In an unexpected turn of events, England’s spinner Shoaib Bashir was ruled out of the first Test match between India and England due to some visa issues.

IND vs ENG Test: In an unexpected turn of events, England’s spinner Shoaib Bashir was ruled out of the first Test match between India and England due to some visa issues. The uncapped cricketer had to return home after he was denied entry to India for the series over a visa issue. The incident upset the England side as they were looking forward to starting their Test campaign on January 25 with Surrey-born Bashir. As per media reports, the 20-year-old had some visa issues due to his Pakistani heritage, though nothing of this sort has been confirmed by the Indian authorities involved. Who is Shoaib Bashir? England cricketer ruled out of first IND vs ENG Test in India over visa issue Shoaib Bashir is a right-hand batsman and a right-arm off-break bowler from England. He is of Pakistani heritage and was born in 2003 in Surrey and plays cricket for Somerset County Cricket Club. He made his first-class debut for Somerset against Essex in June 2023. He made his T20 Blast debut for Somerset against Hampshire also in June 2023. His uncle was a wicket-keeper batsman for Guildford City Cricket Club, who encouraged Bashir to choose cricket as a career. Also Read | India vs England: Virat Kohli's RCB teammate Rajat Patidar replaces him for first two Tests Before signing with Somerset in 2022, Bashir played club cricket for Guildford, age-group cricket with Surrey and Middlesex, and Minor Counties cricket for Berkshire. He spent the winter of 2022-2023 playing club cricket in Australia. In terms of his international career, he played for the England Lions cricket team for the first time in October 2023. In his international debut against Afghanistan B, he took six wickets for 42 runs in 15 overs across both innings. Bashir has shown exceptional skill as an off-spinner despite his height. He is 6ft 4in tall, which is considered relatively tall for an off-spinner. We've named our XI for the first Test in Hyderabad! 🏏 🇮🇳 #INDvENG 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿 | #EnglandCricket — England Cricket (@englandcricket) January 24, 2024 × On 11 December 2023, Bashir received his awaited debut call-up to the senior England side, being included in the 16-player squad for the Test tour of India. He was part of the squad during their preparations for the India series in Abu Dhabi but couldn’t join them in India following a delay with his visa application. Also Read | HISTORY MADE! Palestine enter Asian Cup last 16 for first time as China bow out While the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) hoped to count on assistance from the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) to resolve the issue before the series opener, this has not been the case. Thus, the travelling British media in India reported on Tuesday (Jan 24) that Bashir had been asked to return to London with his passport to get the correct paperwork at the Indian High Commission. (With inputs from agencies)

Who is Shoaib Bashir, England cricketer ruled out of first IND vs ENG Test over visa issue?

Former England captain Nasser Hussain has pin-pointed a key factor in Jos Buttler’s drop in form as he struggles with both bat and leadership issues at the ODI World Cup in India. Buttler, leading England with huge expectations has seen his side with huge dip in form as they have lost six matches in the global tournament. According to Hussain, the team’s performance has been the key reason why he has been struggling with form at the ODI World Cup.

<h2>Hussain highlights key factor</h2>

“When the team’s performance is going in the wrong direction, it weighs you down [as a captain]."

"It inspires some but at the moment, the way the white-ball team is playing is weighing Buttler down and it is affecting his batting,” said Hussain while speaking to Sky Sports.

So far in the tournament, Buttler has scored 43, 20, 9, 15, 8, 10, 1, and 5 which has been a clear reflection of his form. With 111 runs in eight innings, he has not fired at all in the ODI World Cup while averaging just 14. England’s only victory in the tournament came against minnows Bangladesh while they were comprehensively beaten by Afghanistan.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/odi-world-cup-2023-it-was-disappointing-says-bangladesh-bowling-coach-donald-on-shakibs-time-out-appeal-656478">ODI World Cup 2023: 'It was disappointing,' says Bangladesh bowling coach Donald on Shakib's time out appeal</a>

Their last defeat to Australia ended their semifinal hopes with them facing a tough battle to make the top seven. A place in the top seven will see them reach the Champions Trophy 2025 which will be hosted by Pakistan. However, as things stand, it will be a tough task as they stay rooted to the foot of the league standings.

