<p>Stuart Broad announced his retirement in the middle of the fifth and final Test of Ashes 2023. Broad ended his career in a fitting way, slamming a six on his last ball and also claiming the last two wickets of the high-voltage series. The legendary bowler ended with 604 Test scalps and a total of 847 wickets. Even in Ashes 2023, he was England's top wicket-taker (22) and second-most overall.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>'It was not a surprise'</strong></h2>

<p>Recently, Broad's bowling partner James Anderson revealed that the 37-year-old Broad was considering retirement in 2022 before Test captain Ben Stokes and head coach Brendon McCullum persuaded him to reconsider.&nbsp;"Stuart told me about his retirement over a coffee before we got on the team bus for the third day's play. I was a bit shocked initially but when it sank in, it was not a surprise. He considered it last summer but Baz and Stokesy managed to talk him out of it," Anderson wrote in his column for the Telegraph.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/you-are-fool-if-nasser-hussain-backs-james-anderson-to-deliver-in-india-tour-after-dismal-ashes-2023-621938">'You are fool if...': Nasser Hussain backs James Anderson to deliver in India tour after dismal Ashes 2023</a></strong></p>

<p>He added, "Then if you look back on the Ashes series, as he said himself, it was the perfect way to go out. It was nice we did not go out at the same time together as well. We have always been put in a bracket as a partnership but he is in his own right, one of the best bowlers England has ever produced so he deserved his own send-off."</p>

<p>Broad started his international career in 2006. In his initial years, the pacer bore the brunt of Yuvraj Singh who hit him for 6-sixes in an over during the 2007 T20 World Cup. However, he reinvented himself and became a potent force especially in the purest format of the game. The speedster was a regular in England's Test setup and played 167 games, ending with 3,662 runs -- with a best of 169 versus Pakistan -- and claimed 604 scalps.</p>

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Stuart Broad announced his retirement in the middle of the fifth and final Test of Ashes 2023. Broad ended his career in a fitting way, slamming a six on his last ball and also claiming the last two wickets of the high-voltage series.

Stuart Broad announced his retirement in the middle of the fifth and final Test of Ashes 2023. Broad ended his career in a fitting way, slamming a six on his last ball and also claiming the last two wickets of the high-voltage series. The legendary bowler ended with 604 Test scalps and a total of 847 wickets. Even in Ashes 2023, he was England's top wicket-taker (22) and second-most overall. 'It was not a surprise' Recently, Broad's bowling partner James Anderson revealed that the 37-year-old Broad was considering retirement in 2022 before Test captain Ben Stokes and head coach Brendon McCullum persuaded him to reconsider. "Stuart told me about his retirement over a coffee before we got on the team bus for the third day's play. I was a bit shocked initially but when it sank in, it was not a surprise. He considered it last summer but Baz and Stokesy managed to talk him out of it," Anderson wrote in his column for the Telegraph. Also read: 'You are fool if...': Nasser Hussain backs James Anderson to deliver in India tour after dismal Ashes 2023 He added, "Then if you look back on the Ashes series, as he said himself, it was the perfect way to go out. It was nice we did not go out at the same time together as well. We have always been put in a bracket as a partnership but he is in his own right, one of the best bowlers England has ever produced so he deserved his own send-off." Broad started his international career in 2006. In his initial years, the pacer bore the brunt of Yuvraj Singh who hit him for 6-sixes in an over during the 2007 T20 World Cup. However, he reinvented himself and became a potent force especially in the purest format of the game. The speedster was a regular in England's Test setup and played 167 games, ending with 3,662 runs -- with a best of 169 versus Pakistan -- and claimed 604 scalps. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Broad considered retirement in 2022, Stokes and McCullum talked him out of it, reveals Anderson

<p>Seamer Mark Wood is deemed fully fit to bowl on the final day of the home Ashes as England look for an improbable win at the Kia Oval in London. England held him back until the 33rd over on day four before rain interrupted play and washed out the final session, with Australia reeling at 135 for no loss, needing another 249 runs to win the Test and claim away Ashes for the first time since 2001.</p>

<p>English quick bowled over 80 overs across three Tests played, picking 13 wickets at 20.38 and is said to be worn out by now. While Australia’s tactics of tiring the English bowlers seemed to have worked as they sit in the driver’s seat in this final Test, England’s assistant coach Marcus Trescothick insisted Wood would remain available to bowl throughout the final day.</p>

<p>"He's fit to bowl,” Trescothick told media at the close of the day’s play.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ashes-warner-khawaja-keep-australia-in-chase-with-unbeaten-stand-despite-rain-interruption-on-day-4-620855">Ashes: Warner, Khawaja keep Australia in chase with unbeaten stand despite rain interruption on day 4</a></p>

<p>When asked about the reason behind bringing Wood late into the attack, Marcus said it was a tactical decision.</p>

<p>"I think pretty much like everybody, there's little aches and pains that are going off the back of a big five-Test series. Both teams will be travelling in the same way at the moment. But yeah, everyone is fit to bowl. It was a tactical decision,” he added.</p>

<h2>Bazball backfired for English bowlers</h2>

<p>Deploying an ultra-attacking approach, which fans now call Bazball, England had to bear the brunt of it on the flip side. Though their batters showed intent, scoring at over run-a-ball during the five-match series, English bowlers sent down around 193 overs more than what Australian bowlers bowled – a trick that didn’t sit well with ace seamers like Wood.</p>

<p>While Usman Khawaja and Marnus Labuschagne went ahead with the plan throughout the series, Michael di Venuto – Oz’s Assistant coach, said it was part of the plan.</p>

<p>"Certainly, part of our plan is to get them to keep coming back and bowling more overs," Venuto said.</p>

<p>On Trescothick’s comment on Wood, Venuto said, "I'm not sure of those tactics," he said. "Whether he is carrying an injury, whether he can only bowl a certain amount of overs, I'm not sure. There was some spin, so [I was] not surprised to see the two off-spinners wheeling away at one end."</p>

<p>Meanwhile, July 31, Monday, which happens to be the final day of intriguing Ashes, is also Stuart Broad’s last day in international cricket. The veteran seamer announced his decision to set aside after the third day’s play, having played for around 17 years and ending as England’s second-highest wicket-taker in Tests (with over 600 scalps).</p>

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Seamer Mark Wood is deemed fully fit to bowl on the final day of the home Ashes as England look for an improbable win at the Kia Oval in London. England held him back until the 33rd over on day four before rain interrupted play and washed out the final session, with Australia reeling at 135 for no loss, needing another 249 runs to win the Test and claim away Ashes for the first time since 2001.

Seamer Mark Wood is deemed fully fit to bowl on the final day of the home Ashes as England look for an improbable win at the Kia Oval in London. England held him back until the 33rd over on day four before rain interrupted play and washed out the final session, with Australia reeling at 135 for no loss, needing another 249 runs to win the Test and claim away Ashes for the first time since 2001. English quick bowled over 80 overs across three Tests played, picking 13 wickets at 20.38 and is said to be worn out by now. While Australia’s tactics of tiring the English bowlers seemed to have worked as they sit in the driver’s seat in this final Test, England’s assistant coach Marcus Trescothick insisted Wood would remain available to bowl throughout the final day. "He's fit to bowl,” Trescothick told media at the close of the day’s play. ALSO READ: Ashes: Warner, Khawaja keep Australia in chase with unbeaten stand despite rain interruption on day 4 When asked about the reason behind bringing Wood late into the attack, Marcus said it was a tactical decision. "I think pretty much like everybody, there's little aches and pains that are going off the back of a big five-Test series. Both teams will be travelling in the same way at the moment. But yeah, everyone is fit to bowl. It was a tactical decision,” he added. Bazball backfired for English bowlers Deploying an ultra-attacking approach, which fans now call Bazball, England had to bear the brunt of it on the flip side. Though their batters showed intent, scoring at over run-a-ball during the five-match series, English bowlers sent down around 193 overs more than what Australian bowlers bowled – a trick that didn’t sit well with ace seamers like Wood. While Usman Khawaja and Marnus Labuschagne went ahead with the plan throughout the series, Michael di Venuto – Oz’s Assistant coach, said it was part of the plan. "Certainly, part of our plan is to get them to keep coming back and bowling more overs," Venuto said. On Trescothick’s comment on Wood, Venuto said, "I'm not sure of those tactics," he said. "Whether he is carrying an injury, whether he can only bowl a certain amount of overs, I'm not sure. There was some spin, so [I was] not surprised to see the two off-spinners wheeling away at one end." Meanwhile, July 31, Monday, which happens to be the final day of intriguing Ashes, is also Stuart Broad’s last day in international cricket. The veteran seamer announced his decision to set aside after the third day’s play, having played for around 17 years and ending as England’s second-highest wicket-taker in Tests (with over 600 scalps). WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Ashes, 5th Test: 'Worn-out' Mark Wood fit to bowl on day five as England eye unlikely win

<p>Two of cricket's greatest-ever, Yuvraj Singh and Stuart Broad, crossed paths several times during their careers, with the Durban game in the 2007 T20 WC being the most notable outing. While India won the close contest at Kingsmead, what made headlines was Yuvraj's six sixes in an over off Broad. Fast forward several years, Broad, after announcing his retirement, received best wishes from all quarters, including from Yuvraj.</p>

<p>Taking to social media, Yuvraj penned a heartfelt note for Broad, calling him among the most feared red-ball bowlers ever. The attacking left-handed batter congratulated him on an illustrious career, adding Broad's journey is full of determination and inspiration.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/stuart-broad-recalls-durban-debacle-against-yuvraj-says-he-built-his-warrior-mode-after-that-experience-620802">Stuart Broad recalls Durban debacle against Yuvraj, says he built his 'warrior mode' after that experience</a></p>

<p>Yuvraj Singh&nbsp;wrote,</p>

<p>'Take a bow &nbsp;@StuartBroad8 🙇🏻‍♂️&nbsp;<br />
Congratulations on an incredible Test career 🏏👏 one of the finest and most feared red ball bowlers, and a real legend!&nbsp;<br />
Your journey and determination have been super inspiring. Good luck for the next leg Broady! 🙌🏻</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Take a bow <a href="https://twitter.com/StuartBroad8?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@StuartBroad8</a> 🙇🏻‍♂️<br />
<br />
Congratulations on an incredible Test career 🏏👏 one of the finest and most feared red ball bowlers, and a real legend!<br />
<br />
Your journey and determination have been super inspiring. Good luck for the next leg Broady! 🙌🏻 <a href="https://t.co/d5GRlAVFa3">pic.twitter.com/d5GRlAVFa3</a></p>
— Yuvraj Singh (@YUVSTRONG12) <a href="https://twitter.com/YUVSTRONG12/status/1685609688082292736?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 30, 2023</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>Meanwhile, the England&nbsp;seamer also reflected on the Durban debacle and said he came out as a better and a competitive bowler after that experience. Sharing his thoughts on Sky Sports upon announcing his retirement on Saturday, Broad said, "I started building my 'warrior mode' that I call it after that experience. Ultimately, I wish that didn't happen. What really helped me was that it was a dead rubber, so I didn't feel like I'd knocked us out of the World Cup."</p>

<p>"But I think it steeled me up to make me the competitor I am to this day and has driven me forward a huge amount," the right-arm seamer said.</p>

<h2>Dravid also hails legendary Broad</h2>

<p>Currently, with the Indian Team in the Caribbean, head coach Rahul Dravid, who also played against Broad for a brief period, hailed the right-handed seamer saying what he achieved (600 plus Test wickets) in the number of games played, reflects a super successful career.</p>

<p>"He (Broad) has been a terrific bowler...His partnership with Jimmy Anderson will always be remembered.</p>

<p>"Anderson and Broad, the whole decade they played for England. They have really put in some fantastic performances. To take 600 wickets and to play the number of Test matches he has takes a special kind of cricketer," Dravid added.</p>

<p>Meanwhile, during the ongoing fifth Ashes Test at the Oval, Broad reached the 600-wicket milestone and became only the second seamer after compatriot James Anderson to do so.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Having made his international debut in 2006, Broad appeared in 167 Tests, 121 ODIs and 56 T20Is.</p>

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Two of cricket's greatest-ever, Yuvraj Singh and Stuart Broad, crossed paths several times during their careers, with the Durban game in the 2007 T20 WC being the most notable outing.

Two of cricket's greatest-ever, Yuvraj Singh and Stuart Broad, crossed paths several times during their careers, with the Durban game in the 2007 T20 WC being the most notable outing. While India won the close contest at Kingsmead, what made headlines was Yuvraj's six sixes in an over off Broad. Fast forward several years, Broad, after announcing his retirement, received best wishes from all quarters, including from Yuvraj. Taking to social media, Yuvraj penned a heartfelt note for Broad, calling him among the most feared red-ball bowlers ever. The attacking left-handed batter congratulated him on an illustrious career, adding Broad's journey is full of determination and inspiration. ALSO READ: Stuart Broad recalls Durban debacle against Yuvraj, says he built his 'warrior mode' after that experience Yuvraj Singh wrote, 'Take a bow @StuartBroad8 🙇🏻‍♂️ Congratulations on an incredible Test career 🏏👏 one of the finest and most feared red ball bowlers, and a real legend! Your journey and determination have been super inspiring. Good luck for the next leg Broady! 🙌🏻 Take a bow @StuartBroad8 🙇🏻‍♂️ Congratulations on an incredible Test career 🏏👏 one of the finest and most feared red ball bowlers, and a real legend! Your journey and determination have been super inspiring. Good luck for the next leg Broady! 🙌🏻 pic.twitter.com/d5GRlAVFa3 — Yuvraj Singh (@YUVSTRONG12) July 30, 2023 × Meanwhile, the England seamer also reflected on the Durban debacle and said he came out as a better and a competitive bowler after that experience. Sharing his thoughts on Sky Sports upon announcing his retirement on Saturday, Broad said, "I started building my 'warrior mode' that I call it after that experience. Ultimately, I wish that didn't happen. What really helped me was that it was a dead rubber, so I didn't feel like I'd knocked us out of the World Cup." "But I think it steeled me up to make me the competitor I am to this day and has driven me forward a huge amount," the right-arm seamer said. Dravid also hails legendary Broad Currently, with the Indian Team in the Caribbean, head coach Rahul Dravid, who also played against Broad for a brief period, hailed the right-handed seamer saying what he achieved (600 plus Test wickets) in the number of games played, reflects a super successful career. "He (Broad) has been a terrific bowler...His partnership with Jimmy Anderson will always be remembered. "Anderson and Broad, the whole decade they played for England. They have really put in some fantastic performances. To take 600 wickets and to play the number of Test matches he has takes a special kind of cricketer," Dravid added. Meanwhile, during the ongoing fifth Ashes Test at the Oval, Broad reached the 600-wicket milestone and became only the second seamer after compatriot James Anderson to do so. Having made his international debut in 2006, Broad appeared in 167 Tests, 121 ODIs and 56 T20Is. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Yuvraj Singh sends best wishes to Stuart Broad on retirement, calls him one of most feared red-ball bowlers

<p>Bazball was all over everyone before the Ashes 2023 had even begun, and most Australian fans were on their toes, knowing how well England has done under Brendon McCullum and Ben Stokes. With England winning almost everything in under one year just by playing this ultra-attacking style of cricket, they were outright favourites to win back the urn, but as destiny had it, the flaws in this approach got exposed, and England was left wanting in the end.</p>

<p>England batters were scoring runs at over run-a-ball strike-rate in subcontinent conditions, while their part-timers were among the leading wicket-takers, let alone the premium ones, who were already tearing into best of the line-ups. In an ideal world, it seemed like it was England’s best chance to beat the ageing Aussie side and win the Ashes for the first time since 2015.</p>

<p>Amidst all the buzz, England began in the most English way in the first Test in Edgbaston&nbsp;with Zak Crawley, who unlike Rory Burns – who got out on a first-ball duck in the previous Ashes – smashed captain Pat Cummins for a glorious four this time. That shot had the crowd up on its feet, and the smile on Cummins’ face told the whole story.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ashes-unimpactful-james-anderson-lacked-zip-that-he-used-to-get-says-vaughan-following-manchester-draw-618895">Ashes: Unimpactful James Anderson lacked 'zip that he used to get', says Vaughan following Manchester draw</a></p>

<p>After a great first day of Ashes 2023, Ben Stokes decided to declare on 393 for eight,&nbsp;at a time when Root had just completed his hundred and was looking strong to add more to his tally. That decision, however, came as a shocker for most non-English fans, who argued England made a mistake by not trying to carry the momentum forward.</p>

<p>Captain Stokes and most of the cricket pundits from the country deferred from that opinion, adding that call was ‘brave’ and gave England a good chance to pick a couple of wickets before stumps on day one. While that didn’t happen, what unfolded later cost England – even if they disagree now.</p>

<p>With all falling on Pat’s shoulders in the final session on day five, he held his nerves and helped Australia break the ice and win the first Test by two wickets. That win not only helped the Aussies take an unlikely lead but also saw them crack open a loophole in England’s newest formula to win.</p>

<p>The loss hurt England like anything, as fans and experts blamed the strange declaration for the defeat.</p>

<h2>Lord’s beating added salt to wounds</h2>

<p>While England’s under-par performance with the bat got overshadowed by a lot of things in the first Test, it came into the limelight in the second match, which saw the hosts suffer a similar fate and go down 0-2 in the five-match series. Well, those who followed the first two games will question team selection also, with veteran James Anderson failing to make an impact and Stokes sticking with unfit Robinson instead of bowling the pair of Chris Woakes and Mark Wood waiting in the wings.</p>

<p>The Jonny Bairstow-Alex Carey controversy, and what followed later in the Lord’s Long Room, also took away the attention from these two topics as England was left with nothing but to play for a win in the remaining matches.</p>

<p>After two back-to-back losses, head coach Brendon McCullum didn’t shy from continuing to play the same brand of cricket in the next game, as they managed to win their first Test against mighty Aussies this summer at Leeds.</p>

<p>Any guesses on how did this happen? Woakes and Wood partnered with both bat and ball and helped England taste success, much to everyone’s amusement. At that moment, England’s leadership group realised their mistake of not picking the right XI and playing poorly as reasons for the result at hand.</p>

<h3>Manchester Test brought hope, but the rains helped Oz</h3>

<p>Come the fourth Test at Old Trafford in Manchester, England was geared to take the Aussies by their neck, and their approach was apt for the occasion. After dismissing the batting-heavy Australian team for a mere 317, England piled up almost double the score, with Crawley hitting 189 and five other batters scoring respective fifties, including Bairstow, who remained unbeaten on 99.</p>

<p>England’s mantra of playing Bazball was to entertain people and bring them back to watch Tests – something they succeeded at, but at the same time, went too far with it, only for them to stay behind in the Test. While they didn’t declare and instead went after scoring more and more runs, that ploy helped the Aussies instead.</p>

<p>Since rain was predicted for the final two days and with England giving Australia less time to bat on day three, the Oz made the most of the chance and played for a draw.</p>

<p>Anderson, who returned to the Test side for perhaps his final home game in whites, again failed to deliver as England couldn’t dismiss Australia, and with rain washing out the remaining two days, the match ended in a&nbsp;draw, and Australia retained the Ashes.</p>

<p>The fifth Test will start at The Oval in London on July 27.</p>

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Bazball was all over everyone before the Ashes 2023 had even begun, and most Australian fans were on their toes, knowing how well England has done under Brendon McCullum and Ben Stokes.

