England batsman Alex Hales, who was named in their <a href="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/england-name-preliminary-world-cup-squad-jofra-archer-left-out-211187/amp&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=0ahUKEwi3refK9t3hAhV06nMBHRnuCb44ChAWCA4wAw&amp;client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;usg=AOvVaw2olK8zm8FiFHoXSfpSUw_x">provisional squad for the Cricket World Cup</a>, has taken an indefinite break from the game due to personal reasons, his club Nottinghamshire have said.

"Alex Hales has made himself unavailable for selection for personal reasons and no timetable has been set for his return to action," Nottinghamshire said in a statement on their website.

Hales missed Nottinghamshire's 50-over match against Lancashire on Friday.

It is unclear whether the 30-year-old opening batsman, who has played 70 ODIs, will be available for England's one-dayer against Ireland on May 3 or a five-match ODI series and Twenty20 international against Pakistan.

Those matches will be England's final internationals before they begin their campaign to win their maiden 50-over World Cup during the May 30-July 14 tournament on home soil.

England batsman Alex Hales, who was named in their provisional squad for the Cricket World Cup, has taken an indefinite break from the game due to personal reasons, his club Nottinghamshire have said.

England batsman Alex Hales, who was named in their provisional squad for the Cricket World Cup, has taken an indefinite break from the game due to personal reasons, his club Nottinghamshire have said. "Alex Hales has made himself unavailable for selection for personal reasons and no timetable has been set for his return to action," Nottinghamshire said in a statement on their website. Hales missed Nottinghamshire's 50-over match against Lancashire on Friday. It is unclear whether the 30-year-old opening batsman, who has played 70 ODIs, will be available for England's one-dayer against Ireland on May 3 or a five-match ODI series and Twenty20 international against Pakistan. Those matches will be England's final internationals before they begin their campaign to win their maiden 50-over World Cup during the May 30-July 14 tournament on home soil.

England batsman Alex Hales takes break for 'personal reasons'

Mark&nbsp;Ramprakash&nbsp;will leave his role as England's batting coach amid reports Graham Thorpe is ready to take the job in time for this year's Ashes.

Ramprakash&nbsp;had worked with England since 2014 and was focusing on the Test team while Thorpe worked regularly in the one-day set-up.

Former Middlesex and Surrey batsman&nbsp;Ramprakash&nbsp;was contracted until the end of the forthcoming season.

But has been ousted following the arrival of new director of men's cricket Ashley Giles.

Ramprakash, whose last England assignment was the 2-1 Test series defeat against the West Indies, tweeted the news on Friday.

"I've just been informed that I will not be involved in the Ashes series," the 49-year-old wrote.

"It's been a huge privilege to support the team over the last 5 years. I'd like to wish all the staff &amp; players the very best of luck for the future."

Ramprakash&nbsp;is the second senior member of the backroom team to leave ahead of head coach Trevor Bayliss' departure at the end of his contract in September.

Bayliss's assistant Paul Farbrace, begins work as Warwickshire's sporting director next week.

An ECB spokesman said: "We will finalise the coaching set-up for the Ashes in the next couple of weeks.&nbsp;Mark&nbsp;Ramprakash&nbsp;will not be part of the coaching set-up for the Ashes."

Mark Ramprakash will leave his role as England's batting coach amid reports Graham Thorpe is ready to take the job in time for this year's Ashes. Ramprakash had worked with England since 2014 and was focusing on the Test team while Thorpe worked regularly in the one-day set-up.

Mark Ramprakash will leave his role as England's batting coach amid reports Graham Thorpe is ready to take the job in time for this year's Ashes. Ramprakash had worked with England since 2014 and was focusing on the Test team while Thorpe worked regularly in the one-day set-up. Former Middlesex and Surrey batsman Ramprakash was contracted until the end of the forthcoming season. But has been ousted following the arrival of new director of men's cricket Ashley Giles. Ramprakash, whose last England assignment was the 2-1 Test series defeat against the West Indies, tweeted the news on Friday. "I've just been informed that I will not be involved in the Ashes series," the 49-year-old wrote. "It's been a huge privilege to support the team over the last 5 years. I'd like to wish all the staff & players the very best of luck for the future." Ramprakash is the second senior member of the backroom team to leave ahead of head coach Trevor Bayliss' departure at the end of his contract in September. Bayliss's assistant Paul Farbrace, begins work as Warwickshire's sporting director next week. An ECB spokesman said: "We will finalise the coaching set-up for the Ashes in the next couple of weeks. Mark Ramprakash will not be part of the coaching set-up for the Ashes."

Mark Ramprakash axed as England batting coach

West Indies produced a dramatic comeback to beat England by 26 runs in Barbados on Friday and level their five-match one-day series at 1-1.

The hosts, who ended a 10-match losing streak in one-day internationals against England, made 289 for six with left-hander Shimron Hetmyer hitting a magnificent unbeaten 104 from 83 balls, including four sixes.

Chris Gayle, who scored a century in the opening match of the series won by England, had laid the foundation with a solid 50 from 63 balls.

But it was Hetmyer, the 22-year-old Guyanese, who got the crowd on their feet with his flamboyant innings including some powerful improvised strokes as well as sensible accumulation.

The century was Hetmyer's fourth in the format at international level and suggests he could be a player to watch in the World Cup later this year.

But having chased down 361 at the Kensington Oval on Wednesday, England would have been confident of extending their lead in the series.

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The tourists were given a strong platform as captain Eoin Morgan made 70 and they needed 62 to win from 61 balls with six wickets remaining before West Indies skipper Jason Holder removed Ben Stokes (79), Jos Buttler (34) and Tom Curran -- the latter with a questionable lbw decision after England had used their reviews.

Left-arm seamer Sheldon Cottrell returned to the attack and won the game for the Caribbean side with the wickets of Moeen Ali and Adil Rashid -- celebrating with his trademark military salute.

Cottrell, a Jamaican Defence Force soldier brought into the side as an extra bowler, ended with his career-best ODI figures of 5-46.

Carlos Brathwaite got the final wicket when Liam Plunkett holed out to Holder at long-off and England were dismissed for 263 to the delight of the Kensington Oval crowd.

Holder was quick to praise his key men.

"I am really pleased, credit to Hetty (Hetmeyr), he set it up on a sticky wicket, and credit for the way we defended it, led by Sheldon Cottrell," he said.

"When I came back I knew we needed a wicket, I got two in the over and had England under pressure. You need options in this day and age, Cottrell added variation, I love his energy, he's one for the future," added the West Indies captain.

Morgan felt his team should have done better

"A game is never won until right at the end. We thought 290 was well without our capabilities. We made mistakes and it hurt us, and West Indies deserved to win," he said.

"Collectively, we need to chase a total like that in partnerships, but we failed to nail it down."

West Indies produced a dramatic comeback to beat England by 26 runs in Barbados on Friday and level their five-match one-day series at 1-1. The hosts, who ended a 10-match losing streak in one-day internationals against England, made 289 for six with left-hander Shimron Hetmyer hitting a magnificent unbeaten 104 from 83 balls, including four sixes.

West Indies produced a dramatic comeback to beat England by 26 runs in Barbados on Friday and level their five-match one-day series at 1-1. The hosts, who ended a 10-match losing streak in one-day internationals against England, made 289 for six with left-hander Shimron Hetmyer hitting a magnificent unbeaten 104 from 83 balls, including four sixes. Chris Gayle, who scored a century in the opening match of the series won by England, had laid the foundation with a solid 50 from 63 balls. But it was Hetmyer, the 22-year-old Guyanese, who got the crowd on their feet with his flamboyant innings including some powerful improvised strokes as well as sensible accumulation. The century was Hetmyer's fourth in the format at international level and suggests he could be a player to watch in the World Cup later this year. But having chased down 361 at the Kensington Oval on Wednesday, England would have been confident of extending their lead in the series. 'We are on a rise as a team and are trying to take one step at a time' – Shimron Hetmyer is pleased with the direction the Windies are moving in.#WIvENG REACTION 👇https://t.co/8Uo2TjVnv8 pic.twitter.com/uTxfDqGOaS — ICC (@ICC) February 23, 2019 × The tourists were given a strong platform as captain Eoin Morgan made 70 and they needed 62 to win from 61 balls with six wickets remaining before West Indies skipper Jason Holder removed Ben Stokes (79), Jos Buttler (34) and Tom Curran -- the latter with a questionable lbw decision after England had used their reviews. Left-arm seamer Sheldon Cottrell returned to the attack and won the game for the Caribbean side with the wickets of Moeen Ali and Adil Rashid -- celebrating with his trademark military salute. Cottrell, a Jamaican Defence Force soldier brought into the side as an extra bowler, ended with his career-best ODI figures of 5-46. Carlos Brathwaite got the final wicket when Liam Plunkett holed out to Holder at long-off and England were dismissed for 263 to the delight of the Kensington Oval crowd. Holder was quick to praise his key men. "I am really pleased, credit to Hetty (Hetmeyr), he set it up on a sticky wicket, and credit for the way we defended it, led by Sheldon Cottrell," he said. "When I came back I knew we needed a wicket, I got two in the over and had England under pressure. You need options in this day and age, Cottrell added variation, I love his energy, he's one for the future," added the West Indies captain. Morgan felt his team should have done better "A game is never won until right at the end. We thought 290 was well without our capabilities. We made mistakes and it hurt us, and West Indies deserved to win," he said. "Collectively, we need to chase a total like that in partnerships, but we failed to nail it down."

Impressive Windies fight back to level series with England

Alastair Cook believes England can end decades of World Cup disappointment with a triumph on home soil this year.

England have never won the men's World Cup, but with 100 days to go until the start of the latest edition, a team captained by Eoin Morgan are top of the 50-over world rankings.

Former England skipper Cook, who retired from international cricket last year as the country's highest Test run-scorer and most-capped player, said there were several reasons why Morgan's men could go one better than the England teams that lost in the 1979, 1987 and 1992 finals.

"They’re a very settled side, they’ve got 15 players pretty much nailed on for that squad," Cook told AFP at a World Cup event in London's Trafalgar Square on Tuesday.&nbsp;

"Everyone knows their role, they're very comfortable in their role, they've got a lot of strength in depth, they seem to have a lot of options covered and they're an exciting team to watch.&nbsp;

"They are a brilliant one-day side.”

Cook never played in a World Cup, with the left-handed opening batsman dramatically dropped from the squad that then failed to beat a fellow Test nation while suffering a group-stage exit at the 2015 edition in Australia and New Zealand.

But Cook said a change of attitude lay behind England's rise up the one-day rankings since that dismal display.

"Probably over the years we've really concentrated on Test cricket as a nation. Over the last three or four years we've really given the one-day cricket its due," he said.

'Sky's the limit'

It was a point emphasised by former England spinner Graeme Swann, who said: "I just think England are picking the right team these days.&nbsp;

"They're picking one-day specialists and the sky's the limit.&nbsp;

"When they bat, people like Jason Roy, Jonny Bairstow, they think that (scoring) 400 is feasible rather than an impossible dream. I think England have finally picked a very aggressive team as well, with Eoin Morgan, who's a brilliant captain.

"They've got a team that is putting them in firm contention to win this World Cup," insisted Swann, who added "I never thought we (England) would win it deep down when I was there."

Swann was a member of the only England men's side to have won a major global trophy -- the 2010 World Twenty20 in the Caribbean -- and sees parallels between that team and Morgan's men. &nbsp;

"The only world trophy I thought we had a genuine chance of winning was the World Twenty20 in the West Indies that we did, &nbsp;because we were ahead of the curve there.

"We picked a team of specialists, people like Craig Kieswetter, Michael Lumb -- and I think that's what England have finally started doing in the one-day game as well."

'Never write off India'

But Swann warned that England would face several tough opponents in their quest for World Cup glory.

"You can never write off India, they are an exceptional one-day team, Virat Kohli is a brilliant captain, brilliant player."

As for champions Australia, England's oldest rivals and five-times World Cup-winners, Swann said: "The Aussies are like Germany in the football -- you can never write them off at a World Cup."

Swann though said he was particularly looking forward to watching Pakistan, who won the 2017 Champions Trophy one-day tournament in Britain.

"They are so mercurial, you never know what you are going to get. When they are on fire, they are absolutely explosive and when they're not, they're awful."

Alastair Cook believes England can end decades of World Cup disappointment with a triumph on home soil this year. England have never won the men's World Cup, but with 100 days to go until the start of the latest edition, a team captained by Eoin Morgan are top of the 50-over world rankings.