England will have to beat the Netherlands in their penultimate match of the league stage with a win keeping them in the hunt for a place in the Champions Trophy. As things stand, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, the Netherlands, and England are fighting for a place in the Champions Trophy with only one making it through.&nbsp;

At the time of writing, the Netherlands were 12/0 in four overs in their ODI World Cup contest in Pune. Interestingly, Ben Stokes was the centre of attraction with a 108-run knock which saw him get the better of the opposition. England put up 339/9 in their 50 overs with Buttler once again failing to make a mark having been dismissed for 5.

Former England captain Nasser Hussain has pin-pointed a key factor in Jos Buttler’s drop in form as he struggles with both bat and leadership issues at the ODI World Cup in India.

Former England captain Nasser Hussain has pin-pointed a key factor in Jos Buttler’s drop in form as he struggles with both bat and leadership issues at the ODI World Cup in India. Buttler, leading England with huge expectations has seen his side with huge dip in form as they have lost six matches in the global tournament. According to Hussain, the team’s performance has been the key reason why he has been struggling with form at the ODI World Cup. Hussain highlights key factor “When the team’s performance is going in the wrong direction, it weighs you down [as a captain]." "It inspires some but at the moment, the way the white-ball team is playing is weighing Buttler down and it is affecting his batting,” said Hussain while speaking to Sky Sports. So far in the tournament, Buttler has scored 43, 20, 9, 15, 8, 10, 1, and 5 which has been a clear reflection of his form. With 111 runs in eight innings, he has not fired at all in the ODI World Cup while averaging just 14. England’s only victory in the tournament came against minnows Bangladesh while they were comprehensively beaten by Afghanistan. ALSO READ | ODI World Cup 2023: 'It was disappointing,' says Bangladesh bowling coach Donald on Shakib's time out appeal Their last defeat to Australia ended their semifinal hopes with them facing a tough battle to make the top seven. A place in the top seven will see them reach the Champions Trophy 2025 which will be hosted by Pakistan. However, as things stand, it will be a tough task as they stay rooted to the foot of the league standings. England will have to beat the Netherlands in their penultimate match of the league stage with a win keeping them in the hunt for a place in the Champions Trophy. As things stand, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, the Netherlands, and England are fighting for a place in the Champions Trophy with only one making it through. At the time of writing, the Netherlands were 12/0 in four overs in their ODI World Cup contest in Pune. Interestingly, Ben Stokes was the centre of attraction with a 108-run knock which saw him get the better of the opposition. England put up 339/9 in their 50 overs with Buttler once again failing to make a mark having been dismissed for 5.

ODI World Cup 2023: Nasser Hussain highlights key factor in Jos Buttler's poor form after Eng's horror show

On Monday (July 17), Ben Stokes left the cricketing fraternity shellshocked&nbsp;when he announced&nbsp;that he will step aside from ODI cricket post the England-South Africa three-match 50-over series opener in Durham on July 18 (Tuesday).

At 31, Stokes is one of the fittest athletes in world cricket. The all-rounder has already won an ODI World Cup medal, in 2019, has over 5,000 runs in Tests and was also part of Eoin Morgan-led England's 2016 T20 World Cup campaign, where Stokes' 19-run final over in the summit clash conceded the trophy to West Indies. The English star cricketer is easily one of the ambassadors of the game and an integral part of his national side across formats. Then, what led to the recently-appointed Test captain retiring from ODIs?

Stokes recently opened up on his ODI retirement&nbsp;and&nbsp;told&nbsp;BBC's Test Match Special, "The more cricket that is played, the better for the sport, but you want a product that is of the highest quality. You want the best players to be playing as much as you possibly can, all the time."

"It isn't just me or us, you see it all around the world now where teams are having to rest some players in a certain series so they feel like they are getting a break. We are not cars, you can't just fill us up and we'll go out there and be ready to be fuelled up again."

