<p>Former England captain Michael Vaugh wants England to get 'nastier' and show some fight in the ongoing Ashes 2021-22 against Australia. Vaughan feels the ongoing Ashes series between the arch-rivals has been too friendly and that the England players need to rile up the Aussies and get on their nerves to bounce back in the third Test which gets underway from Sunday (December 26).</p>

<p>England were crushed by 275 runs in the second Test in Adelaide on Monday to suffer their second straight defeat in the series and go down 2-0. England captain Joe Root was seen speaking with some of the Australian players post his side's loss. Vaughan said it was not something he would have done as a captain of the England team after losing a game.</p>

<p>"I see on the morning of the game they are all talking to Mitchell Starc and Nathan Lyon. I never had a conversation with Steve Waugh back in the day. I wouldn't have dared go and speak to Glenn McGrath on the morning of the game or Shane Warne. You just didn't," Vaughan told Fox Cricket.</p>

<p>"It's all a bit friendly. I'd get nasty with them They somehow need to find that on day one. Get into the scrap. Chirp, do whatever, just get into the scrap," he added.</p>

<p>Vaughan feels England need to make some changes not just in their playing XI but also in their attitude on the field. The former captain has urged Root &amp; Co. to pick up fights with the Australian players if it helps the visitors in staging a fightback in the series.</p>

<p>"They are at that stage now where they have to change something. It might be that they all get nasty, get nasty with each other. They all fall out. Who cares, but then come out and show a bit of spirit I actually want to see a bit of mongrel in the England side," said Vaughan.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/why-are-you-captain-ricky-ponting-slams-joe-root-as-england-skipper-blames-bowler-after-ashes-debacle-438704">Why are you captain? Ponting slams Joe Root as England skipper blames bowler after Ashes debacle</a></p>

<p>After two back-to-back losses in the first two matches of the Ashes 2021-22, England are on the verge of losing the series. Australis will clinch the five-match series 3-0 if they manage to win the third Test which is scheduled to get underway from December 26 at the Melbourne Cricket Ground in Melbourne.</p>

<p>England are expected to make a host of changes in the playing XI for the all-important game with one out of James Anderson or Stuart Broad likely to sit out after their average performance in the second Test which was a pink-ball game.</p>


Former England captain Michael Vaugh wants England to get 'nastier' and show some fight in the ongoing Ashes 2021-22 against Australia. Vaughan feels the ongoing Ashes series between the arch-rivals has been too friendly and that the England players need to rile up the Aussies and get on their nerves to bounce back in the third Test which gets underway from Sunday (December 26).

Former England captain Michael Vaugh wants England to get 'nastier' and show some fight in the ongoing Ashes 2021-22 against Australia. Vaughan feels the ongoing Ashes series between the arch-rivals has been too friendly and that the England players need to rile up the Aussies and get on their nerves to bounce back in the third Test which gets underway from Sunday (December 26). England were crushed by 275 runs in the second Test in Adelaide on Monday to suffer their second straight defeat in the series and go down 2-0. England captain Joe Root was seen speaking with some of the Australian players post his side's loss. Vaughan said it was not something he would have done as a captain of the England team after losing a game. "I see on the morning of the game they are all talking to Mitchell Starc and Nathan Lyon. I never had a conversation with Steve Waugh back in the day. I wouldn't have dared go and speak to Glenn McGrath on the morning of the game or Shane Warne. You just didn't," Vaughan told Fox Cricket. "It's all a bit friendly. I'd get nasty with them They somehow need to find that on day one. Get into the scrap. Chirp, do whatever, just get into the scrap," he added. Vaughan feels England need to make some changes not just in their playing XI but also in their attitude on the field. The former captain has urged Root & Co. to pick up fights with the Australian players if it helps the visitors in staging a fightback in the series. "They are at that stage now where they have to change something. It might be that they all get nasty, get nasty with each other. They all fall out. Who cares, but then come out and show a bit of spirit I actually want to see a bit of mongrel in the England side," said Vaughan. Also Read: Why are you captain? Ponting slams Joe Root as England skipper blames bowler after Ashes debacle After two back-to-back losses in the first two matches of the Ashes 2021-22, England are on the verge of losing the series. Australis will clinch the five-match series 3-0 if they manage to win the third Test which is scheduled to get underway from December 26 at the Melbourne Cricket Ground in Melbourne. England are expected to make a host of changes in the playing XI for the all-important game with one out of James Anderson or Stuart Broad likely to sit out after their average performance in the second Test which was a pink-ball game.

Ashes bit friendly: Michael Vaughan wants Joe Root & Co. to get 'nasty' to bounce back against Australia

<p>England head coach Chris Silverwood has confirmed that pace bowling stalwarts James Anderson and Stuart Broad are available for selection for the second Ashes Test here from December 16, but he has "not told anyone they are playing yet".<br />
<br />
Silverwood and England captain Joe Root have been criticised for dropping the duo for the opening Ashes Test at Brisbane, which Australia won by nine wickets to take a 1-0 lead in the five-Test series.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ashes-josh-hazlewood-flies-home-in-race-against-time-to-be-fit-for-2nd-test-against-england-436309"><strong>Ashes: Josh Hazlewood flies home, in race against time to be fit for 2nd Test against England</strong></a><br />
<br />
Broad too seemed unhappy after being included in the 12-member squad the previous day and then being dropped on the morning of The Gabba Test. "It would be wrong in this scenario to kick up a stink. I've been left out on numerous occasions and sometimes it comes as a real surprise," Broad wrote in his column for Daily Mail after England`s defeat.<br />
<br />
On Sunday evening Silverwood said that, "They are available, yes. Jimmy (Anderson) will be fit and ready to go for the second Test, as will Stuart (Broad). But I have not told anyone they are playing yet.<br />
<br />
"The guys have already been training with the pink ball behind the scenes and what we have got is a very skilful set of bowlers. We have talent and we still have two of the best up our sleeve as well," Silverwood was quoted as saying by metro.co.uk.<br />
<br />
England had gone with pacers Ollie Robinson, Chris Woakes, Mark Wood and Ben Stokes and spinner Jack Leach in the Test at The Gabba. While the pace bowlers were economical to some extent, 30-year-old left-arm spinner Leach bled runs, conceding 102 in 13 overs at an economy rate of nearly eight.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ashes-england-penalised-five-wtc-points-for-slow-over-rate-travis-head-fined-for-audible-obscenity-436108">Ashes: England penalised five WTC points for slow-over rate, Travis Head fined for 'audible obscenity'</a></strong><br />
<br />
Silverwood said he was unfazed by the criticism and was willing to take responsibility for the big loss.<br />
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"It is part of my role to take the criticism because the buck stops with me. I have no problem with that and it is how it should be, but we have to work with what we have got," he added.</p>


England head coach Chris Silverwood has confirmed that pace bowling stalwarts James Anderson and Stuart Broad are available for selection for the second Ashes Test here from December 16, but he has "not told anyone they are playing yet".

England head coach Chris Silverwood has confirmed that pace bowling stalwarts James Anderson and Stuart Broad are available for selection for the second Ashes Test here from December 16, but he has "not told anyone they are playing yet". Silverwood and England captain Joe Root have been criticised for dropping the duo for the opening Ashes Test at Brisbane, which Australia won by nine wickets to take a 1-0 lead in the five-Test series. ALSO READ: Ashes: Josh Hazlewood flies home, in race against time to be fit for 2nd Test against England Broad too seemed unhappy after being included in the 12-member squad the previous day and then being dropped on the morning of The Gabba Test. "It would be wrong in this scenario to kick up a stink. I've been left out on numerous occasions and sometimes it comes as a real surprise," Broad wrote in his column for Daily Mail after England`s defeat. On Sunday evening Silverwood said that, "They are available, yes. Jimmy (Anderson) will be fit and ready to go for the second Test, as will Stuart (Broad). But I have not told anyone they are playing yet. "The guys have already been training with the pink ball behind the scenes and what we have got is a very skilful set of bowlers. We have talent and we still have two of the best up our sleeve as well," Silverwood was quoted as saying by metro.co.uk. England had gone with pacers Ollie Robinson, Chris Woakes, Mark Wood and Ben Stokes and spinner Jack Leach in the Test at The Gabba. While the pace bowlers were economical to some extent, 30-year-old left-arm spinner Leach bled runs, conceding 102 in 13 overs at an economy rate of nearly eight. ALSO READ: Ashes: England penalised five WTC points for slow-over rate, Travis Head fined for 'audible obscenity' Silverwood said he was unfazed by the criticism and was willing to take responsibility for the big loss. "It is part of my role to take the criticism because the buck stops with me. I have no problem with that and it is how it should be, but we have to work with what we have got," he added.

Ashes 2021: James Anderson, Stuart Broad available for selection for second Test

<p>The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) released a 12-point action plan in November this year in order to tackle racism and discrimination in the sport. The move materialised after a number of players including former Yorkshire cricketer Azeem Rafiq came out in public with their respective accounts of facing institutional racism at their respective clubs.</p>

<p>Rafiq had first opened up on facing racism at Yorkshire during an interview in 2020 following which the club launched an investigation into his claims. Rafiq alleged he suffered constant abuse due to his Pakistani heritage and was taunted with words like "Paki" and "elephant washers" by some of his teammates and club staff.</p>

<p>"I felt isolated, humiliated at times," the former spinner had said during an emotional testimony in front of a British parliamentary committee after ECB suspended Yorkshire from hosting any major or international matches over their handling of Rafiq's case this year. The racism row rocked English cricket leading to high-profile departures at Yorkshire.</p>

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<p>WION's Sports Editor Digvijay Singh Deo caught up with the legendary Brian Lara on the sidelines of the&nbsp;Hero World Challenge golf tournament in Albany, Bahamas last week. Reacting to the racism scandal at Yorkshire, Lara said it was high time ECB took the matter seriously and improve things for the future.</p>

<p>Lara, who played for Warwickshire in English county for a number of years, said racism was not only limited to cricket in England and that it's an issue plaguing several other major sports in the country including football, where players are often on the receiving end of racist chants and behaviour.</p>

<p>"I have played a lot of cricket in England. Not just cricket, a lot of other sporting disciplines - football, everyone seems to have a problem with it (racism). With the Yorkshire situation, English cricket will have to look at it seriously," Lara told WION.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/england-cricket-board-unveils-action-plan-to-tackle-racism-following-azeem-rafiqs-allegations-432337">England Cricket Board unveils action plan to tackle racism following Azeem Rafiq's allegations</a></strong></p>

<p>"Someone coming out and speaking about it honestly from the heart, I think it could only benefit English cricket. It might look like a bad situation now but you cut it and see if you can improve things in the future," added the West Indies great.</p>

<p>When probed, if he faced a similar episode or came across instances of racism during his stint in England, Lara refrained from going into the details and said these things never deterred his focus from the game. However, the former West Indies captain insisted racism is an issue that needs to be dealt with firmly.</p>

<p>"It's not something I want to comment on. I have finished playing cricket 14-15 years ago. On occasions, you have been to different countries and these things happen and I suppose you have got to be focused," said the West Indies great, who is regarded as one of the greatest batters of all time.</p>

<p>"I was very proud to be a West Indian and these matters didn't factor too much in my mind. But, it's presently a situation in England and worldwide sport and we have got to do something about it," he explained further.</p>


The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) released a 12-point action plan in November this year in order to tackle racism and discrimination in the sport. The move materialised after a number of players including former Yorkshire cricketer Azeem Rafiq came out in public with their respective accounts of facing institutional racism at their respective clubs.

The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) released a 12-point action plan in November this year in order to tackle racism and discrimination in the sport. The move materialised after a number of players including former Yorkshire cricketer Azeem Rafiq came out in public with their respective accounts of facing institutional racism at their respective clubs. Rafiq had first opened up on facing racism at Yorkshire during an interview in 2020 following which the club launched an investigation into his claims. Rafiq alleged he suffered constant abuse due to his Pakistani heritage and was taunted with words like "Paki" and "elephant washers" by some of his teammates and club staff. "I felt isolated, humiliated at times," the former spinner had said during an emotional testimony in front of a British parliamentary committee after ECB suspended Yorkshire from hosting any major or international matches over their handling of Rafiq's case this year. The racism row rocked English cricket leading to high-profile departures at Yorkshire. × WION's Sports Editor Digvijay Singh Deo caught up with the legendary Brian Lara on the sidelines of the Hero World Challenge golf tournament in Albany, Bahamas last week. Reacting to the racism scandal at Yorkshire, Lara said it was high time ECB took the matter seriously and improve things for the future. Lara, who played for Warwickshire in English county for a number of years, said racism was not only limited to cricket in England and that it's an issue plaguing several other major sports in the country including football, where players are often on the receiving end of racist chants and behaviour. "I have played a lot of cricket in England. Not just cricket, a lot of other sporting disciplines - football, everyone seems to have a problem with it (racism). With the Yorkshire situation, English cricket will have to look at it seriously," Lara told WION. Also Read: England Cricket Board unveils action plan to tackle racism following Azeem Rafiq's allegations "Someone coming out and speaking about it honestly from the heart, I think it could only benefit English cricket. It might look like a bad situation now but you cut it and see if you can improve things in the future," added the West Indies great. When probed, if he faced a similar episode or came across instances of racism during his stint in England, Lara refrained from going into the details and said these things never deterred his focus from the game. However, the former West Indies captain insisted racism is an issue that needs to be dealt with firmly. "It's not something I want to comment on. I have finished playing cricket 14-15 years ago. On occasions, you have been to different countries and these things happen and I suppose you have got to be focused," said the West Indies great, who is regarded as one of the greatest batters of all time. "I was very proud to be a West Indian and these matters didn't factor too much in my mind. But, it's presently a situation in England and worldwide sport and we have got to do something about it," he explained further.

Exclusive! English cricket will have to look at it seriously: Brian Lara on Azeem Rafiq's racism allegations

<p>England all-rounder Ben Stokes shared a heartfelt note on Instagram remembering his late father ahead of the start of Ashes 2021-2022 against Australia. Ashes rivals Australia and England will lock horns in the first Test of the series at The Gabba from December 08 (Wednesday).</p>

<p>Stokes, who will be making a comeback after a long break, will be in action in the series-opener. The England all-rounder had taken an indefinite break from all forms of cricket earlier this year due to focus on his mental health and well being. However, he is now&nbsp;ready to return to the 24 yards.</p>

<p>Stokes lost his father Ged Stokes last year. He passed away on December 08 after a long battle with brain cancer at the age of 65. Posting a picture with his father, Stokes said he will be remembering him as he takes the field in the first Test against the Aussies.</p>

<p>"I wasn't sure if I would ever walk out onto a field ever again a few months ago, I find it amazing that when I do walk out tomorrow I'll be remembering you exactly 1 year on since you left us....You are gonna be with me this whole week," Stokes wrote in his Instagram post.</p>

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<p>Stokes missed a few important series after announcing a break from cricket. He was last seen in action during the ODI series against Pakistan at home following which he announced his decision. He missed the T20 World Cup 2021 where England bowed out from the semi-finals after losing against New Zealand.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ashes-2021-22-full-schedule-squads-venues-telecast-live-streaming-as-aus-eng-resume-intense-rivalry-434803">Ashes 2021-22: Full schedule, squads, venues, telecast, live streaming as Aus-Eng resume intense rivalry</a></p>

<p>All eyes will be on the star all-rounder as he gears up to make his comeback. England have already announced their 12-man squad for the Ashes opener at The Gabba with Stokes part of it. Joe Root will be leading the visitors while veteran pacer James Anderson has been rested.</p>


England all-rounder Ben Stokes shared a heartfelt note on Instagram remembering his late father ahead of the start of Ashes 2021-2022 against Australia. Ashes rivals Australia and England will lock horns in the first Test of the series at The Gabba from December 08 (Wednesday).