Bazball was all over everyone before the Ashes 2023 had even begun, and most Australian fans were on their toes, knowing how well England has done under Brendon McCullum and Ben Stokes. With England winning almost everything in under one year just by playing this ultra-attacking style of cricket, they were outright favourites to win back the urn, but as destiny had it, the flaws in this approach got exposed, and England was left wanting in the end. England batters were scoring runs at over run-a-ball strike-rate in subcontinent conditions, while their part-timers were among the leading wicket-takers, let alone the premium ones, who were already tearing into best of the line-ups. In an ideal world, it seemed like it was England’s best chance to beat the ageing Aussie side and win the Ashes for the first time since 2015. Amidst all the buzz, England began in the most English way in the first Test in Edgbaston with Zak Crawley, who unlike Rory Burns – who got out on a first-ball duck in the previous Ashes – smashed captain Pat Cummins for a glorious four this time. That shot had the crowd up on its feet, and the smile on Cummins’ face told the whole story. ALSO READ: Ashes: Unimpactful James Anderson lacked 'zip that he used to get', says Vaughan following Manchester draw After a great first day of Ashes 2023, Ben Stokes decided to declare on 393 for eight, at a time when Root had just completed his hundred and was looking strong to add more to his tally. That decision, however, came as a shocker for most non-English fans, who argued England made a mistake by not trying to carry the momentum forward. Captain Stokes and most of the cricket pundits from the country deferred from that opinion, adding that call was ‘brave’ and gave England a good chance to pick a couple of wickets before stumps on day one. While that didn’t happen, what unfolded later cost England – even if they disagree now. With all falling on Pat’s shoulders in the final session on day five, he held his nerves and helped Australia break the ice and win the first Test by two wickets. That win not only helped the Aussies take an unlikely lead but also saw them crack open a loophole in England’s newest formula to win. The loss hurt England like anything, as fans and experts blamed the strange declaration for the defeat. Lord’s beating added salt to wounds While England’s under-par performance with the bat got overshadowed by a lot of things in the first Test, it came into the limelight in the second match, which saw the hosts suffer a similar fate and go down 0-2 in the five-match series. Well, those who followed the first two games will question team selection also, with veteran James Anderson failing to make an impact and Stokes sticking with unfit Robinson instead of bowling the pair of Chris Woakes and Mark Wood waiting in the wings. The Jonny Bairstow-Alex Carey controversy, and what followed later in the Lord’s Long Room, also took away the attention from these two topics as England was left with nothing but to play for a win in the remaining matches. After two back-to-back losses, head coach Brendon McCullum didn’t shy from continuing to play the same brand of cricket in the next game, as they managed to win their first Test against mighty Aussies this summer at Leeds. Any guesses on how did this happen? Woakes and Wood partnered with both bat and ball and helped England taste success, much to everyone’s amusement. At that moment, England’s leadership group realised their mistake of not picking the right XI and playing poorly as reasons for the result at hand. Manchester Test brought hope, but the rains helped Oz Come the fourth Test at Old Trafford in Manchester, England was geared to take the Aussies by their neck, and their approach was apt for the occasion. After dismissing the batting-heavy Australian team for a mere 317, England piled up almost double the score, with Crawley hitting 189 and five other batters scoring respective fifties, including Bairstow, who remained unbeaten on 99. England’s mantra of playing Bazball was to entertain people and bring them back to watch Tests – something they succeeded at, but at the same time, went too far with it, only for them to stay behind in the Test. While they didn’t declare and instead went after scoring more and more runs, that ploy helped the Aussies instead. Since rain was predicted for the final two days and with England giving Australia less time to bat on day three, the Oz made the most of the chance and played for a draw. Anderson, who returned to the Test side for perhaps his final home game in whites, again failed to deliver as England couldn’t dismiss Australia, and with rain washing out the remaining two days, the match ended in a draw, and Australia retained the Ashes. The fifth Test will start at The Oval in London on July 27. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Explained | How Bazball-led England messed up golden chance to win home Ashes against ageing Aussie side

<p>Jonny Bairstow was left stranded&nbsp;on 99 in England's first innings in Manchester, but the keeper-batter didn't show remorse or grudge over being unable to complete his hundred. Instead, he felt grateful to return to doing what he does best and narrated his comeback story following a horrific slip last year that almost ended his career.</p>

<p>After England lost eight wickets with Hazlewood tearing into the English lower-order, it looked like their lead of around 200 was good enough to make a match out of it. However, Bairstow had different plans. The right-handed batter took the onus on himself and went berserk, hitting Aussie quicks to all parts of the ground.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ashes-2023-england-tighten-grip-over-manchester-test-after-mark-wood-jonny-bairstows-fluent-show-on-day-3-618278">Ashes 2023: England tighten grip over Manchester Test after Mark Wood, Jonny Bairstow's fluent show on Day 3</a></p>

<p>Before anyone could realise, the keeper-batter crossed the 90-run mark and inched closer towards hitting his first hundred of the season. But as destiny had it, he couldn't as Anderson departed on the other end, leaving Bairstow unbeaten on 99 and smiling throughout on his way to the dressing room.</p>

<p>That, however, summed up his life in the past year - wherein he broke his leg in three places after he slipped while playing golf with his friends in September last year. It was bad to the extent that even the doctors claimed it to be career-ending.</p>

<h2>'It's a miracle that I am here'</h2>

<p>For Bairstow, or any person for that matter, to come out of such an injury and play cricket, let alone do well under pressure in the high-octane Ashes, is no less than a miracle, and Jonny is all but grateful for it.</p>

<p>"You just don't know how bad it's going to be. It could have ended my career," Bairstow told Sky Sports after day three play.</p>

<p>"I've got nine pins, and a wire that goes through my ankle, and I've had nine months out," he said. "I'm still only ten months post-operation right now. So when you speak to the surgeon, and he says, 'I'm surprised you're walking and running, never mind playing professional sport', I'm delighted to be where I'm at."</p>

<p>"There's times when there's aches and pains and people are saying you're limping, well, yeah, I am at times, because there's a lot going on in the ankle, and other bits that people won't understand. It's been a rollercoaster. There's been a lot that's happened in those nine months. And to come out and take the field again, with a group of boys that I care a heck of a lot about, is a special place for me to be," the keeper batter added.</p>

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Jonny Bairstow was left stranded on 99 in England's first innings in Manchester, but the keeper-batter didn't show remorse or grudge over being unable to complete his hundred.

Jonny Bairstow was left stranded on 99 in England's first innings in Manchester, but the keeper-batter didn't show remorse or grudge over being unable to complete his hundred. Instead, he felt grateful to return to doing what he does best and narrated his comeback story following a horrific slip last year that almost ended his career. After England lost eight wickets with Hazlewood tearing into the English lower-order, it looked like their lead of around 200 was good enough to make a match out of it. However, Bairstow had different plans. The right-handed batter took the onus on himself and went berserk, hitting Aussie quicks to all parts of the ground. ALSO READ: Ashes 2023: England tighten grip over Manchester Test after Mark Wood, Jonny Bairstow's fluent show on Day 3 Before anyone could realise, the keeper-batter crossed the 90-run mark and inched closer towards hitting his first hundred of the season. But as destiny had it, he couldn't as Anderson departed on the other end, leaving Bairstow unbeaten on 99 and smiling throughout on his way to the dressing room. That, however, summed up his life in the past year - wherein he broke his leg in three places after he slipped while playing golf with his friends in September last year. It was bad to the extent that even the doctors claimed it to be career-ending. 'It's a miracle that I am here' For Bairstow, or any person for that matter, to come out of such an injury and play cricket, let alone do well under pressure in the high-octane Ashes, is no less than a miracle, and Jonny is all but grateful for it. "You just don't know how bad it's going to be. It could have ended my career," Bairstow told Sky Sports after day three play. "I've got nine pins, and a wire that goes through my ankle, and I've had nine months out," he said. "I'm still only ten months post-operation right now. So when you speak to the surgeon, and he says, 'I'm surprised you're walking and running, never mind playing professional sport', I'm delighted to be where I'm at." "There's times when there's aches and pains and people are saying you're limping, well, yeah, I am at times, because there's a lot going on in the ankle, and other bits that people won't understand. It's been a rollercoaster. There's been a lot that's happened in those nine months. And to come out and take the field again, with a group of boys that I care a heck of a lot about, is a special place for me to be," the keeper batter added. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Ashes: Jonny Bairstow grateful to deliver for England, narrates comeback story after career-threatening injury

<p>Former Sri Lanka captain Kumar Sangakkara expects England to make the most of the momentum and go for the kill as they are on the front foot in the ongoing fourth Ashes Test in Manchester. With England opener Zak Crawley and their best batter Joe Root laying the foundation for the team with a 206-run stand for the third wicket, to stand tall on it and deliver, the Aussies looked clueless throughout the first innings.</p>

<p>After the second day's play, where the home team was leading by 67 runs with six wickets in hand, England looked determined to extend it and put Australia on the mat at Old Trafford.</p>

<p>Sangakkara, while speaking on Sky Sports, opined that if England manage to win this Test and level the five-match series 2-2 after going down in the first two games, they will be outright favourites to win the showdown at the Kia Oval in London.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/pakistans-ayesha-naseem-announces-shock-retirement-at-18-to-align-her-life-with-principles-of-islam-618114">Pakistan's Ayesha Naseem announces shock retirement at 18 to align life with Islam's principles</a></p>

<p>Knowing how England rose to the occasion and held their nerves to come good in the previous Test in Leeds, Sangakkara thinks they are in a better spot, unlike Australia - who Kumar feels were laid-back in their approach on day two.</p>

<p>“With the ball, it's been a long time since I have seen the Australians this perplexed on the field. Not knowing what to do, what fields to set, and then bowling completely different from the fields set. It's really affected them,” Sangakkara told Sky Sports.</p>

<p>“If England wins this Test, then they are going to take the Ashes 3-2. If this goes England's way, three days before the next Test, the memories and scars will stay. England have recognised when they are ahead, and they have accelerated and taken the game away,” the veteran keeper-batter added.</p>

<h2>England in command of proceedings in Manchester</h2>

<p>As things stand, England are head and shoulders ahead of Australia with a lead of over 180 until lunch on day three. While they would like to add as many runs possible, even a 180-plus run-mark puts them in a commanding position.</p>

<p>With England having a spin bowling option in Moeen Ali, who accounted for Marnus Labuschagne in the first innings, they would feel they are a step ahead of their opponent.<br />
Besides, having two in-form seamers in Woakes and Wood will help their cause.</p>

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Former Sri Lanka captain Kumar Sangakkara expects England to make the most of the momentum and go for the kill as they are on the front foot in the ongoing fourth Ashes Test in Manchester.

Former Sri Lanka captain Kumar Sangakkara expects England to make the most of the momentum and go for the kill as they are on the front foot in the ongoing fourth Ashes Test in Manchester. With England opener Zak Crawley and their best batter Joe Root laying the foundation for the team with a 206-run stand for the third wicket, to stand tall on it and deliver, the Aussies looked clueless throughout the first innings. After the second day's play, where the home team was leading by 67 runs with six wickets in hand, England looked determined to extend it and put Australia on the mat at Old Trafford. Sangakkara, while speaking on Sky Sports, opined that if England manage to win this Test and level the five-match series 2-2 after going down in the first two games, they will be outright favourites to win the showdown at the Kia Oval in London. ALSO READ: Pakistan's Ayesha Naseem announces shock retirement at 18 to align life with Islam's principles Knowing how England rose to the occasion and held their nerves to come good in the previous Test in Leeds, Sangakkara thinks they are in a better spot, unlike Australia - who Kumar feels were laid-back in their approach on day two. “With the ball, it's been a long time since I have seen the Australians this perplexed on the field. Not knowing what to do, what fields to set, and then bowling completely different from the fields set. It's really affected them,” Sangakkara told Sky Sports. “If England wins this Test, then they are going to take the Ashes 3-2. If this goes England's way, three days before the next Test, the memories and scars will stay. England have recognised when they are ahead, and they have accelerated and taken the game away,” the veteran keeper-batter added. England in command of proceedings in Manchester As things stand, England are head and shoulders ahead of Australia with a lead of over 180 until lunch on day three. While they would like to add as many runs possible, even a 180-plus run-mark puts them in a commanding position. With England having a spin bowling option in Moeen Ali, who accounted for Marnus Labuschagne in the first innings, they would feel they are a step ahead of their opponent. Besides, having two in-form seamers in Woakes and Wood will help their cause. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Kumar Sangakkara predicts Ashes series win for England if they beat Australia in Manchester Test

<p>Cricket has had its heroes, mostly batters, some all-rounders and a handful of bowlers, to be precise. The game, whose origin is unknown to most avid fans, is like a religion in a few countries, and England happens to be one. From W.G Grace to Jim Laker, from the legendary Ian Botham to dashing David Gower – many inspired generations, but imagine starting to follow the game because of a seamer a world now calls perhaps the greatest, and he’s none other than veteran James Anderson.</p>

<p>The right-arm fast bowler from Lancashire, is close to picking 700 Test wickets – an achievement none other than spinners could dream of. And the best part is Anderson, aged 40, is not done with it yet.</p>

<p>A master of a craft - swing bowling, which barely anyone possesses now – James is not just a regular up-front seamer, but rather the one even the best batsmen feared to face on their good day.</p>

<p>From picking his first Test wicket against Zimbabwe in 2002 to troubling today’s greats – Virat Kohli and Kane Williamson, Anderson remains on the top of his game even two decades later. Having an almost perfect bowling action for an outswing bowler, closer to that of Australia’s Damien Fleming, Anderson hunts his wickets at will, with all that he has in his arsenal – an inswinger, a late cutter, a fuller unplayable delivery and, of course, with the older ball too.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ashes-2023-ricky-ponting-raises-concerns-for-australia-in-spin-department-says-i-was-surprised-617785">Ashes 2023: Ricky Ponting raises concerns for Australia in key department, says 'I was surprised...'</a></p>

<p>Don’t believe it? Ask either Shubman Gill or Ajinkya Rahane, as both got clean bowled off two of the best reverse-swinging deliveries witnessed in the recent past. While the one from Dale Steyn to Brad Haddin in Port Elizabeth stands tall at the number one spot, these two from Anderson are up there too.</p>

<p>A genius nonetheless, Anderson got better like a fine wine. For a fast bowler, who is expected to touch his prime from mid-20s to early 30s, Anderson defied the odds like a boss and has numbers to press his case to be labelled the best. A Test specialist now, Anderson, since turning 30, played over 110 Tests, and picked&nbsp;nearly 425 wickets at an astonishing average of just around 21.</p>

<p>Now think of any other bowler, let alone a fast bowler, to get closer to these numbers considering the age parameter. As per records, four spinners – Rangana Herath (398 wickets at 27.52), Muttiah Muralitharan (388 wickets at 22.02), the great Shane Warne (386 wickets at 25.36) and Indian veteran Anil Kumble (343 wickets at 30.98) are the ones to fall in the same bracket as that of Anderson.</p>

<h2>A thorn in batter’s flesh</h2>

<p>From former Australia captain Ricky Ponting to the Indian stalwarts Sachin Tendulkar and Virat Kohli, Anderson has gotten everyone’s number. Tendulkar was one of his favourite wickets – having got out to him nine times across several meetings. Test giant Rahane (8) and Kohli (7) aren’t behind either.</p>

<p>His most dismissed batter, however, is another Indian – Cheteshwar Pujara, whom Anderson has picked a record 12 times in Tests. Australia bowler Peter Siddle is second (11 times), and Warner (10*) is third on the list, while Pakistan’s Azhar Ali, Michael Clarke and Kane Williamson – all have got him out nine times across formats.</p>

<p>Be it with a red cherry in hand or a white or even pink ball, the English veteran has achieved greatness everywhere. From becoming the first bowler from England to pick an ODI hat-trick in 2003 against Pakistan at the Oval to going down in history as England’s oldest seamer to bag a five-wicket haul at the Adelaide Oval (Day &amp; Night Test) in 2017, Anderson probably achieved it all.</p>

<h2>A pair made in heaven&nbsp;&nbsp;</h2>

<p>Imagine finding an almost-equally good bowling partner for a series; now imagine finding one for 17 years and on – that’s a story of Anderson and Stuart Broad. Having played around 140 Tests together, Broad and Anderson have over 1000 Test wickets between them, and with how both are going about their businesses in the ongoing Ashes 2023, the tally will only increase.</p>

<p>While Anderson, as mentioned above, is nearing 700 Test wickets, his partner in crime - Broad, completed his record 600th Test wicket during the fourth Test in Manchester – becoming the second fast bowler, ironically after Anderson, to achieve this milestone.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/honours-even-in-fourth-ashes-test-as-broad-joins-600-club-617636">Honours even in fourth Ashes Test as Broad joins 600 club</a></p>

<h2>A legacy that will live forever&nbsp;&nbsp;</h2>

<p>The day is probably not far when Anderson will hang his boots from international cricket, putting curtains down on a stellar two-decade-plus cricket career. And if and when that happens, James Anderson will most definitely go down in all of cricket’s history as one of the greatest ever to grace the game, if not the best.</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p><br />
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Cricket has had its heroes, mostly batters, some all-rounders and a handful of bowlers, to be precise. The game, whose origin is unknown to most avid fans, is like a religion in a few countries, and England happens to be one.