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/look-what-happened-to-virat-kohli-kane-williamson-nasser-hussain-reacts-to-ben-stokes-odi-retirement-499106">Look what happened to Virat Kohli, Kane Williamson: Nasser Hussain reacts to Ben Stokes' ODI retirement</a>

In his column for The Daily Mail, former England captain-turned-commentator Nasser Hussain also pointed out,&nbsp;"Every time he [Stokes] goes onto that field, he wants to be 100% committed, not 80% - and that is what makes him the player he is."

"Some might suggest 80% of Stokes is enough but the problem is that once you play at 80%, it can lead lead to a drop in performance in another format. Just look at what has happened to Virat Kohli and Kane Williamson, for example. He doesn't want to become stale. Or go through the motions. He couldn't do that," he mentioned.

"Yes, his decision was something of a shout to the administrators because at the age of 31 someone like him shouldn't have to retire from a certain format,"&nbsp;added the former right-handed batsman.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-standing-ovation-for-ben-stokes-as-he-comes-out-to-bat-in-farewell-odi-during-sa-series-opener-499124">Watch: Standing ovation for Ben Stokes as he comes out to bat in farewell ODI during SA series opener</a>

Thus, Stokes' retirement leads to a burning question: is there too much cricket being played nowadays? Well, the answer to this is a straightforward YES. For the unversed, England have so far already played four Tests (three versus New Zealand, one against India), seven ODIs (three each versus Netherlands,&nbsp;India and one versus SA, with two more on cards) and three T20Is (with an equal number of them to follow suit versus the Proteas) in ongoing 2022 home summer.

The emergence of franchise cricket has surely been a huge boon for the game, tapping into new territories, seeing the emergence of new star players worldwide, and expanding the overall market. However, for any franchise cricket to be a hit, it needs a starry presence and, hence, many top players' participation is ultimately adding to their workload.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/one-of-the-greatest-ever-ben-stokes-responds-to-virat-kohlis-message-ahead-of-his-last-odi-for-england-498914">'One of the greatest ever': Ben Stokes responds to Virat Kohli's message ahead of his last ODI for England</a>

Even in the IPL, it is almost mandatory for the likes of Kohli, Rohit Sharma, Ravindra Jadeja, David Warner, Glenn Maxwell, etc., to make their presence felt due to their huge demand. Thus, they end up picking and choosing games at the international level. With ICC's schedule also not helping one bit -- with too many bilaterals lined up along with a&nbsp;mega event&nbsp;each year till 2031 -- players need to take care of themselves and, hence, ask for frequent rests to remain fit and fresh, keep their passion and intensity for the game alive and kicking as well as&nbsp;deliver the goods.

With so much at stake in every level, it is the players who are being used as puppets -- being asked to move&nbsp;around and dance to the tunes of rigorous schedules across formats. Players are the tools by which the game expands. However, they are certainly&nbsp;not machines for churning out huge profits along with&nbsp;being also expected to perform in all formats at the international level.

Thus, it won't be surprising that Stokes might go onto be the first of many all-format players who will retire from a particular format to prolong their respective careers. The all-rounder has&nbsp;surprised only those who are oblivious to the extensively gruelling demands of the modern-day game. His decision isn't really a shocker. It might just be the start of an unwanted trend.

On Monday (July 17), Ben Stokes left the cricketing fraternity shellshocked when he announced that he will step aside from ODI cricket post the England-South Africa three-match 50-over series opener in Durham on July 18 (Tuesday).