England all-rounder Ben Stokes shared a heartfelt note on Instagram remembering his late father ahead of the start of Ashes 2021-2022 against Australia. Ashes rivals Australia and England will lock horns in the first Test of the series at The Gabba from December 08 (Wednesday). Stokes, who will be making a comeback after a long break, will be in action in the series-opener. The England all-rounder had taken an indefinite break from all forms of cricket earlier this year due to focus on his mental health and well being. However, he is now ready to return to the 24 yards. Stokes lost his father Ged Stokes last year. He passed away on December 08 after a long battle with brain cancer at the age of 65. Posting a picture with his father, Stokes said he will be remembering him as he takes the field in the first Test against the Aussies. "I wasn't sure if I would ever walk out onto a field ever again a few months ago, I find it amazing that when I do walk out tomorrow I'll be remembering you exactly 1 year on since you left us....You are gonna be with me this whole week," Stokes wrote in his Instagram post. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Ben Stokes (@stokesy) × Stokes missed a few important series after announcing a break from cricket. He was last seen in action during the ODI series against Pakistan at home following which he announced his decision. He missed the T20 World Cup 2021 where England bowed out from the semi-finals after losing against New Zealand. Also Read: Ashes 2021-22: Full schedule, squads, venues, telecast, live streaming as Aus-Eng resume intense rivalry All eyes will be on the star all-rounder as he gears up to make his comeback. England have already announced their 12-man squad for the Ashes opener at The Gabba with Stokes part of it. Joe Root will be leading the visitors while veteran pacer James Anderson has been rested.

Ben Stokes remembers late father ahead of Ashes opener: You will be with me this whole week

<p>England all-rounder Ben Stokes is all set to make his comeback to the cricket pitch in the upcoming Ashes 2021-2022 in Australia later this year. Stokes will be returning after a mental health break which he had opted for earlier this year and also skipped the T20 World Cup 2021 for England. Ahead of the Ashes, Stokes has made some startling revelations.</p>

<p>The England all-rounder revealed he almost choked on a table in his hotel room and thought "it might be the end". He opened on the traumatic experience in his column for Daily Mail and revealed distressing details. Stokes said he felt as if his mouth was on fire and he was not able to breathe at all after the tablet got stuck in his windpipe.</p>

<p>"Until it actually came out, I thought this might be the end," Stokes wrote in his column for <em>Daily Mail.</em>&nbsp;</p>

<p>"I was on my own in my room and I couldn't breathe as it became lodged and started to dissolve. It felt like my mouth was on fire.</p>

<p>“Without going into too much detail I have never seen as much saliva as I did on Sunday morning, it was a genuinely frightening experience,” he explained further.</p>

<p>Stokes revealed he recieved another scare on the same day when he was struck on the arm by England batting coach Jonathan Trott during a practice session. The 30-year-old, who was recovering from a finger injury, felt that his arm was broken after being hit but much to his respite, the physios helped him reduce the pain.</p>

<p>"I couldn't lift it ... I thought it was broken," Stokes added. "Thankfully the pain and reaction settled down once I was back in the dressing room and the physios could be sure it wasn't actually a break," Stokes wrote.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/from-kl-rahul-to-hardik-pandya-top-5-indian-players-who-might-not-be-retained-by-their-ipl-franchises-432611">From KL Rahul to Hardik Pandya: Top 5 Indian players who might not be retained by their IPL franchises</a></p>

<p>"It was only after I got back to my hotel room that I took stock of what a day I'd had. The adrenaline had worn off and I was exhausted. Happy that I'm here to tell the tale, but hoping that my pre-test dramas are now over," he added.</p>

<p>The Ashes 2021-2022 is all set to get underway from December 08 with the first Test scheduled to be staged in Brisbane. Australia had retained the Ashes in 2019 after drawing the series 2-2 in England.<br />
&nbsp;</p>


England all-rounder Ben Stokes is all set to make his comeback to the cricket pitch in the upcoming Ashes 2021-2022 in Australia later this year. Stokes will be returning after a mental health break which he had opted for earlier this year and also skipped the T20 World Cup 2021 for England.

England all-rounder Ben Stokes is all set to make his comeback to the cricket pitch in the upcoming Ashes 2021-2022 in Australia later this year. Stokes will be returning after a mental health break which he had opted for earlier this year and also skipped the T20 World Cup 2021 for England. Ahead of the Ashes, Stokes has made some startling revelations. The England all-rounder revealed he almost choked on a table in his hotel room and thought "it might be the end". He opened on the traumatic experience in his column for Daily Mail and revealed distressing details. Stokes said he felt as if his mouth was on fire and he was not able to breathe at all after the tablet got stuck in his windpipe. "Until it actually came out, I thought this might be the end," Stokes wrote in his column for Daily Mail. "I was on my own in my room and I couldn't breathe as it became lodged and started to dissolve. It felt like my mouth was on fire. “Without going into too much detail I have never seen as much saliva as I did on Sunday morning, it was a genuinely frightening experience,” he explained further. Stokes revealed he recieved another scare on the same day when he was struck on the arm by England batting coach Jonathan Trott during a practice session. The 30-year-old, who was recovering from a finger injury, felt that his arm was broken after being hit but much to his respite, the physios helped him reduce the pain. "I couldn't lift it ... I thought it was broken," Stokes added. "Thankfully the pain and reaction settled down once I was back in the dressing room and the physios could be sure it wasn't actually a break," Stokes wrote. Also Read: From KL Rahul to Hardik Pandya: Top 5 Indian players who might not be retained by their IPL franchises "It was only after I got back to my hotel room that I took stock of what a day I'd had. The adrenaline had worn off and I was exhausted. Happy that I'm here to tell the tale, but hoping that my pre-test dramas are now over," he added. The Ashes 2021-2022 is all set to get underway from December 08 with the first Test scheduled to be staged in Brisbane. Australia had retained the Ashes in 2019 after drawing the series 2-2 in England.

'Thought this might be the end': Ben Stokes reveals he nearly choked on tablet in his hotel room

<p>England test captain Joe Root has said he hoped to have a discussion with Azeem Rafiq after the Ashes series against Australia, which starts next month, on the former Yorkshire player`s allegations of institutional racism at the club. Rafiq, the 30-year-old former England Under-19s captain who is of Pakistani descent and played for Yorkshire from 2008-14, told a British parliamentary committee this month that he had suffered "inhuman" treatment in his time with the county.</p>

<p>Yorkshire player Root said he had never personally witnessed incidents of racism at the club, prompting Rafiq to say he was "incredibly hurt" by those words. "We`ve exchanged a couple of messages since ... and hopefully when we finish this tour we`ll get the opportunity to sit down and talk about this whole situation, about how we can move the game forward," Root told reporters.</p>

<p>"Along with talking to Azeem, I want to speak to (Yorkshire chairman) Kamlesh Patel... It`s important we keep finding ways of bettering the sport, and finding ways to individually affect things for the better and make a real change."<br />
Root, whose side take on Australia in the first of five Ashes tests starting on Dec. 8, said he stood by his statement of not personally witnessing racism at Yorkshire.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/i-am-sorry-for-the-hurt-michael-vaughan-apologises-to-azeem-rafiq-amid-racism-allegations-432353"><strong>'I am sorry for the hurt': Michael Vaughan apologises to Azeem Rafiq amid racism allegations</strong></a></p>

<p>"If they`re oversights on my part then that`s an area we all have to learn from and I have to learn from," Root added.<br />
"I think about things that have happened since then. There have been things that have happened on a cricket field where I feel like I have stepped in and called things out. "That comes from growth and learning, understanding and education. There`s still further education I need to undergo and develop myself further. Within our game ... everyone does."</p>


England test captain Joe Root has said he hoped to have a discussion with Azeem Rafiq after the Ashes series against Australia, which starts next month, on the former Yorkshire player`s allegations of institutional racism at the club.

England test captain Joe Root has said he hoped to have a discussion with Azeem Rafiq after the Ashes series against Australia, which starts next month, on the former Yorkshire player`s allegations of institutional racism at the club. Rafiq, the 30-year-old former England Under-19s captain who is of Pakistani descent and played for Yorkshire from 2008-14, told a British parliamentary committee this month that he had suffered "inhuman" treatment in his time with the county. Yorkshire player Root said he had never personally witnessed incidents of racism at the club, prompting Rafiq to say he was "incredibly hurt" by those words. "We`ve exchanged a couple of messages since ... and hopefully when we finish this tour we`ll get the opportunity to sit down and talk about this whole situation, about how we can move the game forward," Root told reporters. "Along with talking to Azeem, I want to speak to (Yorkshire chairman) Kamlesh Patel... It`s important we keep finding ways of bettering the sport, and finding ways to individually affect things for the better and make a real change." Root, whose side take on Australia in the first of five Ashes tests starting on Dec. 8, said he stood by his statement of not personally witnessing racism at Yorkshire. ALSO READ | 'I am sorry for the hurt': Michael Vaughan apologises to Azeem Rafiq amid racism allegations "If they`re oversights on my part then that`s an area we all have to learn from and I have to learn from," Root added. "I think about things that have happened since then. There have been things that have happened on a cricket field where I feel like I have stepped in and called things out. "That comes from growth and learning, understanding and education. There`s still further education I need to undergo and develop myself further. Within our game ... everyone does."

England Test captain Joe Root hopes to talk with Azeem Rafiq over racism row

<p>England cricketer Alex Hales has once again found himself in the middle of a controversy after old pictures of him wearing 'blackface' during a party emerged on social media. Hales has apologised for 'blacking up' calling his decision 'incredibly direspectful' while clarifying that he was trying to impersonate rapper Tupac Shakur at the party.</p>

<p>The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB), as well as the Nottinghamshire Cricket Club, have launched investigations over the newly-unearthed picture of Hales from a party in 2009. The cricketer can be seen wearing black paint on his face and posing alongside his friends in the picture.</p>

<p>In a video posted on Instagram, Hales clarified after being accused of racism over the picture. He said the picture was from a 2009 New Year's Eve party where the theme was musicians and he went as Tupac Shakur. Nonetheless, the cricketer said he has realised his actions were disrespectful and has apologised for the same.</p>

<p>"The theme was musicians and Tupac (Shakur) is, was and always will be my favourite musician so I went as him," Hales said in the video.</p>

<p>"Obviously I realise this is incredibly disrespectful and I want to apologise for the offence this has no doubt caused.</p>

<p>"It was incredibly reckless and foolish on my behalf and I apologise for that, and apologise to the club for the embarrassment it would have caused them. I deplore all forms of racism and discrimination," he added.</p>

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<p style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px; margin-bottom:0; margin-top:8px; overflow:hidden; padding:8px 0 7px; text-align:center; text-overflow:ellipsis; white-space:nowrap;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/tv/CWcr3QSj9oN/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px; text-decoration:none;" target="_blank">A post shared by Alex Hales (@alexhales1)</a></p>
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<p>His apology over the controversial picture comes just days after Hales was accused of naming his black dog 'Kevin' by former Yorkshire cricketer Azeem Rafiq due to former England cricketer Gary Ballance's use of the word as a derogatory term for people of colour. However, Hales had denied the accusations.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/explained-why-tim-paine-has-stepped-down-as-australias-test-captain-4-years-after-sexting-scandal-430424">Explained! Why Tim Paine has stepped down as Australia's Test captain 4 years after sexting scandal</a></p>

<p>Nottinghamshire, which&nbsp;had launched an investigation into Rafiq's claims over Hales' naming of his dog, have confirmed they have now 'extended the scope of their investigation into the historic conduct of Alex Hales following the publication of a photograph taken in 2009'.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">A club statement regarding Alex Hales. <a href="https://t.co/oxDjKw7dBa">pic.twitter.com/oxDjKw7dBa</a></p>
— Nottinghamshire CCC (@TrentBridge) <a href="https://twitter.com/TrentBridge/status/1461604852681871365?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 19, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p>Hales, who is currently in Australia to take part in the Big Bash League, is not new to controversies. The right-hander had been banned from playing for England after a positive dope test in 2019 and was also involved in the Bristol nightclub brawl in the same year.</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>


England cricketer Alex Hales has once again found himself in the middle of a controversy after old pictures of him wearing 'blackface' during a party emerged on social media.

England cricketer Alex Hales has once again found himself in the middle of a controversy after old pictures of him wearing 'blackface' during a party emerged on social media. Hales has apologised for 'blacking up' calling his decision 'incredibly direspectful' while clarifying that he was trying to impersonate rapper Tupac Shakur at the party. The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB), as well as the Nottinghamshire Cricket Club, have launched investigations over the newly-unearthed picture of Hales from a party in 2009. The cricketer can be seen wearing black paint on his face and posing alongside his friends in the picture. In a video posted on Instagram, Hales clarified after being accused of racism over the picture. He said the picture was from a 2009 New Year's Eve party where the theme was musicians and he went as Tupac Shakur. Nonetheless, the cricketer said he has realised his actions were disrespectful and has apologised for the same. "The theme was musicians and Tupac (Shakur) is, was and always will be my favourite musician so I went as him," Hales said in the video. "Obviously I realise this is incredibly disrespectful and I want to apologise for the offence this has no doubt caused. "It was incredibly reckless and foolish on my behalf and I apologise for that, and apologise to the club for the embarrassment it would have caused them. I deplore all forms of racism and discrimination," he added. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Alex Hales (@alexhales1) × His apology over the controversial picture comes just days after Hales was accused of naming his black dog 'Kevin' by former Yorkshire cricketer Azeem Rafiq due to former England cricketer Gary Ballance's use of the word as a derogatory term for people of colour. However, Hales had denied the accusations. Also Read: Explained! Why Tim Paine has stepped down as Australia's Test captain 4 years after sexting scandal Nottinghamshire, which had launched an investigation into Rafiq's claims over Hales' naming of his dog, have confirmed they have now 'extended the scope of their investigation into the historic conduct of Alex Hales following the publication of a photograph taken in 2009'. A club statement regarding Alex Hales. pic.twitter.com/oxDjKw7dBa — Nottinghamshire CCC (@TrentBridge) November 19, 2021 × Hales, who is currently in Australia to take part in the Big Bash League, is not new to controversies. The right-hander had been banned from playing for England after a positive dope test in 2019 and was also involved in the Bristol nightclub brawl in the same year.

Alex Hales apologises for wearing blackface, days after denying 'racial connotation' behind dog's name

In pics: Reliving T20 World Cup 2021 as cricketing carnival ends with a bang in UAE

<p>Aaron Finch-led Australia won the T20 World Cup 2021 edition, which was held in the UAE. The 2021 edition was supposed to be held in late 2020 but got postponed due to the Covid-19 pandemic worldwide. Hence, the seventh edition took place in the UAE -- for the first time -- after India refrained from hosting the event on their home soil due to the virus scare.</p>

<p>While not many believed Australia were one of the favourites to win the coveted title, having lost their last five bilateral series, the Men in Yellow defied all odds to emerge on top by winning the tournament-finale by eight wickets on Sunday evening (November 14). Aussies locked horns with Kane Williamson-led New Zealand in the summit clash and produced an all-round effort to not give their Trans-Tasmanian rivals any chance whatsoever.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/exclusive-will-australia-regain-dominance-in-world-cricket-after-t20-wc-triumph-john-buchanan-opines-429442"><strong>EXCLUSIVE: Will Australia regain dominance in world cricket after T20 WC triumph? John Buchanan opines</strong></a></p>

<p>The tournament was held for the first time in 2007, when not many backed the format to exist for long in the international level, and has now become one of the most successful events in world cricket. Thus,&nbsp;here's a look at all the winners so far in the T20 WC history after the end of the latest edition:</p>

<table border="1" cellpadding="1" cellspacing="1" style="width: 500px;">
	<tbody>
		<tr>
			<td><strong>Year</strong></td>
			<td><strong>Winners</strong></td>
			<td><strong>Final</strong></td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>2007</td>
			<td>India</td>
			<td>Beat Pak by 5 runs</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>2009</td>
			<td>Pakistan</td>
			<td>Beat Sri Lanka by 8 wickets</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>2010</td>
			<td>England</td>
			<td>Beat Aussies by 7 wickets</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>2012</td>
			<td>West Indies</td>
			<td>Beat SL by 36 runs</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>2014</td>
			<td>Sri Lanka</td>
			<td>Beat India by 6 wickets</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>2016</td>
			<td>West Indies</td>
			<td>Beat England by 4 wickets</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>2021</td>
			<td>Australia</td>
			<td>Beat NZ by 8 wickets</td>
		</tr>
	</tbody>
</table>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/player-of-the-tournament-david-warners-wife-candice-sends-message-to-doubters-after-australia-win-t20-wc-2021-429374"><strong>Player of The Tournament David Warner's wife Candice sends message to doubters after Australia win T20 WC 2021</strong></a></p>

<p>Talking about the 2021 edition's summit clash, played at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai, Finch-led Australia won the toss and opted to bowl first. Aussies restricted New Zealand to 172-4, as the Black Caps rode on Kane Williamson's master-class 85. In reply, the Kiwis fell like nine pins as David Warner's 53 and Mitchell marsh's 77 not out propelled Australia to their maiden T20 WC title, eighth ICC title overall.&nbsp;</p>

<p>At the post-match presentation, Finch said, "This is huge. To be the first Australian team to be able to do it. So proud. We knew our backs were against the wall. We had some great individual performances, some great team performances. Can't believe people wrote him off saying he was done (Warner). That's when he plays his best cricket. Was almost like poking the bear. The player of the tournament for me (Zampa). Mitch Marsh - what a way to start his innings today. Wade coming into this game with an injury cloud but got a job done. Stoinis did the business."</p>

<p>For the unversed, the next edition of the T20 WC will be held in late 2022, in Australia.</p>


Aaron Finch-led Australia won the T20 World Cup 2021 edition, which was held in the UAE. The 2021 edition was supposed to be held in late 2020 but got postponed due to the Covid-19 pandemic worldwide.