Cricket has had its heroes, mostly batters, some all-rounders and a handful of bowlers, to be precise. The game, whose origin is unknown to most avid fans, is like a religion in a few countries, and England happens to be one. From W.G Grace to Jim Laker, from the legendary Ian Botham to dashing David Gower – many inspired generations, but imagine starting to follow the game because of a seamer a world now calls perhaps the greatest, and he’s none other than veteran James Anderson. The right-arm fast bowler from Lancashire, is close to picking 700 Test wickets – an achievement none other than spinners could dream of. And the best part is Anderson, aged 40, is not done with it yet. A master of a craft - swing bowling, which barely anyone possesses now – James is not just a regular up-front seamer, but rather the one even the best batsmen feared to face on their good day. From picking his first Test wicket against Zimbabwe in 2002 to troubling today’s greats – Virat Kohli and Kane Williamson, Anderson remains on the top of his game even two decades later. Having an almost perfect bowling action for an outswing bowler, closer to that of Australia’s Damien Fleming, Anderson hunts his wickets at will, with all that he has in his arsenal – an inswinger, a late cutter, a fuller unplayable delivery and, of course, with the older ball too. ALSO READ: Ashes 2023: Ricky Ponting raises concerns for Australia in key department, says 'I was surprised...' Don’t believe it? Ask either Shubman Gill or Ajinkya Rahane, as both got clean bowled off two of the best reverse-swinging deliveries witnessed in the recent past. While the one from Dale Steyn to Brad Haddin in Port Elizabeth stands tall at the number one spot, these two from Anderson are up there too. A genius nonetheless, Anderson got better like a fine wine. For a fast bowler, who is expected to touch his prime from mid-20s to early 30s, Anderson defied the odds like a boss and has numbers to press his case to be labelled the best. A Test specialist now, Anderson, since turning 30, played over 110 Tests, and picked nearly 425 wickets at an astonishing average of just around 21. Now think of any other bowler, let alone a fast bowler, to get closer to these numbers considering the age parameter. As per records, four spinners – Rangana Herath (398 wickets at 27.52), Muttiah Muralitharan (388 wickets at 22.02), the great Shane Warne (386 wickets at 25.36) and Indian veteran Anil Kumble (343 wickets at 30.98) are the ones to fall in the same bracket as that of Anderson. A thorn in batter’s flesh From former Australia captain Ricky Ponting to the Indian stalwarts Sachin Tendulkar and Virat Kohli, Anderson has gotten everyone’s number. Tendulkar was one of his favourite wickets – having got out to him nine times across several meetings. Test giant Rahane (8) and Kohli (7) aren’t behind either. His most dismissed batter, however, is another Indian – Cheteshwar Pujara, whom Anderson has picked a record 12 times in Tests. Australia bowler Peter Siddle is second (11 times), and Warner (10*) is third on the list, while Pakistan’s Azhar Ali, Michael Clarke and Kane Williamson – all have got him out nine times across formats. Be it with a red cherry in hand or a white or even pink ball, the English veteran has achieved greatness everywhere. From becoming the first bowler from England to pick an ODI hat-trick in 2003 against Pakistan at the Oval to going down in history as England’s oldest seamer to bag a five-wicket haul at the Adelaide Oval (Day & Night Test) in 2017, Anderson probably achieved it all. A pair made in heaven Imagine finding an almost-equally good bowling partner for a series; now imagine finding one for 17 years and on – that’s a story of Anderson and Stuart Broad. Having played around 140 Tests together, Broad and Anderson have over 1000 Test wickets between them, and with how both are going about their businesses in the ongoing Ashes 2023, the tally will only increase. While Anderson, as mentioned above, is nearing 700 Test wickets, his partner in crime - Broad, completed his record 600th Test wicket during the fourth Test in Manchester – becoming the second fast bowler, ironically after Anderson, to achieve this milestone. ALSO READ: Honours even in fourth Ashes Test as Broad joins 600 club A legacy that will live forever The day is probably not far when Anderson will hang his boots from international cricket, putting curtains down on a stellar two-decade-plus cricket career. And if and when that happens, James Anderson will most definitely go down in all of cricket’s history as one of the greatest ever to grace the game, if not the best. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Explained | Why James Anderson is embodiment of perfection for bowlers in a batters' world`

<p>England all-rounder Moeen Ali opened up on Michael Vaughan's&nbsp;tweet&nbsp;from 2017, where he made heads turn,&nbsp;suggesting Moeen to ask young British Muslims if they are terrorists&nbsp;to&nbsp;make society safer. The 36-year-old Moeen opened up for the first time on Vaughan's controversial tweet and termed it 'silly' and 'dumb'.</p>

<h2><strong>'It was very silly, dumb really'</strong></h2>

<p>In a new documentary 'Is Cricket Racist?', which is set to be aired on Channel 4 in the United Kingdom, Moeen was asked by&nbsp;presenter Adil Ray to respond to Vaughan's tweets from 2017 on British Muslims. To this, the current cricketer told, as quoted by ESPNCricinfo, "It was very silly. dumb really. We need people like him to step up for us. As Muslims, or any other faith really. And just be a bit smarter. I think he has also realised that times are changing and he has to change."</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ashes-2023-he-is-one-of-the-greatest-openers-of-all-time-usman-khawaja-backs-under-fire-david-warner-616658">Ashes 2023: He is one of the greatest openers of all time - Usman Khawaja backs under-fire David Warner</a></strong></p>

<p>It is to be noted that Vaughan, former England captain-turned-commentator,&nbsp;previously apologised for his tweets&nbsp;during the Cricket Discipline Commission (CDC) racism hearings held early this year in March. His name was also dragged in the Azeem Rafiq racism case. A lot was said and written about Vaughan using racist language towards Rafiq and&nbsp;other South Asian players in 2009. While he was cleared of making racist comments, Moeen's tweet and others came back to haunt him; presented&nbsp;as evidence against him&nbsp;by the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB).</p>

<p>Moeen feels Vaughan has a role to play in combating racism in the gentlemen's game.</p>

<p>Over the years, several instances of racism and discrimination have cropped up, tarnishing the image of the game worldwide. Thus, there is an urgent need for&nbsp;the matter to be addressed by&nbsp;all the cricketing nations in order&nbsp;to create an inclusive environment for one and all irrespective of race, colour, religion, etc.</p>

<p>Meanwhile, Moeen is&nbsp;gearing up for England's&nbsp;fourth and penultimate Ashes Test versus Australia in Manchester, starting on July 19. The veteran came out of&nbsp;Test retirement for this series after Jack Leach's injury and has claimed five scalps so far in two games. Moeen&nbsp;is yet to make a big contribution with the bat.</p>

<p>Australia currently lead the series 2-1 with two more games to go.&nbsp;</p>

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England all-rounder Moeen Ali opened up on Michael Vaughan's tweet from 2017, where he made heads turn, suggesting Moeen to ask young British Muslims if they are terrorists to make society safer.

England all-rounder Moeen Ali opened up on Michael Vaughan's tweet from 2017, where he made heads turn, suggesting Moeen to ask young British Muslims if they are terrorists to make society safer. The 36-year-old Moeen opened up for the first time on Vaughan's controversial tweet and termed it 'silly' and 'dumb'. 'It was very silly, dumb really' In a new documentary 'Is Cricket Racist?', which is set to be aired on Channel 4 in the United Kingdom, Moeen was asked by presenter Adil Ray to respond to Vaughan's tweets from 2017 on British Muslims. To this, the current cricketer told, as quoted by ESPNCricinfo, "It was very silly. dumb really. We need people like him to step up for us. As Muslims, or any other faith really. And just be a bit smarter. I think he has also realised that times are changing and he has to change." Also read: Ashes 2023: He is one of the greatest openers of all time - Usman Khawaja backs under-fire David Warner It is to be noted that Vaughan, former England captain-turned-commentator, previously apologised for his tweets during the Cricket Discipline Commission (CDC) racism hearings held early this year in March. His name was also dragged in the Azeem Rafiq racism case. A lot was said and written about Vaughan using racist language towards Rafiq and other South Asian players in 2009. While he was cleared of making racist comments, Moeen's tweet and others came back to haunt him; presented as evidence against him by the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB). Moeen feels Vaughan has a role to play in combating racism in the gentlemen's game. Over the years, several instances of racism and discrimination have cropped up, tarnishing the image of the game worldwide. Thus, there is an urgent need for the matter to be addressed by all the cricketing nations in order to create an inclusive environment for one and all irrespective of race, colour, religion, etc. Meanwhile, Moeen is gearing up for England's fourth and penultimate Ashes Test versus Australia in Manchester, starting on July 19. The veteran came out of Test retirement for this series after Jack Leach's injury and has claimed five scalps so far in two games. Moeen is yet to make a big contribution with the bat. Australia currently lead the series 2-1 with two more games to go. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Moeen Ali recalls Michael Vaughan's controversial 2017 tweet, wants him to combat racism in cricket

<p>England cricket great Sir Ian Botham has sold off more than 200 souvenirs from his career at a London auction, with items from his celebrated role in a 1981 Ashes triumph among the most highly-valued lots.</p>

<p>The ball with which he took five Australia wickets for one run as England came from behind to win the fourth Test of that series at Edgbaston sold for £20,000 ($26,000, 23,000 euros).</p>

<p>And a stump marked "Headingley 81" from the previous match, taken as a souvenir by Botham after his astounding 149 not out helped England win after being made to follow-on, sold for £11,000.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ashes-2023-james-anderson-set-to-replace-ollie-robinson-in-xi-for-home-test-in-manchester-616271">Ashes 2023: James Anderson set to replace Ollie Robinson in XI for home Test in Manchester</a></p>

<p>His man-of-them match medal from Headingley -- Botham also took six wickets in Australia's first innings and then made exactly 50 -- went under the hammer at £19,000, more than double the pre-sale estimate.</p>

<p>And yet the most expensive item in the auction, held at The Oval ground, had no connection to cricket.</p>

<p>A Manchester United shirt worn by Sammy McIlroy in the 1977 Charity Shield against Liverpool in Wembley, later given to Botham by the Northern Ireland footballer, sold for £23,000 -- more than seven times its original estimate of £3,000. &nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>Botham, 67, was one of the best all-rounders in cricket history during a 15-year Test career from 1977-92. He scored over 5,000 runs in 102 matches, including 14 hundreds, and, as a fast-medium bowler, took a then-England record 383 wickets. He also held 120 catches, many of them brilliant efforts in the slips. &nbsp;</p>

<p>He transformed the destiny of the England-Australia Test series in 1981. With his side 1-0 down &nbsp;after a defeat at Nottingham and a draw at Lord's, where he was out for nought in both innings, Botham resigned as England captain.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Then came his Headingley and Edgbaston heroics before Botham's 118 -- a whirlwind display featuring 13 fours and six sixes -- powered England to a series-clinching victory at Old Trafford. &nbsp;</p>

<p>A noted fundraiser for cancer charities, Botham became a well-known cricket broadcaster and newspaper columnist after his retirement.</p>

<p>In 2020, the already-knighted Botham was appointed to the House of Lords in the UK parliament by then Prime Minister Boris Johnson following his support for Britain leaving the European Union.</p>

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England cricket great Sir Ian Botham has sold off more than 200 souvenirs from his career at a London auction, with items from his celebrated role in a 1981 Ashes triumph among the most highly-valued lots.

England cricket great Sir Ian Botham has sold off more than 200 souvenirs from his career at a London auction, with items from his celebrated role in a 1981 Ashes triumph among the most highly-valued lots. The ball with which he took five Australia wickets for one run as England came from behind to win the fourth Test of that series at Edgbaston sold for £20,000 ($26,000, 23,000 euros). And a stump marked "Headingley 81" from the previous match, taken as a souvenir by Botham after his astounding 149 not out helped England win after being made to follow-on, sold for £11,000. ALSO READ: Ashes 2023: James Anderson set to replace Ollie Robinson in XI for home Test in Manchester His man-of-them match medal from Headingley -- Botham also took six wickets in Australia's first innings and then made exactly 50 -- went under the hammer at £19,000, more than double the pre-sale estimate. And yet the most expensive item in the auction, held at The Oval ground, had no connection to cricket. A Manchester United shirt worn by Sammy McIlroy in the 1977 Charity Shield against Liverpool in Wembley, later given to Botham by the Northern Ireland footballer, sold for £23,000 -- more than seven times its original estimate of £3,000. Botham, 67, was one of the best all-rounders in cricket history during a 15-year Test career from 1977-92. He scored over 5,000 runs in 102 matches, including 14 hundreds, and, as a fast-medium bowler, took a then-England record 383 wickets. He also held 120 catches, many of them brilliant efforts in the slips. He transformed the destiny of the England-Australia Test series in 1981. With his side 1-0 down after a defeat at Nottingham and a draw at Lord's, where he was out for nought in both innings, Botham resigned as England captain. Then came his Headingley and Edgbaston heroics before Botham's 118 -- a whirlwind display featuring 13 fours and six sixes -- powered England to a series-clinching victory at Old Trafford. A noted fundraiser for cancer charities, Botham became a well-known cricket broadcaster and newspaper columnist after his retirement. In 2020, the already-knighted Botham was appointed to the House of Lords in the UK parliament by then Prime Minister Boris Johnson following his support for Britain leaving the European Union. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

England cricket legend Sir Ian Botham auctions off 1981 Ashes mementoes

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<p>England claimed their first 50-over World Cup win four years ago on this day in 2019 at the iconic Lord’s Cricket Ground in London, beating New Zealand in the super over. It, however, wasn’t the talking point on that day and even to date; instead, it was the ‘boundary count’ rule that kept making headlines ever since.</p>

<p>Ben Stokes, perhaps England’s greatest modern-day cricketer, was the protagonist of the story that day.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">4 years ago today...<br />
<br />
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— ESPNcricinfo (@ESPNcricinfo) <a href="https://twitter.com/ESPNcricinfo/status/1679750419743113216?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 14, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>A game well-poised until the fag end of England’s chase took an unlikely and rather shocking turn, when first the ball that touched Ben Stokes’ bat went for four; secondly, the result of the match, which went into the super over, was decided on the boundary count since both teams ended up scoring the same amount of runs in it.</p>

<p>While all this proved lucky for England as they made most of the situation, a larger section of cricket fans and experts shared a different opinion.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ashes-2023-chris-woakes-desperate-to-play-in-old-trafford-after-headingley-heroics-615471">Ashes 2023: Chris Woakes desperate to play in Old Trafford after Headingley heroics</a></p>

<p>While&nbsp;some felt what all unfolded comes under the rule book and is fine, others questioned England’s spirit of the game and urged why instead of allowing that boundary off Stokes’ bat to stand, the umpires didn’t call it a dead ball.</p>

<p>Four years apart, several questions are still left unanswered.</p>

<p>However, with all said and done then, England won the match and ended their wait of lifting the 50-over World Cup in their fourth attempt.</p>

<h2>England’s World Cup to win</h2>

<p>Following the 2015 World Cup debacle, when England crashed out after a loss to Bangladesh, the Eoin Morgan-led side revamped their cricket and emerged as a great white-ball team. In the lead-up to the 2019 World Cup, England appeared the favourite, and they didn’t disappoint.</p>

<p>After going down on two occasions in the group stages, once against Pakistan and then against Australia, England managed to stay alive and came good in&nbsp;the end. Upon reaching the semis, they beat Australia, and then against New Zealand in the finale, they looked in supreme touch.</p>

<p>England first restricted&nbsp;the Kiwis to 241 for eight, and the lost four wickets inside 100 runs till&nbsp;the star pair of Ben Stokes and keeper-batter Jos Buttler bailed them out of trouble. Following three wickets, England looked like falling shy of their target, but it was Ben Stokes, who held his nerves and kept them alive, with luck playing a huge role too.</p>

<p>After two ties – a first-of-its-kind incident in World Cup, England emerged as winners on the boundary count.</p>

<p>Four years apart, both these teams will open the account in the 2023 World Cup in India.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE:</strong></p>

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England claimed their first 50-over World Cup win four years ago on this day in 2019 at the iconic Lord’s Cricket Ground in London, beating New Zealand in the super over.

England claimed their first 50-over World Cup win four years ago on this day in 2019 at the iconic Lord’s Cricket Ground in London, beating New Zealand in the super over. It, however, wasn’t the talking point on that day and even to date; instead, it was the ‘boundary count’ rule that kept making headlines ever since. Ben Stokes, perhaps England’s greatest modern-day cricketer, was the protagonist of the story that day. 4 years ago today... (via @ICC) pic.twitter.com/5gdqe3EmWm — ESPNcricinfo (@ESPNcricinfo) July 14, 2023 × A game well-poised until the fag end of England’s chase took an unlikely and rather shocking turn, when first the ball that touched Ben Stokes’ bat went for four; secondly, the result of the match, which went into the super over, was decided on the boundary count since both teams ended up scoring the same amount of runs in it. While all this proved lucky for England as they made most of the situation, a larger section of cricket fans and experts shared a different opinion. ALSO READ: Ashes 2023: Chris Woakes desperate to play in Old Trafford after Headingley heroics While some felt what all unfolded comes under the rule book and is fine, others questioned England’s spirit of the game and urged why instead of allowing that boundary off Stokes’ bat to stand, the umpires didn’t call it a dead ball. Four years apart, several questions are still left unanswered. However, with all said and done then, England won the match and ended their wait of lifting the 50-over World Cup in their fourth attempt. England’s World Cup to win Following the 2015 World Cup debacle, when England crashed out after a loss to Bangladesh, the Eoin Morgan-led side revamped their cricket and emerged as a great white-ball team. In the lead-up to the 2019 World Cup, England appeared the favourite, and they didn’t disappoint. After going down on two occasions in the group stages, once against Pakistan and then against Australia, England managed to stay alive and came good in the end. Upon reaching the semis, they beat Australia, and then against New Zealand in the finale, they looked in supreme touch. England first restricted the Kiwis to 241 for eight, and the lost four wickets inside 100 runs till the star pair of Ben Stokes and keeper-batter Jos Buttler bailed them out of trouble. Following three wickets, England looked like falling shy of their target, but it was Ben Stokes, who held his nerves and kept them alive, with luck playing a huge role too. After two ties – a first-of-its-kind incident in World Cup, England emerged as winners on the boundary count. Four years apart, both these teams will open the account in the 2023 World Cup in India. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

#OTD in 2019 - When England won the Cricket World Cup on boundary count

<p>It’s been only two days, and we are nearing the result of the ongoing third Ashes Test in Leeds. With England bouncing back in the second innings after picking Australia’s top four batters including Steve Smith – who is playing his 100th Test, batting all-rounder Moeen Ali feels the hosts are in a better position to win the match.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Australia, in their second innings, are reeling at 116 for four, with 142 runs.</p>

<p>Claiming his 200th Test wicket on Friday, removing star batters in Marnus Labuschagne and veteran Smith, Ali opines England had a good day despite batters suffering early jolts in the first session. Ali, who also contributed a little with the bat, stitching a 44-run stand with captain Ben Stokes, added the hosts have a good chance of turning the tides and making a comeback in the series.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/texas-super-kings-ambati-rayudu-withdraws-from-inaugural-major-league-cricket-due-to-personal-reasons-613347">Texas Super Kings' Ambati Rayudu withdraws from inaugural Major League Cricket due to personal reasons</a></p>

<p>"We have a good chance. It's pleasing the day actually ended up quite nicely, and we're still in a winnable position,” Moeen told BBC's Test Match Special after the second day’s play.</p>

<p>With Australia in command of the situation with centurion Mitchell Marsh and Travis Head at the crease, Moeen thinks irrespective of what total England have in front of them, they will be up for it.</p>

<p>Giving a guess on what score could be within their reach, Moeen said, "Whatever they get we are going to have to try and chase. It's still a decent wicket."</p>

<p>"We've got some brilliant players, the outfield is rapid, and it takes a couple of guys to get in. I don't know about the score - from this position, we'd ideally like to chase 260,” Moeen, who picked two wickets in the second innings so far, said.</p>

<h2>We can’t rely on Stokes every time</h2>

<p>Ben Stokes - for the nth time against Australia and the second time in this Ashes series, came to England’s rescue after Aussie bowlers made light work of them in the first innings, reducing them to 131 for six at one stage.</p>

<p>Batting with the tail, Stokes somehow revived his team's chances of staying in the game with his counter-attacking 80 off 106 balls, including six fours and five sixes. A quickfire cameo from Mark Wood - hero with the ball in hand in the first innings, who scored 24 off eight balls, hitting three sixes, helped the cause.</p>

<p>Moeen, however, rued this repetitive batting failure from England, saying every time they cannot rely on Stokes to bail them out of trouble, and urged other batters to come to the party before it gets too late.</p>

<p>“He’s a brilliant player, but I think it’s the situations more than anything,” Moeen said of Stokes.</p>

<p>“He loves those and thrives off them, but we can’t rely on him all the time. We do have other very good players who need to come to the party as well. I know they’re really hungry to score runs and hopefully chase down whatever Australia get.”</p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE:&nbsp;</strong></p>

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It’s been only two days, and we are nearing the result of the ongoing third Ashes Test in Leeds. With England bouncing back in the second innings after picking Australia’s top four batters including Steve Smith – who is playing his 100th Test, batting all-rounder Moeen Ali feels the hosts are in a better position to win the match.