Alastair Cook believes England can end decades of World Cup disappointment with a triumph on home soil this year. England have never won the men's World Cup, but with 100 days to go until the start of the latest edition, a team captained by Eoin Morgan are top of the 50-over world rankings. Former England skipper Cook, who retired from international cricket last year as the country's highest Test run-scorer and most-capped player, said there were several reasons why Morgan's men could go one better than the England teams that lost in the 1979, 1987 and 1992 finals. "They’re a very settled side, they’ve got 15 players pretty much nailed on for that squad," Cook told AFP at a World Cup event in London's Trafalgar Square on Tuesday. "Everyone knows their role, they're very comfortable in their role, they've got a lot of strength in depth, they seem to have a lot of options covered and they're an exciting team to watch. "They are a brilliant one-day side.” Cook never played in a World Cup, with the left-handed opening batsman dramatically dropped from the squad that then failed to beat a fellow Test nation while suffering a group-stage exit at the 2015 edition in Australia and New Zealand. But Cook said a change of attitude lay behind England's rise up the one-day rankings since that dismal display. "Probably over the years we've really concentrated on Test cricket as a nation. Over the last three or four years we've really given the one-day cricket its due," he said. 'Sky's the limit' It was a point emphasised by former England spinner Graeme Swann, who said: "I just think England are picking the right team these days. "They're picking one-day specialists and the sky's the limit. "When they bat, people like Jason Roy, Jonny Bairstow, they think that (scoring) 400 is feasible rather than an impossible dream. I think England have finally picked a very aggressive team as well, with Eoin Morgan, who's a brilliant captain. "They've got a team that is putting them in firm contention to win this World Cup," insisted Swann, who added "I never thought we (England) would win it deep down when I was there." Swann was a member of the only England men's side to have won a major global trophy -- the 2010 World Twenty20 in the Caribbean -- and sees parallels between that team and Morgan's men. "The only world trophy I thought we had a genuine chance of winning was the World Twenty20 in the West Indies that we did, because we were ahead of the curve there. "We picked a team of specialists, people like Craig Kieswetter, Michael Lumb -- and I think that's what England have finally started doing in the one-day game as well." 'Never write off India' But Swann warned that England would face several tough opponents in their quest for World Cup glory. "You can never write off India, they are an exceptional one-day team, Virat Kohli is a brilliant captain, brilliant player." As for champions Australia, England's oldest rivals and five-times World Cup-winners, Swann said: "The Aussies are like Germany in the football -- you can never write them off at a World Cup." Swann though said he was particularly looking forward to watching Pakistan, who won the 2017 Champions Trophy one-day tournament in Britain. "They are so mercurial, you never know what you are going to get. When they are on fire, they are absolutely explosive and when they're not, they're awful."

Alastair Cook confident England can end World Cup drought

With 100 days until the 2019 World Cup gets underway, might it be the year that England lift the global game's premier limited-overs trophy at long last?&nbsp;

England - the pioneers of one-day cricket as a professional sport - have taken part in every World Cup since staging the inaugural men's event in 1975.&nbsp;

But all they have to show for their efforts are runners-up medals from the 1979, 1987 and 1992 finals.&nbsp;

Test cricket has long been the priority for everyone in English cricket, be they players, fans or administrators.&nbsp;

That changed, however, after another World Cup group-stage exit at the 2015 edition in Australia and New Zealand was sealed with a woeful loss to Bangladesh.&nbsp;

Then England and Wales Cricket Board supremo Andrew Strauss decreed that white-ball cricket would no longer be the "poor relation", with the former England captain sacking head coach Peter Moores and bringing in Australian Trevor Bayliss specifically to turn round the team's limited-overs form.&nbsp;

The transformation has been remarkable with a newly-liberated England twice setting new records for the highest ODI totals -- their 444 for three against Pakistan at Trent Bridge in 2016 a prelude to last year's colossal 481 for six at the same ground.&nbsp;

England, captained in 50-over cricket by former Ireland batsman Eoin Morgan, with the side featuring Test skipper Joe Root and the hard-hitting talents of Jason Roy, Alex Hales and Jos Buttler, now sit atop the ODI world rankings heading into their upcoming five-match series away to the West Indies.&nbsp;

'Now is the time'

"We can say we were the best ODI side to play for England... But without a trophy, it will be difficult to say that," said all-rounder Moeen Ali, looking to help England's men win just their second major global event following the 2010 World Twenty20 in the Caribbean.&nbsp;

"We have come close and we feel now is the time."&nbsp;&nbsp;

"We don't feel we have to win it, it's more 'this is the time to win it'. We are an amazing side but we know this year is massive for us," added Moeen, with England, as was the case in 1975, playing host to a World Cup and an Ashes series in the same season.&nbsp;

But unlike that first eight-team edition 43 years ago, which featured two then non-Test sides in East Africa and the long since elevated Sri Lanka, this year's event will be a 10-team affair contested solely by Test nations.&nbsp;

Ever since India and Pakistan were both knocked out in the group stage of the 2007 World Cup in the West Indies, thereby putting a huge dent in broadcast audiences, attendance figures and commercial revenues for the rest of the tournament, International Cricket Council chiefs have been determined no such 'nightmare scenario' will ever befall both Asian giants again.&nbsp;

The result has been a decrease in the number of non-Test nations involved to the point none will take part this year.&nbsp;

That has seen the ICC criticised for making the World Cup too narrow at a time when other sports are expanding rather than cutting the number of teams involve in their global showpiece events.&nbsp;

But ICC officials point to the creation of a qualifying tournament -- from which two-time champions West Indies only narrowly emerged -- as proof the non-Test world still has a shot at the World Cup.&nbsp;

Rather than have pool stages this year, the ICC have opted for an all-play-all group format -- a move that many believe has more to do with ensuring India, cricket's financial powerhouse, are guaranteed a minimum of nine matches than sporting fairness for all the teams taking part.&nbsp;

Such a lengthy group phase ahead of the semi-finals does reduce the chances of any team going through to the July 14 final at Lord's unbeaten.&nbsp;

Reigning champions Australia, set to be boosted by the return of star batsmen Steve Smith and David Warner following their lengthy ball-tampering bans, will be bidding for a sixth title.&nbsp;

India, with Virat Kohli at the helm, are a major force in all formats while Pakistan defied expectations to win the 2017 Champions Trophy in England.&nbsp;

New Zealand will be keen to go one better after losing in 2015 final, while South Africa will arrive hoping to end years of World Cup heartbreak.&nbsp;

West Indies, the 1975 and 1979 champions, will have an extra incentive this year after Sunday's announcement that star batsman Chris Gayle will retire from ODIs following this year's World Cup.&nbsp;

With 100 days until the 2019 World Cup gets underway, might it be the year that England lift the global game's premier limited-overs trophy at long last? England - the pioneers of one-day cricket as a professional sport - have taken part in every World Cup since staging the inaugural men's event in 1975.

With 100 days until the 2019 World Cup gets underway, might it be the year that England lift the global game's premier limited-overs trophy at long last? England - the pioneers of one-day cricket as a professional sport - have taken part in every World Cup since staging the inaugural men's event in 1975. But all they have to show for their efforts are runners-up medals from the 1979, 1987 and 1992 finals. Test cricket has long been the priority for everyone in English cricket, be they players, fans or administrators. That changed, however, after another World Cup group-stage exit at the 2015 edition in Australia and New Zealand was sealed with a woeful loss to Bangladesh. Then England and Wales Cricket Board supremo Andrew Strauss decreed that white-ball cricket would no longer be the "poor relation", with the former England captain sacking head coach Peter Moores and bringing in Australian Trevor Bayliss specifically to turn round the team's limited-overs form. The transformation has been remarkable with a newly-liberated England twice setting new records for the highest ODI totals -- their 444 for three against Pakistan at Trent Bridge in 2016 a prelude to last year's colossal 481 for six at the same ground. England, captained in 50-over cricket by former Ireland batsman Eoin Morgan, with the side featuring Test skipper Joe Root and the hard-hitting talents of Jason Roy, Alex Hales and Jos Buttler, now sit atop the ODI world rankings heading into their upcoming five-match series away to the West Indies. 'Now is the time' "We can say we were the best ODI side to play for England... But without a trophy, it will be difficult to say that," said all-rounder Moeen Ali, looking to help England's men win just their second major global event following the 2010 World Twenty20 in the Caribbean. "We have come close and we feel now is the time." "We don't feel we have to win it, it's more 'this is the time to win it'. We are an amazing side but we know this year is massive for us," added Moeen, with England, as was the case in 1975, playing host to a World Cup and an Ashes series in the same season. But unlike that first eight-team edition 43 years ago, which featured two then non-Test sides in East Africa and the long since elevated Sri Lanka, this year's event will be a 10-team affair contested solely by Test nations. Ever since India and Pakistan were both knocked out in the group stage of the 2007 World Cup in the West Indies, thereby putting a huge dent in broadcast audiences, attendance figures and commercial revenues for the rest of the tournament, International Cricket Council chiefs have been determined no such 'nightmare scenario' will ever befall both Asian giants again. The result has been a decrease in the number of non-Test nations involved to the point none will take part this year. That has seen the ICC criticised for making the World Cup too narrow at a time when other sports are expanding rather than cutting the number of teams involve in their global showpiece events. But ICC officials point to the creation of a qualifying tournament -- from which two-time champions West Indies only narrowly emerged -- as proof the non-Test world still has a shot at the World Cup. Rather than have pool stages this year, the ICC have opted for an all-play-all group format -- a move that many believe has more to do with ensuring India, cricket's financial powerhouse, are guaranteed a minimum of nine matches than sporting fairness for all the teams taking part. Such a lengthy group phase ahead of the semi-finals does reduce the chances of any team going through to the July 14 final at Lord's unbeaten. Reigning champions Australia, set to be boosted by the return of star batsmen Steve Smith and David Warner following their lengthy ball-tampering bans, will be bidding for a sixth title. India, with Virat Kohli at the helm, are a major force in all formats while Pakistan defied expectations to win the 2017 Champions Trophy in England. New Zealand will be keen to go one better after losing in 2015 final, while South Africa will arrive hoping to end years of World Cup heartbreak. West Indies, the 1975 and 1979 champions, will have an extra incentive this year after Sunday's announcement that star batsman Chris Gayle will retire from ODIs following this year's World Cup.

100 days to go: England expects as World Cup looms into view

England all-rounder Moeen Ali differs with coach Trevor Bayliss and believes turning up the stump microphones could curb sledging in cricket.

West Indies fast bowler Shannon Gabriel was banned for four one-day internationals on Wednesday after found guilty of 'personal abuse' aimed at England skipper Joe Root in the St Lucia test.

It follows a similar four-match ban on Sarfraz Ahmed after stump microphones caught the Pakistan captain's on-field rant at South Africa all-rounder Andile Phehlukwayo during a one-dayer in Durban last month.

"It's time for people to behave themselves," Moeen said before flying to West Indies for the five-match ODI series beginning at Bridgetown on Wednesday.

"Turn the stump mics up. Why turn them down? So people can swear? There is no reason to get personal.

"... it's the way society is: things come out of people's mouths. You're not going to get away with it now. You have to be careful."

The 31-year-old's view contrasts that of Bayliss who advocates turning down the microphones to protect players.

"I've said it once before, no I'm not in favour of it and I'm not going to change my mind," Bayliss said before Gabriel's ban was announced.

"I think (stump mics) should be down. I know there are people who think the opposite and think it is good for the game but sometimes in the heat of battle things are said, when guys given a bit of time to sit down and think about it would give themselves a bit of a kick up the backside."

Moeen, who in his autobiography claimed being called 'Osama' by an unidentified Australia player during the 2015 Ashes series, said turning up the microphones could also catch harmless, entertaining banter between players.

"Imagine all the legendary old stories, if we had them recorded," Moeen said.

"We can do the same now. It doesn't have to be swearing. Keep it funny. We want people to be attracted to the game. There's brilliant ways to sledge."

England all-rounder Moeen Ali differs with coach Trevor Bayliss and believes turning up the stump microphones could curb sledging in cricket. West Indies fast bowler Shannon Gabriel was banned for four one-day internationals on Wednesday after found guilty of 'personal abuse' aimed at England skipper Joe Root in the St Lucia test.

England all-rounder Moeen Ali differs with coach Trevor Bayliss and believes turning up the stump microphones could curb sledging in cricket. West Indies fast bowler Shannon Gabriel was banned for four one-day internationals on Wednesday after found guilty of 'personal abuse' aimed at England skipper Joe Root in the St Lucia test. It follows a similar four-match ban on Sarfraz Ahmed after stump microphones caught the Pakistan captain's on-field rant at South Africa all-rounder Andile Phehlukwayo during a one-dayer in Durban last month. "It's time for people to behave themselves," Moeen said before flying to West Indies for the five-match ODI series beginning at Bridgetown on Wednesday. "Turn the stump mics up. Why turn them down? So people can swear? There is no reason to get personal. "... it's the way society is: things come out of people's mouths. You're not going to get away with it now. You have to be careful." The 31-year-old's view contrasts that of Bayliss who advocates turning down the microphones to protect players. "I've said it once before, no I'm not in favour of it and I'm not going to change my mind," Bayliss said before Gabriel's ban was announced. "I think (stump mics) should be down. I know there are people who think the opposite and think it is good for the game but sometimes in the heat of battle things are said, when guys given a bit of time to sit down and think about it would give themselves a bit of a kick up the backside." Moeen, who in his autobiography claimed being called 'Osama' by an unidentified Australia player during the 2015 Ashes series, said turning up the microphones could also catch harmless, entertaining banter between players. "Imagine all the legendary old stories, if we had them recorded," Moeen said. "We can do the same now. It doesn't have to be swearing. Keep it funny. We want people to be attracted to the game. There's brilliant ways to sledge."

Turn up stump mics to curb sledging, says England all-rounder Moeen Ali

England wrapped up a comprehensive 232-run victory over West Indies in the third Test in St Lucia on Tuesday after home batsman Roston Chase made a century but got little help.

Number five Chase scored an unbeaten 102 for his fifth Test ton, after England pace bowler James Anderson ripped through the home side's top order with three quick wickets.

Although West Indies had already won the series with victories in the first two Tests, England's win in the finale will provide a pick-me-up as they eye a home Ashes series against Australia starting in August.

"This week should be a real confidence booster going into a very exciting summer of cricket," England captain Joe Root said at the victory presentation.

Chasing an unlikely target of 485 runs for victory on day four, West Indies made 252 in their second innings.

Chase brought up his century with his team already nine wickets down when he cut part-timer spinner Joe Denly for four.

He was aided by an entertaining 34 by tailender Alzarri Joseph, who slogged three sixes, but pickings were otherwise slim for the hosts, who crumbled again after scoring only 154 in their first knock.