On Monday (July 17), Ben Stokes left the cricketing fraternity shellshocked when he announced that he will step aside from ODI cricket post the England-South Africa three-match 50-over series opener in Durham on July 18 (Tuesday). At 31, Stokes is one of the fittest athletes in world cricket. The all-rounder has already won an ODI World Cup medal, in 2019, has over 5,000 runs in Tests and was also part of Eoin Morgan-led England's 2016 T20 World Cup campaign, where Stokes' 19-run final over in the summit clash conceded the trophy to West Indies. The English star cricketer is easily one of the ambassadors of the game and an integral part of his national side across formats. Then, what led to the recently-appointed Test captain retiring from ODIs? Stokes recently opened up on his ODI retirement and told BBC's Test Match Special, "The more cricket that is played, the better for the sport, but you want a product that is of the highest quality. You want the best players to be playing as much as you possibly can, all the time." "It isn't just me or us, you see it all around the world now where teams are having to rest some players in a certain series so they feel like they are getting a break. We are not cars, you can't just fill us up and we'll go out there and be ready to be fuelled up again." ALSO READ | Look what happened to Virat Kohli, Kane Williamson: Nasser Hussain reacts to Ben Stokes' ODI retirement In his column for The Daily Mail, former England captain-turned-commentator Nasser Hussain also pointed out, "Every time he [Stokes] goes onto that field, he wants to be 100% committed, not 80% - and that is what makes him the player he is." "Some might suggest 80% of Stokes is enough but the problem is that once you play at 80%, it can lead lead to a drop in performance in another format. Just look at what has happened to Virat Kohli and Kane Williamson, for example. He doesn't want to become stale. Or go through the motions. He couldn't do that," he mentioned. "Yes, his decision was something of a shout to the administrators because at the age of 31 someone like him shouldn't have to retire from a certain format," added the former right-handed batsman. ALSO READ | Watch: Standing ovation for Ben Stokes as he comes out to bat in farewell ODI during SA series opener Thus, Stokes' retirement leads to a burning question: is there too much cricket being played nowadays? Well, the answer to this is a straightforward YES. For the unversed, England have so far already played four Tests (three versus New Zealand, one against India), seven ODIs (three each versus Netherlands, India and one versus SA, with two more on cards) and three T20Is (with an equal number of them to follow suit versus the Proteas) in ongoing 2022 home summer. The emergence of franchise cricket has surely been a huge boon for the game, tapping into new territories, seeing the emergence of new star players worldwide, and expanding the overall market. However, for any franchise cricket to be a hit, it needs a starry presence and, hence, many top players' participation is ultimately adding to their workload. ALSO READ | 'One of the greatest ever': Ben Stokes responds to Virat Kohli's message ahead of his last ODI for England Even in the IPL, it is almost mandatory for the likes of Kohli, Rohit Sharma, Ravindra Jadeja, David Warner, Glenn Maxwell, etc., to make their presence felt due to their huge demand. Thus, they end up picking and choosing games at the international level. With ICC's schedule also not helping one bit -- with too many bilaterals lined up along with a mega event each year till 2031 -- players need to take care of themselves and, hence, ask for frequent rests to remain fit and fresh, keep their passion and intensity for the game alive and kicking as well as deliver the goods. With so much at stake in every level, it is the players who are being used as puppets -- being asked to move around and dance to the tunes of rigorous schedules across formats. Players are the tools by which the game expands. However, they are certainly not machines for churning out huge profits along with being also expected to perform in all formats at the international level. Thus, it won't be surprising that Stokes might go onto be the first of many all-format players who will retire from a particular format to prolong their respective careers. The all-rounder has surprised only those who are oblivious to the extensively gruelling demands of the modern-day game. His decision isn't really a shocker. It might just be the start of an unwanted trend.

Beware world cricket! Ben Stokes might be first of many to give up a format to ensure longevity

England and Wales Cricket Board has apologised for planning the June 16-19 one-off Test among India and England women on a pre-used pitch, that facilitated a T20 Blast match among Gloucestershire and Sussex just five days prior. ECB&nbsp;has communicated their disappointment at not having the option to give a new pitch to the much-anticipated England Women versus India Women Test.&nbsp;

The board was pummeled after it became visible that the playing surface for the oddball Test at Bristol would be an old one, with 37 overs previously played on it.&nbsp;

The ECB responded to the contention in an authority proclamation, conceding England Women merit a new pitch for the memorable Test.&nbsp;

An ECB spokesperson said. “We are all disappointed that the wicket for the Test match against India will have had 37 overs played on it. We know that England Women deserve a fresh wicket and we are sorry that we were unable to provide that in this instance,”&nbsp;

India Women will take on England Women in their first Test in quite a while when the different sides get down to business in Bristol. After the pitch discussion, the ECB guaranteed the scheduling of the Test alongside an absence of top-of-the-line grounds prompted the unfortunate circumstance.&nbsp;

“With the Test only being added to the calendar in mid-April, coupled with the lack of available first-class grounds, we knew a fresh TV pitch was going to be a challenge. We accept that this issue shouldn’t have arisen and we will make sure it doesn’t happen in the future.”