It’s been only two days, and we are nearing the result of the ongoing third Ashes Test in Leeds. With England bouncing back in the second innings after picking Australia’s top four batters including Steve Smith – who is playing his 100th Test, batting all-rounder Moeen Ali feels the hosts are in a better position to win the match. Australia, in their second innings, are reeling at 116 for four, with 142 runs. Claiming his 200th Test wicket on Friday, removing star batters in Marnus Labuschagne and veteran Smith, Ali opines England had a good day despite batters suffering early jolts in the first session. Ali, who also contributed a little with the bat, stitching a 44-run stand with captain Ben Stokes, added the hosts have a good chance of turning the tides and making a comeback in the series. ALSO READ: Texas Super Kings' Ambati Rayudu withdraws from inaugural Major League Cricket due to personal reasons "We have a good chance. It's pleasing the day actually ended up quite nicely, and we're still in a winnable position,” Moeen told BBC's Test Match Special after the second day’s play. With Australia in command of the situation with centurion Mitchell Marsh and Travis Head at the crease, Moeen thinks irrespective of what total England have in front of them, they will be up for it. Giving a guess on what score could be within their reach, Moeen said, "Whatever they get we are going to have to try and chase. It's still a decent wicket." "We've got some brilliant players, the outfield is rapid, and it takes a couple of guys to get in. I don't know about the score - from this position, we'd ideally like to chase 260,” Moeen, who picked two wickets in the second innings so far, said. We can’t rely on Stokes every time Ben Stokes - for the nth time against Australia and the second time in this Ashes series, came to England’s rescue after Aussie bowlers made light work of them in the first innings, reducing them to 131 for six at one stage. Batting with the tail, Stokes somehow revived his team's chances of staying in the game with his counter-attacking 80 off 106 balls, including six fours and five sixes. A quickfire cameo from Mark Wood - hero with the ball in hand in the first innings, who scored 24 off eight balls, hitting three sixes, helped the cause. Moeen, however, rued this repetitive batting failure from England, saying every time they cannot rely on Stokes to bail them out of trouble, and urged other batters to come to the party before it gets too late. “He’s a brilliant player, but I think it’s the situations more than anything,” Moeen said of Stokes. “He loves those and thrives off them, but we can’t rely on him all the time. We do have other very good players who need to come to the party as well. I know they’re really hungry to score runs and hopefully chase down whatever Australia get.” WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Ashes: Moeen Ali rues England's repetitive batting failure, feels home team in 'winning position' after day 2

<p>Ashes 2023 is turning out to be an exciting series for all cricket lovers. Australia are currently leading the series 2-0, but this hardly tells the story of how nail-biting and competitive the fixtures have been. When England and Australia faced each other on Day 1 of the third Ashes Test, a very peculiar incident happened that is now catching everyone’s attention. Before the toss, England’s head coach, Brendon McCullum was reportedly stopped by the security staff who failed to recognise him.</p>

<h2>Brendon McCullum stopped by the security</h2>

<p>As reported by The Times UK, Brendon McCullum was stopped by a security guard and was not permitted to enter the ground at Headingley, Leeds. The report said, “The security guard on duty did not recognise McCullum, who tried to argue while the person accompanying the New Zealander pointed out that it was fairly critical to the England team's chances that he was allowed through.”</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/odi-world-cup-2023-mohammad-kaif-makes-big-claim-about-team-india-says-chances-are-quite-bright-because-613406">ODI World Cup 2023: Mohammad Kaif makes big claim about Team India, says 'chances are quite bright because...'</a></strong></p>

<p>The security guard stopped McCullum because he did not have the correct entry pass. This didn’t sit well with the former New Zealand skipper, who was in a hurry for the toss and moved past the guard. It was said that McCullum lost patience and bypassed security when the guard was trying to contact his supervisor and told him, “You'll just have to deal with it.”</p>

<h2>The Third Ashes Test: A game of comebacks</h2>

<p>If England want to keep their hopes alive of winning the series they will have to win this Test. The Ben Stokes-led side made 2 changes in their line-up. They brought in Mark Wood to replace James Anderson and Moeen Ali in place of an injured Ollie Pope. The changes seem to have worked as Wood took a five-for and helped dismiss Australia for 263 runs in the first innings.</p>

<p>On the other side, Australia brought in Mitchell Marsh, who made a return to the side after a long gap of nearly four years. Marsh had a dream comeback and carried Australia to a respectable score. The all-rounder scored a brilliant hundred. Later, he took the crucial wicket of English opener Zak Crawley.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/odi-world-cup-2023-pakistan-pm-forms-high-level-committee-as-national-teams-participation-hangs-in-limbo-613392">ODI World Cup 2023: Pakistan PM forms high-level committee as national team's participation hangs in limbo</a></strong></p>

<h2>Ashes Third Test</h2>

<p>Despite getting Australia out for 263 on Day 1, England failed to capitalise on the situation, thanks to a six-wicket haul by Pat Cummins. English skipper Ben Stokes once again played a magnificent fighting innings, but could only take the hosts to a score of 237. With Moeen Ali leading the bowling attack with 2 wickets, England would look to finish off Australia’s innings quickly. Australia have a lead of 142 runs, with the star pair of last innings- Mitchell Marsh and Travis Head at the crease.</p>


Australia lead 142 runs in the 3rd Ashes Test. The Pat Cummins-led side were at 116 for 4 at the end of Day 2. The match is a must win game for England if they want to keep their hopes alive of winning the series.

Ashes 2023 is turning out to be an exciting series for all cricket lovers. Australia are currently leading the series 2-0, but this hardly tells the story of how nail-biting and competitive the fixtures have been. When England and Australia faced each other on Day 1 of the third Ashes Test, a very peculiar incident happened that is now catching everyone’s attention. Before the toss, England’s head coach, Brendon McCullum was reportedly stopped by the security staff who failed to recognise him. Brendon McCullum stopped by the security As reported by The Times UK, Brendon McCullum was stopped by a security guard and was not permitted to enter the ground at Headingley, Leeds. The report said, “The security guard on duty did not recognise McCullum, who tried to argue while the person accompanying the New Zealander pointed out that it was fairly critical to the England team's chances that he was allowed through.” Also Read: ODI World Cup 2023: Mohammad Kaif makes big claim about Team India, says 'chances are quite bright because...' The security guard stopped McCullum because he did not have the correct entry pass. This didn’t sit well with the former New Zealand skipper, who was in a hurry for the toss and moved past the guard. It was said that McCullum lost patience and bypassed security when the guard was trying to contact his supervisor and told him, “You'll just have to deal with it.” The Third Ashes Test: A game of comebacks If England want to keep their hopes alive of winning the series they will have to win this Test. The Ben Stokes-led side made 2 changes in their line-up. They brought in Mark Wood to replace James Anderson and Moeen Ali in place of an injured Ollie Pope. The changes seem to have worked as Wood took a five-for and helped dismiss Australia for 263 runs in the first innings. On the other side, Australia brought in Mitchell Marsh, who made a return to the side after a long gap of nearly four years. Marsh had a dream comeback and carried Australia to a respectable score. The all-rounder scored a brilliant hundred. Later, he took the crucial wicket of English opener Zak Crawley. Also Read: ODI World Cup 2023: Pakistan PM forms high-level committee as national team's participation hangs in limbo Ashes Third Test Despite getting Australia out for 263 on Day 1, England failed to capitalise on the situation, thanks to a six-wicket haul by Pat Cummins. English skipper Ben Stokes once again played a magnificent fighting innings, but could only take the hosts to a score of 237. With Moeen Ali leading the bowling attack with 2 wickets, England would look to finish off Australia’s innings quickly. Australia have a lead of 142 runs, with the star pair of last innings- Mitchell Marsh and Travis Head at the crease.

Ashes 2023: Brendon McCullum stopped by security guard at Headingley

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<p>Brendon McCullum didn't sound pleased when he said England and Australian players are unlikely to sit together for a beer following what transpired in the second Test in Lord’s, a remark that disappointed his counterpart, Andrew McDonald. A game of beautiful uncertainties saw several questionable decisions taken during the Test, with Mitchell Starc’s catch to dismiss Ben Duckett and Bairstow’s run-out making headlines.</p>

<p>Day five was filled with drama, emotion, verbal throwdowns and whatnot.</p>

<p>After losing the second straight Test at home on Sunday by 43 runs, England’s head coach, while speaking with Test Match Special, said, "I can't imagine we'll be having a beer anytime soon if that's what you're asking. From our point of view, we've got three Test matches to try and land some blows and try and win the Ashes, and that's where our focus will be."</p>

<p>When asked about the same to McDonald in the post-match presser, the former Aussie all-rounder said he hasn't spoken with Brendon yet, but going by these remarks, he is disappointed with this.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/australias-spin-giant-nathan-lyon-ruled-out-of-ashes-with-calf-injury-todd-murphy-likely-to-play-3rd-test-611290">Australia's spin giant Nathan Lyon ruled out of Ashes with calf injury, Todd Murphy likely to play 3rd Test</a></p>

<p>"I haven't spoken to him, [have] heard that comment for the first time and somewhat disappointed by that," McDonald said, replying to McCullum.</p>

<h2>The drama around Bairstow’s run-out</h2>

<p>Just when the on-field proceedings were underway in the most usual manner on day five before tea, a cheeky run-out by Carey to dismiss Bairstow triggered a controversy, with fans and pundits sharing opposite views on the throwdown.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Though English fans believed that the dismissal was wrong and against the spirit of the game, several experts and Australian cricket enthusiasts argued that whatever happened was within the rule book and should be received and accepted the way it is.</p>

<p>Andrew McDonald was no different.</p>

<p>He said this dismissal was similar to other forms of outs, adding each team would have taken advantage of the situation and done the same. He urged leaving the crease like that is criminal for a batter, and Bairstow paid the price.</p>

<p>"There's no doubt when a player is leaving their crease or leaving their ground at certain periods of time that you take that opportunity," he said. "It's [the same] with every player. It's like when a player is running down the wicket to Nathan Lyon, does he take the opportunity to fire a ball down the leg side, because he's leaving his crease? There's no doubt about that. You see a run-out opportunity at point, you throw at the bowler's end.</p>

<p>"But any of these events are always going to polarise opinion," he added. "We saw it on day four with the [Mitchell Starc] catch as well. Some people thought it was out, some people thought it was not out… sometimes, you know, not everyone agrees with it."</p>

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Brendon McCullum didn't sound pleased when he said England and Australian players are unlikely to sit together for a beer following what transpired in the second Test in Lord’s, a remark that disappointed his counterpart, Andrew McDonald.

Brendon McCullum didn't sound pleased when he said England and Australian players are unlikely to sit together for a beer following what transpired in the second Test in Lord’s, a remark that disappointed his counterpart, Andrew McDonald. A game of beautiful uncertainties saw several questionable decisions taken during the Test, with Mitchell Starc’s catch to dismiss Ben Duckett and Bairstow’s run-out making headlines. Day five was filled with drama, emotion, verbal throwdowns and whatnot. After losing the second straight Test at home on Sunday by 43 runs, England’s head coach, while speaking with Test Match Special, said, "I can't imagine we'll be having a beer anytime soon if that's what you're asking. From our point of view, we've got three Test matches to try and land some blows and try and win the Ashes, and that's where our focus will be." When asked about the same to McDonald in the post-match presser, the former Aussie all-rounder said he hasn't spoken with Brendon yet, but going by these remarks, he is disappointed with this. ALSO READ: Australia's spin giant Nathan Lyon ruled out of Ashes with calf injury, Todd Murphy likely to play 3rd Test "I haven't spoken to him, [have] heard that comment for the first time and somewhat disappointed by that," McDonald said, replying to McCullum. The drama around Bairstow’s run-out Just when the on-field proceedings were underway in the most usual manner on day five before tea, a cheeky run-out by Carey to dismiss Bairstow triggered a controversy, with fans and pundits sharing opposite views on the throwdown. Though English fans believed that the dismissal was wrong and against the spirit of the game, several experts and Australian cricket enthusiasts argued that whatever happened was within the rule book and should be received and accepted the way it is. Andrew McDonald was no different. He said this dismissal was similar to other forms of outs, adding each team would have taken advantage of the situation and done the same. He urged leaving the crease like that is criminal for a batter, and Bairstow paid the price. "There's no doubt when a player is leaving their crease or leaving their ground at certain periods of time that you take that opportunity," he said. "It's [the same] with every player. It's like when a player is running down the wicket to Nathan Lyon, does he take the opportunity to fire a ball down the leg side, because he's leaving his crease? There's no doubt about that. You see a run-out opportunity at point, you throw at the bowler's end. "But any of these events are always going to polarise opinion," he added. "We saw it on day four with the [Mitchell Starc] catch as well. Some people thought it was out, some people thought it was not out… sometimes, you know, not everyone agrees with it." WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Ashes: Oz head coach throws weight behind Lord's show, says he's disappointed with McCullum's 'beer' comment

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<p>The match officials denying England to bring on a substitute fielder for injured Ollie Pope and, instead, forcing the number 3 batter to remain on the field on day three of Lord's Test despite him suffering a shoulder injury has angered the English camp.</p>

<p>Speaking to the media after the day’s play, England spin-bowling coach Jeetan Patel, like many others, was unsure of what happened in that situation and said the team is yet to receive an official word from the umpires.</p>

<p>On day one of the ongoing Test, Pope suffered a shoulder injury while fielding but came out to bat at his regular position in the first innings, scoring 42 from 63 balls. During the 18th over in Australia’s second innings, Pope reaggravated the injury and was expected to leave the field.&nbsp;</p>

<p>However, that didn’t happen, as the umpires forced the right-handed batter to the field, else England was offered to play with 10 players only on field, a decision that didn’t sit well with the host&nbsp;camp.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-shaheen-afridi-enters-record-books-with-4-wickets-in-1st-over-during-vitality-t20-blast-610750">WATCH: Shaheen Afridi enters record books with 4 wickets in 1st over during Vitality T20 Blast</a></p>

<p>Although the umpires termed his initial injury external, they labelled Pope’s recent injury as the fresh one, and he will be able to bat at number 3 if he’s fit.</p>

<p>"We're a bit bewildered by it all," Jeetan Patel said. "It's a bit confusing. We assumed that he was asked that he had to be back out on the field or we would have to field with 10 men. And that made no sense to us."</p>

<p>"It's a pretty tough situation when you nearly bust your shoulder, and you're told it was an external [injury]. It was always going to happen. He's so committed to this team. He was always going to fall on something. And now he's back off."</p>

<p>"It's a bit messy if I'm being honest with you. We're probably as frustrated as everyone else that was out there that saw what happened, and he's probably more angry at the situation than anything else,” he added.</p>

<h2>Pope will bat at 3, ensures Patel</h2>

<p>With Australia in the driver’s seat as things stand, unless England trigger a collapse early on day four, they would be up for a huge target in the fourth innings. Patel, on Pope, said the right-hander would bat at his same position and being a responsible batter and a vice-captain, Pope will also help the other batters settle down.</p>

<p>"He is sore, but he should be okay," Patel said. "He's never going to turn down an opportunity to bat for England, and with an opportunity to win a game, I can't see Ollie Pope saying no to that. He's grown since he's come into the team, with the responsibility of being vice-captain, but also the support of the other batters around him. I think he'll see it as an opportunity to take this game on."</p>

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The match officials denying England to bring on a substitute fielder for injured Ollie Pope and, instead, forcing the number 3 batter to remain on the field on day three of Lord's Test despite him suffering a shoulder injury has angered the English camp.

The match officials denying England to bring on a substitute fielder for injured Ollie Pope and, instead, forcing the number 3 batter to remain on the field on day three of Lord's Test despite him suffering a shoulder injury has angered the English camp. Speaking to the media after the day’s play, England spin-bowling coach Jeetan Patel, like many others, was unsure of what happened in that situation and said the team is yet to receive an official word from the umpires. On day one of the ongoing Test, Pope suffered a shoulder injury while fielding but came out to bat at his regular position in the first innings, scoring 42 from 63 balls. During the 18th over in Australia’s second innings, Pope reaggravated the injury and was expected to leave the field. However, that didn’t happen, as the umpires forced the right-handed batter to the field, else England was offered to play with 10 players only on field, a decision that didn’t sit well with the host camp. ALSO READ: WATCH: Shaheen Afridi enters record books with 4 wickets in 1st over during Vitality T20 Blast Although the umpires termed his initial injury external, they labelled Pope’s recent injury as the fresh one, and he will be able to bat at number 3 if he’s fit. "We're a bit bewildered by it all," Jeetan Patel said. "It's a bit confusing. We assumed that he was asked that he had to be back out on the field or we would have to field with 10 men. And that made no sense to us." "It's a pretty tough situation when you nearly bust your shoulder, and you're told it was an external [injury]. It was always going to happen. He's so committed to this team. He was always going to fall on something. And now he's back off." "It's a bit messy if I'm being honest with you. We're probably as frustrated as everyone else that was out there that saw what happened, and he's probably more angry at the situation than anything else,” he added. Pope will bat at 3, ensures Patel With Australia in the driver’s seat as things stand, unless England trigger a collapse early on day four, they would be up for a huge target in the fourth innings. Patel, on Pope, said the right-hander would bat at his same position and being a responsible batter and a vice-captain, Pope will also help the other batters settle down. "He is sore, but he should be okay," Patel said. "He's never going to turn down an opportunity to bat for England, and with an opportunity to win a game, I can't see Ollie Pope saying no to that. He's grown since he's come into the team, with the responsibility of being vice-captain, but also the support of the other batters around him. I think he'll see it as an opportunity to take this game on." WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Ashes 2023: Officials asking Ollie Pope to field despite shoulder injury leave everyone 'angry & bewildered'

<p>England are "about breaking records", assistant coach Jeetan Patel said on Friday as the home team contemplate a huge run chase against Australia in the second Ashes Test at the Lord's.</p>

<p>Ben Stokes's side, who lost the first game of the five-match series last week, collapsed to 325 all out on Friday's third morning in London, playing a series of rash shots.</p>

<p>Australia then reached 130-2 in their second innings to extend their lead to 221 runs despite some accurate bowling from the hosts.</p>

<p>Patel, England's spin-bowling coach, was asked what would be a realistic target to chase for a side who have attacked relentlessly over the past year.</p>

<p>"We've seen some amazing things from this team," he said. "It's going to be a different ask against a different attack but we've seen some crazy things from this line-up in the last year."</p>

<p>"This team is about breaking records, they want to set new standards. They want to sell out grounds and the way to do that is firstly to bowl them out and set the crowd alight and then chase whatever it is down."</p>

<p>England will take heart from a succession of improbable run chases under skipper Stokes, including their astonishing pursuit of 378 to beat India last year -- the highest successful chase in their history.</p>

<p>"We've always said that we want to play an aggressive brand," said Patel. "It's not always going to come off and that's not a cop out. It's just reality."</p>

<p>"They were pretty accurate with how they went about their plan."</p>

<p>"We want to keep changing momentum," he added. "We want to force swings in the game that come back our way a bit like you would see in white-ball cricket."</p>

<p>Patel said the second Test was finely poised, even though Ashes-holders and world Test champions Australia appear to be clear favourites.</p>

<p>"The first session tomorrow (Saturday) is huge for both teams," he added.</p>

<p>"If we can turn some of the skill that we showed tonight, tomorrow morning... we can bowl them out and give us a day and a half to chase something down."</p>

<p>Australia paceman Mitchell Starc, who took 3-88 in England's first innings, said the tourists had been successful with their tactic of bowling short.</p>

<p>"The four of us (fast bowlers) went about our business there being quite accurate and being up around the chest and shoulders," he said.</p>

<p>"I don't like to face that stuff so if it's coming at a decent pace I'm not sure anybody does."</p>

<p>"They (England) are playing aggressive cricket. Their approach is their approach. We saw an opportunity there to create some chances, which we did."</p>

<p>"It doesn't always go that way and thankfully more went to hand than to ground."</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

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England are "about breaking records", assistant coach Jeetan Patel said on Friday as the home team contemplate a huge run chase against Australia in the second Ashes Test at the Lord's.