"We still have a lot of improvement to make but lots of positives came out of the series," said West Indies captain Jason Holder, who was suspended for the match due to his team's slow over-rate in the second Test.

NO ANSWER

West Indies' top order had no answer to Anderson's movement off the seam, with John Campbell (golden duck), Kraigg Brathwaite (eight) and Darren Bravo (duck), all caught in the slip-gully cordon.

Mark Wood, who picked up five wickets in the first innings, continued his outstanding match when he had Shai Hope (14) caught at cover off a leading edge just before lunch. Wood was later named Player of the Match.

"He bowled fantastically well, a huge amount of pace," Root said. "It's great to see him come back into the side and put in such a strong performance... and now prove how good a player he is."

Anderson finished with 3-27, while spinner Moeen Ali had 3-99 as England won with more than a day to spare.

Denly also did his part, delivering an excellent throw from the outfield to run out Shimron Hetmyer for 19.

Earlier, Root declared his team's second innings immediately upon his dismissal for 122, with the visitors 361 for five. Ben Stokes was unbeaten on 48.

England batted for only 5.2 overs, adding a quick 36 runs to their overnight total.

England wrapped up a comprehensive 232-run victory over West Indies in the third Test in St Lucia on Tuesday after home batsman Roston Chase made a century but got little help.

England wrapped up a comprehensive 232-run victory over West Indies in the third Test in St Lucia on Tuesday after home batsman Roston Chase made a century but got little help. Number five Chase scored an unbeaten 102 for his fifth Test ton, after England pace bowler James Anderson ripped through the home side's top order with three quick wickets. Although West Indies had already won the series with victories in the first two Tests, England's win in the finale will provide a pick-me-up as they eye a home Ashes series against Australia starting in August. "This week should be a real confidence booster going into a very exciting summer of cricket," England captain Joe Root said at the victory presentation. Chasing an unlikely target of 485 runs for victory on day four, West Indies made 252 in their second innings. Chase brought up his century with his team already nine wickets down when he cut part-timer spinner Joe Denly for four. He was aided by an entertaining 34 by tailender Alzarri Joseph, who slogged three sixes, but pickings were otherwise slim for the hosts, who crumbled again after scoring only 154 in their first knock. "We still have a lot of improvement to make but lots of positives came out of the series," said West Indies captain Jason Holder, who was suspended for the match due to his team's slow over-rate in the second Test. NO ANSWER West Indies' top order had no answer to Anderson's movement off the seam, with John Campbell (golden duck), Kraigg Brathwaite (eight) and Darren Bravo (duck), all caught in the slip-gully cordon. Mark Wood, who picked up five wickets in the first innings, continued his outstanding match when he had Shai Hope (14) caught at cover off a leading edge just before lunch. Wood was later named Player of the Match. "He bowled fantastically well, a huge amount of pace," Root said. "It's great to see him come back into the side and put in such a strong performance... and now prove how good a player he is." Anderson finished with 3-27, while spinner Moeen Ali had 3-99 as England won with more than a day to spare. Denly also did his part, delivering an excellent throw from the outfield to run out Shimron Hetmyer for 19. Earlier, Root declared his team's second innings immediately upon his dismissal for 122, with the visitors 361 for five. Ben Stokes was unbeaten on 48. England batted for only 5.2 overs, adding a quick 36 runs to their overnight total.

England beat West Indies by 232 runs in final Test

Former England cricket and rugby captains Alastair Cook and Bill Beaumont headlined sporting personalities in the New Years Honours List with both men receiving knighthoods from Queen Elizabeth II.

Cook -- who has more Test centuries (33) and runs (12,472) than any other England player accrued during a record 161 Test matches -- is the first cricketer to be knighted since legendary all-rounder Ian Botham in 2007.

The 34-year-old opening batsman finished his Test career in the best possible manner with a century against India at The Oval despite having declared there "was nothing left in the tank".

"It's a fitting tribute to a man who has led with distinction on and off the pitch every since he made his England debut," England and Wales Cricket Board chairman Colin Graves said in a statement to Press Association Sport. &nbsp;

Beaumont -- chairman of the sport's governing body, World Rugby, -- skippered England to the 1980 Five Nations Grand Slam as well as captaining the British and Irish Lions.

Following his retirement as a player the 66-year-old became a much loved face on BBC television, his avuncular style adapting well to captaining a team in Question of Sport.

"I am honoured and humbled to receive this accolade from Her Majesty the Queen for services to rugby," Beaumont told World Rugby.

"I have always viewed my work in the sport as an administrator as that of a guardian, driven by a passion to do the very best I can for rugby."

Football did not miss out, with England manager Gareth Southgate and captain Harry Kane rewarded for the national side's run to this year's World Cup semi-finals.

'Thought something was wrong!'

Southgate, whose sartorial elegance in Russia saw sales of waistcoats rocket, received the middle-ranking Officer of the Order of the British Empire (OBE) whilst Tottenham Hotpsur sharpshooter Kane garnered the lesser Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE).

Kane, who won the World Cup Golden Boot for finishing top scorer with six goals, said he learnt of his award from his fiancee Kate just prior to a Premier League game with Southampton in early December.

"We got a letter to the house, Kate opened the letter." he told Spurs TV.

"Normally we'd talk a little but she would never call me just before the match. I had a missed call and she texted me 'could you answer?'.

"I thought something was wrong! But Kate was excited and told me that we'd had a letter from the Queen saying we'd get an MBE."

Another British sporting success story of the year Welshman Geraint Thomas received an OBE after winning road cycling's showpiece event, the Tour de France.

Beaumont was not the only rugby personality to be honoured with former Scotland lock Doddie Weir, whose courageous battle with motor neurone disease has helped to raise its profile through his 'My Name'5 Doddie Foundation' (attn eds: correct), being awarded an OBE.

Irish rugby legend Willie John McBride -- like Beaumont a Lions captain having skippered the combined outfit's most successful side of all time on the brutal 1974 tour of South Africa, which saw them win the four-Test series 3-0 with one draw -- adds a Commander of the Order of the British Empire (CBE) to his MBE.

McBride's fellow Northern Irishman former Manchester United goalkeeper Harry Gregg, who survived the Munich air crash that killed several of the Busy Babes in 1958, received an OBE.

Horseracing, was acknowledged as well with Richard Johnson, who has been British jumps champion jockey the past three years after being runner-up on 16 occasions to legend AP McCoy, receiving an OBE.

But, as ever Johnson, has to give second best to his old rival as McCoy was knighted in 2016.&nbsp;

Former England cricket and rugby captains Alastair Cook and Bill Beaumont headlined sporting personalities in the New Years Honours List with both men receiving knighthoods from Queen Elizabeth II.

Former England cricket and rugby captains Alastair Cook and Bill Beaumont headlined sporting personalities in the New Years Honours List with both men receiving knighthoods from Queen Elizabeth II. Cook -- who has more Test centuries (33) and runs (12,472) than any other England player accrued during a record 161 Test matches -- is the first cricketer to be knighted since legendary all-rounder Ian Botham in 2007. The 34-year-old opening batsman finished his Test career in the best possible manner with a century against India at The Oval despite having declared there "was nothing left in the tank". "It's a fitting tribute to a man who has led with distinction on and off the pitch every since he made his England debut," England and Wales Cricket Board chairman Colin Graves said in a statement to Press Association Sport. Beaumont -- chairman of the sport's governing body, World Rugby, -- skippered England to the 1980 Five Nations Grand Slam as well as captaining the British and Irish Lions. Following his retirement as a player the 66-year-old became a much loved face on BBC television, his avuncular style adapting well to captaining a team in Question of Sport. "I am honoured and humbled to receive this accolade from Her Majesty the Queen for services to rugby," Beaumont told World Rugby. "I have always viewed my work in the sport as an administrator as that of a guardian, driven by a passion to do the very best I can for rugby." Football did not miss out, with England manager Gareth Southgate and captain Harry Kane rewarded for the national side's run to this year's World Cup semi-finals. 'Thought something was wrong!' Southgate, whose sartorial elegance in Russia saw sales of waistcoats rocket, received the middle-ranking Officer of the Order of the British Empire (OBE) whilst Tottenham Hotpsur sharpshooter Kane garnered the lesser Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE). Kane, who won the World Cup Golden Boot for finishing top scorer with six goals, said he learnt of his award from his fiancee Kate just prior to a Premier League game with Southampton in early December. "We got a letter to the house, Kate opened the letter." he told Spurs TV. "Normally we'd talk a little but she would never call me just before the match. I had a missed call and she texted me 'could you answer?'. "I thought something was wrong! But Kate was excited and told me that we'd had a letter from the Queen saying we'd get an MBE." Another British sporting success story of the year Welshman Geraint Thomas received an OBE after winning road cycling's showpiece event, the Tour de France. Beaumont was not the only rugby personality to be honoured with former Scotland lock Doddie Weir, whose courageous battle with motor neurone disease has helped to raise its profile through his 'My Name'5 Doddie Foundation' (attn eds: correct), being awarded an OBE. Irish rugby legend Willie John McBride -- like Beaumont a Lions captain having skippered the combined outfit's most successful side of all time on the brutal 1974 tour of South Africa, which saw them win the four-Test series 3-0 with one draw -- adds a Commander of the Order of the British Empire (CBE) to his MBE. McBride's fellow Northern Irishman former Manchester United goalkeeper Harry Gregg, who survived the Munich air crash that killed several of the Busy Babes in 1958, received an OBE. Horseracing, was acknowledged as well with Richard Johnson, who has been British jumps champion jockey the past three years after being runner-up on 16 occasions to legend AP McCoy, receiving an OBE. But, as ever Johnson, has to give second best to his old rival as McCoy was knighted in 2016.

Former England captains Alastair Cook and Bill Beaumont knighted

Off-spinner Moeen Ali struck twice in three deliveries as England completed a 57-run victory in the second test against Sri Lanka on the final day on Sunday to take an unassailable 2-0 lead in the three-match series.

Left-arm spinner Jack Leach picked up the final wicket of the Sri Lanka innings to complete a maiden five-wicket haul in his third test with the hosts all out for 243.

Sri Lanka, who resumed the final day on 226-7 needing 75 for victory, kept the England spinners at bay for 15 minutes in the morning before Moeen dismissed Niroshan Dickwella, who was caught at slip by Ben Stokes for 35.

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Spinners Jack Leach and Moeen Ali lead England to a series-clinching win over Sri Lanka in the second Test.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SLvENG?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SLvENG</a> REPORT ⬇️<a href="https://t.co/4dpg8wupVP">https://t.co/4dpg8wupVP</a> <a href="https://t.co/DCzLuUf7Hc">pic.twitter.com/DCzLuUf7Hc</a>
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The off-spinner then sent back Sri Lanka's stand-in captain Suranga Lakmal for a duck two deliveries later.

Malinda Pushpakumara spooned a catch straight back to Leach as England completed their first away series win in tests since they won in South Africa at the beginning of 2016.

Off-spinner Moeen Ali struck twice in three deliveries as England completed a 57-run victory in the second test against Sri Lanka on the final day on Sunday to take an unassailable 2-0 lead in the three-match series.

Off-spinner Moeen Ali struck twice in three deliveries as England completed a 57-run victory in the second test against Sri Lanka on the final day on Sunday to take an unassailable 2-0 lead in the three-match series. Left-arm spinner Jack Leach picked up the final wicket of the Sri Lanka innings to complete a maiden five-wicket haul in his third test with the hosts all out for 243. Sri Lanka, who resumed the final day on 226-7 needing 75 for victory, kept the England spinners at bay for 15 minutes in the morning before Moeen dismissed Niroshan Dickwella, who was caught at slip by Ben Stokes for 35. Spinners Jack Leach and Moeen Ali lead England to a series-clinching win over Sri Lanka in the second Test.#SLvENG REPORT ⬇️https://t.co/4dpg8wupVP pic.twitter.com/DCzLuUf7Hc — ICC (@ICC) November 18, 2018 × The off-spinner then sent back Sri Lanka's stand-in captain Suranga Lakmal for a duck two deliveries later. Malinda Pushpakumara spooned a catch straight back to Leach as England completed their first away series win in tests since they won in South Africa at the beginning of 2016.

ENG vs SL, 2nd Test: England beat Sri Lanka by 57 runs to bag series

England's left-arm spinner Jack Leach led a strong spin bowling display that put the tourists within three wickets of a series-clinching victory against Sri Lanka on an intriguing fourth day of the second test on Saturday.

Chasing 301 to win on a turning Pallekele track, Sri Lanka reached 226 for seven when rain ended play for the second consecutive day with the hosts still needing 75 to square the three-test series at 1-1.

Combative half-centuries from former captain Angelo Mathews and opener Dimuth Karunaratne had set Sri Lanka up nicely in their chase after Leach's brilliant spell of spin bowling with the new ball had reduced them to 26-3.

But off-spinner Moeen Ali and Leach, who has already taken a career-best 4-73 in an innings, brought England right back in the game by dismissing Mathews for 88 and Dilruwan Perera for two respectively in quick succession after the tea break.

Sri Lanka's hopes on the final day will rest on wicketkeeper Niroshan Dickwella, who was unbeaten on 27 at the close of play.

Leach had given England the ideal start when he lured Kaushal Silva out of his crease with a flighted delivery to be stumped for four.

Dhananjaya de Silva was out to a smart catch by Keaton Jennings at short leg for one while Kusal Mendis was also trapped lbw for the same score, with England overturning the umpire's not out decision on review.

Karunaratne made a dogged 57 and it was his fourth-wicket stand of 77 with the experienced Mathews that revived Sri Lanka's chase.

England wasted chances to dismiss Karunaratne and Mathews with all-rounder Ben Stokes the guilty fielder and off-spinner Moeen Ali the unfortunate bowler on both occasions.

