England captain Joe Root expects his side to fight back hard against Australia when the second Ashes test starts at Lord`s on Wednesday, with paceman Jofra Archer raring to make the most of his debut.

Australia lead the five-match series 1-0 after their emphatic <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/australia-win-first-ashes-test-against-england-by-251-runs-240911">251-run win at Edgbaston</a>.

"We're in English conditions, we back ourselves to perform and to come back strong after last week," Root told reporters on Tuesday.

"We've proven that we do that time and time again after we've been defeated, especially at home, and I`m expecting a big response from the boys."

Archer said this week, after being named in England's 12 man squad, that he had fully recovered from a side strain.

The Barbados-born pace bowler made a big impact at the World Cup as England`s leading wicket-taker, bowling also the dramatic Super Over against New Zealand at Lord`s which sealed the title for the hosts.

"He's certainly very confident and that`s great to see in a young guy -- as he should be off the back of a brilliant World Cup," said Root.

"As he`s made it very clear, red-ball cricket is his preferred format, so again it`s very exciting to see him at the start of a journey.

"When he gets his chance, he`ll be desperate to prove to everyone that he is as good as he says he is."

The defeat at Edgbaston marked the first time since 2005 that England have made a losing start to a home Ashes series and another loss at Lord`s would deal a huge blow to their chances of regaining the urn. 
England have not lost consecutive home tests against any side for 11 years.

"Last week will have hurt everyone and everyone will be desperate to win this week. I expect nothing less," Root told the BBC.

All-rounder Moeen Ali has been dropped for the test after making only four runs in two innings at Edgbaston, with slow left-armer Jack Leach expected to take over England`s spin bowling duties at Lord`s.

Weather forecasts predict a wet Wednesday and Root said a final decision on the playing lineup would be made on the day.

"There's a bit of weather around and we`ll see what the pitch looks like as well. We've seen it change quite drastically the last few times we`ve been here," he said.

"It's important that we give ourselves as many options as possible."

England captain Joe Root expects his side to fight back hard against Australia when the second Ashes test starts at Lord`s on Wednesday, with paceman Jofra Archer raring to make the most of his debut.

England captain Joe Root expects his side to fight back hard against Australia when the second Ashes test starts at Lord`s on Wednesday, with paceman Jofra Archer raring to make the most of his debut. Australia lead the five-match series 1-0 after their emphatic 251-run win at Edgbaston. "We're in English conditions, we back ourselves to perform and to come back strong after last week," Root told reporters on Tuesday. "We've proven that we do that time and time again after we've been defeated, especially at home, and I`m expecting a big response from the boys." Archer said this week, after being named in England's 12 man squad, that he had fully recovered from a side strain. The Barbados-born pace bowler made a big impact at the World Cup as England`s leading wicket-taker, bowling also the dramatic Super Over against New Zealand at Lord`s which sealed the title for the hosts. "He's certainly very confident and that`s great to see in a young guy -- as he should be off the back of a brilliant World Cup," said Root. "As he`s made it very clear, red-ball cricket is his preferred format, so again it`s very exciting to see him at the start of a journey. "When he gets his chance, he`ll be desperate to prove to everyone that he is as good as he says he is." The defeat at Edgbaston marked the first time since 2005 that England have made a losing start to a home Ashes series and another loss at Lord`s would deal a huge blow to their chances of regaining the urn. England have not lost consecutive home tests against any side for 11 years. "Last week will have hurt everyone and everyone will be desperate to win this week. I expect nothing less," Root told the BBC. All-rounder Moeen Ali has been dropped for the test after making only four runs in two innings at Edgbaston, with slow left-armer Jack Leach expected to take over England`s spin bowling duties at Lord`s. Weather forecasts predict a wet Wednesday and Root said a final decision on the playing lineup would be made on the day. "There's a bit of weather around and we`ll see what the pitch looks like as well. We've seen it change quite drastically the last few times we`ve been here," he said. "It's important that we give ourselves as many options as possible."

Ashes 2019: Joe Root expects England to come back strong at Lord's

Australia's Steve Smith said he had contemplated the end of his career after marking his first Test since a year-long ball-tampering ban with a superb <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ashes-2019-eng-v-aus-first-test-day-one-smith-ton-takes-australia-to-284-all-out-in-first-ashes-test-240025">century on the opening day of the 2019 Ashes</a>.

The tourists were struggling at 17-2 at Edgbaston on Thursday when former Australia captain Smith walked out to bat and they later collapsed to 122-8.

But Smith, ignoring the repeated boos of the crowd, made 144 in a total of 284 after current Australia skipper Tim Paine won the toss before England closed on 10-0.

Smith's 24th Test century was the star batsman's first international hundred since he returned to Australia duty during a World Cup where he made 85 in last month's Edgbaston semi-final defeat by eventual champions England.

"There were times throughout the last 15 months where I didn't know if I was ever going to play cricket again," Smith, renowned for his obsessive devotion to the sport, told reporters after stumps.