England are "about breaking records", assistant coach Jeetan Patel said on Friday as the home team contemplate a huge run chase against Australia in the second Ashes Test at the Lord's. Ben Stokes's side, who lost the first game of the five-match series last week, collapsed to 325 all out on Friday's third morning in London, playing a series of rash shots. Australia then reached 130-2 in their second innings to extend their lead to 221 runs despite some accurate bowling from the hosts. Patel, England's spin-bowling coach, was asked what would be a realistic target to chase for a side who have attacked relentlessly over the past year. "We've seen some amazing things from this team," he said. "It's going to be a different ask against a different attack but we've seen some crazy things from this line-up in the last year." "This team is about breaking records, they want to set new standards. They want to sell out grounds and the way to do that is firstly to bowl them out and set the crowd alight and then chase whatever it is down." England will take heart from a succession of improbable run chases under skipper Stokes, including their astonishing pursuit of 378 to beat India last year -- the highest successful chase in their history. "We've always said that we want to play an aggressive brand," said Patel. "It's not always going to come off and that's not a cop out. It's just reality." "They were pretty accurate with how they went about their plan." "We want to keep changing momentum," he added. "We want to force swings in the game that come back our way a bit like you would see in white-ball cricket." Patel said the second Test was finely poised, even though Ashes-holders and world Test champions Australia appear to be clear favourites. "The first session tomorrow (Saturday) is huge for both teams," he added. "If we can turn some of the skill that we showed tonight, tomorrow morning... we can bowl them out and give us a day and a half to chase something down." Australia paceman Mitchell Starc, who took 3-88 in England's first innings, said the tourists had been successful with their tactic of bowling short. "The four of us (fast bowlers) went about our business there being quite accurate and being up around the chest and shoulders," he said. "I don't like to face that stuff so if it's coming at a decent pace I'm not sure anybody does." "They (England) are playing aggressive cricket. Their approach is their approach. We saw an opportunity there to create some chances, which we did." "It doesn't always go that way and thankfully more went to hand than to ground." WATCH WION LIVE HERE

England's cricket team 'about breaking records, setting new standards,' says bullish coach

<p>Australia were bundled up for 416 on Day 2 of the second Ashes Test, at Lord's, before England ended the day's play at 278 for 4, trailing by&nbsp;138 runs. At 188 for 1, England lost the plot in the evening session as they lost three wickets due to Pat Cummins &amp; Co.'s short-ball tactics. Former South Africa skipper AB de Villiers lauded Cummins for his aggressive captaincy as Australia came back in the last session of Day 2.</p>

<p>De Villiers took to his official Twitter handle and wrote, "When a fast bowler, who’s also the Captain, and can hold the bat himself realises that no one is fully in control or comfortable against the short ball. Even the best in the world feel uncomfortable to quality short bowling to the right field placing. Credit to Cummins for taking this route, but more importantly, persisting with it. Aus have opened it up here while Eng looked like dominating procedures. Smart Cricket. Very entertaining."</p>

<p>He added, "And bear in mind, this pitch is fairly low and slow! Imagine…"&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ashes-2023-hosts-not-ahead-but-former-england-captain-opines-on-day-2s-proceedings-at-lords-610425">Ashes 2023: 'Hosts not ahead but...': Former England captain opines on Day 2's proceedings at Lord's</a></strong></p>

<h2><strong>ABD lauds Pat Cummins</strong></h2>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">When a fast bowler, who’s also the Captain, and can hold the bat himself realises that no one is fully in control or comfortable against the short ball. Even the best in the world feel uncomfortable to quality short bowling to the right field placing.<br />
<br />
Credit to Cummins for…</p>
— AB de Villiers (@ABdeVilliers17) <a href="https://twitter.com/ABdeVilliers17/status/1674457877686231041?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 29, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>Australia remain in the game at stumps on Day 2 due to the three late wickets -- with Ollie Pope, Ben Duckett (98) and Joe Root falling to the short-ball ploy. However, the visitors have a herculean task of stopping Ben Stokes &amp; Co. from racing ahead as their premier spinner Nathan Lyon got injured and limped off the field on Thursday.</p>

<p>For England, they are scoring at over 4.5 runs per over and will look to surpass Australia's 416 with wickets in hand. They will hope to take&nbsp;a sizeable lead and put pressure on Australia in their second essay.&nbsp;</p>

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Australia were bundled up for 416 on Day 2 of the second Ashes Test, at Lord's, before England ended the day's play at 278 for 4, trailing by 138 runs. At 188 for 1, England lost the plot in the evening session as they lost three wickets due to Pat Cummins & Co.

Australia were bundled up for 416 on Day 2 of the second Ashes Test, at Lord's, before England ended the day's play at 278 for 4, trailing by 138 runs. At 188 for 1, England lost the plot in the evening session as they lost three wickets due to Pat Cummins & Co.'s short-ball tactics. Former South Africa skipper AB de Villiers lauded Cummins for his aggressive captaincy as Australia came back in the last session of Day 2. De Villiers took to his official Twitter handle and wrote, "When a fast bowler, who’s also the Captain, and can hold the bat himself realises that no one is fully in control or comfortable against the short ball. Even the best in the world feel uncomfortable to quality short bowling to the right field placing. Credit to Cummins for taking this route, but more importantly, persisting with it. Aus have opened it up here while Eng looked like dominating procedures. Smart Cricket. Very entertaining." He added, "And bear in mind, this pitch is fairly low and slow! Imagine…" Also Read: Ashes 2023: 'Hosts not ahead but...': Former England captain opines on Day 2's proceedings at Lord's ABD lauds Pat Cummins When a fast bowler, who’s also the Captain, and can hold the bat himself realises that no one is fully in control or comfortable against the short ball. Even the best in the world feel uncomfortable to quality short bowling to the right field placing. Credit to Cummins for… — AB de Villiers (@ABdeVilliers17) June 29, 2023 × Australia remain in the game at stumps on Day 2 due to the three late wickets -- with Ollie Pope, Ben Duckett (98) and Joe Root falling to the short-ball ploy. However, the visitors have a herculean task of stopping Ben Stokes & Co. from racing ahead as their premier spinner Nathan Lyon got injured and limped off the field on Thursday. For England, they are scoring at over 4.5 runs per over and will look to surpass Australia's 416 with wickets in hand. They will hope to take a sizeable lead and put pressure on Australia in their second essay. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. ×

Lord's Test: AB de Villiers gives thumbs up to Aussie skipper Pat Cummins' short ball ploy on Day 2

<p>England won the toss and opted to bowl first on Day 1 of the second Ashes Test, at Lord's, on Wednesday (June 28), in overcast conditions on a track favourable for bowling. However, they ended the day picking five wickets as Australia managed 339 runs&nbsp;courtesy of fifties from David Warner, Travis Head and Steve Smith (85 not out). After the end of the opening day, former England captain Michael Vaughan expressed concern for Ben Stokes &amp; Co. as hosts trail the five-match series 1-0 after losing the series opener, in Edgbaston, Birmingham, by two wickets.</p>

<p>"England can get back into it but I worry about it. They are going to have to be sharper in the field, I will be intrigued to see how they cope," Vaughan said on BBC's Test Match Special.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ashes-2023-nathan-lyon-scripts-history-becomes-first-bowler-to-play-100-successive-tests-609680">Ashes 2023: Nathan Lyon scripts history, becomes first bowler to play 100 successive Tests</a></strong></p>

<p>"I do think this pitch will get harder over the next few days. I worry about England. It's very tough at this stage. They switched off at Edgbaston and today, they haven't been switched on at the key moments," Vaughan further added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>England were sloppy on the field as they dropped chances and Australia made them pay heavily with attacking knocks from Warner (66 off 88), Head (77 off 73) whereas Smith remains unbeaten on 85 and looks set for a daddy hundred. Debutant Josh Tongue (2 for 88) looked good whereas Joe Root picked two wickets in an over towards the end of Day 1 otherwise Australia had been in a more commanding position at the time of stumps.&nbsp;</p>

<p>England will be desperate to dismiss the Australian line-up for less than 400 but it looks an improbable task at the moment. For Australia, they will target anything over 450 with Smith well settled in the middle.</p>

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England won the toss and opted to bowl first on Day 1 of the second Ashes Test, at Lord's, on Wednesday (June 28), in overcast conditions on a track favourable for bowling.

England won the toss and opted to bowl first on Day 1 of the second Ashes Test, at Lord's, on Wednesday (June 28), in overcast conditions on a track favourable for bowling. However, they ended the day picking five wickets as Australia managed 339 runs courtesy of fifties from David Warner, Travis Head and Steve Smith (85 not out). After the end of the opening day, former England captain Michael Vaughan expressed concern for Ben Stokes & Co. as hosts trail the five-match series 1-0 after losing the series opener, in Edgbaston, Birmingham, by two wickets. "England can get back into it but I worry about it. They are going to have to be sharper in the field, I will be intrigued to see how they cope," Vaughan said on BBC's Test Match Special. Also Read: Ashes 2023: Nathan Lyon scripts history, becomes first bowler to play 100 successive Tests "I do think this pitch will get harder over the next few days. I worry about England. It's very tough at this stage. They switched off at Edgbaston and today, they haven't been switched on at the key moments," Vaughan further added. England were sloppy on the field as they dropped chances and Australia made them pay heavily with attacking knocks from Warner (66 off 88), Head (77 off 73) whereas Smith remains unbeaten on 85 and looks set for a daddy hundred. Debutant Josh Tongue (2 for 88) looked good whereas Joe Root picked two wickets in an over towards the end of Day 1 otherwise Australia had been in a more commanding position at the time of stumps. England will be desperate to dismiss the Australian line-up for less than 400 but it looks an improbable task at the moment. For Australia, they will target anything over 450 with Smith well settled in the middle. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. ×

'I worry about England, they need to be...': Vaughan warns Ben Stokes & Co. after Day 1 of Lord's Test

In PICS| Top Five Wanted & Unwanted Records held by Stuart Broad

<p>England’s Test head coach Brendon McCullum is proud of his players despite a two-wicket narrow defeat in the Edgbaston Test. Following one of the best Ashes Tests in a long time, where Australian captain Pat Cummins stood tall to help his team chase 281&nbsp;on the final day, McCullum feels his team's style of play got the ‘validation’, and that they will bounce back stronger in the next Test at Lord’s starting on June 28.</p>

<p>Bazball was the ‘most-talked-about’ thing before the start of the first Ashes Test, and going by how things panned out in both innings, it lived-up to the hype. Contrary to how the previous Ashes began for England, wherein Mitchell Starc clean bowled opener Rory Burns on the first ball of the 1st Test in Brisbane, Zak Crawley hammered Cummins for a four on the first ball this time.</p>

<p>While Australia, who won the Test, scored at 3.20 runs per over across five days, England scored at an impressive 4.61 runs per over across both innings.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ashes-2023-michael-vaughan-points-out-hosts-blunder-at-edgbaston-says-england-just-didnt-do-that-607026">Ashes 2023: Michael Vaughan points out hosts' BLUNDER at Edgbaston, says 'England just didn’t do that'</a></p>

<p>"I think we played our style, which is to try and take the game forward," Brendon McCullum said after the Edgbaston Test loss. "I thought Australia were happy playing their style as well, which ultimately led to success for them, and I'm sure they'll continue with those tactics right throughout the series. I think it's set up to be quite a fascinating contest."</p>

<p>The former Kiwi skipper added though they would have loved to win, one thing that happened with this loss is their style of play - ‘Bazball’ got validated.</p>

<p>"Obviously, you'd rather have won the game - that's just the nature of sport sometimes - but I thought the way that we played, I think it's validated our style of play as well. If we'd have got a little bit of the rub of the green then we might have been on the other side of it,” McCullum added.</p>

<p>While many questioned England’s shocking declaration on day one, McCullum feels that gave his team a chance to pounce onto the opportunity to put Australia under mat, something that didn’t happen for them unfortunately.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"I'm really proud of the boys. A couple of things didn't quite go our way at times, but that's the nature of the game. We firmly believe, the skipper and I, that this gives us our greatest chance. Everyone that has watched this game over the last five days, I would be very surprised if there were too many people who disagree with how we go about playing.</p>

<h2>Mark Wood in line for Lord’s Test recall</h2>

<p>With the pace attack of James Anderson, Stuart Broad and Ollie Robinson failing to deliver against the Aussie batting line-up in the first Test, McCullum sees a change happening in the second Test, with fit-again Mark Wood likely to get roped into the XI.</p>

<p>"Woody's a great bowler. He offers a real point of difference, and he'll always come into consideration for selection - especially on wickets that need a little bit more pace. That's the beauty of having a good squad: we've got guys to pick from,” McCullum added.</p>

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England’s Test head coach Brendon McCullum is proud of his players despite a two-wicket narrow defeat in the Edgbaston Test. Following one of the best Ashes Tests in a long time, where Australian captain Pat Cummins stood tall to help his team chase 281 on the final day, McCullum feels his team's style of play got the ‘validation’, and that they will bounce back stronger in the next Test at Lord’s starting on June 28.

England’s Test head coach Brendon McCullum is proud of his players despite a two-wicket narrow defeat in the Edgbaston Test. Following one of the best Ashes Tests in a long time, where Australian captain Pat Cummins stood tall to help his team chase 281 on the final day, McCullum feels his team's style of play got the ‘validation’, and that they will bounce back stronger in the next Test at Lord’s starting on June 28. Bazball was the ‘most-talked-about’ thing before the start of the first Ashes Test, and going by how things panned out in both innings, it lived-up to the hype. Contrary to how the previous Ashes began for England, wherein Mitchell Starc clean bowled opener Rory Burns on the first ball of the 1st Test in Brisbane, Zak Crawley hammered Cummins for a four on the first ball this time. While Australia, who won the Test, scored at 3.20 runs per over across five days, England scored at an impressive 4.61 runs per over across both innings. ALSO READ: Ashes 2023: Michael Vaughan points out hosts' BLUNDER at Edgbaston, says 'England just didn’t do that' "I think we played our style, which is to try and take the game forward," Brendon McCullum said after the Edgbaston Test loss. "I thought Australia were happy playing their style as well, which ultimately led to success for them, and I'm sure they'll continue with those tactics right throughout the series. I think it's set up to be quite a fascinating contest." The former Kiwi skipper added though they would have loved to win, one thing that happened with this loss is their style of play - ‘Bazball’ got validated. "Obviously, you'd rather have won the game - that's just the nature of sport sometimes - but I thought the way that we played, I think it's validated our style of play as well. If we'd have got a little bit of the rub of the green then we might have been on the other side of it,” McCullum added. While many questioned England’s shocking declaration on day one, McCullum feels that gave his team a chance to pounce onto the opportunity to put Australia under mat, something that didn’t happen for them unfortunately. "I'm really proud of the boys. A couple of things didn't quite go our way at times, but that's the nature of the game. We firmly believe, the skipper and I, that this gives us our greatest chance. Everyone that has watched this game over the last five days, I would be very surprised if there were too many people who disagree with how we go about playing. Mark Wood in line for Lord’s Test recall With the pace attack of James Anderson, Stuart Broad and Ollie Robinson failing to deliver against the Aussie batting line-up in the first Test, McCullum sees a change happening in the second Test, with fit-again Mark Wood likely to get roped into the XI. "Woody's a great bowler. He offers a real point of difference, and he'll always come into consideration for selection - especially on wickets that need a little bit more pace. That's the beauty of having a good squad: we've got guys to pick from,” McCullum added. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Ashes: Coach McCullum backs players despite narrow defeat, says Edgbaston loss 'validated' our style of play

<p>Veteran England seamer James Anderson was left disappointed with Edgbaston's pitch and said if curators continue to prepare similar surfaces for the games to continue, he is done with this Ashes. Following a two-wicket loss at the hands of Australia in the first Test, Anderson slammed the lifeless surface, saying the pitch had nothing for the bowlers.</p>

<p>"If all the pitches are like that, I'm done in the Ashes series," Anderson wrote in his Daily Telegraph column. "That pitch was like kryptonite for me. There was not much swing, no reverse swing, no seam movement, no bounce, and no pace."&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ashes-2023-bazball-inspired-joe-root-asks-english-fans-to-strap-in-for-lords-turnaround-607745">Ashes 2023: Bazball-inspired Joe Root asks English fans to 'strap in' for Lord's turnaround</a></p>

<p>In one of the rare moments in Tests in England, Anderson neither started the innings nor did he bowl with the new ball during the fag end on the final day, when Cummins and Lyon walked away with the win. Upset over the change in routine for him, Anderson added he even approached captain Ben Stokes over the same and sought clarity.</p>

<p>“I didn’t take the new ball in the first innings or late on the final day. I had a chat with Ben Stokes about how I felt. We agreed it was the type of pitch the taller bowlers were getting more out of. I was completely on board with that," Anderson wrote.</p>

<p>The legendary seamer, who is 14 shy of his 700th Test wicket,&nbsp;a first for a fast bowler in the format's history, admitted not being on top of his game in the first Test.</p>

<p>“I know I wasn’t on top of my game this week. It was not my best performance," the veteran seamer added.</p>

<h2>'You can't pick wickets everywhere'</h2>

<p>Though Anderson doesn't need to prove himself, the English pacer accepts trying to hone his skills for all conditions over the years.&nbsp;But with time, he realised that one bowler can't take wickets in every game. In the first Test, Anderson picked just one wicket across two innings.</p>

<p>“I’ve tried over the years to hone my skills so I can bowl in any conditions, but everything I tried made no difference. I felt like I was fighting an uphill battle. There was a bit of rustiness, but I gave it everything I could. Having played for a long time, I realise you can’t take wickets in every game. Sometimes it is not your week. It felt like that for me," Anderson also wrote.</p>

<p>Following the first Test result, England might tweak the Playing XI, with Anderson likely to retain his place. Latest reports from the English camp suggest Mark Wood could replace spinner Moeen Ali for the Lord's Test, which starts next Wednesday, June 28.</p>

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Veteran England seamer James Anderson was left disappointed with Edgbaston's pitch and said if curators continue to prepare similar surfaces for the games to continue, he is done with this Ashes.