Karunaratne, who made 63 in the first innings, was on 21 when his edge off Moeen flew past Stokes at slip and the batsman also successfully overturned a leg before decision off Adil Rashid on review.

Karunaratne was finally out to some brilliant fielding at short leg from Jennings, who anticipated a sweep shot from the batsman and moved smartly to his left to parry the ball to wicketkeeper Ben Foakes for a catch off Rashid.

Stokes missed a relatively easier chance when he dropped Mathews at slip with the batsman on seven. The right-hander made England pay dearly with another stand of 73 with Roshen Silva for the fifth wicket.

England missed a chance to dismiss Silva, who had top-scored for the hosts with 85 in the first innings, on 32 when they failed to review a not-out verdict to an lbw shout off Moeen. Replays showed it would have been overturned in their favour.

Moeen sent Silva back on 37 with England captain Joe Root opting to successfully review another not out decision for a bat-pad catch.

Mathews and Dickwella thwarted England further with an attacking 45-run stand for the sixth wicket before Moeen dismissed Mathews leg before.

England had batted for about 20 minutes in the morning before they were all out for 346 for a lead of 300. Foakes followed up his debut century during the win in Galle with an unbeaten 65.

Akila Dananjaya, who was reported for a suspect bowling action after the Galle test but is free to play, notched up career-best figures of 6-115 for the hosts.

England's left-arm spinner Jack Leach led a strong spin bowling display that put the tourists within three wickets of a series-clinching victory against Sri Lanka on an intriguing fourth day of the second test on Saturday.

England's left-arm spinner Jack Leach led a strong spin bowling display that put the tourists within three wickets of a series-clinching victory against Sri Lanka on an intriguing fourth day of the second test on Saturday. Chasing 301 to win on a turning Pallekele track, Sri Lanka reached 226 for seven when rain ended play for the second consecutive day with the hosts still needing 75 to square the three-test series at 1-1. Combative half-centuries from former captain Angelo Mathews and opener Dimuth Karunaratne had set Sri Lanka up nicely in their chase after Leach's brilliant spell of spin bowling with the new ball had reduced them to 26-3. But off-spinner Moeen Ali and Leach, who has already taken a career-best 4-73 in an innings, brought England right back in the game by dismissing Mathews for 88 and Dilruwan Perera for two respectively in quick succession after the tea break. Sri Lanka's hopes on the final day will rest on wicketkeeper Niroshan Dickwella, who was unbeaten on 27 at the close of play. Leach had given England the ideal start when he lured Kaushal Silva out of his crease with a flighted delivery to be stumped for four. Dhananjaya de Silva was out to a smart catch by Keaton Jennings at short leg for one while Kusal Mendis was also trapped lbw for the same score, with England overturning the umpire's not out decision on review. Karunaratne made a dogged 57 and it was his fourth-wicket stand of 77 with the experienced Mathews that revived Sri Lanka's chase. England wasted chances to dismiss Karunaratne and Mathews with all-rounder Ben Stokes the guilty fielder and off-spinner Moeen Ali the unfortunate bowler on both occasions. Karunaratne, who made 63 in the first innings, was on 21 when his edge off Moeen flew past Stokes at slip and the batsman also successfully overturned a leg before decision off Adil Rashid on review. Karunaratne was finally out to some brilliant fielding at short leg from Jennings, who anticipated a sweep shot from the batsman and moved smartly to his left to parry the ball to wicketkeeper Ben Foakes for a catch off Rashid. Stokes missed a relatively easier chance when he dropped Mathews at slip with the batsman on seven. The right-hander made England pay dearly with another stand of 73 with Roshen Silva for the fifth wicket. England missed a chance to dismiss Silva, who had top-scored for the hosts with 85 in the first innings, on 32 when they failed to review a not-out verdict to an lbw shout off Moeen. Replays showed it would have been overturned in their favour. Moeen sent Silva back on 37 with England captain Joe Root opting to successfully review another not out decision for a bat-pad catch. Mathews and Dickwella thwarted England further with an attacking 45-run stand for the sixth wicket before Moeen dismissed Mathews leg before. England had batted for about 20 minutes in the morning before they were all out for 346 for a lead of 300. Foakes followed up his debut century during the win in Galle with an unbeaten 65. Akila Dananjaya, who was reported for a suspect bowling action after the Galle test but is free to play, notched up career-best figures of 6-115 for the hosts.

ENG vs SL, 2nd Test, Day 4: Jack Leach's four-wicket haul brings England close in on series victory

England captain Joe Root hit a brilliant century to put his team in a strong position in their quest for a series-clinching victory on the third day of the second Test against Sri Lanka on Friday.

Opener Rory Burns had earlier struck his maiden fifty as England, who lead the three-match series 1-0 after last week's win in Galle, reached 324 for nine in their second innings at stumps, a lead of 278 on a pitch offering plenty of turn.

Wicketkeeper Ben Foakes, playing his second Test, further stretched England's lead after the dismissal of Root for 124 and was unbeaten on 51 with James Anderson four not out when bad light and rain brought an end to the day's play.

Root and Foakes added 82 for the seventh wicket, dampening Sri Lanka's hopes of restricting England's lead to a manageable target at Pallekele after reducing them to 219-6 at one stage.

Akila Dananjaya, who was reported for a suspect bowling action after the Galle Test but is free to play, notched up career-best figures of 6-106 but his third-five wicket haul in only his fifth Test might still prove inadequate.

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England close day three 278 runs ahead of Sri Lanka with one wicket in hand. 
 
Whose position would you rather be in?<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SLvENG?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SLvENG</a> REPORT👇<a href="https://t.co/vnRfOBHDrP">https://t.co/vnRfOBHDrP</a> <a href="https://t.co/cxA463Id80">pic.twitter.com/cxA463Id80</a>
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When play resumed in the morning, the tourists lost nightwatchman Jack Leach for one in the second over of the day, bringing regular openers Burns and Keaton Jennings together.

While Burns looked at ease against Sri Lanka's spinners with his nimble footwork, Jennings opted to utilise the reverse sweep to thwart the threat.

The duo added 73 before Jennings' most productive shot brought an end to his knock for 26, the ball clipping the batsman's glove before carrying to the slip fielder Dhananjaya de Silva for a simple catch.

Burns, playing in his second Test, hit seven boundaries in his knock and was out leg before for 59 to Malinda Pushpakumara while trying to sweep the left-arm spinner. The batsman reviewed the decision but was unsuccessful.

England suffered a further jolt in the next over when all-rounder Ben Stokes also fell leg before, for a duck, missing a sweep against off-spinner Dilruwan Perera.

Stokes, who faced just two deliveries, also opted to go for a review but lost it.

Root, who received a reprimand and one demerit point from the International Cricket Council on Thursday for a show of dissent, and Jos Buttler looked to attack the spinners during their stand of 74 to give England the upper hand.

Buttler's entertaining knock of 34 came to a premature end when he dragged spinner Akila Dananjaya on to his stumps with an attempted reverse sweep.

Moeen Ali also did not last long and was out leg before to Dananjaya, but Root appeared unmoved by the fall of wickets around him.

He brought up a deserving 15th Test hundred with 10 fours and two sixes in his knock, using the sweep shot to good effect against Sri Lanka's slow bowling attack.

Root leapt for joy and punched the air after reaching the three-figure mark with a streaky boundary.

Dananjaya removed Root and Sam Curran, who smashed 64 in the first innings, in consecutive deliveries and also dismissed Adil Rashid, who was unfortunate to be given out lbw as replays showed he had got an edge.

England captain Joe Root hit a brilliant century to put his team in a strong position in their quest for a series-clinching victory on the third day of the second Test against Sri Lanka on Friday.

England captain Joe Root hit a brilliant century to put his team in a strong position in their quest for a series-clinching victory on the third day of the second Test against Sri Lanka on Friday. Opener Rory Burns had earlier struck his maiden fifty as England, who lead the three-match series 1-0 after last week's win in Galle, reached 324 for nine in their second innings at stumps, a lead of 278 on a pitch offering plenty of turn. Wicketkeeper Ben Foakes, playing his second Test, further stretched England's lead after the dismissal of Root for 124 and was unbeaten on 51 with James Anderson four not out when bad light and rain brought an end to the day's play. Root and Foakes added 82 for the seventh wicket, dampening Sri Lanka's hopes of restricting England's lead to a manageable target at Pallekele after reducing them to 219-6 at one stage. Akila Dananjaya, who was reported for a suspect bowling action after the Galle Test but is free to play, notched up career-best figures of 6-106 but his third-five wicket haul in only his fifth Test might still prove inadequate. England close day three 278 runs ahead of Sri Lanka with one wicket in hand. Whose position would you rather be in?#SLvENG REPORT👇https://t.co/vnRfOBHDrP pic.twitter.com/cxA463Id80 — ICC (@ICC) November 16, 2018 × When play resumed in the morning, the tourists lost nightwatchman Jack Leach for one in the second over of the day, bringing regular openers Burns and Keaton Jennings together. While Burns looked at ease against Sri Lanka's spinners with his nimble footwork, Jennings opted to utilise the reverse sweep to thwart the threat. The duo added 73 before Jennings' most productive shot brought an end to his knock for 26, the ball clipping the batsman's glove before carrying to the slip fielder Dhananjaya de Silva for a simple catch. Burns, playing in his second Test, hit seven boundaries in his knock and was out leg before for 59 to Malinda Pushpakumara while trying to sweep the left-arm spinner. The batsman reviewed the decision but was unsuccessful. England suffered a further jolt in the next over when all-rounder Ben Stokes also fell leg before, for a duck, missing a sweep against off-spinner Dilruwan Perera. Stokes, who faced just two deliveries, also opted to go for a review but lost it. Root, who received a reprimand and one demerit point from the International Cricket Council on Thursday for a show of dissent, and Jos Buttler looked to attack the spinners during their stand of 74 to give England the upper hand. Buttler's entertaining knock of 34 came to a premature end when he dragged spinner Akila Dananjaya on to his stumps with an attempted reverse sweep. Moeen Ali also did not last long and was out leg before to Dananjaya, but Root appeared unmoved by the fall of wickets around him. He brought up a deserving 15th Test hundred with 10 fours and two sixes in his knock, using the sweep shot to good effect against Sri Lanka's slow bowling attack. Root leapt for joy and punched the air after reaching the three-figure mark with a streaky boundary. Dananjaya removed Root and Sam Curran, who smashed 64 in the first innings, in consecutive deliveries and also dismissed Adil Rashid, who was unfortunate to be given out lbw as replays showed he had got an edge.

ENG vs SL, 2nd Test: Root's ton puts England on top against Sri Lanka

England beat Sri Lanka by 211 runs to take a 1-0 lead in the first Test of three-match series at the Galle International Stadium on Friday.

Sri Lanka chasing a 462-run target, were all out for 250 on day four, with Moeen Ali taking four wickets and Jack Leach three.

England had secured a first innings lead of 139 and on Thursday an unbeaten 146 by Keaton Jennings, his first century since a ton on his 2016 debut, allowed Root to declare at 322 for six.

Fifteen without loss overnight, openers Kaushal Silva and Dimuth Karunaratne withstood the pressure from England's formidable bowling attack for the first hour.

But both fell after attacking shots, with Kaushal leg before trying to sweep Leach for 30 and Karunaratne caught and bowled by Ali for 26 and skipped down the pitch for an attempted heave.

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That's the game! 
 
England win by 211 runs, with Moeen Ali taking four wickets, Jack Leach three, and Ben Stokes snaffling three catches. Rangana Herath's final Test ends with him run out for five.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SLvENG?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SLvENG</a> 1st Test score ⬇️<a href="https://t.co/aBGojY53Jw">https://t.co/aBGojY53Jw</a> <a href="https://t.co/IDeg9ugZ20">pic.twitter.com/IDeg9ugZ20</a>
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Dhananjaya de Silva, after a confident start, was caught at first slip by skipper Joe Root off Ben Stokes in the last over of the morning session for 21.

One ball earlier, de Silva had been given out caught behind flashing at a Stokes delivery wide of the off stump, but he was reprieved on review.

After lunch Kusal Mendis hit Leach for four over his head but attempting a repeat the next ball skied the ball to Ali and departed for 46.&nbsp;

He had earlier appeared confident at the crease, employing the sweep shot especially well against all England’s spinners, while secure in defence.&nbsp;

Home skipper Dinesh Chandimal, suffering from a groin injury that kept him off the pitch all of Thursday, was bowled by Leach for 11.

The final session began badly for the hosts. Niroshan Dikwella fell the first ball after tea, caught adroitly by Stokes one-handed at slip off Ali for 16.&nbsp;

Soon afterwards Angelo Mathews -- dropped on 18 by James Anderson -- went for 53, caught by Jos Buttler at midwicket with Ali again the wicket-taker.

He was followed into the pavillon by Akila Dananjaya for 8 before Herath was run out for five.&nbsp;

England's varied attack, with three quicks and three spinners, applied substantial pressure, with the slightly expensive Adil Rashid the only disappointment so far.&nbsp;

England beat Sri Lanka by 211 runs to take a 1-0 lead in the first Test of three-match series at the Galle International Stadium on Friday. Sri Lanka chasing a 462-run target, were all out for 250 on day four, with Moeen Ali taking four wickets and Jack Leach three.