Aaron Finch-led Australia won the T20 World Cup 2021 edition, which was held in the UAE. The 2021 edition was supposed to be held in late 2020 but got postponed due to the Covid-19 pandemic worldwide. Hence, the seventh edition took place in the UAE -- for the first time -- after India refrained from hosting the event on their home soil due to the virus scare. While not many believed Australia were one of the favourites to win the coveted title, having lost their last five bilateral series, the Men in Yellow defied all odds to emerge on top by winning the tournament-finale by eight wickets on Sunday evening (November 14). Aussies locked horns with Kane Williamson-led New Zealand in the summit clash and produced an all-round effort to not give their Trans-Tasmanian rivals any chance whatsoever. ALSO READ | EXCLUSIVE: Will Australia regain dominance in world cricket after T20 WC triumph? John Buchanan opines The tournament was held for the first time in 2007, when not many backed the format to exist for long in the international level, and has now become one of the most successful events in world cricket. Thus, here's a look at all the winners so far in the T20 WC history after the end of the latest edition: Year Winners Final 2007 India Beat Pak by 5 runs 2009 Pakistan Beat Sri Lanka by 8 wickets 2010 England Beat Aussies by 7 wickets 2012 West Indies Beat SL by 36 runs 2014 Sri Lanka Beat India by 6 wickets 2016 West Indies Beat England by 4 wickets 2021 Australia Beat NZ by 8 wickets ALSO READ | Player of The Tournament David Warner's wife Candice sends message to doubters after Australia win T20 WC 2021 Talking about the 2021 edition's summit clash, played at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai, Finch-led Australia won the toss and opted to bowl first. Aussies restricted New Zealand to 172-4, as the Black Caps rode on Kane Williamson's master-class 85. In reply, the Kiwis fell like nine pins as David Warner's 53 and Mitchell marsh's 77 not out propelled Australia to their maiden T20 WC title, eighth ICC title overall. At the post-match presentation, Finch said, "This is huge. To be the first Australian team to be able to do it. So proud. We knew our backs were against the wall. We had some great individual performances, some great team performances. Can't believe people wrote him off saying he was done (Warner). That's when he plays his best cricket. Was almost like poking the bear. The player of the tournament for me (Zampa). Mitch Marsh - what a way to start his innings today. Wade coming into this game with an injury cloud but got a job done. Stoinis did the business." For the unversed, the next edition of the T20 WC will be held in late 2022, in Australia.

From India to Australia: A look at T20 WC winners post seventh edition in UAE

<p>Team India bowed out of the T20 World Cup 2021 edition in the Super 12 round, despite many touting them to be one of the strongest contenders. Virat Kohli-led India started their campaign with back-to-back defeats, at the hands of Pakistan and New Zealand, and were on the brink of an early elimination. While the Men in Blue did bounce back and won three games in a row, it was too late by then as Pakistan and the Kiwis progressed to the semi-finals from their group, i.e. Pool B.</p>

<p>Post India's early exit, many have shared their thoughts on how India should approach the shortest format of the game. After MS Dhoni-led India won the inaugural T20 WC, in 2007, they haven't lived upto expectations in the preceding World Cups. Hence, former Indian opener-turned-commentator Virender Sehwag has now shared what India should learn from the likes of consistent sides such as England and New Zealand.</p>

<p><strong>EXCLUSIVE | Mayank Agarwal heaps praise on coach Rahul Dravid, Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma, opines on PBKS journey</strong></p>

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<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/wasim-jaffer-breaks-the-internet-with-hilarious-meme-as-australia-enter-t20-wc-2021-final-428753"><strong>Wasim Jaffer breaks the internet with hilarious meme as Australia enter T20 WC 2021 final</strong></a></p>

<p>Sehwag said on his Facebook Watch show&nbsp;<i>Virugiri Dot Com,&nbsp;</i>"India doesn't need to learn anything from them. India are a good team and can beat both England and New Zealand on any day, but one thing they can definitely learn is to be positive and play positively because T20 format or white ball cricket, it's format of brave players and you have to take risks, you need to express yourself."&nbsp;</p>

<p>"India have managed to do that well in the past," Sehwag said. "Now again the time has come to repeat it. I would like to say that when New Zealand comes to India, play a brave and expressive brand of cricket and don't worry about the result because if you play bravely then the result will be in your favor," he added.</p>

<p>New Zealand have been on a roll in ICC events in recent times. They appeared in the final of the 2015 and 2019 ODI World Cup, won the inaugural WTC and will now fight for their maiden T20 WC title. England, on the other hand, have also featured in the semi-finals of the last four ICC events&nbsp;in limited-overs, taking the ongoing T20 WC into account.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/bcci-wants-virat-kohli-to-focus-on-batting-likely-to-replace-him-with-rohit-sharma-as-odi-captain-report-428702"><strong>BCCI wants Virat Kohli to focus on batting, likely to replace him with Rohit Sharma as ODI captain - Report</strong></a></p>

<p>Talking about the T20 WC 2021 edition, Australia and New Zealand are set to play the summit clash on November 14 (Sunday) at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai. New Zealand beat England in the first semi-final whereas Australia qualified for the final beating Pakistan in the second knockout clash.</p>


Team India bowed out of the T20 World Cup 2021 edition in the Super 12 round, despite many touting them to be one of the strongest contenders. Virat Kohli-led India started their campaign with back-to-back defeats, at the hands of Pakistan and New Zealand, and were on the brink of an early elimination.

Team India bowed out of the T20 World Cup 2021 edition in the Super 12 round, despite many touting them to be one of the strongest contenders. Virat Kohli-led India started their campaign with back-to-back defeats, at the hands of Pakistan and New Zealand, and were on the brink of an early elimination. While the Men in Blue did bounce back and won three games in a row, it was too late by then as Pakistan and the Kiwis progressed to the semi-finals from their group, i.e. Pool B. Post India's early exit, many have shared their thoughts on how India should approach the shortest format of the game. After MS Dhoni-led India won the inaugural T20 WC, in 2007, they haven't lived upto expectations in the preceding World Cups. Hence, former Indian opener-turned-commentator Virender Sehwag has now shared what India should learn from the likes of consistent sides such as England and New Zealand. EXCLUSIVE | Mayank Agarwal heaps praise on coach Rahul Dravid, Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma, opines on PBKS journey × ALSO READ | Wasim Jaffer breaks the internet with hilarious meme as Australia enter T20 WC 2021 final Sehwag said on his Facebook Watch show Virugiri Dot Com, "India doesn't need to learn anything from them. India are a good team and can beat both England and New Zealand on any day, but one thing they can definitely learn is to be positive and play positively because T20 format or white ball cricket, it's format of brave players and you have to take risks, you need to express yourself." "India have managed to do that well in the past," Sehwag said. "Now again the time has come to repeat it. I would like to say that when New Zealand comes to India, play a brave and expressive brand of cricket and don't worry about the result because if you play bravely then the result will be in your favor," he added. New Zealand have been on a roll in ICC events in recent times. They appeared in the final of the 2015 and 2019 ODI World Cup, won the inaugural WTC and will now fight for their maiden T20 WC title. England, on the other hand, have also featured in the semi-finals of the last four ICC events in limited-overs, taking the ongoing T20 WC into account. ALSO READ | BCCI wants Virat Kohli to focus on batting, likely to replace him with Rohit Sharma as ODI captain - Report Talking about the T20 WC 2021 edition, Australia and New Zealand are set to play the summit clash on November 14 (Sunday) at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai. New Zealand beat England in the first semi-final whereas Australia qualified for the final beating Pakistan in the second knockout clash.

Virender Sehwag shares what Team India need to learn from England, New Zealand post T20 WC debacle

<p>England and New Zealand have locked horns with each other in the first semi-final of the T20 World Cup 2021 edition. The two sides have produced some thrilling encounters in the recent past, including the epic 2019 ODI World Cup final at Lord's.</p>

<p>While New Zealand lost the ODI WC final by the barest of margins, on boundary count after a tied Super Over, the Black Caps had also lost the fifth and final T20I, during a bilateral series versus Eoin Morgan &amp; Co. in their own backyard, in late 2019. Hence, the Kiwis will be desperate to get the better of the ODI WC champions this time around in the first semis, at Abu Dhabi on Wednesday evening (November 10).</p>

<p>Ahead of the first semi-final, Rawalpindi Express Shoaib Akhtar has named the side he is backing. In a video released on his official Youtube channel, Akhtar stated that NZ deserve to settle scores versus England and feels 'they deserve another chance in getting into the finals'.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/t20-wc-eng-vs-nz-live-streaming-when-and-where-to-watch-england-vs-new-zealand-first-semi-final-match-428206"><strong>T20 WC, ENG vs NZ live streaming: When and where to watch England vs New Zealand first semi-final match?</strong></a></p>

<p>Akhtar told, "Today is the chance for New Zealand to settle the score and take revenge against England. If you ask me, if I want New Zealand to win in the semi-final. And this is the team that can upset England. This Kiwi team will be hurt and want to erase that bad memory against this Eoin Morgan's side."</p>

<p>"Yes, England have Buttler, Bairstow, Morgan, Malan, Livingston and others. But if there's a team who can beat this side... it's New Zealand. The law of averages says that a bad day always haunts a team and England might experience that day today. Let's see that, but if you ask me New Zealand looks to be the favorites."</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/eng-vs-nz-t20-wc-2021-semi-final-1-prediction-who-will-win-todays-match-between-england-and-new-zealand-428168"><strong>ENG vs NZ, T20 WC 2021 semi-final 1 prediction: Who will win today's match between England and New Zealand?</strong></a></p>

<p>He added, "Yes, we (Pakistan) have that anger against New Zealand because of canceling their tour with us. After that, we beat them and settled the score against them. But they are the only team who always carry bad luck and reach semi-finals and finals but never cross the border line. So somewhere I feel that New Zealand deserves another chance in getting into the finals."</p>

<p>The second semi-final will see Pakistan take on the Aaron Finch-led Australian side, at Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai on Thursday evening (November 11). The two semi-final winners will square off with each other in the tournament-finale on Sunday (November 14).&nbsp;</p>


England and New Zealand have locked horns with each other in the first semi-final of the T20 World Cup 2021 edition. The two sides have produced some thrilling encounters in the recent past, including the epic 2019 ODI World Cup final at Lord's.

England and New Zealand have locked horns with each other in the first semi-final of the T20 World Cup 2021 edition. The two sides have produced some thrilling encounters in the recent past, including the epic 2019 ODI World Cup final at Lord's. While New Zealand lost the ODI WC final by the barest of margins, on boundary count after a tied Super Over, the Black Caps had also lost the fifth and final T20I, during a bilateral series versus Eoin Morgan & Co. in their own backyard, in late 2019. Hence, the Kiwis will be desperate to get the better of the ODI WC champions this time around in the first semis, at Abu Dhabi on Wednesday evening (November 10). Ahead of the first semi-final, Rawalpindi Express Shoaib Akhtar has named the side he is backing. In a video released on his official Youtube channel, Akhtar stated that NZ deserve to settle scores versus England and feels 'they deserve another chance in getting into the finals'. ALSO READ | T20 WC, ENG vs NZ live streaming: When and where to watch England vs New Zealand first semi-final match? Akhtar told, "Today is the chance for New Zealand to settle the score and take revenge against England. If you ask me, if I want New Zealand to win in the semi-final. And this is the team that can upset England. This Kiwi team will be hurt and want to erase that bad memory against this Eoin Morgan's side." "Yes, England have Buttler, Bairstow, Morgan, Malan, Livingston and others. But if there's a team who can beat this side... it's New Zealand. The law of averages says that a bad day always haunts a team and England might experience that day today. Let's see that, but if you ask me New Zealand looks to be the favorites." ALSO READ | ENG vs NZ, T20 WC 2021 semi-final 1 prediction: Who will win today's match between England and New Zealand? He added, "Yes, we (Pakistan) have that anger against New Zealand because of canceling their tour with us. After that, we beat them and settled the score against them. But they are the only team who always carry bad luck and reach semi-finals and finals but never cross the border line. So somewhere I feel that New Zealand deserves another chance in getting into the finals." The second semi-final will see Pakistan take on the Aaron Finch-led Australian side, at Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai on Thursday evening (November 11). The two semi-final winners will square off with each other in the tournament-finale on Sunday (November 14).

England or New Zealand? Shoaib Akhtar reveals which side he is backing in T20 WC's first semi-final

<p>England opener Jason Roy has been ruled out of the remainder of the ICC Men`s T20 World Cup. Roy had sustained a calf injury while running for a single in the fifth over of England's chase of 190 and retired hurt on 20 in their 10-run defeat to South Africa in its last Super 12 match in Sharjah on Saturday.</p>

<p>Roy limped off the field, aided by an England support staff member, and was unable to put any weight on his left leg.<br />
<br />
After scans on Sunday confirmed a tear on Roy`s calf, It is a big blow for England ahead of their semi-final against New Zealand in Abu Dhabi on Wednesday.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/t20-world-cup-england-formidable-even-without-jason-roy-says-new-zealands-adam-milne-427481">T20 World Cup: England formidable even without Jason Roy, says New Zealand's Adam Milne</a></strong><br />
<br />
James Vince, who was included as a travelling reserve, will replace Roy in England`s squad. The Event Technical Committee of the tournament has approved of Vince being Roy`s replacement. Roy is the second player after left-arm pacer Tymal Mills to be ruled out of the mega event for England.<br />
<br />
"I'm gutted to be ruled out of the World Cup. It is a bitter pill to swallow. I will be staying on to support the boys, and hopefully, we can go all the way and lift that trophy. It has been an unbelievable journey so far, and we have to continue expressing ourselves and concentrating on us. The rehab has already started, and even though I`ve torn my calf, I`m going to give myself the best chance of being ready for the T20 tour of the Caribbean at the start of next year," said Roy in a statement by the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) on Monday.<br />
<br />
Roy had scored 123 runs in five matches at an average of 30.75 in the tournament. He also earned a Player of the Match award with a 38-ball 61 in England`s eight-wicket win over Bangladesh. This is the second time that injury has com` in Roy`s way in a World Cup.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/video-eoin-morgan-gutted-over-jason-roys-injury-after-the-emotional-england-opener-limps-off-the-field-427476">Video: Eoin Morgan 'gutted' over Jason Roy's injury after the emotional England opener limps off the field</a></strong></p>

<p>In the 2019 Cricket World Cup, a left hamstring injury forced Roy to miss three matches. But he recovered in time to feature in the rest of the tournament.</p>


England opener Jason Roy has been ruled out of the remainder of the ICC Men`s T20 World Cup. Roy had sustained a calf injury while running for a single in the fifth over of England's chase of 190 and retired hurt on 20 in their 10-run defeat to South Africa in its last Super 12 match in Sharjah on Saturday.