Veteran England seamer James Anderson was left disappointed with Edgbaston's pitch and said if curators continue to prepare similar surfaces for the games to continue, he is done with this Ashes. Following a two-wicket loss at the hands of Australia in the first Test, Anderson slammed the lifeless surface, saying the pitch had nothing for the bowlers. "If all the pitches are like that, I'm done in the Ashes series," Anderson wrote in his Daily Telegraph column. "That pitch was like kryptonite for me. There was not much swing, no reverse swing, no seam movement, no bounce, and no pace." ALSO READ: Ashes 2023: Bazball-inspired Joe Root asks English fans to 'strap in' for Lord's turnaround In one of the rare moments in Tests in England, Anderson neither started the innings nor did he bowl with the new ball during the fag end on the final day, when Cummins and Lyon walked away with the win. Upset over the change in routine for him, Anderson added he even approached captain Ben Stokes over the same and sought clarity. “I didn’t take the new ball in the first innings or late on the final day. I had a chat with Ben Stokes about how I felt. We agreed it was the type of pitch the taller bowlers were getting more out of. I was completely on board with that," Anderson wrote. The legendary seamer, who is 14 shy of his 700th Test wicket, a first for a fast bowler in the format's history, admitted not being on top of his game in the first Test. “I know I wasn’t on top of my game this week. It was not my best performance," the veteran seamer added. 'You can't pick wickets everywhere' Though Anderson doesn't need to prove himself, the English pacer accepts trying to hone his skills for all conditions over the years. But with time, he realised that one bowler can't take wickets in every game. In the first Test, Anderson picked just one wicket across two innings. “I’ve tried over the years to hone my skills so I can bowl in any conditions, but everything I tried made no difference. I felt like I was fighting an uphill battle. There was a bit of rustiness, but I gave it everything I could. Having played for a long time, I realise you can’t take wickets in every game. Sometimes it is not your week. It felt like that for me," Anderson also wrote. Following the first Test result, England might tweak the Playing XI, with Anderson likely to retain his place. Latest reports from the English camp suggest Mark Wood could replace spinner Moeen Ali for the Lord's Test, which starts next Wednesday, June 28. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Ashes 2023 - 'If this continues...': James Anderson slams lifeless Edgbaston pitch

<p>England and Australia produced a memorable match when both sides locked horns in the recently-concluded first Test of Ashes 2023 at Edgbaston, Birmingham. Despite being aggressive and proactive from the word go, Ben Stokes-Brendon McCullum-led England lost by two wickets and&nbsp;conceded a 1-0 lead to Australia.</p>

<p>The defeat was England's third in the Bazball-era since McCullum took over as the Test coach. Ahead of the second Test, at Lord's, former Australian captain Ricky Ponting dropped a bombshell. Punter revealed in a recent interaction that he was offered England's Test coach job before McCullum.</p>

<h2><strong>'I'm not ready for a full-time coaching job'</strong></h2>

<p>Ponting told Guerilla Cricket, "I actually got asked before Brendon took the job."</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ashes-2023-dont-believe-that-ricky-ponting-reacts-to-ben-stokes-england-not-result-driven-remark-607454">Ashes 2023 | Don't believe that: Ricky Ponting reacts to Ben Stokes' 'England not result driven' remark</a></strong></p>

<p>"I did take some calls from Robert Key as soon as he took over that job. But I'm just not ready for a full-time international coaching job, where I'm at in my life. Having traveled as much as I have, with young kids now I just don't want to be away as much as I was."</p>

<p>"And even talking to Brendon, his family is only just arriving today. When you've got kids that are in school, moving them around, that's not what I want to do," he added.</p>

<p>It would have been very interesting had Ponting agreed to coach Australia's arch-rival team in world cricket. At present, England are doing pretty well in the red-ball format ever since McCullum took over&nbsp;last year. They have beaten teams like India and South Africa at home, whitewashed Pakistan in Pakistan, drew a two-match series versus hosts New Zealand early this year and now have a litmus test in the remainder of&nbsp;Ashes 2023.</p>

<p>England will certainly look to back their attacking style of play and aim to&nbsp;level the series in the second Test at Lord's, starting next week.</p>

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England and Australia produced a memorable match when both sides locked horns in the recently-concluded first Test of Ashes 2023 at Edgbaston, Birmingham. Despite being aggressive and proactive from the word go, Ben Stokes-Brendon McCullum-led England lost by two wickets and conceded a 1-0 lead to Australia.

England and Australia produced a memorable match when both sides locked horns in the recently-concluded first Test of Ashes 2023 at Edgbaston, Birmingham. Despite being aggressive and proactive from the word go, Ben Stokes-Brendon McCullum-led England lost by two wickets and conceded a 1-0 lead to Australia. The defeat was England's third in the Bazball-era since McCullum took over as the Test coach. Ahead of the second Test, at Lord's, former Australian captain Ricky Ponting dropped a bombshell. Punter revealed in a recent interaction that he was offered England's Test coach job before McCullum. 'I'm not ready for a full-time coaching job' Ponting told Guerilla Cricket, "I actually got asked before Brendon took the job." Also Read: Ashes 2023 | Don't believe that: Ricky Ponting reacts to Ben Stokes' 'England not result driven' remark "I did take some calls from Robert Key as soon as he took over that job. But I'm just not ready for a full-time international coaching job, where I'm at in my life. Having traveled as much as I have, with young kids now I just don't want to be away as much as I was." "And even talking to Brendon, his family is only just arriving today. When you've got kids that are in school, moving them around, that's not what I want to do," he added. It would have been very interesting had Ponting agreed to coach Australia's arch-rival team in world cricket. At present, England are doing pretty well in the red-ball format ever since McCullum took over last year. They have beaten teams like India and South Africa at home, whitewashed Pakistan in Pakistan, drew a two-match series versus hosts New Zealand early this year and now have a litmus test in the remainder of Ashes 2023. England will certainly look to back their attacking style of play and aim to level the series in the second Test at Lord's, starting next week. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. ×

I got asked before McCullum: Ricky Ponting's sensational claim, says he was offered England Test coach job

<p>It's time to tie your seatbelts as the English team is ready to change gears for good in the second Ashes Test at Lord's.</p>

<p>Following a narrow two-wicket defeat in Edgbaston - England's first in Test under Brendon McCullum and Ben Stokes, former captain Joe Root urges English fans to 'strap in' for a turnaround in the second Test, which begins next Wednesday on June 28. England's highest scorer in the first inning - 118*, Root took the attack to the opposition from ball one, with him trying to play the reverse scoop to Aussie captain Pat Cummins on the first ball on day four being one example of it.</p>

<p>With McCullum going public about England sticking to their newest ultra-attacking approach, formally called 'Bazball', Root echoes the exact words but remains cautious of the challenges ahead.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/pakistans-foreign-ministry-to-evaluate-teams-participation-in-odi-world-cup-in-india-spokesperson-607715">Pakistan's foreign ministry to evaluate team's participation in ODI World Cup in India: Spokesperson</a></p>

<p>Though there were several reasons why England fell behind in the Summer Ashes opener - be it dropped catches, missed stumpings, 23 no-balls, or to some, early declaration on day one, Root feels England's motive of going for the results via Bazball mode is bigger than these moments.</p>

<p>Joe Root - under whose captaincy England had an embarrassing record of one win in the last 17 Tests, admitted if he were to go back in time, he would captain his team the way Ben Stokes is leading as it is exciting and is likely to bring more out of individuals.</p>

<p>"That's not what we're about as a team," Root said. "If I could go back in time, I'd go back and start my captaincy tenure the way Ben has and try to play in a similar manner to how he does it.</p>

<p>"It's far more exciting, far more interesting, and I think we are getting more out of our team and our individuals. We're playing better cricket to watch, producing better results overall," Root added, as quoted by ESPNcricinfo.</p>

<h2>Time to learn from mistakes</h2>

<p>Root said if England were to grow as a team, they needs to look beyond bad days at work and try doing things differently yet effectively. The batting veteran added for England to bounce back in the Ashes, they need to get those one-percenters rights.</p>

<p>"If we are going to grow as a team, we can't just look at a day like this with a couple of moments going against us and say, 'we need to do things differently'. If anything, we need to double down on how we do it, completely back ourselves and make sure we get those one-percenters right at Lord's."&nbsp;</p>

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It's time to tie your seatbelts as the English team is ready to change gears for good in the second Ashes Test at Lord's. Following a narrow two-wicket defeat in Edgbaston - England's first in Test under Brendon McCullum and Ben Stokes, former captain Joe Root urges English fans to 'strap in' for a turnaround in the second Test, which begins next Wednesday on June 28.

It's time to tie your seatbelts as the English team is ready to change gears for good in the second Ashes Test at Lord's. Following a narrow two-wicket defeat in Edgbaston - England's first in Test under Brendon McCullum and Ben Stokes, former captain Joe Root urges English fans to 'strap in' for a turnaround in the second Test, which begins next Wednesday on June 28. England's highest scorer in the first inning - 118*, Root took the attack to the opposition from ball one, with him trying to play the reverse scoop to Aussie captain Pat Cummins on the first ball on day four being one example of it. With McCullum going public about England sticking to their newest ultra-attacking approach, formally called 'Bazball', Root echoes the exact words but remains cautious of the challenges ahead. ALSO READ: Pakistan's foreign ministry to evaluate team's participation in ODI World Cup in India: Spokesperson Though there were several reasons why England fell behind in the Summer Ashes opener - be it dropped catches, missed stumpings, 23 no-balls, or to some, early declaration on day one, Root feels England's motive of going for the results via Bazball mode is bigger than these moments. Joe Root - under whose captaincy England had an embarrassing record of one win in the last 17 Tests, admitted if he were to go back in time, he would captain his team the way Ben Stokes is leading as it is exciting and is likely to bring more out of individuals. "That's not what we're about as a team," Root said. "If I could go back in time, I'd go back and start my captaincy tenure the way Ben has and try to play in a similar manner to how he does it. "It's far more exciting, far more interesting, and I think we are getting more out of our team and our individuals. We're playing better cricket to watch, producing better results overall," Root added, as quoted by ESPNcricinfo. Time to learn from mistakes Root said if England were to grow as a team, they needs to look beyond bad days at work and try doing things differently yet effectively. The batting veteran added for England to bounce back in the Ashes, they need to get those one-percenters rights. "If we are going to grow as a team, we can't just look at a day like this with a couple of moments going against us and say, 'we need to do things differently'. If anything, we need to double down on how we do it, completely back ourselves and make sure we get those one-percenters right at Lord's." WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Ashes 2023: Bazball-inspired Joe Root asks English fans to 'strap in' for Lord's turnaround

<p>Former England captain Geoffrey Boycott has slammed Ben Stokes-led England after they lost the Edgbaston Test to Australia by two wickets and conceded a 1-0 lead in the Ashes 2023 edition. Despite dominating the opening Test for the most part, England failed to close the game as Pat Cummins (44 not out) and Nathan Lyon's (unbeaten 16)&nbsp;unbroken 55-run ninth-wicket stand rescued Australia in pursuit of 282.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Throughout the game, a lot was said and written about England's Bazball approach. Stokes surprised one and all by declaring the first innings at 393 for 8 despite Joe Root remaining&nbsp;unbeaten at 118. He impressed everyone with his field placements and bowling changes as Australia were dismissed for 386 in reply. Further, England continued to go hard with the bat for most parts in their second innings before they folded for 273; giving a challenging 282-run target in the process. However, Boycott believes England concentrated more on entertaining than winning the match.</p>

<h2><strong>'England are in danger of reducing the Ashes to an exhibition'</strong></h2>

<p>"England are in danger of reducing the Ashes to an exhibition," Boycott wrote in his scathing column for The Telegraph. "England have got carried away with Bazball and seem to think entertaining is more important than winning. But England supporters want one thing more than anything else -- to win the Ashes."</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ashes-2023-bell-claims-australia-have-more-to-work-on-despite-cummins-cos-narrow-win-in-edgbaston-607319">Ashes 2023: Bell claims 'Australia have more to work on' despite Cummins &amp; Co.'s narrow win in Edgbaston</a></strong></p>

<p>Boycott further opined, "Scoring fast runs, whacking lots of fours and sixes is lovely. It is great. But only if England do not lose sight of the big prize which is to beat Australia. If at the end of the series Australia go home with the Ashes, we will feel sick, regardless of how much we have been entertained. If England are not playing to win then these Ashes Tests are not that important. They are only exhibition matches. They have got it back to front. It is not about entertaining and then winning. It is about winning first."</p>

<p>The veteran added, "By all means entertain but cricket is like chess. There are moments when you need to defend. Sometimes you need to be patient and accept it. Do not just attack, attack, attack. England need a bit of common sense and pragmatism. That is all that is required. They do not have to change being positive because they are a better side than Australia and will win if they just show that common sense."</p>

<p>England, under Stokes and head coach Brendon McCullum, have promised to come hard at Australia in the second Test, which kicks off on June 28 at Lord's.</p>

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Former England captain Geoffrey Boycott has slammed Ben Stokes-led England after they lost the Edgbaston Test to Australia by two wickets and conceded a 1-0 lead in the Ashes 2023 edition.

Former England captain Geoffrey Boycott has slammed Ben Stokes-led England after they lost the Edgbaston Test to Australia by two wickets and conceded a 1-0 lead in the Ashes 2023 edition. Despite dominating the opening Test for the most part, England failed to close the game as Pat Cummins (44 not out) and Nathan Lyon's (unbeaten 16) unbroken 55-run ninth-wicket stand rescued Australia in pursuit of 282. Throughout the game, a lot was said and written about England's Bazball approach. Stokes surprised one and all by declaring the first innings at 393 for 8 despite Joe Root remaining unbeaten at 118. He impressed everyone with his field placements and bowling changes as Australia were dismissed for 386 in reply. Further, England continued to go hard with the bat for most parts in their second innings before they folded for 273; giving a challenging 282-run target in the process. However, Boycott believes England concentrated more on entertaining than winning the match. 'England are in danger of reducing the Ashes to an exhibition' "England are in danger of reducing the Ashes to an exhibition," Boycott wrote in his scathing column for The Telegraph. "England have got carried away with Bazball and seem to think entertaining is more important than winning. But England supporters want one thing more than anything else -- to win the Ashes." Also read: Ashes 2023: Bell claims 'Australia have more to work on' despite Cummins & Co.'s narrow win in Edgbaston Boycott further opined, "Scoring fast runs, whacking lots of fours and sixes is lovely. It is great. But only if England do not lose sight of the big prize which is to beat Australia. If at the end of the series Australia go home with the Ashes, we will feel sick, regardless of how much we have been entertained. If England are not playing to win then these Ashes Tests are not that important. They are only exhibition matches. They have got it back to front. It is not about entertaining and then winning. It is about winning first." The veteran added, "By all means entertain but cricket is like chess. There are moments when you need to defend. Sometimes you need to be patient and accept it. Do not just attack, attack, attack. England need a bit of common sense and pragmatism. That is all that is required. They do not have to change being positive because they are a better side than Australia and will win if they just show that common sense." England, under Stokes and head coach Brendon McCullum, have promised to come hard at Australia in the second Test, which kicks off on June 28 at Lord's. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. ×

Ashes 2023: England focused on entertaining more than winning 1st Test, says Geoffrey Boycott

<p>England and Australia produced a humdinger of a Test in Edgbaston, Birmingham before Pat Cummins &amp; Co. edged past the hosts by two wickets on the final day, on Tuesday (June 20), of the Ashes 2023 opener. Opting to bat first, England rode on Joe Root's unbeaten 118 to declare their first innings at 393 for 8. In reply, Australia posted 386 all-out courtesy of Usman Khawaja's 141 before England set up a challenging 282-run target. The final day's play saw a delayed start before the game went down to the wire but Khawaja (65), Cummins (44 not out) and Nathan Lyon (16 not out) took the Aussies home.</p>

<p>While England's Bazball approach entertained one and all throughout the contest and kept viewers at the edge of their seat, English captain Ben Stokes' first-innings declaration became a talking point after they went down by two wickets on Tuesday evening.</p>

<h2><strong>'Not going to be looking back on this game as 'what ifs'</strong></h2>

<p>Stokes backed his declaration call decision on the opening day, made when a well-set Root was batting on 118 along with two wickets in hand. He said after the game, "If we were in the same position? Yeah. I would like to be 398 for 6 [sic] with 20 minutes left. That would be great."</p>

<section itemprop="articleBody">
<p>"I could also turn it around and say, 'if we didn't declare, would we have got the excitement that we did at the end of day five?' I'm not a hundred per cent sure, but I'm not going to be looking back on this game as 'what ifs'... the reality is, we just didn't manage to get over the line," Stokes further added.</p>
</section>

<section itemprop="articleBody"><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ashes-2023-twitter-reacts-as-australia-beat-england-in-edgbaston-thriller-by-two-wickets-606767">Ashes 2023: Twitter reacts as Australia beat England in Edgbaston thriller by two wickets</a></strong></section>

<p>Despite England's early declaration on Day 1, they kept resorting to their exciting and aggressive style of cricket and were on top in most parts of the game. However, Cummins-led Australia never looked out of sorts and kept coming back before pulling off a heist in the final hour courtesy of an unbroken 55-run ninth-wicket stand between skipper Cummins and Lyon.</p>

<p>While one can point fingers at England's declaration, they did miss a chance to not dismiss Australia early in their first essay after reducing them to 220 for 5. Also, England should have ideally set a target beyond 300 but Cummins &amp; Co. did well to dismiss them for 273.</p>

<p>The second Test commences on June 28 (Wednesday) at the iconic Lord's Cricket Stadium, London.</p>

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England and Australia produced a humdinger of a Test in Edgbaston, Birmingham before Pat Cummins & Co. edged past the hosts by two wickets on the final day, on Tuesday (June 20), of the Ashes 2023 opener.