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/in-future-womens-cricket-could-have-a-world-test-championship-mithali-raj-391668" hreflang="en">In future, women's cricket could have a World Test Championship: Mithali Raj</a>

England and India will move their thoughtfulness regarding white-ball cricket following the perfection of the one-off Test. India Women take on England Women in a three-match ODI series, trailed by a three-game T20I arrangement in July. The ECB affirmed that with the exception of the second T20I, all India Women versus England Women games will be played on new surfaces.&nbsp;

“With the exception of Hove&nbsp;&nbsp;the venue for the second Vitality IT20, for which a hybrid wicket will be used &nbsp;all other white-ball matches against India will be played on fresh wickets including the opening Royal London ODI at Bristol on 27th June."

Following the pitch debate, many scrutinized the board for not viewing the women's game down appropriately as the ECB pulled in the rage of fans and savants the same.

England and Wales Cricket Board has apologised for planning the June 16-19 one-off Test among India and England women on a pre-used pitch, that facilitated a T20 Blast match among Gloucestershire and Sussex just five days prior.

England and Wales Cricket Board has apologised for planning the June 16-19 one-off Test among India and England women on a pre-used pitch, that facilitated a T20 Blast match among Gloucestershire and Sussex just five days prior. ECB has communicated their disappointment at not having the option to give a new pitch to the much-anticipated England Women versus India Women Test. The board was pummeled after it became visible that the playing surface for the oddball Test at Bristol would be an old one, with 37 overs previously played on it. The ECB responded to the contention in an authority proclamation, conceding England Women merit a new pitch for the memorable Test. An ECB spokesperson said. “We are all disappointed that the wicket for the Test match against India will have had 37 overs played on it. We know that England Women deserve a fresh wicket and we are sorry that we were unable to provide that in this instance,” India Women will take on England Women in their first Test in quite a while when the different sides get down to business in Bristol. After the pitch discussion, the ECB guaranteed the scheduling of the Test alongside an absence of top-of-the-line grounds prompted the unfortunate circumstance. “With the Test only being added to the calendar in mid-April, coupled with the lack of available first-class grounds, we knew a fresh TV pitch was going to be a challenge. We accept that this issue shouldn’t have arisen and we will make sure it doesn’t happen in the future.” ALSO READ: In future, women's cricket could have a World Test Championship: Mithali Raj England and India will move their thoughtfulness regarding white-ball cricket following the perfection of the one-off Test. India Women take on England Women in a three-match ODI series, trailed by a three-game T20I arrangement in July. The ECB affirmed that with the exception of the second T20I, all India Women versus England Women games will be played on new surfaces. “With the exception of Hove the venue for the second Vitality IT20, for which a hybrid wicket will be used all other white-ball matches against India will be played on fresh wickets including the opening Royal London ODI at Bristol on 27th June." Following the pitch debate, many scrutinized the board for not viewing the women's game down appropriately as the ECB pulled in the rage of fans and savants the same.

Cricket: ECB apologises for scheduling one-off Test between India and England women on used pitch

England's pacer James Anderson said, "My God, she is beautiful," when he saw Stuart Broad for the first time in the dressing room.&nbsp;

James Anderson revealed it in his new book, excerpts of which were published by British tabloid The Sun.&nbsp;Anderson twitted about his new book&nbsp;'Bowl. Sleep. Repeat.' which will be released on June 3.&nbsp;

In his new book, James Anderson gave an insight into his world and penned down what really happened in his cricket life beyond the boundary rope.&nbsp;

In the book, he wrote, "The first time Stuart Broad walked into the dressing room, with his flowing blond hair, striking blue eyes and perfect figure, I thought: 'My God, she's beautiful'. It’s surreal we’ve taken more than 1,000 wickets between us."&nbsp;

About Broad, he further wrote, "We've never been in competition as bowlers because our skills are different. Stuart has been under pressure at times from bowlers who get steep bounce and move the ball off the seam and I have from the skiddier ones who swing the ball. It’s never been me or him in selection."