England opener Jason Roy has been ruled out of the remainder of the ICC Men`s T20 World Cup. Roy had sustained a calf injury while running for a single in the fifth over of England's chase of 190 and retired hurt on 20 in their 10-run defeat to South Africa in its last Super 12 match in Sharjah on Saturday. Roy limped off the field, aided by an England support staff member, and was unable to put any weight on his left leg. After scans on Sunday confirmed a tear on Roy`s calf, It is a big blow for England ahead of their semi-final against New Zealand in Abu Dhabi on Wednesday. ALSO READ: T20 World Cup: England formidable even without Jason Roy, says New Zealand's Adam Milne James Vince, who was included as a travelling reserve, will replace Roy in England`s squad. The Event Technical Committee of the tournament has approved of Vince being Roy`s replacement. Roy is the second player after left-arm pacer Tymal Mills to be ruled out of the mega event for England. "I'm gutted to be ruled out of the World Cup. It is a bitter pill to swallow. I will be staying on to support the boys, and hopefully, we can go all the way and lift that trophy. It has been an unbelievable journey so far, and we have to continue expressing ourselves and concentrating on us. The rehab has already started, and even though I`ve torn my calf, I`m going to give myself the best chance of being ready for the T20 tour of the Caribbean at the start of next year," said Roy in a statement by the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) on Monday. Roy had scored 123 runs in five matches at an average of 30.75 in the tournament. He also earned a Player of the Match award with a 38-ball 61 in England`s eight-wicket win over Bangladesh. This is the second time that injury has com` in Roy`s way in a World Cup. WATCH: Video: Eoin Morgan 'gutted' over Jason Roy's injury after the emotional England opener limps off the field In the 2019 Cricket World Cup, a left hamstring injury forced Roy to miss three matches. But he recovered in time to feature in the rest of the tournament.

T20 World Cup: Jason Roy ruled out due to injury, James Vince named as replacement

<p>The T20 World Cup 2021 edition is set to welcome the semi-finals stage. After match 40 ended in the Super 12 round, on Sunday evening (November 7), the cricketing fraternity got to know about the four teams who will now engage in the semi-finals as some of the big guns in West Indies and India have failed to reach the knockouts.</p>

<p>After Saturday's doubleheader (November 6), Pakistan (who were the first side to make it to the semis) were joined by Australia and England in the semi-finals whereas Kane Williamson-led New Zealand became the fourth and final side to enter the last four. Hence, England (who topped Pool A) will lock horns with Pool B's second-best team, i.e. New Zealand in the first semi-final whereas Australia (Pool A's second-ranked side) will face Babar Azam-led Pakistan (Pool B toppers) in the second semi-final. The two semi-finals are scheduled to take place on November 10 and 11, at Abu Dhabi and Dubai, respectively.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/australia-to-tour-pakistan-for-first-time-in-24-years-for-limited-overs-series-in-early-2022-427627">Australia to tour Pakistan for first time in 24 years for limited-overs series in early 2022</a></strong></p>

<p>Ahead of the T20 WC semi-finals, former South Africa captain Faf du Plessis predicted who will win the coveted title in the UAE. Speaking at the virtual press conference for the upcoming fifth season of the Abu Dhabi T10 League, he told while responding to www.wionnews.com's query, "I hope New Zealand win it. They have come so close and suffered heartbreaks likes South Africa in ICC tournaments like the 2019 OD World Cup final. If not them then it will have to Pakistan."</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/t20-wc-semi-finals-schedule-england-face-new-zealand-australia-to-lock-horns-with-pakistan-427709">T20 WC, semi-finals schedule: England face New Zealand, Australia to lock horns with Pakistan</a></strong></p>

<p>Among the four semi-finalists, Babar-led Pakistan will enter the knockouts being the only unbeaten team so far in the tournament. They also have a 16-match winning streak in T20Is in UAE. England, on the other hand, will aim for their second T20 WC title after missing out in the previous edition (they will also look to be crowned as the limited-overs champions post the 2019 ODI WC). Meanwhile, Australia and New Zealand will aim to win their maiden T20 WC trophy.</p>


The T20 World Cup 2021 edition is set to welcome the semi-finals stage. After match 40 ended in the Super 12 round, on Sunday evening (November 7), the cricketing fraternity got to know about the four teams who will now engage in the semi-finals as some of the big guns in West Indies and India have failed to reach the knockouts.

The T20 World Cup 2021 edition is set to welcome the semi-finals stage. After match 40 ended in the Super 12 round, on Sunday evening (November 7), the cricketing fraternity got to know about the four teams who will now engage in the semi-finals as some of the big guns in West Indies and India have failed to reach the knockouts. After Saturday's doubleheader (November 6), Pakistan (who were the first side to make it to the semis) were joined by Australia and England in the semi-finals whereas Kane Williamson-led New Zealand became the fourth and final side to enter the last four. Hence, England (who topped Pool A) will lock horns with Pool B's second-best team, i.e. New Zealand in the first semi-final whereas Australia (Pool A's second-ranked side) will face Babar Azam-led Pakistan (Pool B toppers) in the second semi-final. The two semi-finals are scheduled to take place on November 10 and 11, at Abu Dhabi and Dubai, respectively. ALSO READ | Australia to tour Pakistan for first time in 24 years for limited-overs series in early 2022 Ahead of the T20 WC semi-finals, former South Africa captain Faf du Plessis predicted who will win the coveted title in the UAE. Speaking at the virtual press conference for the upcoming fifth season of the Abu Dhabi T10 League, he told while responding to www.wionnews.com's query, "I hope New Zealand win it. They have come so close and suffered heartbreaks likes South Africa in ICC tournaments like the 2019 OD World Cup final. If not them then it will have to Pakistan." ALSO READ | T20 WC, semi-finals schedule: England face New Zealand, Australia to lock horns with Pakistan Among the four semi-finalists, Babar-led Pakistan will enter the knockouts being the only unbeaten team so far in the tournament. They also have a 16-match winning streak in T20Is in UAE. England, on the other hand, will aim for their second T20 WC title after missing out in the previous edition (they will also look to be crowned as the limited-overs champions post the 2019 ODI WC). Meanwhile, Australia and New Zealand will aim to win their maiden T20 WC trophy.

ENG, NZ, Pak or AUS? Faf du Plessis predicts winner of T20 World Cup

<p>England will be formidable Twenty20 World Cup opponents even in the absence of injured opener Jason Roy, New Zealand bowler Adam Milne said on Sunday after his team reached the semi-finals.</p>

<p>New Zealand are likely to face England, who he described as "world class", in the first semi in Abu Dhabi on Wednesday in what would be a rematch of the 2019 one-day World Cup final.</p>

<p>Roy retired hurt with a calf injury in England's 10-run loss to South Africa on Saturday and the 2010 champions continue to fret on&nbsp;the opener`s availability for the knockout matches.</p>

<p>"I think when you look at the England order, they`ve got guys that can easily slot in to open," Milne said after New Zealand despatched Afghanistan&nbsp;in their final Super 12 match in Abu Dhabi.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/hits-and-flops-from-indias-t20-world-cup-2021-campaign-427237">Hits and flops from India's T20 World Cup 2021 campaign</a></strong></p>

<p>"Jonny Bairstow has opened before. So I think whatever team they have coming out against us, it`s going to be a really strong team. We`ll have to be right on the mark."</p>

<p>Milne said New Zealand were aware of England`s strong white-ball record in recent years but backed themselves to do well against any opposition.</p>

<p>"Obviously, they`re a world-class team that`s sort of proven over the last few years that in white-ball competitions they`re extremely strong," the 29-year-old said.</p>

<p>"They've got a powerful batting order and a very skilled bowling group. We know it`s going to be a real tough challenge.</p>

<p>"But saying that, we`ve also got a really good group with some really skilled bowlers, seamers and spinners and a really good batting group. We`re confident we can go out and beat anyone in this tournament."</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ravi-shastri-to-coach-an-ipl-team-ahmedabad-franchise-approach-outgoing-india-head-coach-report-427373">&nbsp;Ravi Shastri to coach an IPL team? Ahmedabad franchise approach outgoing India head coach - Report</a></strong></p>

<p>Milne also had a word of encouragement for the Afghan side, who crashed out after their third defeat in five group matches.</p>

<p>"They've got some extremely skilled players. Rashid Khan`s one of the best bowlers, if not the best bowler, in T20 cricket.</p>

<p>"They're an incredibly talented group, and I only see them continuing to develop and become better and better."<br />
&nbsp;</p>


England will be formidable Twenty20 World Cup opponents even in the absence of injured opener Jason Roy, New Zealand bowler Adam Milne said on Sunday after his team reached the semi-finals.

England will be formidable Twenty20 World Cup opponents even in the absence of injured opener Jason Roy, New Zealand bowler Adam Milne said on Sunday after his team reached the semi-finals. New Zealand are likely to face England, who he described as "world class", in the first semi in Abu Dhabi on Wednesday in what would be a rematch of the 2019 one-day World Cup final. Roy retired hurt with a calf injury in England's 10-run loss to South Africa on Saturday and the 2010 champions continue to fret on the opener`s availability for the knockout matches. "I think when you look at the England order, they`ve got guys that can easily slot in to open," Milne said after New Zealand despatched Afghanistan in their final Super 12 match in Abu Dhabi. ALSO READ: Hits and flops from India's T20 World Cup 2021 campaign "Jonny Bairstow has opened before. So I think whatever team they have coming out against us, it`s going to be a really strong team. We`ll have to be right on the mark." Milne said New Zealand were aware of England`s strong white-ball record in recent years but backed themselves to do well against any opposition. "Obviously, they`re a world-class team that`s sort of proven over the last few years that in white-ball competitions they`re extremely strong," the 29-year-old said. "They've got a powerful batting order and a very skilled bowling group. We know it`s going to be a real tough challenge. "But saying that, we`ve also got a really good group with some really skilled bowlers, seamers and spinners and a really good batting group. We`re confident we can go out and beat anyone in this tournament." Also Read: Ravi Shastri to coach an IPL team? Ahmedabad franchise approach outgoing India head coach - Report Milne also had a word of encouragement for the Afghan side, who crashed out after their third defeat in five group matches. "They've got some extremely skilled players. Rashid Khan`s one of the best bowlers, if not the best bowler, in T20 cricket. "They're an incredibly talented group, and I only see them continuing to develop and become better and better."

T20 World Cup: England formidable even without Jason Roy, says New Zealand's Adam Milne

<p>Unbeaten England will be looking to continue their winning run in the Super 12 when they lock horns with South Africa in their final group-stage clash in the ongoing T20 World Cup 2021 on Saturday (November 06). The match will be played at the Sharjah Cricket Stadium in Sharjah.</p>

<p>While England have already qualified for the semi-finals irrespective of the result of their game against South Africa, the Proteas are in a must-win situation. However, even a win might not guarantee South Africa the second spot in the Group 1 points table.</p>

<p>While Australia are currently sitting at the second spot with six points and a net run rate of +1.031 from four matches, South Africa have six points and a net run rate of +0.742 from as many games. Even a win might not be enough for South Africa if Australia beat West Indies in their final Super 12 clash as the net run rate will be too difficult to overtake.</p>

<p>Nonetheless, the Temba Bavuma-led side will hope to produce a clinical performance against Eoin Morgan's men and look to bring an end to their flawless unbeaten streak in the tournament. South African pacers have been in excellent form so far this T20 World Cup.</p>

<p>But they will be wary of the firepower in the England batting line-up. Jos Buttler smashed the only century of the tournament so far in England's last game against Sri Lanka and has been firing all cylinders. The likes of Jason Roy, Jonny Bairstow and even skipper Morgan have been in great touch.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/dont-want-controversies-but-questions-will-be-raised-if-new-zealand-lose-against-afghanistan-shoaib-akhtar-427143">Don't want controversies but questions will be raised if New Zealand lose against Afghanistan:&nbsp;Akhtar</a></p>

<p><strong>England vs South Africa, T20 World Cup 2021 match prediction:</strong></p>

<p>England will start as favourites against the Proteas considering they have not lost a game so far in the T20 World Cup 2021. However, South Africa can spring a surprise if their pacers turn up in Sharjah. We are backing South Africa to give their all and win this to keep themselves in the race for semi-finals.</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>


Unbeaten England will be looking to continue their winning run in the Super 12 when they lock horns with South Africa in their final group-stage clash in the ongoing T20 World Cup 2021 on Saturday (November 06).

Unbeaten England will be looking to continue their winning run in the Super 12 when they lock horns with South Africa in their final group-stage clash in the ongoing T20 World Cup 2021 on Saturday (November 06). The match will be played at the Sharjah Cricket Stadium in Sharjah. While England have already qualified for the semi-finals irrespective of the result of their game against South Africa, the Proteas are in a must-win situation. However, even a win might not guarantee South Africa the second spot in the Group 1 points table. While Australia are currently sitting at the second spot with six points and a net run rate of +1.031 from four matches, South Africa have six points and a net run rate of +0.742 from as many games. Even a win might not be enough for South Africa if Australia beat West Indies in their final Super 12 clash as the net run rate will be too difficult to overtake. Nonetheless, the Temba Bavuma-led side will hope to produce a clinical performance against Eoin Morgan's men and look to bring an end to their flawless unbeaten streak in the tournament. South African pacers have been in excellent form so far this T20 World Cup. But they will be wary of the firepower in the England batting line-up. Jos Buttler smashed the only century of the tournament so far in England's last game against Sri Lanka and has been firing all cylinders. The likes of Jason Roy, Jonny Bairstow and even skipper Morgan have been in great touch. Also Read: Don't want controversies but questions will be raised if New Zealand lose against Afghanistan: Akhtar England vs South Africa, T20 World Cup 2021 match prediction: England will start as favourites against the Proteas considering they have not lost a game so far in the T20 World Cup 2021. However, South Africa can spring a surprise if their pacers turn up in Sharjah. We are backing South Africa to give their all and win this to keep themselves in the race for semi-finals.

ENG vs SA, T20 World Cup 2021 prediction: Who will win today's match between England vs South Africa?

<p>Former India cricketer Aakash Chopra has pointed out the differences in the approach of the Indian cricket team and the England cricket team as the two sides enjoy contrasting campaigns at the ongoing T20 World Cup 2021. While India are on the verge of missing out on a spot in the semi-finals after two losses in their first three games, England have been unbeaten so far in their first four matches and have already qualified for the semis.</p>

<p>During a recent question and answer session on his YouTube channel, Chopra was asked about what India can learn from England's success in T20 World Cup 2021. Chopra responded by providing a detailed analysis of England have managed to become a force to reckon with in white-ball cricket.</p>

<p>Chopra explained how England have started picking players based on the demands of the format while keeping their reputation and form in other formats of the game aside. He called England's philosophy 'crystal clear'.</p>

<p>“This team goes with a philosophy. England have their priorities crystal clear and everyone seems to be moving in the same direction. They picked all-rounders by looking at performances from the county circuit, the Natwest T20 blast and The Hundred. They selected only white-ball players as per the demands of the format," said the former Indian cricketer.</p>

<p>He further went on to cite the example of Joe Root and claimed if the England Test skipper was an Indian, he would not only have been part of the Indian T20 team but also would have been leading the side at present. Root, who currently leads England in Tests, is not a part of the T20 World Cup 2021 squad.</p>

<p>“England did not take into consideration Test performances, no matter how good they were. Look at Joe Root’s case. If Joe Root was an Indian, do you think he would not have been part of the Indian T20 squad? I can give you in writing that Root would have been part of the team even if he had a strike rate of 125. He might even have been the captain of the T20 team. This is what India is all about. That is not how England thinks," Chopra said.</p>

<p>England had headed into the T20 World Cup this year without Jofra Archer and Ben Stokes, who are two of their best match-winners in white-ball cricket. However, they have barely missed the star duo and have been on a roll in the Super 12 stage of the tournament with four wins in a row. Chopra said Indan should learn from England and not form strategies around individuals but put a philosphy in place where they can use players as per their skills in a particular format.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ready-to-provide-evidence-ex-pakistan-pacer-says-he-heard-michael-vaughans-racist-comments-at-yorkshire-426965">Ready to provide evidence: Ex-Pakistan pacer says he heard Vaughan's racist comments at Yorkshire</a></p>

<p>“They have a horses for courses policy. Dawid Malan is in the T20 squad but doesn’t play too many Tests. Moeen Ali and Adil Rashid have been told what is expected of them. Their priorities are very clear. That is why even if some players are missing, there is someone else who can get into that role very quickly and seamlessly. India will have to learn from this. You cannot make strategies centered around individuals. They should have a philosophy in place and fit the other things in. This is a sub-continent culture where individuals are given preference, which we need to move away from.”</p>


Former India cricketer Aakash Chopra has pointed out the differences in the approach of the Indian cricket team and the England cricket team as the two sides enjoy contrasting campaigns at the ongoing T20 World Cup 2021.