England and Australia produced a humdinger of a Test in Edgbaston, Birmingham before Pat Cummins & Co. edged past the hosts by two wickets on the final day, on Tuesday (June 20), of the Ashes 2023 opener. Opting to bat first, England rode on Joe Root's unbeaten 118 to declare their first innings at 393 for 8. In reply, Australia posted 386 all-out courtesy of Usman Khawaja's 141 before England set up a challenging 282-run target. The final day's play saw a delayed start before the game went down to the wire but Khawaja (65), Cummins (44 not out) and Nathan Lyon (16 not out) took the Aussies home. While England's Bazball approach entertained one and all throughout the contest and kept viewers at the edge of their seat, English captain Ben Stokes' first-innings declaration became a talking point after they went down by two wickets on Tuesday evening. 'Not going to be looking back on this game as 'what ifs' Stokes backed his declaration call decision on the opening day, made when a well-set Root was batting on 118 along with two wickets in hand. He said after the game, "If we were in the same position? Yeah. I would like to be 398 for 6 [sic] with 20 minutes left. That would be great." "I could also turn it around and say, 'if we didn't declare, would we have got the excitement that we did at the end of day five?' I'm not a hundred per cent sure, but I'm not going to be looking back on this game as 'what ifs'... the reality is, we just didn't manage to get over the line," Stokes further added. Also Read: Ashes 2023: Twitter reacts as Australia beat England in Edgbaston thriller by two wickets Despite England's early declaration on Day 1, they kept resorting to their exciting and aggressive style of cricket and were on top in most parts of the game. However, Cummins-led Australia never looked out of sorts and kept coming back before pulling off a heist in the final hour courtesy of an unbroken 55-run ninth-wicket stand between skipper Cummins and Lyon. While one can point fingers at England's declaration, they did miss a chance to not dismiss Australia early in their first essay after reducing them to 220 for 5. Also, England should have ideally set a target beyond 300 but Cummins & Co. did well to dismiss them for 273. The second Test commences on June 28 (Wednesday) at the iconic Lord's Cricket Stadium, London. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. ×

'Not going to...': Ben Stokes backs declaration call after England lose Edgbaston Test to Australia

<p>Winning the Ashes for the first time since 2015 will be on the minds of the England cricket team as the first Test in underway at Edgbaston. The Ashes, over the years, has produced some incredible moments and enticing duels. The face-off between David Warner and Stuart Broad has been one such face off which the cricket fans are very much looking forward to. Ahead of the Test series opener against Australia at the Edgbaston, England Test skipper Ben Stokes came up with a cheeky Ravichandran Ashwin reference while speaking on the issue. While talking about Broad’s selection in the playing XI, Stokes reportedly said, “It’s just one of those things – like Ashwin against me. Broady has been an unbelievable performer over many years. What the Ashes bring, it’s so hard to look past someone like that.”</p>

<h2><strong>David Warner vs Stuart Broad</strong></h2>

<p>David Warner faced difficulties in dealing with Stuart Broad in the 2019 series. The English pacer had dismissed Warner on seven occasions in 10 innings during that series. As for Ashwin's name, it's no surprise why Stokes mentioned the India spinner in the pre-match presser. The England Test captain has fallen prey to Ashwin 11 times in Tests and four times in the 50-over format.</p>

<h2><strong>David Warner's form</strong></h2>

<p>Coming back to the Ashes, David Warner’s dismal form in Tests has been a point of concern. The Aussie opening batter did play a fine knock of 43 in the first innings of the World Test Championship (WTC) final against India. But in the second innings, the 36-year-old was dismissed for just one run.</p>

<p>Australia captain Pat Cummins also recently shared his opinion on the opening batter. "I'm sure he's thought about it a lot over the last couple of years hoping to get another crack at it. Davey (David Warner) will have all his plans in place. I'm sure you'll see a bit more of an aggressive Davey than what you saw in 2019 and he's itching to get out there and have another chance at it," Cummins was quoted as saying by news agency IANS.</p>

<p>In red-ball cricket, David Warner has so far represented Australia on 104 occasions. The New South Wales-born has till now scored 8,202 runs at an average of 45.31. The opener has 25 centuries and 34 half centuries under his belt in Test cricket. Australia will come into the Ashes series having won their maiden WTC title. In the last Ashes, the Aussies had decimated the English side by a convincing margin of 4-0.</p>


Winning the Ashes for the first time since 2015 will be on the minds of the England cricket team as the first Test in underway at Edgbaston. The Ashes, over the years, has produced some incredible moments and enticing duels.

Winning the Ashes for the first time since 2015 will be on the minds of the England cricket team as the first Test in underway at Edgbaston. The Ashes, over the years, has produced some incredible moments and enticing duels. The face-off between David Warner and Stuart Broad has been one such face off which the cricket fans are very much looking forward to. Ahead of the Test series opener against Australia at the Edgbaston, England Test skipper Ben Stokes came up with a cheeky Ravichandran Ashwin reference while speaking on the issue. While talking about Broad’s selection in the playing XI, Stokes reportedly said, “It’s just one of those things – like Ashwin against me. Broady has been an unbelievable performer over many years. What the Ashes bring, it’s so hard to look past someone like that.” David Warner vs Stuart Broad David Warner faced difficulties in dealing with Stuart Broad in the 2019 series. The English pacer had dismissed Warner on seven occasions in 10 innings during that series. As for Ashwin's name, it's no surprise why Stokes mentioned the India spinner in the pre-match presser. The England Test captain has fallen prey to Ashwin 11 times in Tests and four times in the 50-over format. David Warner's form Coming back to the Ashes, David Warner’s dismal form in Tests has been a point of concern. The Aussie opening batter did play a fine knock of 43 in the first innings of the World Test Championship (WTC) final against India. But in the second innings, the 36-year-old was dismissed for just one run. Australia captain Pat Cummins also recently shared his opinion on the opening batter. "I'm sure he's thought about it a lot over the last couple of years hoping to get another crack at it. Davey (David Warner) will have all his plans in place. I'm sure you'll see a bit more of an aggressive Davey than what you saw in 2019 and he's itching to get out there and have another chance at it," Cummins was quoted as saying by news agency IANS. In red-ball cricket, David Warner has so far represented Australia on 104 occasions. The New South Wales-born has till now scored 8,202 runs at an average of 45.31. The opener has 25 centuries and 34 half centuries under his belt in Test cricket. Australia will come into the Ashes series having won their maiden WTC title. In the last Ashes, the Aussies had decimated the English side by a convincing margin of 4-0.

Ashes 2023: Ben Stokes uses Ravichandran Ashwin's name to talk on this issue

<p>The greatest rivalry in Tests - the Ashes 2023 is set to get underway at Edgbaston in Birmingham on June 16. Since last year when Brendon McCullum and Ben Stokes took over the reins in the Test setup, England's track record changed for good. On the other hand, Australia boosted their chances of tackling the most-talked-about 'Bazball' approach in the upcoming five-match series with a massive 209-run win over India in the recently-contested WTC Final 2023.</p>

<p>The hosts have their basis covered, and two days before the start of the first day's play announced their XI, with the inclusion of coming-out-of-retirement Moeen Ali. Though they are dealing with some injury issues with Jofra Archer, Olly Stone and spinner Jack Leach all ruled out of English summer, the inclusion of Anderson, Broad and Robinson reflects their plans against the mighty Aussies.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/moeen-alis-selection-receives-backlash-as-ex-captain-plays-down-englands-latest-move-to-boost-ashes-hopes-604755">Moeen Ali's selection receives backlash as ex-captain plays down England's latest move to boost Ashes hopes</a></p>

<p>With England's top-three in good form, considering their latest outing against Ireland in the one-off Test at Lord's, their tactics of taking down the mighty Aussie attack from the word go look well on track. Joe Root, perhaps England's best batter on paper, will dictate terms in the middle order.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The young Harry Brook also looks set to unleash himself, as his credentials have already kept the Aussies on notice. Ben Stokes and Jonny Bairstow, two batters who haven't spent much time on the crease in the build-up to this Test, will possess challenge when on the song.</p>

<h2>Australia ready to create history</h2>

<p>The touring Australia team looks daunting after the recent success against India, and with how their players are faring on the latest ICC Rankings for batters in Tests, they know they can pull the rabbit out of the hat and win their first away Ashes in 22 years.&nbsp;</p>

<p>While their batting order looks sorted, the Australian selection committee will have a good headache with whom to pick from for that one slot, Josh Hazlewood or Scott Boland. With Ricky Ponting and others vouching for Hazlewood's inclusion in the XI despite him missing the WTC Final on precautionary grounds, consensus says Boland might get retained for the first Test.</p>

<p>Considering the previous result at this venue in 2022, when England chased down the mammoth 378 against India with seven wickets in hand, both sides will fancy bowling first in Edgbaston.</p>

<p><strong>Here is England's confirmed Playing XI for the first Ashes Test -</strong></p>

<p>Ben Duckett, Zak Crawley, Ollie Pope, Joe Root, Harry Brook, Ben Stokes, Jonny Bairstow, Moeen Ali, Stuart Broad, Ollie Robinson and James Anderson</p>

<p><strong>Here is Australia's Predicted XI for the first Ashes Test -</strong></p>

<p>David Warner, Usman Khawaja, Marnus Labuschagne, Steve Smith, Travis Head, Cameron Green, Alex Carey, Pat Cummins (captain), Mitchell Starc, Scott Boland and Nathan Lyon</p>

<p><strong>Match Prediction -</strong></p>

<p>England looks confident like never before, and with momentum on their side, let alone the crowd, they are likely to draw first blood against Australia.</p>

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The greatest rivalry in Tests - the Ashes 2023 is set to get underway at Edgbaston in Birmingham on June 16. Since last year when Brendon McCullum and Ben Stokes took over the reins in the Test setup, England's track record changed for good.

The greatest rivalry in Tests - the Ashes 2023 is set to get underway at Edgbaston in Birmingham on June 16. Since last year when Brendon McCullum and Ben Stokes took over the reins in the Test setup, England's track record changed for good. On the other hand, Australia boosted their chances of tackling the most-talked-about 'Bazball' approach in the upcoming five-match series with a massive 209-run win over India in the recently-contested WTC Final 2023. The hosts have their basis covered, and two days before the start of the first day's play announced their XI, with the inclusion of coming-out-of-retirement Moeen Ali. Though they are dealing with some injury issues with Jofra Archer, Olly Stone and spinner Jack Leach all ruled out of English summer, the inclusion of Anderson, Broad and Robinson reflects their plans against the mighty Aussies. ALSO READ: Moeen Ali's selection receives backlash as ex-captain plays down England's latest move to boost Ashes hopes With England's top-three in good form, considering their latest outing against Ireland in the one-off Test at Lord's, their tactics of taking down the mighty Aussie attack from the word go look well on track. Joe Root, perhaps England's best batter on paper, will dictate terms in the middle order. The young Harry Brook also looks set to unleash himself, as his credentials have already kept the Aussies on notice. Ben Stokes and Jonny Bairstow, two batters who haven't spent much time on the crease in the build-up to this Test, will possess challenge when on the song. Australia ready to create history The touring Australia team looks daunting after the recent success against India, and with how their players are faring on the latest ICC Rankings for batters in Tests, they know they can pull the rabbit out of the hat and win their first away Ashes in 22 years. While their batting order looks sorted, the Australian selection committee will have a good headache with whom to pick from for that one slot, Josh Hazlewood or Scott Boland. With Ricky Ponting and others vouching for Hazlewood's inclusion in the XI despite him missing the WTC Final on precautionary grounds, consensus says Boland might get retained for the first Test. Considering the previous result at this venue in 2022, when England chased down the mammoth 378 against India with seven wickets in hand, both sides will fancy bowling first in Edgbaston. Here is England's confirmed Playing XI for the first Ashes Test - Ben Duckett, Zak Crawley, Ollie Pope, Joe Root, Harry Brook, Ben Stokes, Jonny Bairstow, Moeen Ali, Stuart Broad, Ollie Robinson and James Anderson Here is Australia's Predicted XI for the first Ashes Test - David Warner, Usman Khawaja, Marnus Labuschagne, Steve Smith, Travis Head, Cameron Green, Alex Carey, Pat Cummins (captain), Mitchell Starc, Scott Boland and Nathan Lyon Match Prediction - England looks confident like never before, and with momentum on their side, let alone the crowd, they are likely to draw first blood against Australia. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Ashes 2023, 1st Test, England vs Australia - Preview and Result Prediction

<p>Not everyone seems to be happy with Moeen Ali's inclusion in the Test side for the Ashes 2023. Though Ben Stokes and Brendon McCullum sound confident of the 35-year-old adapting to Bazball's style of play, several former stars look upset with England's latest approach to boost their chances against Australia. One of them is ex-captain&nbsp;Michael Atherton.</p>

<p>Speaking with Sky Sports ahead of the first Test in Edgbaston on June 16, Atherton criticised England's newest tactics saying instead of going for Moeen, the hosts should have picked someone new in Jack Leach's absence, who got ruled out of the Ashes at the last minute.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Having last played a Test match and a First-Class game in 2021, Moeen made a shocking return to the Test side for the upcoming Ashes following the 'one-text message from Stokes' saga.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/wi-vs-ind-mohammed-shami-to-be-rested-yashasvi-jaiswal-likely-to-replace-pujara-in-test-squad-reports-604669">WI vs IND: Mohammed Shami to be rested, Yashasvi Jaiswal likely to replace Pujara in Test squad - Reports</a></p>

<p>“I wouldn’t have picked Moeen Ali, but I am not Ben Stokes. I am not Bazball. It’s a selection that is amazing if you think about it because Moeen Ali has retired from Test cricket, and hasn’t played Test cricket since September 2021,” Atherton said on Sky Sports.</p>

<p>“You’ve got a batter, who fits the mould of the current side, and somebody who is obviously taken a lot of wickets in Test cricket for England, but even when he was a Test match cricketer before his retirement has a modest record against Australia,” he added.</p>

<h2>'I'd have picked a different spinner'</h2>

<p>In Leach's absence, Rehan Ahmed and Liam Dawson were tipped to get picked, but England did the unthinkable and went for already-retired Moeen Ali. Other than them, the right-arm offie Will Jacks also was in line for a Test call-up, but that didn't happen either.</p>

<p>“Had it been me, I would’ve picked a different spinner. I would pick Liam Dawson or Will Jacks or somebody playing first-class cricket currently, which is not to say Moeen Ali won’t do well. We wish him all the best, of course,” Atherton added.</p>

<p>Meanwhile, England named the XI for the first Test against Australia -</p>

<h4>Ben Duckett, Zak Crawley, Ollie Pope, Joe Root, Harry Brook, Ben Stokes, Jonny Bairstow, Moeen Ali, Stuart Broad, Ollie Robinson and James Anderson</h4>

<p><strong>Here is the Ashes schedule -</strong>&nbsp;</p>

<ul>
	<li>First Test (Edgbaston) - June 16 - June 20</li>
	<li>Second Test (Lord's) - June 28 - July 2</li>
	<li>Third Test (Clean Slate Headingley) - July 6 - July 10</li>
	<li>Fourth Test (Emirates Old Trafford) - July 19 - July 23</li>
	<li>Fifth Test (The Kia Oval) - July 27 - July 31</li>
</ul>

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Not everyone seems to be happy with Moeen Ali's inclusion in the Test side for the Ashes 2023. Though Ben Stokes and Brendon McCullum sound confident of the 35-year-old adapting to Bazball's style of play, several former stars look upset with England's latest approach to boost their chances against Australia.

Not everyone seems to be happy with Moeen Ali's inclusion in the Test side for the Ashes 2023. Though Ben Stokes and Brendon McCullum sound confident of the 35-year-old adapting to Bazball's style of play, several former stars look upset with England's latest approach to boost their chances against Australia. One of them is ex-captain Michael Atherton. Speaking with Sky Sports ahead of the first Test in Edgbaston on June 16, Atherton criticised England's newest tactics saying instead of going for Moeen, the hosts should have picked someone new in Jack Leach's absence, who got ruled out of the Ashes at the last minute. Having last played a Test match and a First-Class game in 2021, Moeen made a shocking return to the Test side for the upcoming Ashes following the 'one-text message from Stokes' saga. ALSO READ: WI vs IND: Mohammed Shami to be rested, Yashasvi Jaiswal likely to replace Pujara in Test squad - Reports “I wouldn’t have picked Moeen Ali, but I am not Ben Stokes. I am not Bazball. It’s a selection that is amazing if you think about it because Moeen Ali has retired from Test cricket, and hasn’t played Test cricket since September 2021,” Atherton said on Sky Sports. “You’ve got a batter, who fits the mould of the current side, and somebody who is obviously taken a lot of wickets in Test cricket for England, but even when he was a Test match cricketer before his retirement has a modest record against Australia,” he added. 'I'd have picked a different spinner' In Leach's absence, Rehan Ahmed and Liam Dawson were tipped to get picked, but England did the unthinkable and went for already-retired Moeen Ali. Other than them, the right-arm offie Will Jacks also was in line for a Test call-up, but that didn't happen either. “Had it been me, I would’ve picked a different spinner. I would pick Liam Dawson or Will Jacks or somebody playing first-class cricket currently, which is not to say Moeen Ali won’t do well. We wish him all the best, of course,” Atherton added. Meanwhile, England named the XI for the first Test against Australia - Ben Duckett, Zak Crawley, Ollie Pope, Joe Root, Harry Brook, Ben Stokes, Jonny Bairstow, Moeen Ali, Stuart Broad, Ollie Robinson and James Anderson Here is the Ashes schedule - First Test (Edgbaston) - June 16 - June 20 Second Test (Lord's) - June 28 - July 2 Third Test (Clean Slate Headingley) - July 6 - July 10 Fourth Test (Emirates Old Trafford) - July 19 - July 23 Fifth Test (The Kia Oval) - July 27 - July 31 WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Moeen Ali's selection receives backlash as ex-captain plays down England's latest move to boost Ashes hopes

<p>England's Harry Brook cannot wait to make another Test series his own. The Ashes 2023 being just one sleep away, Brook seems ready to take down the most-talked-about Aussie&nbsp;attack at Edgbaston in Birmingham. Unfazed by the Aussie pace battery that recently dominated the WTC final, resulting in a win over India by 209 runs, Brook feels with them bowling quickly, they might see the ball running towards the boundary line quicker.</p>

<p>"Obviously they might have a little bit of extra pace, but if they bowl quicker, it tends to go to the boundary quicker," Brook said while addressing the media ahead of the first Test in Edgbaston on June 16th.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-wtc-final-discard-ravi-ashwin-reviews-a-review-call-in-a-bizarre-incident-in-tnpl-2023-604606">WATCH - WTC Final discard Ravi Ashwin reviews a 'review call' in bizarre incident in TNPL 2023</a></p>

<p>Heading into his maiden Ashes riding on an unbelievable record, Brook remains a crucial part of England's batting unit. In 10 Tests played, Brook is averaging over 81.80 and striking at 99.03 with 818 runs and four centuries to his name. England's number five tasted tremendous success against Pakistan in Pakistan and New Zealand in their backyard.</p>

<p>In September last year, after batting mainstay Jonny Bairstow got ruled out with a broken leg, Brook made his Test debut against South Africa and made most of his chance. Grabbing his opportunity with both hands at number five, Brook revealed he's happy not to take up anyone's place at the top instead, as his domestic record while playing in that position suggests the same. In 10 innings for Yorkshire from 2018 and 2019, Brook averaged a mere 14.94 batting at the top.</p>

<p>"There was a lot of talk of me opening the batting - thank God I'm not doing that," laughed Brook. "I was never asked. It gives me a lot of confidence knowing that I'm going to be batting five, and they back me batting there," he added.</p>

<h2>'It's a dream come true for me'</h2>

<p>For anyone representing England and Australia in cricket, playing in the Ashes is a dream, and Harry Brook is no different. Ahead of the Edgbaston Test, the right-handed batter said he is elated to get this chance and would like to test his game against the best Australian players.</p>

<p>"It's a dream come true to be involved in my first Ashes," said Brook. "Growing up, I was watching some of these players who are still playing, against the best in the world and the best Australians. I'm looking forward to it.</p>

<p>"I feel like I'm more part of the team now. Obviously, as a deputy, you don't quite feel like you're meant to be there if you know what I mean. So to have been contributing and gain a few match-winning performances this winter has meant the world, and I feel a big part of the team now," Brook added.</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

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England's Harry Brook cannot wait to make another Test series his own. The Ashes 2023 being just one sleep away, Brook seems ready to take down the most-talked-about Aussie attack at Edgbaston in Birmingham.