England beat Sri Lanka by 211 runs to take a 1-0 lead in the first Test of three-match series at the Galle International Stadium on Friday. Sri Lanka chasing a 462-run target, were all out for 250 on day four, with Moeen Ali taking four wickets and Jack Leach three. England had secured a first innings lead of 139 and on Thursday an unbeaten 146 by Keaton Jennings, his first century since a ton on his 2016 debut, allowed Root to declare at 322 for six. Fifteen without loss overnight, openers Kaushal Silva and Dimuth Karunaratne withstood the pressure from England's formidable bowling attack for the first hour. But both fell after attacking shots, with Kaushal leg before trying to sweep Leach for 30 and Karunaratne caught and bowled by Ali for 26 and skipped down the pitch for an attempted heave. That's the game! England win by 211 runs, with Moeen Ali taking four wickets, Jack Leach three, and Ben Stokes snaffling three catches. Rangana Herath's final Test ends with him run out for five.#SLvENG 1st Test score ⬇️https://t.co/aBGojY53Jw pic.twitter.com/IDeg9ugZ20 — ICC (@ICC) November 9, 2018 × Dhananjaya de Silva, after a confident start, was caught at first slip by skipper Joe Root off Ben Stokes in the last over of the morning session for 21. One ball earlier, de Silva had been given out caught behind flashing at a Stokes delivery wide of the off stump, but he was reprieved on review. After lunch Kusal Mendis hit Leach for four over his head but attempting a repeat the next ball skied the ball to Ali and departed for 46. He had earlier appeared confident at the crease, employing the sweep shot especially well against all England’s spinners, while secure in defence. Home skipper Dinesh Chandimal, suffering from a groin injury that kept him off the pitch all of Thursday, was bowled by Leach for 11. The final session began badly for the hosts. Niroshan Dikwella fell the first ball after tea, caught adroitly by Stokes one-handed at slip off Ali for 16. Soon afterwards Angelo Mathews -- dropped on 18 by James Anderson -- went for 53, caught by Jos Buttler at midwicket with Ali again the wicket-taker. He was followed into the pavillon by Akila Dananjaya for 8 before Herath was run out for five. England's varied attack, with three quicks and three spinners, applied substantial pressure, with the slightly expensive Adil Rashid the only disappointment so far.

ENG vs SL, 1st Test: England beat Sri Lanka by 211 runs, take 1-0 lead

England stretched their lead to 250 runs after Keaton Jennings' unbeaten 60 helped them to 111 for three in their second innings at lunch on day three of the opening test against Sri Lanka on Thursday.

Jennings and debutant Rory Burns put on 60 for the opening stand but England lost three wickets in quick succession to lose some of their early momentum.

Jennings, who made 46 in the first innings, hit four boundaries in his patient knock. Ben Stokes was on 14 at the other end at the Galle International Stadium.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/day2-sri-lanka-all-out-for-203-in-galle-test-176070">England had resumed at 38 for no loss</a> with the openers consolidating their position until Burns' pursuit for a non-existent single culminated with his dismissal.

Burns pushed Dilruwan Perera to midwicket and started off but could not beat Dimuth Karunaratne's direct throw and he was dismissed for 23.

Moeen Ali's 4-66 helped England take a 139-run first innings lead but the all-rounder, for the second time in the match, could not justify his promotion to number three.

He followed up his first innings golden duck with three, tamely hitting Perera straight to Rangana Herath at mid-on.

England captain Joe Root also had a deja vu moment when Herath dismissed him for the second time in the match.

Playing his final test, left-arm spinner Herath drew the England captain out and bowled slightly wide to induce an edge that safely nestled into Niroshan Dickwella's gloves.

Root made three to leave his side at 74 for three.

Jennings, looking reasonably comfortable against the Sri Lankan spinners steadied the innings and took a single off Akila Dananjaya to bring up his second fifty.

England stretched their lead to 250 runs after Keaton Jennings' unbeaten 60 helped them to 111 for three in their second innings at lunch on day three of the opening test against Sri Lanka on Thursday.

England stretched their lead to 250 runs after Keaton Jennings' unbeaten 60 helped them to 111 for three in their second innings at lunch on day three of the opening test against Sri Lanka on Thursday. Jennings and debutant Rory Burns put on 60 for the opening stand but England lost three wickets in quick succession to lose some of their early momentum. Jennings, who made 46 in the first innings, hit four boundaries in his patient knock. Ben Stokes was on 14 at the other end at the Galle International Stadium. England had resumed at 38 for no loss with the openers consolidating their position until Burns' pursuit for a non-existent single culminated with his dismissal. Burns pushed Dilruwan Perera to midwicket and started off but could not beat Dimuth Karunaratne's direct throw and he was dismissed for 23. Moeen Ali's 4-66 helped England take a 139-run first innings lead but the all-rounder, for the second time in the match, could not justify his promotion to number three. He followed up his first innings golden duck with three, tamely hitting Perera straight to Rangana Herath at mid-on. England captain Joe Root also had a deja vu moment when Herath dismissed him for the second time in the match. Playing his final test, left-arm spinner Herath drew the England captain out and bowled slightly wide to induce an edge that safely nestled into Niroshan Dickwella's gloves. Root made three to leave his side at 74 for three. Jennings, looking reasonably comfortable against the Sri Lankan spinners steadied the innings and took a single off Akila Dananjaya to bring up his second fifty.

ENG vs SL, 1st Test, Day 3: England lead stretched to 250 after Jennings fifty

Opener Keaton Jennings ended his two-year wait for a second Test century with a career-best 146 not out as England inched towards a comprehensive victory in the opening Test against Sri Lanka on Thursday.

Having taken a handy 139-run first-innings lead, England declared their second innings on 322 for six to set Sri Lanka an improbable 462-run victory target.

The hosts ended day three on 15 for no loss, 447 behind and staring at a crushing defeat inside four days in spinner Rangana Herath's farewell Test.

Openers Dimuth Karunaratne (seven) and Kaushal Silva (eight) survived seven overs but Sri Lanka will need a near miracle to save the Test.

Earlier, the tourists resumed on 38-0 and their openers consolidated their position until they suffered a mini-collapse.

Debutant Rory Burns's (23) foolhardy pursuit of a non-existent single culminated in his run-out and Moeen Ali could not justify his promotion to number three for the second time in the match, following up his first-innings golden duck with three.

England captain Joe Root (three) also had a deja vu moment when Herath dismissed him for the second time in the match.

Jennings, however, looked confident against the spinners, often playing the sweep shot -- both traditional and reverse -- to negate them.

Ben Stokes, Jennings' partner in their 107-run fourth-wicket partnership, shrugged off his early tentativeness to clobber three sixes in his 62 before Dilruwan Perara spun one past his bat to hit the top of the off-stump with a beautiful delivery.

Jennings, who hit a hundred in his debut Test against India in 2016, took a single off Dhananjaya de Silva to end his century drought.

The 26-year-old pumped air while running before taking his helmet off and raising his bat in celebration.

The left-hander's patient 280-ball knock included nine fours as he demonstrated to his team mates how to play spin in the sub-continent.

Jos Buttler made 35 and England's first-innings hero Ben Foakes contributed 37 before Root decided to give his bowler a go at the Sri Lankan openers in fading light.

Herath claimed three wickets in his 93rd and final Test at the same venue where the 40-year-old left-arm spinner made his debut against Australia in 1999.

Opener Keaton Jennings ended his two-year wait for a second Test century with a career-best 146 not out as England inched towards a comprehensive victory in the opening Test against Sri Lanka on Thursday.

Opener Keaton Jennings ended his two-year wait for a second Test century with a career-best 146 not out as England inched towards a comprehensive victory in the opening Test against Sri Lanka on Thursday. Having taken a handy 139-run first-innings lead, England declared their second innings on 322 for six to set Sri Lanka an improbable 462-run victory target. The hosts ended day three on 15 for no loss, 447 behind and staring at a crushing defeat inside four days in spinner Rangana Herath's farewell Test. Openers Dimuth Karunaratne (seven) and Kaushal Silva (eight) survived seven overs but Sri Lanka will need a near miracle to save the Test. Earlier, the tourists resumed on 38-0 and their openers consolidated their position until they suffered a mini-collapse. Debutant Rory Burns's (23) foolhardy pursuit of a non-existent single culminated in his run-out and Moeen Ali could not justify his promotion to number three for the second time in the match, following up his first-innings golden duck with three. England captain Joe Root (three) also had a deja vu moment when Herath dismissed him for the second time in the match. Jennings, however, looked confident against the spinners, often playing the sweep shot -- both traditional and reverse -- to negate them. Ben Stokes, Jennings' partner in their 107-run fourth-wicket partnership, shrugged off his early tentativeness to clobber three sixes in his 62 before Dilruwan Perara spun one past his bat to hit the top of the off-stump with a beautiful delivery. Jennings, who hit a hundred in his debut Test against India in 2016, took a single off Dhananjaya de Silva to end his century drought. The 26-year-old pumped air while running before taking his helmet off and raising his bat in celebration. The left-hander's patient 280-ball knock included nine fours as he demonstrated to his team mates how to play spin in the sub-continent. Jos Buttler made 35 and England's first-innings hero Ben Foakes contributed 37 before Root decided to give his bowler a go at the Sri Lankan openers in fading light. Herath claimed three wickets in his 93rd and final Test at the same venue where the 40-year-old left-arm spinner made his debut against Australia in 1999.

ENG vs SL, 1st Test, Day 3: England scent victory after Jennings century

Cricket Australia has released a statement after the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/fresh-spot-fixing-claims-in-documentary-icc-demands-footage-again-172704">fresh allegations about corruption in cricket</a> levelled by a middle east-based television news channel Al Jazeera.

The official statement mentioned that the board has a "zero-tolerance approach against anyone trying to compromise the integrity of the game".

The documentary released by the TV channel claimed that English, Pakistani and Australian players were involved in spot-fixing between 2011 and 2012.

As per the documentary, there had been 26 spot-fixing incidents in 15 international matches and Australia was involved in five matches.

The matches mentioned were England against India at Lord's, South Africa versus Australia in Cape Town, and several games during England's series against Pakistan in the United Arab Emirates.

Cricket Australia (CA) CEO, James Sutherland responded on Monday, saying, "Our team have not identified any issues of corruption by any current or former player, including in relation to Big Bash League matches."

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Cricket Australia and <a href="https://twitter.com/ACA_Players?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ACA_Players</a> have issued the following statement in response to Al Jazeera's documentary <a href="https://t.co/9BWkYs50Rf">https://t.co/9BWkYs50Rf</a>
— Cricket Australia (@CAComms) <a href="https://twitter.com/CAComms/status/1054159294432563200?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 21, 2018</a></blockquote>
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"We have full confidence in our players in also protecting the game, and we are working closely with the ACA to keep them informed of any developments."

"The materials we have been given have been referred to the ICC’s Anti-Corruption unit and we will continue to work with them in order to ensure the integrity of the game."

In a follow-up documentary to one aired earlier this year, the Qatari-based broadcaster reported on Sunday that a small group of England players allegedly cheated in seven games.

The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) was also adamant that the claims lacked credibility.

"Whilst the limited information we have been given by Al Jazeera is poorly prepared and lacks clarity and corroboration, it has been properly assessed," it said in a statement.

"Analysis of this by the ECB integrity team has cast no doubt on the integrity or behaviour of any England player, current or former."

ICC demands footage again

ICC refuted the "assertion" that it does not take corruption in the sport seriously and once again questioned the broadcaster's refusal to share the raw footage.&nbsp;

Cricket Australia has released a statement after the fresh allegations about corruption in cricket levelled by a middle east-based television news channel Al Jazeera.

Cricket Australia has released a statement after the fresh allegations about corruption in cricket levelled by a middle east-based television news channel Al Jazeera. The official statement mentioned that the board has a "zero-tolerance approach against anyone trying to compromise the integrity of the game". The documentary released by the TV channel claimed that English, Pakistani and Australian players were involved in spot-fixing between 2011 and 2012. As per the documentary, there had been 26 spot-fixing incidents in 15 international matches and Australia was involved in five matches. The matches mentioned were England against India at Lord's, South Africa versus Australia in Cape Town, and several games during England's series against Pakistan in the United Arab Emirates. Cricket Australia (CA) CEO, James Sutherland responded on Monday, saying, "Our team have not identified any issues of corruption by any current or former player, including in relation to Big Bash League matches." Cricket Australia and @ACA_Players have issued the following statement in response to Al Jazeera's documentary https://t.co/9BWkYs50Rf — Cricket Australia (@CAComms) October 21, 2018 × "We have full confidence in our players in also protecting the game, and we are working closely with the ACA to keep them informed of any developments." "The materials we have been given have been referred to the ICC’s Anti-Corruption unit and we will continue to work with them in order to ensure the integrity of the game." In a follow-up documentary to one aired earlier this year, the Qatari-based broadcaster reported on Sunday that a small group of England players allegedly cheated in seven games. The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) was also adamant that the claims lacked credibility. "Whilst the limited information we have been given by Al Jazeera is poorly prepared and lacks clarity and corroboration, it has been properly assessed," it said in a statement. "Analysis of this by the ECB integrity team has cast no doubt on the integrity or behaviour of any England player, current or former." ICC demands footage again ICC refuted the "assertion" that it does not take corruption in the sport seriously and once again questioned the broadcaster's refusal to share the raw footage.

Zero-tolerance against anyone trying to compromise integrity of game: Cricket Australia

Allegations of spot-fixing by English&nbsp;cricketers have been dismissed by the England and Wales&nbsp;Cricket&nbsp;Board's Integrity Team and&nbsp;Cricket&nbsp;Australia.

The Al Jazeera television network said it had uncovered evidence of corruption in international cricket, including "a small group" of England players in seven matches between 2010 and 2012.

Unnamed Australia and Pakistan players were also accused by the broadcaster in a documentary broadcast on Sunday.