Former India cricketer Aakash Chopra has pointed out the differences in the approach of the Indian cricket team and the England cricket team as the two sides enjoy contrasting campaigns at the ongoing T20 World Cup 2021. While India are on the verge of missing out on a spot in the semi-finals after two losses in their first three games, England have been unbeaten so far in their first four matches and have already qualified for the semis. During a recent question and answer session on his YouTube channel, Chopra was asked about what India can learn from England's success in T20 World Cup 2021. Chopra responded by providing a detailed analysis of England have managed to become a force to reckon with in white-ball cricket. Chopra explained how England have started picking players based on the demands of the format while keeping their reputation and form in other formats of the game aside. He called England's philosophy 'crystal clear'. “This team goes with a philosophy. England have their priorities crystal clear and everyone seems to be moving in the same direction. They picked all-rounders by looking at performances from the county circuit, the Natwest T20 blast and The Hundred. They selected only white-ball players as per the demands of the format," said the former Indian cricketer. He further went on to cite the example of Joe Root and claimed if the England Test skipper was an Indian, he would not only have been part of the Indian T20 team but also would have been leading the side at present. Root, who currently leads England in Tests, is not a part of the T20 World Cup 2021 squad. “England did not take into consideration Test performances, no matter how good they were. Look at Joe Root’s case. If Joe Root was an Indian, do you think he would not have been part of the Indian T20 squad? I can give you in writing that Root would have been part of the team even if he had a strike rate of 125. He might even have been the captain of the T20 team. This is what India is all about. That is not how England thinks," Chopra said. England had headed into the T20 World Cup this year without Jofra Archer and Ben Stokes, who are two of their best match-winners in white-ball cricket. However, they have barely missed the star duo and have been on a roll in the Super 12 stage of the tournament with four wins in a row. Chopra said Indan should learn from England and not form strategies around individuals but put a philosphy in place where they can use players as per their skills in a particular format. Also Read: Ready to provide evidence: Ex-Pakistan pacer says he heard Vaughan's racist comments at Yorkshire “They have a horses for courses policy. Dawid Malan is in the T20 squad but doesn’t play too many Tests. Moeen Ali and Adil Rashid have been told what is expected of them. Their priorities are very clear. That is why even if some players are missing, there is someone else who can get into that role very quickly and seamlessly. India will have to learn from this. You cannot make strategies centered around individuals. They should have a philosophy in place and fit the other things in. This is a sub-continent culture where individuals are given preference, which we need to move away from.”

'If Joe Root was Indian, he might be leading T20 team' - Aakash Chopra on what India can learn from England

<p>England captain Eoin Morgan might not have enjoyed a great campaign so far in the ongoing T20 World Cup 2021 but his team has been on a roll in the showpiece event. Morgan-led England have so far won all four of their Super 12 matches and are comfortably sitting on the top of the Group 1 table with full eight points from four matches as they look set to make it to the semi-finals as the top-ranked side from their group.</p>

<p>On Monday (November 01), England continued their unbeaten run in the T20 World Cup 2021 as they defeated Sri Lanka by 26 runs to bag their fourth win in a row at the Sharjah Cricket Stadium. England rode on opener Jos Buttler's magnificent unbeaten 101 off 67 balls and captain Morgan's 40 off 36 balls to post 163 runs on the board in 20 overs, batting first.</p>

<p>England spinners Moeen Ali and Adil Rashid spun a web around the Sri Lankan batting line-up and picked up four wickets between them to bundle them out for 137 runs. The comprehensive win consolidated England's spot on the top of the Group 1 points table and also helped Morgan surpass MS Dhoni and Asghar Afghan to become the most successful captain in T20Is.</p>

<p>England's 26-run win was Morgan's 43rd as the captain of the side as he went past Dhoni and Afghan, who both have 42 wins each to their name in the shortest format of the game in international cricket.</p>

<p><strong>Most successful captain in T20Is:</strong></p>

<p>Eoin Morgan (43 wins)</p>

<p>MS Dhoni (42 wins)</p>

<p>Asghar Afghan (42 wins)</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/shoaib-akhtar-makes-shocking-claim-theres-divide-in-indian-team-one-camp-with-virat-kohli-other-against-426048">Akhtar makes shocking claim: There's divide in Indian team, one camp with Virat Kohli, other against</a></p>

<p>Dhoni, who announced his retirement from international cricket last year, led India in T20Is from 2007 to 2017. He had led the Men in Blue to triumph in the inaugural edition of the T20 World Cup in 2007 and is regarded as one of the most successful captains of all time with numerous trophies in his cabinet.</p>

<p>Dhoni is currently serving as a mentor for the Indian team in the ongoing T20 World Cup 2021. However, Team India has not had a great strat to the showpiece event with back-to-back losses in their first two Super 12 matches as they stand on the brink of early elimination from the tournament.</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>


England captain Eoin Morgan might not have enjoyed a great campaign so far in the ongoing T20 World Cup 2021 but his team has been on a roll in the showpiece event.

England captain Eoin Morgan might not have enjoyed a great campaign so far in the ongoing T20 World Cup 2021 but his team has been on a roll in the showpiece event. Morgan-led England have so far won all four of their Super 12 matches and are comfortably sitting on the top of the Group 1 table with full eight points from four matches as they look set to make it to the semi-finals as the top-ranked side from their group. On Monday (November 01), England continued their unbeaten run in the T20 World Cup 2021 as they defeated Sri Lanka by 26 runs to bag their fourth win in a row at the Sharjah Cricket Stadium. England rode on opener Jos Buttler's magnificent unbeaten 101 off 67 balls and captain Morgan's 40 off 36 balls to post 163 runs on the board in 20 overs, batting first. England spinners Moeen Ali and Adil Rashid spun a web around the Sri Lankan batting line-up and picked up four wickets between them to bundle them out for 137 runs. The comprehensive win consolidated England's spot on the top of the Group 1 points table and also helped Morgan surpass MS Dhoni and Asghar Afghan to become the most successful captain in T20Is. England's 26-run win was Morgan's 43rd as the captain of the side as he went past Dhoni and Afghan, who both have 42 wins each to their name in the shortest format of the game in international cricket. Most successful captain in T20Is: Eoin Morgan (43 wins) MS Dhoni (42 wins) Asghar Afghan (42 wins) Also Read: Akhtar makes shocking claim: There's divide in Indian team, one camp with Virat Kohli, other against Dhoni, who announced his retirement from international cricket last year, led India in T20Is from 2007 to 2017. He had led the Men in Blue to triumph in the inaugural edition of the T20 World Cup in 2007 and is regarded as one of the most successful captains of all time with numerous trophies in his cabinet. Dhoni is currently serving as a mentor for the Indian team in the ongoing T20 World Cup 2021. However, Team India has not had a great strat to the showpiece event with back-to-back losses in their first two Super 12 matches as they stand on the brink of early elimination from the tournament.

Eoin Morgan breaks MS Dhoni's record to become most successful captain in T20Is

<p>Match 29 of the ICC T20 Men's World Cup will see the 2016 runners-up and favourites Eoin Morgan-led England take on the inexperienced Dasun Shanaka-led Sri Lanka in Pool A. While the one-time winners England are coming into this game with a thrashing of Australia, Sri Lanka will feel gutted after having missed out a chance to beat South Africa in a thrilling encounter last week.</p>

<p>Morgan &amp; Co. had started their campaign in the marquee tournament with a loss in their first warm-up game. However, they have stood tall since then and are marching towards the semi-finals, most likely to end up with the top-spot in Pool A after three back-to-back wins. On the other hand, Sri Lanka defeated Bangladesh by 5 wickets in a tense-chase in their opening fixture in the main draw, however, their inexperience and rustiness got exposed versus Australia and South Africa.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Given that another win will confirm their semi-final qualification, England will come hard against the Lankans. On the other hand, Sri Lanka are more used to conditions in Sharjah, having already played three games, and also can pose some threat to the English line-up if they win the toss and opt to bowl first. For the unversed, England haven't batted first and set a target in Super 12 so far.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/sometimes-you-need-a-break-jasprit-bumrah-feels-bubble-fatigue-behind-team-indias-t20-wc-struggles-425804">'Sometimes you need a break: Jasprit Bumrah feels bubble-fatigue behind Team India's T20 WC struggles</a></strong></p>

<p><strong>Match prediction for England-Sri Lanka T20 WC encounter:&nbsp;</strong>The pitch at Sharjah has been favouring the spinners due to its low bounce. While there hasn't been much turn on display, expect another 140-150-plus total on cards. While England will like to go hard if they chase a modest target, it will be interesting to see how they approach with the ball in the second-half (if the situation arise).</p>

<p>England are overwhelming favourites. Though one cannot rule out Sri Lanka's tendency to surprise any opposition on their day, they will have to be on their toes to beat Morgan &amp; Co.</p>


Match 29 of the ICC T20 Men's World Cup will see the 2016 runners-up and favourites Eoin Morgan-led England take on the inexperienced Dasun Shanaka-led Sri Lanka in Pool A.

Match 29 of the ICC T20 Men's World Cup will see the 2016 runners-up and favourites Eoin Morgan-led England take on the inexperienced Dasun Shanaka-led Sri Lanka in Pool A. While the one-time winners England are coming into this game with a thrashing of Australia, Sri Lanka will feel gutted after having missed out a chance to beat South Africa in a thrilling encounter last week. Morgan & Co. had started their campaign in the marquee tournament with a loss in their first warm-up game. However, they have stood tall since then and are marching towards the semi-finals, most likely to end up with the top-spot in Pool A after three back-to-back wins. On the other hand, Sri Lanka defeated Bangladesh by 5 wickets in a tense-chase in their opening fixture in the main draw, however, their inexperience and rustiness got exposed versus Australia and South Africa. Given that another win will confirm their semi-final qualification, England will come hard against the Lankans. On the other hand, Sri Lanka are more used to conditions in Sharjah, having already played three games, and also can pose some threat to the English line-up if they win the toss and opt to bowl first. For the unversed, England haven't batted first and set a target in Super 12 so far. ALSO READ | 'Sometimes you need a break: Jasprit Bumrah feels bubble-fatigue behind Team India's T20 WC struggles Match prediction for England-Sri Lanka T20 WC encounter: The pitch at Sharjah has been favouring the spinners due to its low bounce. While there hasn't been much turn on display, expect another 140-150-plus total on cards. While England will like to go hard if they chase a modest target, it will be interesting to see how they approach with the ball in the second-half (if the situation arise). England are overwhelming favourites. Though one cannot rule out Sri Lanka's tendency to surprise any opposition on their day, they will have to be on their toes to beat Morgan & Co.

ENG vs SL, T20 World Cup 2021 prediction: Who will win today's match between England and Sri Lanka?

<p>England have been on a roll in the ongoing T2 World Cup 2021 with three victories from three matches so far in the showpiece event. The Eoin Morgan-led side has played some fantastic cricket and has dominated the proceedings in the Group 1 of the Super 12 to stand atop the points table so far.</p>

<p>England kicked off their tournament with a six-wicket win against West Indies before thrashing Bangladesh by eight wickets in their second game to make it two wins in a row. England then continued their unbeaten run by thumping Australia by eight wickets in their third game on Saturday (October 30) to consolidate the top spot on the Group 1 table.</p>

<p>On Saturday, England bundled out Australia for a paltry 125 runs after inviting them to bat first in Dubai and then chased down the target with as many as 8.2 overs to spare to earn a convincing victory. England pacers Chris Jordan (3) and Chris Woakes (2) picked up five wickets between them to run through the Aussie batting line-up.</p>

<p>Jos Buttler then slammed a stunning unbeaten 71 off just 32 balls to the Aussie bowling line-up to the cleaners and power England to their third win in a row.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Praising England after their victory against Australia, former England captain Michale Vaughan said England are the best and the most destructive team in the tournament this year, and that he sees only Pakistan as a side who can stop their juggernaut.</p>

<p>"Now that is a message to the rest ... England are the best team &amp; most destructive ... Whose going to stop them!?? Only #Pakistan look likely at this stage #T20WorldCup," Vaughan tweeted.&nbsp;</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>


England have been on a roll in the ongoing T2 World Cup 2021 with three victories from three matches so far in the showpiece event. The Eoin Morgan-led side has played some fantastic cricket and has dominated the proceedings in the Group 1 of the Super 12 to stand atop the points table so far.

England have been on a roll in the ongoing T2 World Cup 2021 with three victories from three matches so far in the showpiece event. The Eoin Morgan-led side has played some fantastic cricket and has dominated the proceedings in the Group 1 of the Super 12 to stand atop the points table so far. England kicked off their tournament with a six-wicket win against West Indies before thrashing Bangladesh by eight wickets in their second game to make it two wins in a row. England then continued their unbeaten run by thumping Australia by eight wickets in their third game on Saturday (October 30) to consolidate the top spot on the Group 1 table. On Saturday, England bundled out Australia for a paltry 125 runs after inviting them to bat first in Dubai and then chased down the target with as many as 8.2 overs to spare to earn a convincing victory. England pacers Chris Jordan (3) and Chris Woakes (2) picked up five wickets between them to run through the Aussie batting line-up. Jos Buttler then slammed a stunning unbeaten 71 off just 32 balls to the Aussie bowling line-up to the cleaners and power England to their third win in a row. Praising England after their victory against Australia, former England captain Michale Vaughan said England are the best and the most destructive team in the tournament this year, and that he sees only Pakistan as a side who can stop their juggernaut. "Now that is a message to the rest ... England are the best team & most destructive ... Whose going to stop them!?? Only #Pakistan look likely at this stage #T20WorldCup," Vaughan tweeted.

Michael Vaughan names only team which can stop 'destructive' England in T20 World Cup 2021

<p>Former England off-spinner Graeme Swann has predicted that the present ICC T20 World Cup in the UAE will be "the downfall&nbsp;of the West Indies' T20 era," and has tipped either England or Pakistan to win the tournament.</p>

<p>West Indies are the defending champions, but despite having big hitters like Chris Gayle and Kieron Pollard, they have struggled, with the Caribbean side putting in one of their worst T20 performances in recent history, getting bowled out&nbsp;for just 55 runs in their first T20 World Cup 'Super 12' game against England.</p>

<p>"I think it is the downfall of West Indies` T20 era. Age and experience are one thing but it can get highlighted if you are not winning. I'm not saying that this West Indies team is past it and they are like Pakistan, they could bounce back anytime," Swann told cricket.com on Friday.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rashid-khan-urges-for-peace-requests-to-avoid-repeat-of-2019-clashes-as-afghanistan-take-on-pakistan-425028">&nbsp;<strong>Rashid Khan urges for peace, requests to avoid repeat of 2019 clashes as Afghanistan take on Pakistan</strong></a></p>

<p>"But they have had two really, really weak performances (against England and South Africa). If you look at their team, the team is wriggled with top-class batsmen from the IPL but they are just not performing. Maybe it is the end of their era. Not sure if it is their T20 World Cup to be honest," he added.</p>

<p>The former England spinner, who has played 60 Tests and taken over 250 wickets in the longest format of the game, lauded Pakistan and England, calling them the favourites this year.</p>

<p>"England and Pakistan are favourites. That New Zealand game, I was more nervous about Pakistan because after that India victory, I thought we would see the old Pakistan, who would falter. I honestly thought that they wouldn't beat New Zealand but I was completely wrong. I think Matt Hayden (Matthew Hayden) has instilled hardness in this team," Swann said.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/not-major-dhyan-chand-khel-ratna-wrestling-federation-wants-arjuna-award-for-ravi-dahiya-425040">Not Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna! Wrestling Federation wants Arjuna Award for Ravi Dahiya</a></strong></p>

<p>Swann also believed that Afghanistan, with a slew of mystery&nbsp;spinners, may pull off a stunner or two in the competition.<br />
<br />
"Afghanistan`s win over Scotland was amazing. Scotland aren't quite England`s rivals even though they are closest, although they see England as their rivals. I think a lot of English fans will root for Scotland. It was a bit hard to see them getting destroyed against Afghanistan. It wasn`t their day whatsoever. You forget how strong Afghanistan are. They are more likely to upset teams these days than Bangladesh and Sri Lanka," added Swann.</p>


Former England off-spinner Graeme Swann has predicted that the present ICC T20 World Cup in the UAE will be "the downfall of the West Indies' T20 era," and has tipped either England or Pakistan to win the tournament.