"I really respected the way Stuart responded to being left out in favour of Sam Curran in the West Indies in 2019," the pacer added.&nbsp;

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I’m delighted to announce that my new book BOWL. SLEEP. REPEAT. will be hitting the shelves on June 3rd this year! Step inside my world as I give you my insight into what really goes on tour and beyond the boundary rope! Available to pre-order now, <a href="https://t.co/CLXSK47ndL">https://t.co/CLXSK47ndL</a> <a href="https://t.co/XMpST903XV">pic.twitter.com/XMpST903XV</a>
— James Anderson (@jimmy9) <a href="https://twitter.com/jimmy9/status/1118798308712038400?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 18, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Anderson also mentioned another hilarious incident that included Graeme Swann. He wrote, "I remember when Andy Flower had taken over and we were having a team talk."

"Flower required a respectful silence when he was speaking," he added.&nbsp;

"Halfway through, Swanny farted. It was loud. To this day, the loudest fart I’ve ever heard. Flower looked at him, in borderline shock, then paused. Swanny apologised," wrote Anderson.&nbsp;

Anderson also penned down his thoughts about&nbsp;Alastair Cook. He said, "I remember my first meeting with Alastair Cook clearly."

"We became very close. He’s godfather to my eldest, Lola, and our family gets down to his farm when we can. Cooky has replaced parts of his banister with stumps from landmark Tests. My interest was piqued as I’ve been &nbsp;wondering what to do with my balls and stumps," said Anderson.&nbsp;

"I have two pictures of me with the Queen by the bathroom, but other than that nothing on display. Cooky is a proper, real-life farmer. He certainly knows his way around a sheep," he added.&nbsp;

Anderson, known for his swing bowling has played 148 Test matches and took 575 wickets.&nbsp;

England's pacer James Anderson said, "My God, she is beautiful," when he saw Stuart Broad for the first time in the dressing room. James Anderson revealed it in his new book, excerpts of which were published by British tabloid The Sun.

England's pacer James Anderson said, "My God, she is beautiful," when he saw Stuart Broad for the first time in the dressing room. James Anderson revealed it in his new book, excerpts of which were published by British tabloid The Sun. Anderson twitted about his new book 'Bowl. Sleep. Repeat.' which will be released on June 3. In his new book, James Anderson gave an insight into his world and penned down what really happened in his cricket life beyond the boundary rope. In the book, he wrote, "The first time Stuart Broad walked into the dressing room, with his flowing blond hair, striking blue eyes and perfect figure, I thought: 'My God, she's beautiful'. It’s surreal we’ve taken more than 1,000 wickets between us." About Broad, he further wrote, "We've never been in competition as bowlers because our skills are different. Stuart has been under pressure at times from bowlers who get steep bounce and move the ball off the seam and I have from the skiddier ones who swing the ball. It’s never been me or him in selection." "I really respected the way Stuart responded to being left out in favour of Sam Curran in the West Indies in 2019," the pacer added. I’m delighted to announce that my new book BOWL. SLEEP. REPEAT. will be hitting the shelves on June 3rd this year! Step inside my world as I give you my insight into what really goes on tour and beyond the boundary rope! Available to pre-order now, https://t.co/CLXSK47ndL pic.twitter.com/XMpST903XV — James Anderson (@jimmy9) April 18, 2019 × Anderson also mentioned another hilarious incident that included Graeme Swann. He wrote, "I remember when Andy Flower had taken over and we were having a team talk." "Flower required a respectful silence when he was speaking," he added. "Halfway through, Swanny farted. It was loud. To this day, the loudest fart I’ve ever heard. Flower looked at him, in borderline shock, then paused. Swanny apologised," wrote Anderson. Anderson also penned down his thoughts about Alastair Cook. He said, "I remember my first meeting with Alastair Cook clearly." "We became very close. He’s godfather to my eldest, Lola, and our family gets down to his farm when we can. Cooky has replaced parts of his banister with stumps from landmark Tests. My interest was piqued as I’ve been wondering what to do with my balls and stumps," said Anderson. "I have two pictures of me with the Queen by the bathroom, but other than that nothing on display. Cooky is a proper, real-life farmer. He certainly knows his way around a sheep," he added. Anderson, known for his swing bowling has played 148 Test matches and took 575 wickets.