"Whilst the limited information we have been given by Al Jazeera is poorly prepared and lacks clarity and corroboration, it has been properly assessed," the ECB said in a statement.

"Analysis of this by the ECB Integrity Team has cast no doubt on the integrity or behaviour of any England player, current or former.

"The ECB takes its responsibilities on anti-corruption and preserving the integrity of&nbsp;cricket&nbsp;very seriously.

"The materials we have been given have been referred to the ICC's Anti-Corruption unit and we will continue to work with them, as is the correct procedure for protecting the game."

Spot-fixing occurs when players agree to manipulate part of a match by, for example, bowling a wide on a particular delivery or ensuring a particular run rate.

The corruption does not usually affect the overall outcome of the match but gamblers in the know can use the information to beat the betting market.

Cricket&nbsp;Australia's outgoing chief executive James Sutherland said it took "a zero-tolerance approach" to any attempts to compromise the integrity of the game.

The CA integrity unit had reviewed the claims, he added in a statement.

"Our team have not identified any issues of corruption by any current or former player," he said.

"The materials we have been given have been referred to the ICC’s Anti-Corruption unit and we will continue to work with them in order to ensure the integrity of the game.

"We urge Al Jazeera to provide all un-edited materials and any other evidence to the ICC Anti-Corruption Unit."

The Australian&nbsp;Cricketers' Association (ACA) were even more forthright, with their chief executive Alistair Nicholson saying players had had enough of "unsupported accusations".

"The players are sick and tired of being subject to accusations without the proper evidence to substantiate it," he added.

The International&nbsp;Cricket&nbsp;Council has previously hit out at Al Jazeera for failing to share unedited footage from their investigations into corruption in&nbsp;cricket.

"We will again take the contents of the programme and any allegations it may make seriously and will investigate fully," said Alex Marshall, the general manager of the global governing body's anti-corruption unit.

"The investigation into these allegations has already commenced and will run alongside a number of other live unrelated investigations. When considering the claims, we will work with professional independent betting analysts.

"As with the first programme we have, and will continue to ask for the cooperation of the broadcaster."

Allegations of spot-fixing by English cricketers have been dismissed by the England and Wales Cricket Board's Integrity Team and Cricket Australia. The Al Jazeera television network said it had uncovered evidence of corruption in international cricket, including "a small group" of England players in seven matches between 2010 and 2012.

Allegations of spot-fixing by English cricketers have been dismissed by the England and Wales Cricket Board's Integrity Team and Cricket Australia. The Al Jazeera television network said it had uncovered evidence of corruption in international cricket, including "a small group" of England players in seven matches between 2010 and 2012. Unnamed Australia and Pakistan players were also accused by the broadcaster in a documentary broadcast on Sunday. "Whilst the limited information we have been given by Al Jazeera is poorly prepared and lacks clarity and corroboration, it has been properly assessed," the ECB said in a statement. "Analysis of this by the ECB Integrity Team has cast no doubt on the integrity or behaviour of any England player, current or former. "The ECB takes its responsibilities on anti-corruption and preserving the integrity of cricket very seriously. "The materials we have been given have been referred to the ICC's Anti-Corruption unit and we will continue to work with them, as is the correct procedure for protecting the game." Spot-fixing occurs when players agree to manipulate part of a match by, for example, bowling a wide on a particular delivery or ensuring a particular run rate. The corruption does not usually affect the overall outcome of the match but gamblers in the know can use the information to beat the betting market. Cricket Australia's outgoing chief executive James Sutherland said it took "a zero-tolerance approach" to any attempts to compromise the integrity of the game. The CA integrity unit had reviewed the claims, he added in a statement. "Our team have not identified any issues of corruption by any current or former player," he said. "The materials we have been given have been referred to the ICC’s Anti-Corruption unit and we will continue to work with them in order to ensure the integrity of the game. "We urge Al Jazeera to provide all un-edited materials and any other evidence to the ICC Anti-Corruption Unit." The Australian Cricketers' Association (ACA) were even more forthright, with their chief executive Alistair Nicholson saying players had had enough of "unsupported accusations". "The players are sick and tired of being subject to accusations without the proper evidence to substantiate it," he added. The International Cricket Council has previously hit out at Al Jazeera for failing to share unedited footage from their investigations into corruption in cricket. "We will again take the contents of the programme and any allegations it may make seriously and will investigate fully," said Alex Marshall, the general manager of the global governing body's anti-corruption unit. "The investigation into these allegations has already commenced and will run alongside a number of other live unrelated investigations. When considering the claims, we will work with professional independent betting analysts. "As with the first programme we have, and will continue to ask for the cooperation of the broadcaster."

England, Australia boards dismiss spot-fixing allegations

Australia's cricketers have sometimes "tried too hard to be aggressive" as they sought to live up a traditional stereotype of what is expected from them, England's James Anderson said on Sunday.

England have often been on the rough end of Australian aggression, an approach which culminated in three players, including captain Steve Smith, being banned following the ball-tampering scandal in South Africa.

Australia have themselves questioned their own win-at-all-costs approach, which led to off-spinner Nathan Lyon saying he hoped his side could "end the careers" of several opponents before last year's Ashes games.

For Anderson, England's record wicket-taker, the memory of that difficult period appears still raw, with England also claiming that in 2015 Moeen Ali was called "Osama" by an unnamed Australian in that Ashes series.

Australia carried out an investigation into the incident, which was closed last month after they could not find "any new additional evidence".

"They have tried too hard to be that stereotypical Australian team that are aggressive and go hard at people," Anderson, 36, told the BBC although he added that he felt Lyon's comments were taken "out of context".

Last week Australia's new-look side attempted to introduce a softer look, shaking hands before play against Pakistan in Dubai, when they held on for a creditable draw in their first test since the turmoil in South Africa.

Anderson said new Australia captain Tim Paine was "a genuinely nice guy" and was also complimentary about other team members.

"Mitchell Starc is not naturally aggressive despite being a fast bowler and even Steve Smith is a really good bloke -- there is no real malice with anything he does -- so it was really out of character," said Anderson.

However, he added: "The thing about wanting to be good blokes is that you can only be a good bloke if you really are a good one."

"When Brendon McCullum was New Zealand captain, he made it all about being entertaining and showing off your skills," he said.

"Both Eoin Morgan in ODIs and Alastair Cook in Tests took from his way and tried to incorporate it into their captaincy."

Australia visit England in an Ashes series next summer.

Australia's cricketers have sometimes "tried too hard to be aggressive" as they sought to live up a traditional stereotype of what is expected from them, England's James Anderson said on Sunday.

Australia's cricketers have sometimes "tried too hard to be aggressive" as they sought to live up a traditional stereotype of what is expected from them, England's James Anderson said on Sunday. England have often been on the rough end of Australian aggression, an approach which culminated in three players, including captain Steve Smith, being banned following the ball-tampering scandal in South Africa. Australia have themselves questioned their own win-at-all-costs approach, which led to off-spinner Nathan Lyon saying he hoped his side could "end the careers" of several opponents before last year's Ashes games. For Anderson, England's record wicket-taker, the memory of that difficult period appears still raw, with England also claiming that in 2015 Moeen Ali was called "Osama" by an unnamed Australian in that Ashes series. Australia carried out an investigation into the incident, which was closed last month after they could not find "any new additional evidence". "They have tried too hard to be that stereotypical Australian team that are aggressive and go hard at people," Anderson, 36, told the BBC although he added that he felt Lyon's comments were taken "out of context". Last week Australia's new-look side attempted to introduce a softer look, shaking hands before play against Pakistan in Dubai, when they held on for a creditable draw in their first test since the turmoil in South Africa. Anderson said new Australia captain Tim Paine was "a genuinely nice guy" and was also complimentary about other team members. "Mitchell Starc is not naturally aggressive despite being a fast bowler and even Steve Smith is a really good bloke -- there is no real malice with anything he does -- so it was really out of character," said Anderson. However, he added: "The thing about wanting to be good blokes is that you can only be a good bloke if you really are a good one." "When Brendon McCullum was New Zealand captain, he made it all about being entertaining and showing off your skills," he said. "Both Eoin Morgan in ODIs and Alastair Cook in Tests took from his way and tried to incorporate it into their captaincy." Australia visit England in an Ashes series next summer.

Australia were 'too aggressive', says England's James Anderson

Former England captain Andrew Strauss on Wednesday stepped down from his position as director of cricket.

Strauss will take up a more flexible role with the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB), reports say.

The 41-year-old has been replaced by Andy Flower, who will continue until the ECB announces a permanent replacement.

"After three-and-a-half incredible years with the ECB, I have taken the difficult decision to step down from my role as director of England cricket," Strauss said in a statement.

England host the 50-over World Cup next year as well as the Ashes series against Australia, and Strauss said his successor would play a vital role in that period.

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Andrew Strauss has stepped down as Director of England Cricket<a href="https://t.co/FFd3PqdMTt">https://t.co/FFd3PqdMTt</a> <a href="https://t.co/MK2cXGbarg">pic.twitter.com/MK2cXGbarg</a>
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"Next year is potentially the most important the game has had in this country, with the World Cup on home soil and a home Ashes series, and we have an incredible opportunity to do something special," Strauss added. 
"It`s vital that the director of cricket can give consistent guidance and support to England Cricket through this period."

ECB chief executive officer Tom Harrison thanked Strauss for his contribution.

Former England captain Andrew Strauss on Wednesday stepped down from his position as director of cricket. Strauss will take up a more flexible role with the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB), reports say.

Former England captain Andrew Strauss on Wednesday stepped down from his position as director of cricket. Strauss will take up a more flexible role with the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB), reports say. The 41-year-old has been replaced by Andy Flower, who will continue until the ECB announces a permanent replacement. "After three-and-a-half incredible years with the ECB, I have taken the difficult decision to step down from my role as director of England cricket," Strauss said in a statement. England host the 50-over World Cup next year as well as the Ashes series against Australia, and Strauss said his successor would play a vital role in that period. Andrew Strauss has stepped down as Director of England Crickethttps://t.co/FFd3PqdMTt pic.twitter.com/MK2cXGbarg — England Cricket (@englandcricket) October 3, 2018 × "Next year is potentially the most important the game has had in this country, with the World Cup on home soil and a home Ashes series, and we have an incredible opportunity to do something special," Strauss added. "It`s vital that the director of cricket can give consistent guidance and support to England Cricket through this period." ECB chief executive officer Tom Harrison thanked Strauss for his contribution.

Andrew Strauss steps down as director of England cricket

Cricket Australia announced Monday it has closed its investigation into Moeen Ali's claim he was called "Osama" during the 2015 Ashes series, after failing to unearth new details on the allegation.

The England all-rounder and practising Muslim made the claim in his autobiography, an extract of which was published in Britain's Times newspaper earlier this month.

Moeen said he was on the receiving end of the slur, a reference to late Al-Qaeda leader Osama bin Laden, from an unnamed opponent during his Ashes debut in Cardiff.

"An Australian player turned to me on the field and said, 'Take that, Osama'. I could not believe what I had heard. I remember going really red. I have never been so angry on a cricket field," said the 31-year-old.

Cricket Australia announced it was launching an investigation, saying the comment was "unacceptable".

But a CA spokesman said: "We have followed up with the ECB (England and Wales Cricket Board) and our team management and confirmed that the incident was investigated at the time, with a response provided to Moeen.&nbsp;

"Moeen elected not to progress the matter any further and we have not been able to ascertain any new additional evidence through our enquiries. As such, the matter is considered closed."

Moeen said the Australian player in question had denied making the comment to him at the time.

"I told a couple of the guys what the player had said to me and I think (England coach) Trevor Bayliss (who is himself Australian) must have raised it with Darren Lehmann, the (then) Australians' coach," he said.

"Lehmann asked the player, 'Did you call Moeen Osama?' He denied it, saying, 'No, I said, "Take that, you part-timer"'."

Cricket Australia announced Monday it has closed its investigation into Moeen Ali's claim he was called "Osama" during the 2015 Ashes series, after failing to unearth new details on the allegation.

Cricket Australia announced Monday it has closed its investigation into Moeen Ali's claim he was called "Osama" during the 2015 Ashes series, after failing to unearth new details on the allegation. The England all-rounder and practising Muslim made the claim in his autobiography, an extract of which was published in Britain's Times newspaper earlier this month. Moeen said he was on the receiving end of the slur, a reference to late Al-Qaeda leader Osama bin Laden, from an unnamed opponent during his Ashes debut in Cardiff. "An Australian player turned to me on the field and said, 'Take that, Osama'. I could not believe what I had heard. I remember going really red. I have never been so angry on a cricket field," said the 31-year-old. Cricket Australia announced it was launching an investigation, saying the comment was "unacceptable". But a CA spokesman said: "We have followed up with the ECB (England and Wales Cricket Board) and our team management and confirmed that the incident was investigated at the time, with a response provided to Moeen. "Moeen elected not to progress the matter any further and we have not been able to ascertain any new additional evidence through our enquiries. As such, the matter is considered closed." Moeen said the Australian player in question had denied making the comment to him at the time. "I told a couple of the guys what the player had said to me and I think (England coach) Trevor Bayliss (who is himself Australian) must have raised it with Darren Lehmann, the (then) Australians' coach," he said. "Lehmann asked the player, 'Did you call Moeen Osama?' He denied it, saying, 'No, I said, "Take that, you part-timer"'."