Former England off-spinner Graeme Swann has predicted that the present ICC T20 World Cup in the UAE will be "the downfall of the West Indies' T20 era," and has tipped either England or Pakistan to win the tournament. West Indies are the defending champions, but despite having big hitters like Chris Gayle and Kieron Pollard, they have struggled, with the Caribbean side putting in one of their worst T20 performances in recent history, getting bowled out for just 55 runs in their first T20 World Cup 'Super 12' game against England. "I think it is the downfall of West Indies` T20 era. Age and experience are one thing but it can get highlighted if you are not winning. I'm not saying that this West Indies team is past it and they are like Pakistan, they could bounce back anytime," Swann told cricket.com on Friday. ALSO READ | Rashid Khan urges for peace, requests to avoid repeat of 2019 clashes as Afghanistan take on Pakistan "But they have had two really, really weak performances (against England and South Africa). If you look at their team, the team is wriggled with top-class batsmen from the IPL but they are just not performing. Maybe it is the end of their era. Not sure if it is their T20 World Cup to be honest," he added. The former England spinner, who has played 60 Tests and taken over 250 wickets in the longest format of the game, lauded Pakistan and England, calling them the favourites this year. "England and Pakistan are favourites. That New Zealand game, I was more nervous about Pakistan because after that India victory, I thought we would see the old Pakistan, who would falter. I honestly thought that they wouldn't beat New Zealand but I was completely wrong. I think Matt Hayden (Matthew Hayden) has instilled hardness in this team," Swann said. ALSO READ: Not Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna! Wrestling Federation wants Arjuna Award for Ravi Dahiya Swann also believed that Afghanistan, with a slew of mystery spinners, may pull off a stunner or two in the competition. "Afghanistan`s win over Scotland was amazing. Scotland aren't quite England`s rivals even though they are closest, although they see England as their rivals. I think a lot of English fans will root for Scotland. It was a bit hard to see them getting destroyed against Afghanistan. It wasn`t their day whatsoever. You forget how strong Afghanistan are. They are more likely to upset teams these days than Bangladesh and Sri Lanka," added Swann.

T20 World Cup: West Indies' T20 dominance is over; this is Pakistan and England's era, says Graeme Swann

<p>Former England captain Michael Vaughan has issued a warning to the Eoin-Morgan led side in the ongoing T20 World Cup 2021. Vaughan wants England to win their upcoming Super 12 clash against Australia to consolidate their spot on the top of the Group 1 points table. Vaughan said he would not want England to face Pakistan in the semi-final.</p>

<p>Pakistan have been in brilliant form so far in the T20 World Cup 2021 and have been unbeaten in Group 2 with three wins in three matches so far. The Babar Azam-led side defeated India in their opening game before beating New Zealand and Afghanistan in their next two games to sit comfortably on top of the Group 2 points table with six points from three matches.</p>

<p>Pakistan defeated Afghanistan by five wickets at the Dubai International Stadium in Dubai on Friday (October 29) riding on the heroics of Babar Azam and Asif Ali. While Babar slammed a half-century to set up the run-chase for Pakistan, Ali finished with his amazing cameo of 7-ball 25 including four sixes in the penultimate over against Karim Janat.</p>

<p>While Pakistan look certain to finish on top of the Group 2 points table with three wins in three matches and two more games to go, Vaughan wants England to top Group 1 by beating Australia on Saturday so they don't have to face Pakistan in the semis.</p>

<p>“Tomorrow’s (Saturday’s) England vs Australia game is a monster. Whoever wins is going to finish top. I am sure Pakistan are going to finish top in their group. I would not want to face Pakistan in the semi-final," Vaughan said on Cricbuzz.</p>

<p>“I’ll be more than happy to play in the other semi-final and hope someone knocks them (Pakistan) out. We are a long way off from the final but they seem to have everything,” he added.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-united-against-racism-quinton-de-kock-joins-sa-teammates-in-taking-a-knee-ahead-of-sri-lanka-clash-425296">Quinton de Kock joins SA teammates in taking a knee ahead of Sri Lanka clash - WATCH</a></p>

<p>Lauding Pakistan for their amazing show in the T20 World Cup 2021 so far, Vaughan said they have the right opening pair, an experienced middle-order and a brilliant bowling attack. The former England captain feels Babar &amp; Co. are a terrific side and look favourites for the title.</p>

<p>“In this Pakistan team, you have that opening combination (Azam and Rizwan), you have got that experience in the middle with Hafeez and Malik. Now, you have got finishers, and with their bowling combination, they look a terrific side,” said Vaughan.</p>


Former England captain Michael Vaughan has issued a warning to the Eoin-Morgan led side in the ongoing T20 World Cup 2021. Vaughan wants England to win their upcoming Super 12 clash against Australia to consolidate their spot on the top of the Group 1 points table.

Former England captain Michael Vaughan has issued a warning to the Eoin-Morgan led side in the ongoing T20 World Cup 2021. Vaughan wants England to win their upcoming Super 12 clash against Australia to consolidate their spot on the top of the Group 1 points table. Vaughan said he would not want England to face Pakistan in the semi-final. Pakistan have been in brilliant form so far in the T20 World Cup 2021 and have been unbeaten in Group 2 with three wins in three matches so far. The Babar Azam-led side defeated India in their opening game before beating New Zealand and Afghanistan in their next two games to sit comfortably on top of the Group 2 points table with six points from three matches. Pakistan defeated Afghanistan by five wickets at the Dubai International Stadium in Dubai on Friday (October 29) riding on the heroics of Babar Azam and Asif Ali. While Babar slammed a half-century to set up the run-chase for Pakistan, Ali finished with his amazing cameo of 7-ball 25 including four sixes in the penultimate over against Karim Janat. While Pakistan look certain to finish on top of the Group 2 points table with three wins in three matches and two more games to go, Vaughan wants England to top Group 1 by beating Australia on Saturday so they don't have to face Pakistan in the semis. “Tomorrow’s (Saturday’s) England vs Australia game is a monster. Whoever wins is going to finish top. I am sure Pakistan are going to finish top in their group. I would not want to face Pakistan in the semi-final," Vaughan said on Cricbuzz. “I’ll be more than happy to play in the other semi-final and hope someone knocks them (Pakistan) out. We are a long way off from the final but they seem to have everything,” he added. Also Read: Quinton de Kock joins SA teammates in taking a knee ahead of Sri Lanka clash - WATCH Lauding Pakistan for their amazing show in the T20 World Cup 2021 so far, Vaughan said they have the right opening pair, an experienced middle-order and a brilliant bowling attack. The former England captain feels Babar & Co. are a terrific side and look favourites for the title. “In this Pakistan team, you have that opening combination (Azam and Rizwan), you have got that experience in the middle with Hafeez and Malik. Now, you have got finishers, and with their bowling combination, they look a terrific side,” said Vaughan.

T20 WC: 'Would not want to face Pakistan in the semis' - Michael Vaughan issues warning to England

<p>England will take on Australia in one of the most anticipated clashes of the T20 World Cup 2021 so far. Both Australia and England have been unbeaten in the Super 12s and will be looking to continue their magnificent winning streak at the Dubai International Stadium in Dubai on Saturday (October 30).</p>

<p>England opened their T20 World Cup 2021 with a six-wicket win over West Indies in a low-scoring encounter before thrashing Bangladesh by eight wickets in their next game. Australia earned a hard-fought win over South Africa in their first game of the tournament before defeating Sri Lanka by seven wickets to make it two wins in a row.</p>

<p>It will be for the first time since the final of the 2009 T20 World Cup that England and Australia will be locking horns in a T20 World Cup game. Both teams have enough firepower in their batting line-up while their bowling attacks have also delivered the goods in UAE.</p>

<p>David Warner roared back to form with a 42-ball 65 against Sri Lanka while skipper Aaron Finch also looked in fine form for his 37 off 23 balls. The openers' return to form is a huge boost for the Aussies, who have a star-studded middle-order featuring the likes of Steve Smith, Marcus Stoinis and Glenn Maxwell among others.</p>

<p>England opener Jason Roya also went all guns blazing in their last outing against Bangladesh and slammed a quickfire 61 off 38 balls laced with three sixes and five fours. It is expected to be a blockbuster contest when the two sides meet in Dubai on Saturday.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/will-virat-kohli-co-break-the-jinx-a-look-at-indias-record-against-nz-in-t20-wc-ahead-of-must-win-clash-425268">Will&nbsp;Kohli &amp; Co. break the jinx? A look at India's record against NZ in T20 WC ahead of must-win clash</a></p>

<p><strong>England vs Australia, T20 World Cup 2021 prediction:</strong></p>

<p>Australia and England have a pretty even record when it comes to the head-to-head record between the two teams in T20Is. Australia have managed ten wins to England's eight in a total of 19 meetings between the two teams, with one game ending in a no-result. It should be a close contest in Dubai on Saturday but England's quality spin duo might see them edge Australia.</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>


England will take on Australia in one of the most anticipated clashes of the T20 World Cup 2021 so far. Both Australia and England have been unbeaten in the Super 12s and will be looking to continue their magnificent winning streak at the Dubai International Stadium in Dubai on Saturday (October 30).

England will take on Australia in one of the most anticipated clashes of the T20 World Cup 2021 so far. Both Australia and England have been unbeaten in the Super 12s and will be looking to continue their magnificent winning streak at the Dubai International Stadium in Dubai on Saturday (October 30). England opened their T20 World Cup 2021 with a six-wicket win over West Indies in a low-scoring encounter before thrashing Bangladesh by eight wickets in their next game. Australia earned a hard-fought win over South Africa in their first game of the tournament before defeating Sri Lanka by seven wickets to make it two wins in a row. It will be for the first time since the final of the 2009 T20 World Cup that England and Australia will be locking horns in a T20 World Cup game. Both teams have enough firepower in their batting line-up while their bowling attacks have also delivered the goods in UAE. David Warner roared back to form with a 42-ball 65 against Sri Lanka while skipper Aaron Finch also looked in fine form for his 37 off 23 balls. The openers' return to form is a huge boost for the Aussies, who have a star-studded middle-order featuring the likes of Steve Smith, Marcus Stoinis and Glenn Maxwell among others. England opener Jason Roya also went all guns blazing in their last outing against Bangladesh and slammed a quickfire 61 off 38 balls laced with three sixes and five fours. It is expected to be a blockbuster contest when the two sides meet in Dubai on Saturday. Also Read: Will Kohli & Co. break the jinx? A look at India's record against NZ in T20 WC ahead of must-win clash England vs Australia, T20 World Cup 2021 prediction: Australia and England have a pretty even record when it comes to the head-to-head record between the two teams in T20Is. Australia have managed ten wins to England's eight in a total of 19 meetings between the two teams, with one game ending in a no-result. It should be a close contest in Dubai on Saturday but England's quality spin duo might see them edge Australia.

ENG vs AUS prediction: Who will win England vs Australia T20 World Cup 2021 match today?

<p>England cannot afford to make mistakes in their Twenty20 World Cup campaign with a potentially tricky clash against Bangladesh in Super 12 stage, wicketkeeper-batter Jos Buttler said on Tuesday ahead of the first T20 meeting between the two sides.</p>

<p>England, top of Group I, are looking to build on their victory over defending champions West Indies in the opener, while Bangladesh are second-bottom after losing to Sri Lanka. "Winning momentum is vital. The way the tournament is set out, there`s not much room for mistakes," Buttler told reporters. "We can take lots of confidence from the first game, it`s fantastic to get a win on the board.</p>

<p>"Bangladesh are a strong team... they`re a dangerous side. They have some really experienced players in the team and we`re expecting a tough challenge. Obviously we try and plan for the opposition but at the same time we`re focusing on ourselves and get our level of intensity to the place it needs to be. We feel confident as a group when we get that right and... that`s going to give us the best chance for success."</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/shots-fired-waqar-younis-makes-heads-turn-with-shocking-remark-after-indo-pak-t20-wc-tie-424171"><strong>Shots fired! Waqar Younis makes heads turn with SHOCKING remark after Indo-Pak T20 WC tie</strong></a></p>

<p>Bangladesh fast bowling coach Ottis Gibson said the team remain calm and bring their A game against a "very powerful" England side for Wednesday`s match in Dubai. Gibson, who previously worked with England from 2007-10 and 2015-17, said Bangladesh had a tough qualification route but they are confident of beating strong teams at the world showpiece event.</p>

<p>"We know that England have a very powerful lineup and we know that we have to be on our A game if we`re going to really challenge them and ultimately win the game," Gibson said. "I've spoken to our bowlers and our batsmen... The message is not to panic, understand that you are going to get hit. You might bowl a good ball and get hit because that`s their mentality, but they also give you opportunities to take wickets. We must try and execute our skills plans. And when those opportunities come, we must take those opportunities."</p>


England cannot afford to make mistakes in their Twenty20 World Cup campaign with a potentially tricky clash against Bangladesh in Super 12 stage, wicketkeeper-batter Jos Buttler said on Tuesday ahead of the first T20 meeting between the two sides.

England cannot afford to make mistakes in their Twenty20 World Cup campaign with a potentially tricky clash against Bangladesh in Super 12 stage, wicketkeeper-batter Jos Buttler said on Tuesday ahead of the first T20 meeting between the two sides. England, top of Group I, are looking to build on their victory over defending champions West Indies in the opener, while Bangladesh are second-bottom after losing to Sri Lanka. "Winning momentum is vital. The way the tournament is set out, there`s not much room for mistakes," Buttler told reporters. "We can take lots of confidence from the first game, it`s fantastic to get a win on the board. "Bangladesh are a strong team... they`re a dangerous side. They have some really experienced players in the team and we`re expecting a tough challenge. Obviously we try and plan for the opposition but at the same time we`re focusing on ourselves and get our level of intensity to the place it needs to be. We feel confident as a group when we get that right and... that`s going to give us the best chance for success." ALSO READ | Shots fired! Waqar Younis makes heads turn with SHOCKING remark after Indo-Pak T20 WC tie Bangladesh fast bowling coach Ottis Gibson said the team remain calm and bring their A game against a "very powerful" England side for Wednesday`s match in Dubai. Gibson, who previously worked with England from 2007-10 and 2015-17, said Bangladesh had a tough qualification route but they are confident of beating strong teams at the world showpiece event. "We know that England have a very powerful lineup and we know that we have to be on our A game if we`re going to really challenge them and ultimately win the game," Gibson said. "I've spoken to our bowlers and our batsmen... The message is not to panic, understand that you are going to get hit. You might bowl a good ball and get hit because that`s their mentality, but they also give you opportunities to take wickets. We must try and execute our skills plans. And when those opportunities come, we must take those opportunities."

T20 WC: Jos Buttler hopeful of England to maintain momentum in Bangladesh face-off

<p>Eoin Morgan-led England will be up against West Indies in the second game of the Super 12 stage of the ongoing T20 World Cup 2021 on Saturday (October 23). The match will be played at the Dubai International Stadium in Dubai. Defending champions West Indies and England will be opening their respective campaigns with the clash.</p>

<p>England are heading into the game on the back of a loss and a win in their last two warm-up matches. They bounced bat to beat New Zealand in their second practice game after losing against India in the first one. Mark Wood's 4-wicket haul helped England beat the Kiwis by 13 runs.</p>

<p>West Indies, on the other hand, lost both their warm-up matches against Pakistan and Afghanistan respectively. The Kieron Pollard-led side will be hoping to not repeat their mistakes on Saturday and get off to a winning start against England.&nbsp;</p>

<p>West Indies might not have the momentum on their side but they remain one of the most formidable sides in T20 World Cup 2021 with a significant amount of talent in their ranks. They have some explosive hitters in their batting line-up ad all-rounders who can be game-changers with both the bat and the ball.</p>

<p>England and West Indies had last met in the T20 World Cup in the final of the 2016 showpiece event where the&nbsp;Men from the Caribbean came out on top after a close encounter. England are missing the likes of Jofra Archer and Ben Stokes for the T20 World Cup&nbsp;and are expected to face a tricky contest against West Indies.</p>

<p>Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rohit-sharma-to-chris-gayle-a-look-at-players-who-have-featured-in-all-7-editions-of-t20-world-cup-so-far-423230">Rohit&nbsp;to&nbsp;Gayle: A look at players who have featured in all 7 editions of T20 World Cup so far</a></p>

<p><strong>England vs West Indies today match prediction:</strong></p>

<p>West Indies have the upper hand over England when it comes to the head-to-head record between the two teams. They might have lost their last two warm-up matches but remain one of the most dangerous sides in the T20 World Cup. The two-time champions will be favourites to win against England on Saturday.</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>


Eoin Morgan-led England will be up against West Indies in the second game of the Super 12 stage of the ongoing T20 World Cup 2021 on Saturday (October 23). The match will be played at the Dubai International Stadium in Dubai.