'My God, she's beautiful,' thought James Anderson when he saw Stuart Broad for the first time

England leg-spinner Adil Rashid has agreed a new one-year, all-format deal with Yorkshire, the English county announced on Monday.

The 30-year-old signed a white-ball contract with the club for the 2018 season but was still selected for all five tests in England's 4-1 home victory over India, taking 10 wickets in the series.

"It was a big surprise that he wanted to play white-ball only and asked us for a white-ball only contract," Yorkshire's Director of Cricket Martyn Moxon said in a statement.

"That changed very quickly and unexpectedly, so that created a bit of confusion and instability for a little while.

"But I think we've been clear from the outset that we wanted to keep Adil at the club. When it became known he had to have a red-ball contract, we were more than happy to put that in place."

National selector Ed Smith said in July that Rashid, who has been called up for England's tour of Sri Lanka beginning next month, was informed he would need a red-ball contract to be considered for home tests in 2019.

"There's been a lot of talk and speculation but Adil is a very valuable cricketer for us," Moxon said.

"Now he's in the test team, how much he'll be available for us next season is unclear. But when he is available, we'd be delighted to have him and for him to be part of what would hopefully be a successful summer."

England leg-spinner Adil Rashid has agreed a new one-year, all-format deal with Yorkshire, the English county announced on Monday. The 30-year-old signed a white-ball contract with the club for the 2018 season but was still selected for all five tests in England's 4-1 home victory over India, taking 10 wickets in the series.

England leg-spinner Adil Rashid has agreed a new one-year, all-format deal with Yorkshire, the English county announced on Monday. The 30-year-old signed a white-ball contract with the club for the 2018 season but was still selected for all five tests in England's 4-1 home victory over India, taking 10 wickets in the series. "It was a big surprise that he wanted to play white-ball only and asked us for a white-ball only contract," Yorkshire's Director of Cricket Martyn Moxon said in a statement. "That changed very quickly and unexpectedly, so that created a bit of confusion and instability for a little while. "But I think we've been clear from the outset that we wanted to keep Adil at the club. When it became known he had to have a red-ball contract, we were more than happy to put that in place." National selector Ed Smith said in July that Rashid, who has been called up for England's tour of Sri Lanka beginning next month, was informed he would need a red-ball contract to be considered for home tests in 2019. "There's been a lot of talk and speculation but Adil is a very valuable cricketer for us," Moxon said. "Now he's in the test team, how much he'll be available for us next season is unclear. But when he is available, we'd be delighted to have him and for him to be part of what would hopefully be a successful summer."

England Spinner Adil Rashid agrees to all-format Yorkshire contract

Former England captain Kevin Pietersen has told current limited-overs skipper Eoin Morgan he will be putting his international future in jeopardy if he opts out of the upcoming tour of Bangladesh. 
 
The future of the tour was in the balance after an attack on a Dhaka cafe in July saw 20 - mostly foreign - hostages killed, with the Islamic State group claiming responsibility. 
 
However, the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) said last month that the tour, which includes three one-day international and two Test match fixtures in October and November, would go ahead as planned. 
 
The confirmation followed a visit to Bangladesh by an ECB delegation led by their long-serving security chief Reg Dickason. 
 
England coach Trevor Bayliss has confirmed he has no qualms about touring Bangladesh, although Moeen Ali is the only England player to so far state publicly, and without qualification, that he will go if selected. 
 
However, reports in the British press have suggested Test skipper Alastair Cook, who no longer plays white-ball cricket for England, will travel to Bangladesh as well. 
 
&quot;Eoin Morgan has no choice but to go to Bangladesh,&quot; Pietersen explained in his Daily Telegraph column published Tuesday. 
 
&quot;It is a case of one in, all in so if he does not go he will have a red cross next to his name as far as the bosses at the England and Wales Cricket Board are concerned,&quot; added Pietersen, England&#39;s captain when they continued with their 2008 tour of India following the Mumbai terror attacks. 
 