Cricket Australia closes probe into Moeen Ali 'Osama' claim

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

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

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

England Spinner Adil Rashid agrees to all-format Yorkshire contract

Rahul Dravid, the last captain to lead India to a series win in England, says the current side faced unusually tough conditions in the recently concluded five-match rubber and the batsmen must prepare better before embarking on the next English tour.&nbsp;

"Let's just be honest first. The conditions in England were not easy for batting. I think batsmen of both teams struggled. If you take out Virat Kohli from the equation, it was not an easy series for the batsmen. I have played in England quite a bit, the conditions can be tough but it is rare to find five Test matches which had conditions as tough as the one they found," Dravid said in response to a PTI query here on Friday.&nbsp;

"As I said, we need to look ahead. The next time we go there, we have to be better prepared for these kind of conditions and try and replicate conditions as best as we possibly we can. It was tough out there. Lets face it," said the Indian batting great at the launch of Manipal Hospitals' first branch in the national capital.&nbsp;

After guiding India to their first series win in England since 1986, Dravid stood out amongst the Indian batsmen on the tour four years later in 2011, scoring three hundreds even though the side was handed a 0-4 hammering by the hosts.&nbsp;

The most recent 1-4 series loss in England was India's third in a row with batsmen letting the team down innings after innings.&nbsp;

The performance left the Indian fans seething, and coach Ravi Shastri added fuel to the fire by calling the current team the best travelling side of the last 15-20 years, even though the results painted a different picture. India's lack of preparation ahead of the series was also heavily criticised.&nbsp;

Dravid, however, did not read much into Shastri's remark.&nbsp;

"I think the whole thing was a little bit blown out of proportion. I am not really interested in commenting on what Mr Shastri feels or he doesn't feel. For me the main thing is what have we learnt from this series?&nbsp;

"What are the lessons that we need to take forward next time we go there? It doesn't matter whether we are the best or not. These are irrelevant things for me," said the 45-year-old, who has 13,288 Test runs to his name.&nbsp;

"Tours like England happens once in three or four years and players who have been part of the series and even the coaching staff, they will be disappointed after losing because you never know what happens in four years time. We really had a good team this time, the bowling was exceptional but it still did not work out," said Dravid, who is now coaching India U-19 and A team.&nbsp;

He said India losing 1-4 was a case of missed opportunity.&nbsp;

"India surely had their moments. They played some very good cricket in what I thought were pretty difficult conditions, especially for the batsmen. They were competitive for the most part of the series but I am sure the team looks at it as an opportunity missed. They would feel, having played so well in certain parts of Test matches, they were not able to finish off games.&nbsp;

"Still there are some positives to take from the series. Our bowling and fielding, especially catching, went on very good but like I said the team would feel it had its chances and unfortunately it did not work out."

Talking about the ongoing Asia Cup in UAE, Dravid said India need to focus on all teams and not just Pakistan.&nbsp;

"Afghanistan is doing well, I don't know why we are only focusing on Pakistan. Bangladesh too are doing well. Afghanistan also are a force to reckon with. If I was in the team I would not just be focusing on Pakistan. We are playing very good white ball cricket but we have to be careful of other teams too," Dravid concluded.

Rahul Dravid, the last captain to lead India to a series win in England, says the current side faced unusually tough conditions in the recently concluded five-match rubber and the batsmen must prepare better before embarking on the next English tour.

Rahul Dravid, the last captain to lead India to a series win in England, says the current side faced unusually tough conditions in the recently concluded five-match rubber and the batsmen must prepare better before embarking on the next English tour. "Let's just be honest first. The conditions in England were not easy for batting. I think batsmen of both teams struggled. If you take out Virat Kohli from the equation, it was not an easy series for the batsmen. I have played in England quite a bit, the conditions can be tough but it is rare to find five Test matches which had conditions as tough as the one they found," Dravid said in response to a PTI query here on Friday. "As I said, we need to look ahead. The next time we go there, we have to be better prepared for these kind of conditions and try and replicate conditions as best as we possibly we can. It was tough out there. Lets face it," said the Indian batting great at the launch of Manipal Hospitals' first branch in the national capital. After guiding India to their first series win in England since 1986, Dravid stood out amongst the Indian batsmen on the tour four years later in 2011, scoring three hundreds even though the side was handed a 0-4 hammering by the hosts. The most recent 1-4 series loss in England was India's third in a row with batsmen letting the team down innings after innings. The performance left the Indian fans seething, and coach Ravi Shastri added fuel to the fire by calling the current team the best travelling side of the last 15-20 years, even though the results painted a different picture. India's lack of preparation ahead of the series was also heavily criticised. Dravid, however, did not read much into Shastri's remark. "I think the whole thing was a little bit blown out of proportion. I am not really interested in commenting on what Mr Shastri feels or he doesn't feel. For me the main thing is what have we learnt from this series? "What are the lessons that we need to take forward next time we go there? It doesn't matter whether we are the best or not. These are irrelevant things for me," said the 45-year-old, who has 13,288 Test runs to his name. "Tours like England happens once in three or four years and players who have been part of the series and even the coaching staff, they will be disappointed after losing because you never know what happens in four years time. We really had a good team this time, the bowling was exceptional but it still did not work out," said Dravid, who is now coaching India U-19 and A team. He said India losing 1-4 was a case of missed opportunity. "India surely had their moments. They played some very good cricket in what I thought were pretty difficult conditions, especially for the batsmen. They were competitive for the most part of the series but I am sure the team looks at it as an opportunity missed. They would feel, having played so well in certain parts of Test matches, they were not able to finish off games. "Still there are some positives to take from the series. Our bowling and fielding, especially catching, went on very good but like I said the team would feel it had its chances and unfortunately it did not work out." Talking about the ongoing Asia Cup in UAE, Dravid said India need to focus on all teams and not just Pakistan. "Afghanistan is doing well, I don't know why we are only focusing on Pakistan. Bangladesh too are doing well. Afghanistan also are a force to reckon with. If I was in the team I would not just be focusing on Pakistan. We are playing very good white ball cricket but we have to be careful of other teams too," Dravid concluded.

Batsmen have to be better prepared when they go to England next time: Rahul Dravid

David Warner rode his luck to reach his 21st test century as Australia crawled to 145 for two at tea on day one of the fourth Ashes test against England on Tuesday.

Warner was caught on 99 just before the drinks break but was reprieved when the TV replay showed debutant paceman Tom Curran had overstepped his mark to the delight of a bumper Boxing Day crowd at the Melbourne Cricket Ground.

Warner raised his hundred with a single on the next ball to add insult to England&#39;s injury but he was unable to capitalise on the life, nicking James Anderson behind to be out for 103.

Usman Khawaja was 10 not out at tea, with home captain Steve Smith on five, as Australia managed only 43 runs in the middle session after piling on 102 in the morning.

All-rounder Chris Woakes had earlier broken a 122-run opening partnership between vice captain Warner and Cameron Bancroft after Australia resumed on 102 without loss.

Woakes removed Bancroft leg before for 26 early in the session, the tourists&#39; first reward following a fruitless morning after Smith won the toss and opted to bat.

Warner had galloped to 83 at lunch but England`s bowlers did well to pin him down in the nineties and he ended up top-edging Curran to Stuart Broad at mid-on with a clumsy pull-shot.

The hard-hitting 31-year-old trudged away furious with himself but turned straight back after seeing the no-ball replayed on the scoreboard.

The terraces roared in delight at Curran`s misfortune and again when Warner pushed a single off his hip off the next ball to raise a ton boasting 13 fours and a six.

He celebrated with his customary leap and fist-pump but Anderson mercifully cut short Curran`s agony with a fine delivery that jagged back off the seam to catch the edge on the way through to wicketkeeper Jonny Bairstow.

Australia, leading the series 3-0, regained the urn with victory in the third match at the WACA and are bidding to whitewash the tourists for a second consecutive home Ashes.

Australia made one change to their side from the third test with right-arm pace bowler Jackson Bird coming in for injured left-armer Mitchell Starc.

England also made one change to the side that lost by an innings and 41 runs in Perth with Surrey seamer Curran replacing Craig Overton who was ruled out with a broken rib.

David Warner rode his luck to reach his 21st test century as Australia crawled to 145 for two at tea on day one of the fourth Ashes test against England on Tuesday. Warner was caught on 99 just before the drinks break but was reprieved when the TV replay showed debutant paceman Tom Curran had overstepped his mark to the delight of a bumper Boxing Day crowd at the Melbourne Cricket Ground. Warner raised his hundred with a single on the next ball to add insult to England's injury but he was unable to capitalise on the life, nicking James Anderson behind to be out for 103. Usman Khawaja was 10 not out at tea, with home captain Steve Smith on five, as Australia managed only 43 runs in the middle session after piling on 102 in the morning. All-rounder Chris Woakes had earlier broken a 122-run opening partnership between vice captain Warner and Cameron Bancroft after Australia resumed on 102 without loss. Woakes removed Bancroft leg before for 26 early in the session, the tourists' first reward following a fruitless morning after Smith won the toss and opted to bat. Warner had galloped to 83 at lunch but England`s bowlers did well to pin him down in the nineties and he ended up top-edging Curran to Stuart Broad at mid-on with a clumsy pull-shot. The hard-hitting 31-year-old trudged away furious with himself but turned straight back after seeing the no-ball replayed on the scoreboard. The terraces roared in delight at Curran`s misfortune and again when Warner pushed a single off his hip off the next ball to raise a ton boasting 13 fours and a six. He celebrated with his customary leap and fist-pump but Anderson mercifully cut short Curran`s agony with a fine delivery that jagged back off the seam to catch the edge on the way through to wicketkeeper Jonny Bairstow. Australia, leading the series 3-0, regained the urn with victory in the third match at the WACA and are bidding to whitewash the tourists for a second consecutive home Ashes. Australia made one change to their side from the third test with right-arm pace bowler Jackson Bird coming in for injured left-armer Mitchell Starc. England also made one change to the side that lost by an innings and 41 runs in Perth with Surrey seamer Curran replacing Craig Overton who was ruled out with a broken rib.

Ashes, 4th Test: Australia's Warner makes very lucky ton after being caught on 99

England all-rounder <a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/ipl-ben-stokes-spurs-pune-supergiants-to-five-wicket-win-over-gujarat-lions-15136" target="_blank">Ben&nbsp;Stokes</a>&nbsp;was&nbsp;arrested early on Monday&nbsp;after&nbsp;an incident in&nbsp;Bristol&nbsp;and will miss the&nbsp;<a href="http://www.wionews.com/cricket/india-hammer-sri-lanka-by-168-runs-in-fourth-odi-19736" target="_blank">fourth&nbsp;one-day international</a> against West Indies, the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) said.

&quot;He was held overnight and released under investigation, without&nbsp;charge, late on Monday and will not join the team in London,&quot; the ECB said in a statement on Tuesday.

Opener Alex Hales, who was with&nbsp;Stokes&nbsp;on Sunday night, will also miss Wednesday&#39;s match at The Oval. The ECB said he had returned voluntarily to the city in the west of England to help police with their enquiries.

England took an unassailable 2-0 lead in the five-match series&nbsp;after&nbsp;winning the third game by 124 runs in&nbsp;Bristol&nbsp;on Sunday. The second game was washed&nbsp;out.

The news broke as the England selectors meet to finalise the squad, which will be announced on Wednesday, for the Ashes Tour to Australia.

The flame-haired&nbsp;Stokes, vice-captain of the England test team and one of world cricket&#39;s most destructive batsmen, would expect to be one of the first names on the list.

&quot;The selectors have been instructed to select the Ashes squad based on form and fitness as they normally would,&quot; said Andrew Strauss,&nbsp;England&#39;s&nbsp;director of cricket.

The ECB gave no further details of the incident, but the BBC said it happened in a city nightclub. Sky Sports Television reported that the 26-year-old player had injured his hand.

Avon and Somerset&#39;s police said they had been called to a disorder in the Clifton area in the early hours.

&quot;A 27-year-old man was found to have suffered facial injuries and was taken to the&nbsp;Bristol&nbsp;Royal Infirmary for treatment,&quot; they said in a statement.

&quot;A 26-year-old man was&nbsp;arrested on suspicion of causing actual bodily harm and has since been released under investigation.&quot;

England all-rounder Ben Stokes was arrested early on Monday after an incident in Bristol

England all-rounder Ben Stokes was arrested early on Monday after an incident in Bristol and will miss the fourth one-day international against West Indies, the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) said. "He was held overnight and released under investigation, without charge, late on Monday and will not join the team in London," the ECB said in a statement on Tuesday. Opener Alex Hales, who was with Stokes on Sunday night, will also miss Wednesday's match at The Oval. The ECB said he had returned voluntarily to the city in the west of England to help police with their enquiries. England took an unassailable 2-0 lead in the five-match series after winning the third game by 124 runs in Bristol on Sunday. The second game was washed out. The news broke as the England selectors meet to finalise the squad, which will be announced on Wednesday, for the Ashes Tour to Australia. The flame-haired Stokes, vice-captain of the England test team and one of world cricket's most destructive batsmen, would expect to be one of the first names on the list. "The selectors have been instructed to select the Ashes squad based on form and fitness as they normally would," said Andrew Strauss, England's director of cricket. The ECB gave no further details of the incident, but the BBC said it happened in a city nightclub. Sky Sports Television reported that the 26-year-old player had injured his hand. Avon and Somerset's police said they had been called to a disorder in the Clifton area in the early hours. "A 27-year-old man was found to have suffered facial injuries and was taken to the Bristol Royal Infirmary for treatment," they said in a statement. "A 26-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of causing actual bodily harm and has since been released under investigation."

England's Ben Stokes out of fourth ODI after arrest in Bristol

England spinner Moeen Ali took a hat-trick as England beat South Africa by a massive 239 runs in the third Test at the Oval to take a 2-1 lead in the series.

Set a daunting target of 492 runs, South Africa managed just 252 runs despite Elgar&#39;s defiant 132 as Toby Roland-Jones and Moeen Ali tore into the South African batting line-up taking seven wickets between them.