Eoin Morgan-led England will be up against West Indies in the second game of the Super 12 stage of the ongoing T20 World Cup 2021 on Saturday (October 23). The match will be played at the Dubai International Stadium in Dubai. Defending champions West Indies and England will be opening their respective campaigns with the clash. England are heading into the game on the back of a loss and a win in their last two warm-up matches. They bounced bat to beat New Zealand in their second practice game after losing against India in the first one. Mark Wood's 4-wicket haul helped England beat the Kiwis by 13 runs. West Indies, on the other hand, lost both their warm-up matches against Pakistan and Afghanistan respectively. The Kieron Pollard-led side will be hoping to not repeat their mistakes on Saturday and get off to a winning start against England. West Indies might not have the momentum on their side but they remain one of the most formidable sides in T20 World Cup 2021 with a significant amount of talent in their ranks. They have some explosive hitters in their batting line-up ad all-rounders who can be game-changers with both the bat and the ball. England and West Indies had last met in the T20 World Cup in the final of the 2016 showpiece event where the Men from the Caribbean came out on top after a close encounter. England are missing the likes of Jofra Archer and Ben Stokes for the T20 World Cup and are expected to face a tricky contest against West Indies. Also Read: Rohit to Gayle: A look at players who have featured in all 7 editions of T20 World Cup so far England vs West Indies today match prediction: West Indies have the upper hand over England when it comes to the head-to-head record between the two teams. They might have lost their last two warm-up matches but remain one of the most dangerous sides in the T20 World Cup. The two-time champions will be favourites to win against England on Saturday.

ENG vs WI, T20 World Cup 2021 prediction today: Who will win England vs West Indies match?

<p>The T20 World Cup 2021's main draw is set to start from October 23. While the automatically-qualified teams completed their warm-up encounters, the qualifying round is set to conclude by Friday (October 22). Ahead of the Super 12, there are many teams who can be termed as strong contenders for the ICC event.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/i-dont-know-what-insecurity-we-salman-butt-slams-babar-azam-co-ahead-of-t20-wc-opener-vs-india-422635"><strong>'I don't know what insecurity we' - Salman Butt slams Babar Azam &amp; Co. ahead of T20 WC opener vs India</strong></a></p>

<p>Prior to England's T20 WC opener, versus West Indies on Saturday (October 23), Eoin Morgan &amp; Co.'s swashbuckling opener Jason Roy named two teams that can be serious threats to his national side. Speaking at the virtual press-conference ahead of the fifth season of the Abu Dhabi T10 League, where he will represent Delhi Bulls, Roy told <em>wionnews</em>.<em>com</em>, "I think in our group, South Africa had a great warm-up game last night (versus Pakistan). You can never write them off. They have plenty of match-winners. India are playing some amazing cricket as well. You just can't write off any team as each other as ridiculous match-winners. I might have to sit on the fence and be boring but it will be an exciting&nbsp;tournament for sure."</p>

<p>On being asked if he would like to improve any aspect of his game in the T10 league (shortest format in the sport), Roy said, "Umm, I guess you have to be consistent with your ball-striking. In T20s, you can give yourself more time but in T10, you need to go hard after the word go. My last T10 tournament was few years back now. Obviously, Covid has messed that all up. I am intrigued to see what I can do this time around."</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/team-india-take-squid-game-challenge-ahead-of-t20-world-cup-opener-only-two-succeed-watch-422580"><strong>Team India take 'Squid Game' challenge ahead of T20 World Cup opener, only two succeed - WATCH</strong></a></p>

<p>Coming back to the T20 WC, England are placed in Pool A along with Australia, South Africa, West Indies whereas two more teams will join from the qualifiers. On the other hand, Pool B comprises India, Pakistan, New Zealand, Afghanistan while they will also see two more teams join from the qualifying round.&nbsp;</p>

<p>To back Roy's claims, there are no certain favourites for the coveted T20 WC title. Teams such as India, England, West Indies, Pakistan, New Zealand are very strong whereas South Africa, Australia, Afghanistan will also challenge other sides. Even the ones who will join from the qualifiers can upset big teams and&nbsp;spoil several campaigns.</p>


The T20 World Cup 2021's main draw is set to start from October 23. While the automatically-qualified teams completed their warm-up encounters, the qualifying round is set to conclude by Friday (October 22).

The T20 World Cup 2021's main draw is set to start from October 23. While the automatically-qualified teams completed their warm-up encounters, the qualifying round is set to conclude by Friday (October 22). Ahead of the Super 12, there are many teams who can be termed as strong contenders for the ICC event. ALSO READ | 'I don't know what insecurity we' - Salman Butt slams Babar Azam & Co. ahead of T20 WC opener vs India Prior to England's T20 WC opener, versus West Indies on Saturday (October 23), Eoin Morgan & Co.'s swashbuckling opener Jason Roy named two teams that can be serious threats to his national side. Speaking at the virtual press-conference ahead of the fifth season of the Abu Dhabi T10 League, where he will represent Delhi Bulls, Roy told wionnews.com, "I think in our group, South Africa had a great warm-up game last night (versus Pakistan). You can never write them off. They have plenty of match-winners. India are playing some amazing cricket as well. You just can't write off any team as each other as ridiculous match-winners. I might have to sit on the fence and be boring but it will be an exciting tournament for sure." On being asked if he would like to improve any aspect of his game in the T10 league (shortest format in the sport), Roy said, "Umm, I guess you have to be consistent with your ball-striking. In T20s, you can give yourself more time but in T10, you need to go hard after the word go. My last T10 tournament was few years back now. Obviously, Covid has messed that all up. I am intrigued to see what I can do this time around." ALSO READ | Team India take 'Squid Game' challenge ahead of T20 World Cup opener, only two succeed - WATCH Coming back to the T20 WC, England are placed in Pool A along with Australia, South Africa, West Indies whereas two more teams will join from the qualifiers. On the other hand, Pool B comprises India, Pakistan, New Zealand, Afghanistan while they will also see two more teams join from the qualifying round. To back Roy's claims, there are no certain favourites for the coveted T20 WC title. Teams such as India, England, West Indies, Pakistan, New Zealand are very strong whereas South Africa, Australia, Afghanistan will also challenge other sides. Even the ones who will join from the qualifiers can upset big teams and spoil several campaigns.

T20 WC: India, Pak or WI? England opener Jason Roy names two biggest threats to Eoin Morgan & Co.

<p>England skipper Eoin Morgan said that he is ready to get himself dropped from England`s playing XI of ICC Men`s T20 World Cup if his poor form continues. Morgan has just come back after captaining the Indian Premier League (IPL) team Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) and taking them to the finals of the tournament. Morgan has been really short of T20 runs this year with an average of 16.63 with the highest score of 47 not out from 35 innings.</p>

<p>"It`s always something I`ve said - it`s always an option. I`m not going to stand in the way of a team winning the World Cup. I`ve been short of runs but my captaincy has been pretty good, as it goes. So, yes is the answer," said Morgan, as reported by ESPNcricinfo."Not being a bowler and being a bit older and not contributing as much in the field, I`ve loved the role of captain. You get two bites at the cherry impacting the game. As regards my batting, I wouldn`t be standing here if I hadn`t come out of every bad run of form that I`d ever had," he added.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/t20-wc-shahid-afridi-issues-stern-warning-says-pakistan-can-surprise-anyone-rule-them-out-at-own-peril-422118">T20 WC: Shahid Afridi issues stern warning, says 'Pakistan can surprise anyone, rule them out at own peril'</a></strong></p>

<p>England are the reigning 50-over world champions and go into the T20 World Cup looking to become the first team to hold both trophies at the same time. "I think it`ll be unbelievably special if we manage to do it. I think that the group of players that we`ve had together for the last five or six years, alongside some new, really talented and young guys coming through, who have really made a name for themselves, makes the composition of the squad extremely strong," said Morgan. "We`re always trying to push the limits, we`re always trying to get better as a side, and since 2019 our cricket has been as consistent as ever, I think, in the T20 format which is extremely difficult to do when there`s been chopping and changing the whole time," he added. England will be clashing with West Indies on October 23 in their first match of the Men`s T20 World Cup.</p>


England skipper Eoin Morgan said that he is ready to get himself dropped from England`s playing XI of ICC Men`s T20 World Cup if his poor form continues. Morgan has just come back after captaining the Indian Premier League (IPL) team Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) and taking them to the finals of the tournament.

England skipper Eoin Morgan said that he is ready to get himself dropped from England`s playing XI of ICC Men`s T20 World Cup if his poor form continues. Morgan has just come back after captaining the Indian Premier League (IPL) team Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) and taking them to the finals of the tournament. Morgan has been really short of T20 runs this year with an average of 16.63 with the highest score of 47 not out from 35 innings. "It`s always something I`ve said - it`s always an option. I`m not going to stand in the way of a team winning the World Cup. I`ve been short of runs but my captaincy has been pretty good, as it goes. So, yes is the answer," said Morgan, as reported by ESPNcricinfo."Not being a bowler and being a bit older and not contributing as much in the field, I`ve loved the role of captain. You get two bites at the cherry impacting the game. As regards my batting, I wouldn`t be standing here if I hadn`t come out of every bad run of form that I`d ever had," he added. ALSO READ | T20 WC: Shahid Afridi issues stern warning, says 'Pakistan can surprise anyone, rule them out at own peril' England are the reigning 50-over world champions and go into the T20 World Cup looking to become the first team to hold both trophies at the same time. "I think it`ll be unbelievably special if we manage to do it. I think that the group of players that we`ve had together for the last five or six years, alongside some new, really talented and young guys coming through, who have really made a name for themselves, makes the composition of the squad extremely strong," said Morgan. "We`re always trying to push the limits, we`re always trying to get better as a side, and since 2019 our cricket has been as consistent as ever, I think, in the T20 format which is extremely difficult to do when there`s been chopping and changing the whole time," he added. England will be clashing with West Indies on October 23 in their first match of the Men`s T20 World Cup.

T20 WC: England captain Eoin Morgan open to dropping himself if poor form continues

<p>Cricket West Indies (CWI) and the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) on Monday announced the match schedule and venues for England Men`s T20 Internationals and Test Tours of the West Indies in January and March 2022.</p>

<p>England will arrive in the Caribbean to play the first-ever five-match T20I Series between the two teams. All five matches in Barbados will be played across a nine-day period from January 22 to 30, 2022, including two consecutive weekends of back-to-back T20 cricket.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohli-hilariously-mimics-shikhar-dhawans-batting-style-video-goes-viral-watch-421753"><strong>Virat Kohli hilariously mimics Shikhar Dhawan's batting style, video goes viral - WATCH</strong></a></p>

<p>"Following West Indies` white-ball tour of India in February 2022, the West Indies will welcome England back to the region for a three-match Test Series to compete for the newly created Richards-Botham Trophy. This new trophy honours two legends of cricket, Lord Ian Botham and Sir Vivian Richards, whose friendship and on-field heroics became synonymous with some of their respective teams greatest Test match moments," the ECB said in an official statement.</p>

<p>The Test Series will start at the Sir Vivian Richards Cricket Ground (SVRCG) in Antigua on March 8, 2022, before moving to the Kensington Oval in Barbados for the 2nd Test starting on March 16.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/gautam-gambhir-shares-his-thoughts-on-ms-dhoni-mentoring-virat-kohli-led-team-india-in-t20-world-cup-421819"><strong>Gautam Gambhir shares his thoughts on MS Dhoni mentoring Virat Kohli-led Team India in T20 World Cup</strong></a></p>

<p>The 3rdTest match will commence on March 24 in Grenada at the National Cricket Stadium.CWI will welcome fully vaccinated England fans throughout the tour. Online ticket sales will commence in mid-November through CWI`s ticket platform.</p>

<p>West Indies v England T20I Series, all played at the Kensington Oval, Barbados:</p>

<p>Saturday, January 22 - 1st T20I West Indies v England</p>

<p>Sunday, January 23 - 2nd T20I West Indies v England</p>

<p>Wednesday, January 26 - 3rd T20I West Indies v England</p>

<p>Saturday, January 29 - 4th T20I West Indies v England</p>

<p>Sunday, January 30 - 5th T20I West Indies v England</p>

<p>March 8-12 - 1st Test Match West Indies v England at Sir Vivian Richards Cricket Ground, Antigua</p>

<p>March 16-20 - 2nd Test Match West Indies v England at Kensington Oval, Barbados</p>

<p>March 24-28 - 3rd Test Match West Indies v England at National Cricket Stadium, Grenada.&nbsp;</p>


Cricket West Indies (CWI) and the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) on Monday announced the match schedule and venues for England Men`s T20 Internationals and Test Tours of the West Indies in January and March 2022.

Cricket West Indies (CWI) and the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) on Monday announced the match schedule and venues for England Men`s T20 Internationals and Test Tours of the West Indies in January and March 2022. England will arrive in the Caribbean to play the first-ever five-match T20I Series between the two teams. All five matches in Barbados will be played across a nine-day period from January 22 to 30, 2022, including two consecutive weekends of back-to-back T20 cricket. ALSO READ | Virat Kohli hilariously mimics Shikhar Dhawan's batting style, video goes viral - WATCH "Following West Indies` white-ball tour of India in February 2022, the West Indies will welcome England back to the region for a three-match Test Series to compete for the newly created Richards-Botham Trophy. This new trophy honours two legends of cricket, Lord Ian Botham and Sir Vivian Richards, whose friendship and on-field heroics became synonymous with some of their respective teams greatest Test match moments," the ECB said in an official statement. The Test Series will start at the Sir Vivian Richards Cricket Ground (SVRCG) in Antigua on March 8, 2022, before moving to the Kensington Oval in Barbados for the 2nd Test starting on March 16. ALSO READ | Gautam Gambhir shares his thoughts on MS Dhoni mentoring Virat Kohli-led Team India in T20 World Cup The 3rdTest match will commence on March 24 in Grenada at the National Cricket Stadium.CWI will welcome fully vaccinated England fans throughout the tour. Online ticket sales will commence in mid-November through CWI`s ticket platform. West Indies v England T20I Series, all played at the Kensington Oval, Barbados: Saturday, January 22 - 1st T20I West Indies v England Sunday, January 23 - 2nd T20I West Indies v England Wednesday, January 26 - 3rd T20I West Indies v England Saturday, January 29 - 4th T20I West Indies v England Sunday, January 30 - 5th T20I West Indies v England March 8-12 - 1st Test Match West Indies v England at Sir Vivian Richards Cricket Ground, Antigua March 16-20 - 2nd Test Match West Indies v England at Kensington Oval, Barbados March 24-28 - 3rd Test Match West Indies v England at National Cricket Stadium, Grenada.