England's Harry Brook cannot wait to make another Test series his own. The Ashes 2023 being just one sleep away, Brook seems ready to take down the most-talked-about Aussie attack at Edgbaston in Birmingham. Unfazed by the Aussie pace battery that recently dominated the WTC final, resulting in a win over India by 209 runs, Brook feels with them bowling quickly, they might see the ball running towards the boundary line quicker. "Obviously they might have a little bit of extra pace, but if they bowl quicker, it tends to go to the boundary quicker," Brook said while addressing the media ahead of the first Test in Edgbaston on June 16th. ALSO READ: WATCH - WTC Final discard Ravi Ashwin reviews a 'review call' in bizarre incident in TNPL 2023 Heading into his maiden Ashes riding on an unbelievable record, Brook remains a crucial part of England's batting unit. In 10 Tests played, Brook is averaging over 81.80 and striking at 99.03 with 818 runs and four centuries to his name. England's number five tasted tremendous success against Pakistan in Pakistan and New Zealand in their backyard. In September last year, after batting mainstay Jonny Bairstow got ruled out with a broken leg, Brook made his Test debut against South Africa and made most of his chance. Grabbing his opportunity with both hands at number five, Brook revealed he's happy not to take up anyone's place at the top instead, as his domestic record while playing in that position suggests the same. In 10 innings for Yorkshire from 2018 and 2019, Brook averaged a mere 14.94 batting at the top. "There was a lot of talk of me opening the batting - thank God I'm not doing that," laughed Brook. "I was never asked. It gives me a lot of confidence knowing that I'm going to be batting five, and they back me batting there," he added. 'It's a dream come true for me' For anyone representing England and Australia in cricket, playing in the Ashes is a dream, and Harry Brook is no different. Ahead of the Edgbaston Test, the right-handed batter said he is elated to get this chance and would like to test his game against the best Australian players. "It's a dream come true to be involved in my first Ashes," said Brook. "Growing up, I was watching some of these players who are still playing, against the best in the world and the best Australians. I'm looking forward to it. "I feel like I'm more part of the team now. Obviously, as a deputy, you don't quite feel like you're meant to be there if you know what I mean. So to have been contributing and gain a few match-winning performances this winter has meant the world, and I feel a big part of the team now," Brook added. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Ashes 2023 - 'The quicker they bowl...': Harry Brook warns Australia's pace battery

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<p>England suffered a massive setback as ace spinner Jack Leach got ruled out of the upcoming Ashes due to a stress fracture in his lower back. Following a ten-wicket win over Ireland in a one-off Test on Saturday, Leach developed ‘low back symptoms’ and is now ruled out of the entire five-match series, starting with the first Test on June 16th in Edgbaston.</p>

<p>The left-arm orthodox, Leach was part of the 16-man squad announced for the first two Tests. England will announce his replacement in due course.</p>

<p>Against Ireland, Leach picked up four wickets and was instrumental in helping England start extended summer on a winning note.&nbsp;</p>

<h2>Leach, Leeds and history</h2>

<p>Having made his Test debut five years back in 2018, Leach gained popularity for his unforgettable partnership with current skipper Ben Stokes during the 2019 Leed’s Test against Australia.</p>

<p>The famous Test saw Leach stitching a 76-run stand for the final wicket in the fourth innings, off which he only scored one run – that too, regarded as the most-important one run in England’s Test history, given what was at stake. Facing the daunting bowling attack of Mitchell Starc, Pat Cummins, Josh Hazlewood and Nathan Lyon – three out of whom are likely to feature in the first Test this time, Leach and Stokes weathered the storm and helped England win the match with one wicket in hand.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ashes-is-the-biggest-stage-we-have-to-entertain-eng-coach-brendon-mccullum-on-sticking-with-bazball-600461">'Ashes is the biggest stage, we have to entertain...' - ENG coach Brendon McCullum on sticking with Bazball</a></p>

<p>Needing two to win, Leach took a single and brought Stokes on the crease – who was batting on 131*. The two-time World Cup winner with England at the crease, Stokes kept his cool and scored a boundary to seal the win for England.&nbsp;</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Happy Birthday, skip! 🎉<br />
<br />
Headingley 2019? Oh go on then 😍<a href="https://twitter.com/benstokes38?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@benstokes38</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/EnglandCricket?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#EnglandCricket</a> <a href="https://t.co/Z7SvkW5MG1">pic.twitter.com/Z7SvkW5MG1</a></p>
— England Cricket (@englandcricket) <a href="https://twitter.com/englandcricket/status/1665312500890337282?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 4, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>Though he made headlines for sticking around in that partnership with Stokes, the 31-year-old fared well with the ball, picking 12 wickets from four Tests.</p>

<h3>Blow to England</h3>

<p>Injury at this hour means ECB will name his replacement quickly, and it should be someone they can bank upon for the major chunk of the series. With England already without seamers – Jofra Archer and Olly Stone, absence of Leach could hamper their chances of putting Australia on the mat in the home Ashes.</p>

<h3>Here’s England’s 16-man squad for the first two Tests –</h3>

<p>Ben Stokes (captain), James Anderson, Jonathan Bairstow, Stuart Broad, Harry Brook, Zak Crawley, Ben Duckett, Dan Lawrence, Jack Leach, Ollie Pope, Matthew Potts, Ollie Robinson, Joe Root, Josh Tongue, Chris Woakes, Mark Wood</p>

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England suffered a massive setback as ace spinner Jack Leach got ruled out of the upcoming Ashes due to a stress fracture in his lower back. Following a ten-wicket win over Ireland in a one-off Test on Saturday, Leach developed ‘low back symptoms’ and is now ruled out of the entire five-match series, starting with the first Test on June 16th in Edgbaston.

England suffered a massive setback as ace spinner Jack Leach got ruled out of the upcoming Ashes due to a stress fracture in his lower back. Following a ten-wicket win over Ireland in a one-off Test on Saturday, Leach developed ‘low back symptoms’ and is now ruled out of the entire five-match series, starting with the first Test on June 16th in Edgbaston. The left-arm orthodox, Leach was part of the 16-man squad announced for the first two Tests. England will announce his replacement in due course. Against Ireland, Leach picked up four wickets and was instrumental in helping England start extended summer on a winning note. Leach, Leeds and history Having made his Test debut five years back in 2018, Leach gained popularity for his unforgettable partnership with current skipper Ben Stokes during the 2019 Leed’s Test against Australia. The famous Test saw Leach stitching a 76-run stand for the final wicket in the fourth innings, off which he only scored one run – that too, regarded as the most-important one run in England’s Test history, given what was at stake. Facing the daunting bowling attack of Mitchell Starc, Pat Cummins, Josh Hazlewood and Nathan Lyon – three out of whom are likely to feature in the first Test this time, Leach and Stokes weathered the storm and helped England win the match with one wicket in hand. ALSO READ: 'Ashes is the biggest stage, we have to entertain...' - ENG coach Brendon McCullum on sticking with Bazball Needing two to win, Leach took a single and brought Stokes on the crease – who was batting on 131*. The two-time World Cup winner with England at the crease, Stokes kept his cool and scored a boundary to seal the win for England. Happy Birthday, skip! 🎉 Headingley 2019? Oh go on then 😍@benstokes38 | #EnglandCricket pic.twitter.com/Z7SvkW5MG1 — England Cricket (@englandcricket) June 4, 2023 × Though he made headlines for sticking around in that partnership with Stokes, the 31-year-old fared well with the ball, picking 12 wickets from four Tests. Blow to England Injury at this hour means ECB will name his replacement quickly, and it should be someone they can bank upon for the major chunk of the series. With England already without seamers – Jofra Archer and Olly Stone, absence of Leach could hamper their chances of putting Australia on the mat in the home Ashes. Here’s England’s 16-man squad for the first two Tests – Ben Stokes (captain), James Anderson, Jonathan Bairstow, Stuart Broad, Harry Brook, Zak Crawley, Ben Duckett, Dan Lawrence, Jack Leach, Ollie Pope, Matthew Potts, Ollie Robinson, Joe Root, Josh Tongue, Chris Woakes, Mark Wood WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Ashes 2023: Big setback for England as Jack Leach ruled out due to stress fracture in lower back

<p>England Test captain Ben Stokes attained a bizarre record of becoming the first skipper in 145-year Test history to win a match without batting, bowling or keeping wickets. England beat Ireland by ten wickets on day three of the only Test between both teams at the Lord’s after Zak Crawley smashed the first three balls of England’s second innings to complete 12 runs and take the game home.</p>

<p>This win came on the back of some fantastic performance from England opener Ben Duckett and number-three batter Ollie Pope – who piled up huge runs in the first innings. The seamers, mainly Stuart Broad and newcomer Josh Tongue will get credit for the win as both completed five-fors in the first and second innings, respectively.</p>

<p>Electing to bowl after winning the toss, England wrapped up Ireland’s first innings on a mere 172 inside the first day. Starting from where they left England openers Crawley and Duckett made a mockery of Ireland’s attack, as they completed 150-plus runs for the loss of one wicket at stumps on day one.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ashes-2023-england-name-16-man-squad-for-first-two-tests-james-anderson-included-600149">Ashes 2023: England name 16-man squad for first two Tests, pick James Anderson</a></p>

<p>Day two belonged to the pair of Duckett and Pope, who stitched a 250-plus run-stand for the second wicket. Duckett’s fall of wicket on 182 broke a few hearts in the English dressing room. Former captain Joe Root joined Pope in the middle – who completed his maiden double hundred. Root, on the other hand, got out on 56 but, in the meantime, became the second Englishman to go past 11,000 Test runs in the meantime.</p>

<p>After declaring on a mammoth 524-4, England again put the visitors on the back foot after removing three wickets before the day ended.</p>

<p>Though it looked like England would make light work of Ireland batters on day three, Andy McBrine and Mark Adair had different plans. After Ireland got reduced to 162 for six, the pair stitched a phenomenal 163-run-stand for the seventh wicket to further delay England’s win.</p>

<p>Young seamer Josh Tongue picked his maiden five-wicket haul in the second innings, as England, after a lot of hard work, dismissed Ireland on 362 for nine, with opener James McCollom out retired hurt on 12.</p>

<p>Needing just 11 to win, Crawley smashed the first three balls past the boundary to complete the formalities and help England win the one-off Test against Ireland by ten wickets.</p>

<p>England will now host Australia for the home Ashes, starting June 16th in Edgbaston – the squad of which (for the first two Tests) announced on Saturday.</p>

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England Test captain Ben Stokes attained a bizarre record of becoming the first skipper in 145-year Test history to win a match without batting, bowling or keeping wickets.

England Test captain Ben Stokes attained a bizarre record of becoming the first skipper in 145-year Test history to win a match without batting, bowling or keeping wickets. England beat Ireland by ten wickets on day three of the only Test between both teams at the Lord’s after Zak Crawley smashed the first three balls of England’s second innings to complete 12 runs and take the game home. This win came on the back of some fantastic performance from England opener Ben Duckett and number-three batter Ollie Pope – who piled up huge runs in the first innings. The seamers, mainly Stuart Broad and newcomer Josh Tongue will get credit for the win as both completed five-fors in the first and second innings, respectively. Electing to bowl after winning the toss, England wrapped up Ireland’s first innings on a mere 172 inside the first day. Starting from where they left England openers Crawley and Duckett made a mockery of Ireland’s attack, as they completed 150-plus runs for the loss of one wicket at stumps on day one. ALSO READ: Ashes 2023: England name 16-man squad for first two Tests, pick James Anderson Day two belonged to the pair of Duckett and Pope, who stitched a 250-plus run-stand for the second wicket. Duckett’s fall of wicket on 182 broke a few hearts in the English dressing room. Former captain Joe Root joined Pope in the middle – who completed his maiden double hundred. Root, on the other hand, got out on 56 but, in the meantime, became the second Englishman to go past 11,000 Test runs in the meantime. After declaring on a mammoth 524-4, England again put the visitors on the back foot after removing three wickets before the day ended. Though it looked like England would make light work of Ireland batters on day three, Andy McBrine and Mark Adair had different plans. After Ireland got reduced to 162 for six, the pair stitched a phenomenal 163-run-stand for the seventh wicket to further delay England’s win. Young seamer Josh Tongue picked his maiden five-wicket haul in the second innings, as England, after a lot of hard work, dismissed Ireland on 362 for nine, with opener James McCollom out retired hurt on 12. Needing just 11 to win, Crawley smashed the first three balls past the boundary to complete the formalities and help England win the one-off Test against Ireland by ten wickets. England will now host Australia for the home Ashes, starting June 16th in Edgbaston – the squad of which (for the first two Tests) announced on Saturday. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Captain Ben Stokes creates bizarre record as England begin summer with thumping win over Ireland

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<p>England announced a 16-man squad for the first two Ashes Tests, starting June 16th in Edgbaston. The hosts have recalled veteran seamer James Anderson, while all-rounder Chris Woakes has also been included. Pacer Josh Tongue, who made his international debut in the ongoing Test against Ireland, is picked alongside Ollie Robinson. Premier pacer Mark Wood also returns to the 16-man squad.</p>

<p>With Anderson and Robinson recovering from respective injuries, their inclusion in the squad comes as a boost for the hosts. Chris Woakes, who missed the Ireland Test to spend some family time with his family following the birth of his second-born child, will be a crucial addition to Stokes’ star-studded bowling setup. Stuart Broad and left-arm spinner Jack Leach are also part of the squad.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virender-sehwag-recalls-the-time-when-he-locked-himself-in-room-for-two-days-600129">Virender Sehwag recalls the time when he locked himself in room for two days</a></p>

<p>Other than the regulars in the batting line-up, including former captain Joe Root and batters Harry Brook and Ollie Pope, Jonny Bairstow, who made his return to the Test side after eight months, will keep wickets, just like he is doing against Ireland.</p>

<p>The right-handed batter Dan Lawrence is also named in the squad, while Ben Duckett and Zak Crawly will play as openers.</p>

<h3>Here is England’s 16-man squad for the first two Ashes Tests -</h3>

<p>Ben Stokes (captain), James Anderson, Jonathan Bairstow, Stuart Broad, Harry Brook, Zak Crawley, Ben Duckett, Dan Lawrence, Jack Leach, Ollie Pope, Matthew Potts, Ollie Robinson, Joe Root, Josh Tongue, Chris Woakes, Mark Wood</p>

<h2>Players in supreme touch</h2>

<p>In the ongoing Test against Ireland, opener Ben Duckett – playing his first Test on English soil, scored 182 off 178 balls in the first innings, while Ollie Pope batting at number three, notched his maiden Test double hundred.</p>

<p>In the first innings, experienced campaigner Stuart Broad picked a five-for, while debutant seamer Josh Tongue was on song in the second innings.</p>

<p>As England approach the first win of the summer, heading into the Ashes with a confident victory would do a world of good to their confidence.</p>

<p>Not to forget, under Brendon McCullum and Ben Stokes, England have achieved unbelievable success by playing the brand of cricket the world now calls ‘Bazball.’&nbsp;</p>

<p>Barring this Test against Ireland, England, in its previous 12 Tests, won ten – including clean-sweeping Pakistan in Pakistan for the first time in December last year.</p>

<h3><strong>Here is the Ashes schedule -</strong></h3>

<ul>
	<li>First Test (Edgbaston) - June 16 - June 20</li>
	<li>Second Test (Lord's) - June 28 - July 2</li>
	<li>Third Test (Clean Slate Headingley) - July 6 - July 10</li>
	<li>Fourth Test (Emirates Old Trafford) - July 19 - July 23</li>
	<li>Fifth Test (The Kia Oval) - July 27 - July 31</li>
</ul>

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England announced a 16-man squad for the first two Ashes Tests, starting June 16th in Edgbaston. The hosts have recalled veteran seamer James Anderson, while all-rounder Chris Woakes has also been included.

England announced a 16-man squad for the first two Ashes Tests, starting June 16th in Edgbaston. The hosts have recalled veteran seamer James Anderson, while all-rounder Chris Woakes has also been included. Pacer Josh Tongue, who made his international debut in the ongoing Test against Ireland, is picked alongside Ollie Robinson. Premier pacer Mark Wood also returns to the 16-man squad. With Anderson and Robinson recovering from respective injuries, their inclusion in the squad comes as a boost for the hosts. Chris Woakes, who missed the Ireland Test to spend some family time with his family following the birth of his second-born child, will be a crucial addition to Stokes’ star-studded bowling setup. Stuart Broad and left-arm spinner Jack Leach are also part of the squad. ALSO READ: Virender Sehwag recalls the time when he locked himself in room for two days Other than the regulars in the batting line-up, including former captain Joe Root and batters Harry Brook and Ollie Pope, Jonny Bairstow, who made his return to the Test side after eight months, will keep wickets, just like he is doing against Ireland. The right-handed batter Dan Lawrence is also named in the squad, while Ben Duckett and Zak Crawly will play as openers. Here is England’s 16-man squad for the first two Ashes Tests - Ben Stokes (captain), James Anderson, Jonathan Bairstow, Stuart Broad, Harry Brook, Zak Crawley, Ben Duckett, Dan Lawrence, Jack Leach, Ollie Pope, Matthew Potts, Ollie Robinson, Joe Root, Josh Tongue, Chris Woakes, Mark Wood Players in supreme touch In the ongoing Test against Ireland, opener Ben Duckett – playing his first Test on English soil, scored 182 off 178 balls in the first innings, while Ollie Pope batting at number three, notched his maiden Test double hundred. In the first innings, experienced campaigner Stuart Broad picked a five-for, while debutant seamer Josh Tongue was on song in the second innings. As England approach the first win of the summer, heading into the Ashes with a confident victory would do a world of good to their confidence. Not to forget, under Brendon McCullum and Ben Stokes, England have achieved unbelievable success by playing the brand of cricket the world now calls ‘Bazball.’ Barring this Test against Ireland, England, in its previous 12 Tests, won ten – including clean-sweeping Pakistan in Pakistan for the first time in December last year. Here is the Ashes schedule - First Test (Edgbaston) - June 16 - June 20 Second Test (Lord's) - June 28 - July 2 Third Test (Clean Slate Headingley) - July 6 - July 10 Fourth Test (Emirates Old Trafford) - July 19 - July 23 Fifth Test (The Kia Oval) - July 27 - July 31 WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Ashes 2023: England name 16-man squad for first two Tests, pick James Anderson