The South African&#39;s began the fifth day on 117/4 on a confident note with Elgar and Bavuma sharing a fifth-wicket partnership of 108 but Roland-Jones removed Bavuma out lbw for 32 and in the next ball he struck again taking the wicket of Philander for a duck reducing the visitors to 160/6.

It was all the way downhill from there as Moeen Ali hit the South Africans hard with a hat-trick with the visitors losing the last 3 wickets with the score on 252.&nbsp;

Moeen Ali&#39;s hat-trick victims included Elgar(132) Rabada(0) and Morkel(0) as the South Africans gave up without a fight on the final day.

England spinner Moeen Ali took a hat-trick as England beat South Africa by a massive 239 runs in the third Test

England spinner Moeen Ali took a hat-trick as England beat South Africa by a massive 239 runs in the third Test at the Oval to take a 2-1 lead in the series. Set a daunting target of 492 runs, South Africa managed just 252 runs despite Elgar's defiant 132 as Toby Roland-Jones and Moeen Ali tore into the South African batting line-up taking seven wickets between them. The South African's began the fifth day on 117/4 on a confident note with Elgar and Bavuma sharing a fifth-wicket partnership of 108 but Roland-Jones removed Bavuma out lbw for 32 and in the next ball he struck again taking the wicket of Philander for a duck reducing the visitors to 160/6. It was all the way downhill from there as Moeen Ali hit the South Africans hard with a hat-trick with the visitors losing the last 3 wickets with the score on 252. Moeen Ali's hat-trick victims included Elgar(132) Rabada(0) and Morkel(0) as the South Africans gave up without a fight on the final day.

1st Test: Moeen's hat-trick destroys South Africa

Australia were knocked out of the Champions Trophy without winning a game after Ben Stokes&#39; stunning century guided England to an impressive 40-run Duckworth-Lewis victory on Saturday.

Australia, whose two previous games against New Zealand and Bangladesh were rained off, scored 277-9 from 50 overs -- with Mark Wood and Adil Rashid taking four wickets apiece -- and had reduced England to 35-3 in response.

But, after a brief rain break, Eoin Morgan (87) and Stokes (102 not out) dismantled the Australian attack, scoring freely in a partnership of 159 before Morgan was run out when closing in on his century.

But Stokes brought up his hundred with a cut through the covers, and he and Jos Buttler (29 not out) carried England home with the hosts comfortably ahead on Duckworth-Lewis at 240-4 off 40.2 overs.

They are joined in the semi-finals by unfancied Bangladesh, who beat New Zealand in Group A on Friday.

Bad weather affected all three Australian matches but captain Steve Smith was unwilling to use that as an excuse.

&quot;We&#39;ve got some quality cricketers, but we didn&#39;t turn up,&quot; he told the BBC. &quot;It&#39;s been disappointing to have not got a complete game in, but you can&#39;t make excuses like this.&quot;

England&#39;s captain Morgan said his side were close to their best in beating the reigning 50-over world champions.

&quot;This is a tournament you need to be at your best to win games of cricket,&quot; he said.

Having been put in to bat, Australia set about building an imposing score. After David Warner was dismissed for 21, Aaron Finch and Smith scored freely to race past 100.

Finch struck eight boundaries in his 68 when Morgan took a superb catch off the bowling of Stokes, before Rashid had Moises Henriques (17) caught with Australia 161-3.

Smith (56) fell to Wood, while Jason Roy sensationally caught Glenn Maxwell (20). He scooped the ball on the boundary, off-balanced, before throwing it in the air and catching it again as he ran back into the field of play.

The impressive Rashid dismissed Matthew Wade (2) and Mitchell Starc (0) in one over, and Pat Cummins (4) in his next as England finished superbly.

After Wood claimed his fourth wicket, bowling Adam Zampa for a duck, Travis Head (71 not out) smashed two late sixes as Australia finished on 277-9.

England&#39;s response got off to a terrible start with out-of-form Roy (4), Alex Hales (0) and Joe Root (15) gone inside six overs as England slumped to 35-3 before the first rain break.

The break helped England as the swashbuckling duo of Morgan and Stokes both completed confident fifties with a series of lusty blows to bring up their 100 partnership.

The onslaught continued and a century beckoned for Morgan but he was run out by Zampa.

However, any thought of an Australia fightback was ended by Stokes, who struck 13 boundaries and two sixes, and Buttler who marshalled England until heavy rain ended the game.

(Reuters)

England are joined in the semi-finals by unfancied Bangladesh, who beat New Zealand in Group A on Friday

Australia were knocked out of the Champions Trophy without winning a game after Ben Stokes' stunning century guided England to an impressive 40-run Duckworth-Lewis victory on Saturday. Australia, whose two previous games against New Zealand and Bangladesh were rained off, scored 277-9 from 50 overs -- with Mark Wood and Adil Rashid taking four wickets apiece -- and had reduced England to 35-3 in response. But, after a brief rain break, Eoin Morgan (87) and Stokes (102 not out) dismantled the Australian attack, scoring freely in a partnership of 159 before Morgan was run out when closing in on his century. But Stokes brought up his hundred with a cut through the covers, and he and Jos Buttler (29 not out) carried England home with the hosts comfortably ahead on Duckworth-Lewis at 240-4 off 40.2 overs. They are joined in the semi-finals by unfancied Bangladesh, who beat New Zealand in Group A on Friday. Bad weather affected all three Australian matches but captain Steve Smith was unwilling to use that as an excuse. "We've got some quality cricketers, but we didn't turn up," he told the BBC. "It's been disappointing to have not got a complete game in, but you can't make excuses like this." England's captain Morgan said his side were close to their best in beating the reigning 50-over world champions. "This is a tournament you need to be at your best to win games of cricket," he said. Having been put in to bat, Australia set about building an imposing score. After David Warner was dismissed for 21, Aaron Finch and Smith scored freely to race past 100. Finch struck eight boundaries in his 68 when Morgan took a superb catch off the bowling of Stokes, before Rashid had Moises Henriques (17) caught with Australia 161-3. Smith (56) fell to Wood, while Jason Roy sensationally caught Glenn Maxwell (20). He scooped the ball on the boundary, off-balanced, before throwing it in the air and catching it again as he ran back into the field of play. The impressive Rashid dismissed Matthew Wade (2) and Mitchell Starc (0) in one over, and Pat Cummins (4) in his next as England finished superbly. After Wood claimed his fourth wicket, bowling Adam Zampa for a duck, Travis Head (71 not out) smashed two late sixes as Australia finished on 277-9. England's response got off to a terrible start with out-of-form Roy (4), Alex Hales (0) and Joe Root (15) gone inside six overs as England slumped to 35-3 before the first rain break. The break helped England as the swashbuckling duo of Morgan and Stokes both completed confident fifties with a series of lusty blows to bring up their 100 partnership. The onslaught continued and a century beckoned for Morgan but he was run out by Zampa. However, any thought of an Australia fightback was ended by Stokes, who struck 13 boundaries and two sixes, and Buttler who marshalled England until heavy rain ended the game. (Reuters)

Australia out of Champions Trophy after comfortable England win

Star batsman Virat Kohli smashed a massive double century before England slumped to 182-6 at stumps on day four as India closed in on victory in the fourth Test Sunday.

Captain Kohli struck 235 runs for his third double ton of the year and Jayant Yadav scored a maiden Test century to fire India to a huge first innings score of 631.

England, trailing by 231 runs, and already facing a mountain to climb to win the Test and salvage the series, then endured a nightmare start to their second innings in Mumbai.

The visitors lost a trio of quick wickets in just 13.2 overs to sit at 49-3 at tea as they started to stare defeat in the face at the Wankhede Stadium.

Keaton Jennings, who scored a century on his Test debut in the first innings, went for a golden duck, out lbw off Indian medium pace bowler Bhuvneshwar Kumar.

Captain Alastair Cook walked next, out lbw to left-arm spinner Ravindra Jadeja for just 18 runs.

Moeen Ali then lasted only three balls without score as Jadeja grabbed a second quick wicket thanks to the safe hands of Murali Vijay.

Joe Root and Jonny Bairstow did their best to make a contest of it by putting on a fourth wicket partnership of 92 before the former was bowled lbw by Yadav for 77 runs.

Ben Stokes came and went for 18 while Bairstow was unbeaten on 50 at stumps.

India&#39;s talismanic Kohli had earlier blasted a double century that included 25 fours and one six during his 340-ball stay.

It marked his third double century of 2016 in what has been a sensational and record-breaking year for the Indian skipper.

The 28-year-old put on a massive 241-run partnership with Yadav as England failed to take any wickets during the morning session.

Kohli removed his helmet and raised his bat to the adoring crowd as he brought up his double ton with a single off his 302nd ball of the match.&nbsp;

The right-hander has been the standout batsman of the year, scoring a double century against the West Indies in July before repeating the feat against New Zealand in October.

He was eventually caught out by James Anderson from Chris Woakes.

England, who scored 400 in their first innings, must win to keep the series alive going into the fifth Test in Chennai, a feat that now looks all but impossible.

(PTI)

Captain Kohli struck 235 runs for his third double ton of the year, as India closed in on victory in the fourth Test Sunday

Star batsman Virat Kohli smashed a massive double century before England slumped to 182-6 at stumps on day four as India closed in on victory in the fourth Test Sunday. Captain Kohli struck 235 runs for his third double ton of the year and Jayant Yadav scored a maiden Test century to fire India to a huge first innings score of 631. England, trailing by 231 runs, and already facing a mountain to climb to win the Test and salvage the series, then endured a nightmare start to their second innings in Mumbai. The visitors lost a trio of quick wickets in just 13.2 overs to sit at 49-3 at tea as they started to stare defeat in the face at the Wankhede Stadium. Keaton Jennings, who scored a century on his Test debut in the first innings, went for a golden duck, out lbw off Indian medium pace bowler Bhuvneshwar Kumar. Captain Alastair Cook walked next, out lbw to left-arm spinner Ravindra Jadeja for just 18 runs. Moeen Ali then lasted only three balls without score as Jadeja grabbed a second quick wicket thanks to the safe hands of Murali Vijay. Joe Root and Jonny Bairstow did their best to make a contest of it by putting on a fourth wicket partnership of 92 before the former was bowled lbw by Yadav for 77 runs. Ben Stokes came and went for 18 while Bairstow was unbeaten on 50 at stumps. India's talismanic Kohli had earlier blasted a double century that included 25 fours and one six during his 340-ball stay. It marked his third double century of 2016 in what has been a sensational and record-breaking year for the Indian skipper. The 28-year-old put on a massive 241-run partnership with Yadav as England failed to take any wickets during the morning session. Kohli removed his helmet and raised his bat to the adoring crowd as he brought up his double ton with a single off his 302nd ball of the match. The right-hander has been the standout batsman of the year, scoring a double century against the West Indies in July before repeating the feat against New Zealand in October. He was eventually caught out by James Anderson from Chris Woakes. England, who scored 400 in their first innings, must win to keep the series alive going into the fifth Test in Chennai, a feat that now looks all but impossible. (PTI)

Kohli hits double century as England slumps

England are to go ahead with their tour of Bangladesh, the England and Wales Cricket Board confirmed Thursday. 
 
ECB&#39;s official Twitter feed confirmed&nbsp;the green signal on Bangladesh tour . 
&nbsp;
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
We can confirm that <a href="https://twitter.com/englandcricket">@englandcricket</a>&#39;s tour of Bangladesh will continue as planned. A brief statement to follow shortly
&mdash; ECB (@ECB_cricket) <a href="https://twitter.com/ECB_cricket/status/768908427586306048">August 25, 2016</a></blockquote>
 
 
There were doubts on whether the team will follow through the tour after an attack on July 1st in a cafe in Dhaka, the capital of Bangladesh. Islamic State claimed responsibility for the attack that killed 20 people. 
 
An ECB delegation&nbsp;recently visited Bangladesh to make their own security assessment. They were led by&nbsp;security adviser Reg Dickason, accompanied by director of cricket operations John Carr and David Leatherdale of the Professional Cricketers&#39; Association 
 
Following their return, the ECB said yesterday that the three one-day internationals and two Tests which England are due to play in Bangladesh in October and November before heading to India were set to go ahead as scheduled. 
 
Australia cancelled their tour of Bangladesh in October for security reasons and then withdrew their side from the Under-19 World Cup in the country at the start of this year. England, however, fielded a team at the youth event. 
 
(WION with inputs from AFP)

There were question marks over the series as ECB was worried about the safety of its players due to the July terror attack n Dhaka

England are to go ahead with their tour of Bangladesh, the England and Wales Cricket Board confirmed Thursday. ECB's official Twitter feed confirmed the green signal on Bangladesh tour . We can confirm that @englandcricket's tour of Bangladesh will continue as planned. A brief statement to follow shortly — ECB (@ECB_cricket) August 25, 2016 There were doubts on whether the team will follow through the tour after an attack on July 1st in a cafe in Dhaka, the capital of Bangladesh. Islamic State claimed responsibility for the attack that killed 20 people. An ECB delegation recently visited Bangladesh to make their own security assessment. They were led by security adviser Reg Dickason, accompanied by director of cricket operations John Carr and David Leatherdale of the Professional Cricketers' Association Following their return, the ECB said yesterday that the three one-day internationals and two Tests which England are due to play in Bangladesh in October and November before heading to India were set to go ahead as scheduled. Australia cancelled their tour of Bangladesh in October for security reasons and then withdrew their side from the Under-19 World Cup in the country at the start of this year. England, however, fielded a team at the youth event. (WION with inputs from AFP)

England to go ahead with Bangladesh tour

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