England to tour West Indies for five T20Is, three Tests in early 2022

<p>The England cricket team will tour Australia for their five-test Ashes series beginning in December subject to several critical conditions being met before they travel, the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) said on Friday.</p>

<p>"Over recent weeks we have made excellent progress in moving forward on the England Men's Ashes Tour. To facilitate further progress and allow a squad to be selected, the ECB Board has met today and given its approval for the tour to go ahead. This decision is subject to several critical conditions being met before we travel," the ECB said in a statement.</p>

<p>"We look forward to the ongoing assistance from Cricket Australia in resolving these matters in the coming days."</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ian-botham-questions-england-desire-for-ultimate-ashes-test-418714">Ian Botham questions England desire for 'ultimate' Ashes Test</a></strong></p>

<p>CA, the ECB and Australian authorities had been negotiating for many months over the touring conditions in a country where international arrivals have to isolate in quarantine hotels for 14 days, regardless of COVID-19 vaccination status.</p>

<p>A major issue was whether family members could join England players in Australia over the Christmas and New Year period. The country's borders are effectively closed to non-citizens and non-permanent residents.</p>

<p>England captain Joe Root had also previously expressed doubts about the tour due to "bubble fatigue".</p>

<p>Australian media reported that authorities are offering England`s players, staff and families the use of a Gold Coast resort in Queensland state for quarantine before the opening test starts in Brisbane on Dec. 8.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/joe-root-confirms-participation-england-committed-to-ashes-series-report-418748">Joe Root confirms participation, England committed to Ashes series: Report</a></strong></p>

<p>Families who arrive for the Christmas period may be accommodated at a resort in the Yarra Valley on the fringe of Melbourne before the Boxing Day test starts on Dec. 26, the Sydney Morning Herald reported on Tuesday.</p>

<p>The tour pours about A$200 million ($146.14 million) into Cricket Australia coffers, according to local media estimates.</p>

<p>England will play in the Twenty20 World Cup in the United Arab Emirates and Oman starting this month before heading to Australia, likely keeping some players who feature in both competitions away from home for four months.</p>


The England cricket team will tour Australia for their five-test Ashes series beginning in December subject to several critical conditions being met before they travel, the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) said on Friday.

The England cricket team will tour Australia for their five-test Ashes series beginning in December subject to several critical conditions being met before they travel, the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) said on Friday. "Over recent weeks we have made excellent progress in moving forward on the England Men's Ashes Tour. To facilitate further progress and allow a squad to be selected, the ECB Board has met today and given its approval for the tour to go ahead. This decision is subject to several critical conditions being met before we travel," the ECB said in a statement. "We look forward to the ongoing assistance from Cricket Australia in resolving these matters in the coming days." ALSO READ | Ian Botham questions England desire for 'ultimate' Ashes Test CA, the ECB and Australian authorities had been negotiating for many months over the touring conditions in a country where international arrivals have to isolate in quarantine hotels for 14 days, regardless of COVID-19 vaccination status. A major issue was whether family members could join England players in Australia over the Christmas and New Year period. The country's borders are effectively closed to non-citizens and non-permanent residents. England captain Joe Root had also previously expressed doubts about the tour due to "bubble fatigue". Australian media reported that authorities are offering England`s players, staff and families the use of a Gold Coast resort in Queensland state for quarantine before the opening test starts in Brisbane on Dec. 8. ALSO READ: Joe Root confirms participation, England committed to Ashes series: Report Families who arrive for the Christmas period may be accommodated at a resort in the Yarra Valley on the fringe of Melbourne before the Boxing Day test starts on Dec. 26, the Sydney Morning Herald reported on Tuesday. The tour pours about A$200 million ($146.14 million) into Cricket Australia coffers, according to local media estimates. England will play in the Twenty20 World Cup in the United Arab Emirates and Oman starting this month before heading to Australia, likely keeping some players who feature in both competitions away from home for four months.

ECB gives conditional approval for England's Ashes tour to Australia

<p>Ian Watmore, the Chairman of England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB), has stepped down from his role with immediate effect, said an announcement by the ECB on Thursday. Watmore, the first paid chairman of the ECB, had served just 13 months out of his five-year term after taking over from a retiring Colin Graves in 2020.<br />
<br />
Watmore had reached a mutual agreement with the Board to stand down following the end of the domestic season and after helping to steer the game through the challenges of Covid over the past year. His departure comes after heavy criticism and lack of clarity on England cancelling the men`s and women`s white-ball tours to Pakistan scheduled for October this year.<br />
<br />
"It is with regret that I step down as Chair of the ECB, but I do so in mindfulness of my own wellbeing and that of the game which I love. I was appointed to the post in a pre-pandemic era, but Covid has meant the role and its demands on time are dramatically different to all our original expectations, which has taken a personal toll on me. Given this, the Board and I feel the ECB will be better served by a new Chair to take it forward post pandemic," said Watmore in a release by the ECB.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/englands-ben-stokes-could-miss-ashes-series-after-finger-operation-418897">England's Ben Stokes could miss Ashes series after finger operation</a></strong><br />
<br />
"Leaving now, at the end of the season, gives the Board time to find a new Chair to support cricket through the challenges of the 2022 season and beyond. On a personal level, I also retired last month after five years at the Civil Service Commission and recently became a grandfather. I would now like to retire completely from work and enjoy our great game as a spectator," added the 63-year-old.<br />
<br />
During his tenure, the ECB saw the delivery of a full cricket season along with the successful return of crowds, increased diversity on the ECB Board, the launch of the Disability Premier League and the creation of the Commission for Equity in Cricket (ICEC) to explore matters relating to race, class, and gender in the sport.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/joe-root-confirms-participation-england-committed-to-ashes-series-report-418748">Joe Root confirms participation, England committed to Ashes series: Report</a></strong><br />
<br />
ECB also said that Watmore`s deputy, Barry O`Brien, will step up as interim Chair, having indicated to the Board that he will not be a candidate for the role. "We are grateful to Ian for everything he has contributed during his time at the ECB. He has helped guide the game through an incredibly challenging period, where despite the impact of Covid we were able to stage a busy summer of men`s and women`s domestic and international cricket."<br />
<br />
"He also leaves with the recreational game in a strong position, with record numbers playing the game this summer, which I know will please him enormously as a lover of the grass roots of sport. We wish him the best for the future. We will shortly begin a process to appoint a new Chair to lead the ECB, as the organisation continues to deliver on its ambitions to grow the game and create an increasingly inclusive and welcoming sport for all."</p>


Ian Watmore, the Chairman of England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB), has stepped down from his role with immediate effect, said an announcement by the ECB on Thursday.

Ian Watmore, the Chairman of England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB), has stepped down from his role with immediate effect, said an announcement by the ECB on Thursday. Watmore, the first paid chairman of the ECB, had served just 13 months out of his five-year term after taking over from a retiring Colin Graves in 2020. Watmore had reached a mutual agreement with the Board to stand down following the end of the domestic season and after helping to steer the game through the challenges of Covid over the past year. His departure comes after heavy criticism and lack of clarity on England cancelling the men`s and women`s white-ball tours to Pakistan scheduled for October this year. "It is with regret that I step down as Chair of the ECB, but I do so in mindfulness of my own wellbeing and that of the game which I love. I was appointed to the post in a pre-pandemic era, but Covid has meant the role and its demands on time are dramatically different to all our original expectations, which has taken a personal toll on me. Given this, the Board and I feel the ECB will be better served by a new Chair to take it forward post pandemic," said Watmore in a release by the ECB. ALSO READ: England's Ben Stokes could miss Ashes series after finger operation "Leaving now, at the end of the season, gives the Board time to find a new Chair to support cricket through the challenges of the 2022 season and beyond. On a personal level, I also retired last month after five years at the Civil Service Commission and recently became a grandfather. I would now like to retire completely from work and enjoy our great game as a spectator," added the 63-year-old. During his tenure, the ECB saw the delivery of a full cricket season along with the successful return of crowds, increased diversity on the ECB Board, the launch of the Disability Premier League and the creation of the Commission for Equity in Cricket (ICEC) to explore matters relating to race, class, and gender in the sport. ALSO READ: Joe Root confirms participation, England committed to Ashes series: Report ECB also said that Watmore`s deputy, Barry O`Brien, will step up as interim Chair, having indicated to the Board that he will not be a candidate for the role. "We are grateful to Ian for everything he has contributed during his time at the ECB. He has helped guide the game through an incredibly challenging period, where despite the impact of Covid we were able to stage a busy summer of men`s and women`s domestic and international cricket." "He also leaves with the recreational game in a strong position, with record numbers playing the game this summer, which I know will please him enormously as a lover of the grass roots of sport. We wish him the best for the future. We will shortly begin a process to appoint a new Chair to lead the ECB, as the organisation continues to deliver on its ambitions to grow the game and create an increasingly inclusive and welcoming sport for all."

England Cricket Board Chairman Ian Watmore steps down with immediate effect

<p>Ben Stokes, England's all-rounder, was injured while taking a catch for his team Rajasthan Royals' first match in IPL 2021 against Punjab Kings after underwent another operation on his left index finger. He is yet to decide on his return to international cricket, and he may miss the Ashes in Australia later this year.</p>

<p>ECB's official site on Thursday (October 7) stated that the operation took place on Monday. Stokes' left index finger had two screws removed, as well as scar tissue. He will now spend the next four weeks undergoing intense rehabilitation under the guidance of the ECB's medical experts.&nbsp;</p>

<p>After playing in two matches for the Northern Superchargers in the hundred ball cricket on July 24 and 26, Stokes has not played any competitive cricket. Earlier than that, Stokes captained England's new ODI side to a 3-0 triumph against Pakistan while the first-choice team was isolated due to a COVID-19 outbreak.&nbsp;</p>

<p class="MsoNormal"><o:p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/joe-root-confirms-participation-england-committed-to-ashes-series-report-418748">Joe Root confirms participation, England committed to Ashes series: Report</a></strong></o:p></p>

<p>Stokes had opted to take an indefinite break from cricket to focus on his mental health as he dropped out of the home Test series against India that began in August.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Managing Director of England Men's Cricket, Ashley Giles, had said in July: "Ben has shown tremendous courage to open up about his feelings and wellbeing.</p>

<p>"Our primary focus has always been and will continue to be the mental health and welfare of all of our people. The demands on our athletes to prepare and play elite sport are relentless in a typical environment, but the ongoing pandemic has acutely compounded this."</p>

<p>"Ben will be given as long as he needs, and we look forward to seeing him playing cricket for England in the future," he added.&nbsp;</p>

<p class="MsoNormal"><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ian-botham-questions-england-desire-for-ultimate-ashes-test-418714">Ian Botham questions England desire for 'ultimate' Ashes Test</a></strong></p>

<p>Stokes has been left out of England's Twenty20 World Cup squad, and now might miss his Ashes series as well.</p>

<p>Stokes missed England's last tour of Australia in 2017/18 after his involvement in a brawl outside a Bristol nightclub. He was subsequently found not guilty of affray.</p>

<p>The tourists missed Stokes' contributions with bat and ball as Australia eased to a 4-0 series win to regain the urn.</p>

<p>Despite players' reservations about travelling in a COVID-19 "bubble," British media claimed that skipper Joe Root has confirmed teams’ participation in the series and will be accompanied by a full-strength squad.</p>

<p>Ben Stokes has lately posted a picture with his family where his injured index finger can be seen.</p>

<p class="MsoNormal"><o:p></o:p></p>

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Ben Stokes, England's all-rounder, was injured while taking a catch for his team Rajasthan Royals' first match in IPL 2021 against Punjab Kings after underwent another operation on his left index finger.

Ben Stokes, England's all-rounder, was injured while taking a catch for his team Rajasthan Royals' first match in IPL 2021 against Punjab Kings after underwent another operation on his left index finger. He is yet to decide on his return to international cricket, and he may miss the Ashes in Australia later this year. ECB's official site on Thursday (October 7) stated that the operation took place on Monday. Stokes' left index finger had two screws removed, as well as scar tissue. He will now spend the next four weeks undergoing intense rehabilitation under the guidance of the ECB's medical experts. After playing in two matches for the Northern Superchargers in the hundred ball cricket on July 24 and 26, Stokes has not played any competitive cricket. Earlier than that, Stokes captained England's new ODI side to a 3-0 triumph against Pakistan while the first-choice team was isolated due to a COVID-19 outbreak. ALSO READ: Joe Root confirms participation, England committed to Ashes series: Report Stokes had opted to take an indefinite break from cricket to focus on his mental health as he dropped out of the home Test series against India that began in August. Managing Director of England Men's Cricket, Ashley Giles, had said in July: "Ben has shown tremendous courage to open up about his feelings and wellbeing. "Our primary focus has always been and will continue to be the mental health and welfare of all of our people. The demands on our athletes to prepare and play elite sport are relentless in a typical environment, but the ongoing pandemic has acutely compounded this." "Ben will be given as long as he needs, and we look forward to seeing him playing cricket for England in the future," he added. ALSO READ | Ian Botham questions England desire for 'ultimate' Ashes Test Stokes has been left out of England's Twenty20 World Cup squad, and now might miss his Ashes series as well. Stokes missed England's last tour of Australia in 2017/18 after his involvement in a brawl outside a Bristol nightclub. He was subsequently found not guilty of affray. The tourists missed Stokes' contributions with bat and ball as Australia eased to a 4-0 series win to regain the urn. Despite players' reservations about travelling in a COVID-19 "bubble," British media claimed that skipper Joe Root has confirmed teams’ participation in the series and will be accompanied by a full-strength squad. Ben Stokes has lately posted a picture with his family where his injured index finger can be seen. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Ben Stokes (@stokesy) ×

England's Ben Stokes could miss Ashes series after finger operation

<p>The whole cricketing fraternity is hooked onto the IPL 2021 edition at present. However, they are also eagerly waiting for the commencement of the forthcoming T20 World Cup, which will start soon after IPL 14's second and final leg -- i.e. on October 17.</p>

<p>The upcoming seventh edition was set to be held in Australia last year, however, the Covid-19 pandemic led to the tournament's postponement. This time around, the marquee event will be held in the UAE with as many as 16 teams participating in the showpiece tournament. Ahead of the T20 WC, former Pakistan wicketkeeper-batsman Rashid Latif named his tournament-favourites and also opened up on Babar Azam-led Men in Green's chances.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/dont-think-india-can-compete-with-pakistan-thats-why-they-dont-want-to-play-against-us-abdul-razzaq-418367"><strong>Don't think India can compete with Pakistan, that's why they don't want to play against us: Abdul Razzaq</strong></a></p>

<p>In an interview with PTI, Latif said: “India and England appear to be the most balanced sides in the tournament, while West Indies always remain a dangerous side." He further added, "I wouldn't write Pakistan off as if they click they could gain momentum and surprise many people."</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/housefull-tickets-sold-out-for-india-pakistan-t20-world-cup-tie-as-marquee-clash-nears-418228"><strong>HOUSEFULL! Tickets sold out for India-Pakistan T20 World Cup tie as marquee clash nears</strong></a></p>

<p>In the last edition of the T20 WC, held in India, Daren Sammy-led West Indies had emerged on top to clinch their second title. Apart from the Windies, India, Pakistan, England and Sri Lanka have also tasted success once in the earlier editions.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The qualifying round of the T20 WC will start from October 17 whereas the main draw of the event will kick off from October 23. For the unversed, Australia, South Africa, England and West Indies are in Pool A whereas India, Pakistan, New Zealand and Afghanistan are placed in Pool B. Two teams, each, will join both the groups from the qualifiers.</p>


The whole cricketing fraternity is hooked onto the IPL 2021 edition at present. However, they are also eagerly waiting for the commencement of the forthcoming T20 World Cup, which will start soon after IPL 14's second and final leg -- i.

The whole cricketing fraternity is hooked onto the IPL 2021 edition at present. However, they are also eagerly waiting for the commencement of the forthcoming T20 World Cup, which will start soon after IPL 14's second and final leg -- i.e. on October 17. The upcoming seventh edition was set to be held in Australia last year, however, the Covid-19 pandemic led to the tournament's postponement. This time around, the marquee event will be held in the UAE with as many as 16 teams participating in the showpiece tournament. Ahead of the T20 WC, former Pakistan wicketkeeper-batsman Rashid Latif named his tournament-favourites and also opened up on Babar Azam-led Men in Green's chances. ALSO READ | Don't think India can compete with Pakistan, that's why they don't want to play against us: Abdul Razzaq In an interview with PTI, Latif said: “India and England appear to be the most balanced sides in the tournament, while West Indies always remain a dangerous side." He further added, "I wouldn't write Pakistan off as if they click they could gain momentum and surprise many people." ALSO READ | HOUSEFULL! Tickets sold out for India-Pakistan T20 World Cup tie as marquee clash nears In the last edition of the T20 WC, held in India, Daren Sammy-led West Indies had emerged on top to clinch their second title. Apart from the Windies, India, Pakistan, England and Sri Lanka have also tasted success once in the earlier editions. The qualifying round of the T20 WC will start from October 17 whereas the main draw of the event will kick off from October 23. For the unversed, Australia, South Africa, England and West Indies are in Pool A whereas India, Pakistan, New Zealand and Afghanistan are placed in Pool B. Two teams, each, will join both the groups from the qualifiers.

India and England most balanced: Former Pakistan captain names favourites for T20 World Cup 2021