Morgan, speaking last week, denied he was &quot;reluctant&quot; to tour, with the Irishman saying: &quot;I think when so much information is thrown at you within two months of a terrorist attack you need to digest everything and be settled within yourself so you can go there and concentrate on cricket.&quot; 
 
&#39;Haunt him&#39; 
 
But Pietersen, whose brilliant career as an England batsman ended following the fall-out from the team&#39;s 5-0 Ashes thrashing in Australia in 2013/14 following several run-ins with coaching staff and officials, said the ECB would not take kindly to their security advice being rejected by a senior player. 
 
&quot;When Alastair Cook is willing to lead the Test squad it puts huge pressure on Eoin as captain of the one-day team. He may still decide not to make the trip, and it is his right to take that personal choice, but it will be held against him at some stage in the future, despite any assurances to the contrary. 
 
&quot;When everyone else says they are willing to go why do you think you are more important than the others? That will be the unsaid message. 
 
&quot;People at Lord&#39;s have long memories. They will not forget that he went against their advice and refused to captain England on a tour. It might not damage his standing with fellow players but it certainly would with the hierarchy in St John&#39;s Wood. 
 
&quot;When the going gets tough for him in the future, with the team losing, or a run of personal low scores, then he will find that the loyalty from his bosses will not be the same because he went against them.&nbsp; 
 
&quot;That is just the way it is. In the end it will come back to haunt him.&quot; 
 
(AFP)

Former captain tells current skipper he will be putting his international future in jeopardy if he opts out of the upcoming tour

Former England captain Kevin Pietersen has told current limited-overs skipper Eoin Morgan he will be putting his international future in jeopardy if he opts out of the upcoming tour of Bangladesh. The future of the tour was in the balance after an attack on a Dhaka cafe in July saw 20 - mostly foreign - hostages killed, with the Islamic State group claiming responsibility. However, the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) said last month that the tour, which includes three one-day international and two Test match fixtures in October and November, would go ahead as planned. The confirmation followed a visit to Bangladesh by an ECB delegation led by their long-serving security chief Reg Dickason. England coach Trevor Bayliss has confirmed he has no qualms about touring Bangladesh, although Moeen Ali is the only England player to so far state publicly, and without qualification, that he will go if selected. However, reports in the British press have suggested Test skipper Alastair Cook, who no longer plays white-ball cricket for England, will travel to Bangladesh as well. "Eoin Morgan has no choice but to go to Bangladesh," Pietersen explained in his Daily Telegraph column published Tuesday. "It is a case of one in, all in so if he does not go he will have a red cross next to his name as far as the bosses at the England and Wales Cricket Board are concerned," added Pietersen, England's captain when they continued with their 2008 tour of India following the Mumbai terror attacks. Morgan, speaking last week, denied he was "reluctant" to tour, with the Irishman saying: "I think when so much information is thrown at you within two months of a terrorist attack you need to digest everything and be settled within yourself so you can go there and concentrate on cricket." 'Haunt him' But Pietersen, whose brilliant career as an England batsman ended following the fall-out from the team's 5-0 Ashes thrashing in Australia in 2013/14 following several run-ins with coaching staff and officials, said the ECB would not take kindly to their security advice being rejected by a senior player. "When Alastair Cook is willing to lead the Test squad it puts huge pressure on Eoin as captain of the one-day team. He may still decide not to make the trip, and it is his right to take that personal choice, but it will be held against him at some stage in the future, despite any assurances to the contrary. "When everyone else says they are willing to go why do you think you are more important than the others? That will be the unsaid message. "People at Lord's have long memories. They will not forget that he went against their advice and refused to captain England on a tour. It might not damage his standing with fellow players but it certainly would with the hierarchy in St John's Wood. "When the going gets tough for him in the future, with the team losing, or a run of personal low scores, then he will find that the loyalty from his bosses will not be the same because he went against them. "That is just the way it is. In the end it will come back to haunt him." (AFP)

Cricket: Pietersen warns Morgan against Bangladesh no-show