"I lost a bit of love for it at one point, particularly when I had my elbow operation.&nbsp;

"It was really bizarre that it was the day I got the brace off my elbow, I found a love for it again.&nbsp;

"I don't know what it was, it was like a trigger that just said 'right I'm ready to go again, I want to play and I want to go out and play for Australia and make people proud and just do what I love doing'.

There were many familiar Smith traits on show in Birmingham, including the repeated fidgeting in his stance, while the crowd could scarcely have been tougher on the 30-year-old than he was when berating himself for the occasional loose shot.

Also on display was Smith's ability to bat well alongside tailenders, with Australia's last two wickets more than doubling their score.

Smith's near six-hour innings was a chanceless affair until he was last man out, with his biggest scare coming when given out lbw for 34 to Stuart Broad not playing a shot only to overturn the decision on review.

'Shivers down my spine'

Then skipper Smith and Warner, his deputy, were both given 12-month bans for their roles in the scandal in South Africa, while Cameron Bancroft -- the man who brazenly applied sandpaper to the ball during a Test in Cape Town -- was suspended from international duty for nine months by Cricket Australia.

All three batsmen were dismissed by Broad on Thursday, with openers Bancroft and Warner managing just 10 between them for the Ashes-holders.&nbsp;

The trio were booed on their way out to the middle and when they were dismissed, with even Smith's century a cue for yet more jeering.

"I know I've got the support of the boys in the room and, for me, that's all that really matters," insisted Smith following what he labelled one of his "best" centuries.&nbsp;

"They went berserk on the balcony when I got to my hundred and just looking up at them, it sent shivers down my spine."

When Broad eventually bowled Smith, the paceman had his 100th Test wicket against Australia after completing an innings haul of 5-86.

Australia's task was made easier by James Anderson, England's all-time leading Test wicket-taker, only bowling four overs before going off with a calf injury.&nbsp;

"He actually came and said sorry to all the bowlers, not that he's got anything to be sorry for," Broad said of Anderson, his longstanding new-ball colleague.&nbsp;

"He feels like he's let the bowling group down but he hasn't. Niggles are a part of fast bowling."

Broad paid tribute to Smith but, having been on the receiving end of a "bit of stick" by Australian crowds, refused to condemn spectators for their taunts.

"It's part of being a professional sportsman," he said. "Footballers get it all the time but it's a bit unexpected sometimes in cricket.&nbsp;

"Smith seemed to deal with it OK."

Australia's Steve Smith said he had contemplated the end of his career after marking his first Test since a year-long ball-tampering ban with a superb century on the opening day of the 2019 Ashes.

Australia's Steve Smith said he had contemplated the end of his career after marking his first Test since a year-long ball-tampering ban with a superb century on the opening day of the 2019 Ashes. The tourists were struggling at 17-2 at Edgbaston on Thursday when former Australia captain Smith walked out to bat and they later collapsed to 122-8. But Smith, ignoring the repeated boos of the crowd, made 144 in a total of 284 after current Australia skipper Tim Paine won the toss before England closed on 10-0. Smith's 24th Test century was the star batsman's first international hundred since he returned to Australia duty during a World Cup where he made 85 in last month's Edgbaston semi-final defeat by eventual champions England. "There were times throughout the last 15 months where I didn't know if I was ever going to play cricket again," Smith, renowned for his obsessive devotion to the sport, told reporters after stumps. "I lost a bit of love for it at one point, particularly when I had my elbow operation. "It was really bizarre that it was the day I got the brace off my elbow, I found a love for it again. "I don't know what it was, it was like a trigger that just said 'right I'm ready to go again, I want to play and I want to go out and play for Australia and make people proud and just do what I love doing'. There were many familiar Smith traits on show in Birmingham, including the repeated fidgeting in his stance, while the crowd could scarcely have been tougher on the 30-year-old than he was when berating himself for the occasional loose shot. Also on display was Smith's ability to bat well alongside tailenders, with Australia's last two wickets more than doubling their score. Smith's near six-hour innings was a chanceless affair until he was last man out, with his biggest scare coming when given out lbw for 34 to Stuart Broad not playing a shot only to overturn the decision on review. 'Shivers down my spine' Then skipper Smith and Warner, his deputy, were both given 12-month bans for their roles in the scandal in South Africa, while Cameron Bancroft -- the man who brazenly applied sandpaper to the ball during a Test in Cape Town -- was suspended from international duty for nine months by Cricket Australia. All three batsmen were dismissed by Broad on Thursday, with openers Bancroft and Warner managing just 10 between them for the Ashes-holders. The trio were booed on their way out to the middle and when they were dismissed, with even Smith's century a cue for yet more jeering. "I know I've got the support of the boys in the room and, for me, that's all that really matters," insisted Smith following what he labelled one of his "best" centuries. "They went berserk on the balcony when I got to my hundred and just looking up at them, it sent shivers down my spine." When Broad eventually bowled Smith, the paceman had his 100th Test wicket against Australia after completing an innings haul of 5-86. Australia's task was made easier by James Anderson, England's all-time leading Test wicket-taker, only bowling four overs before going off with a calf injury. "He actually came and said sorry to all the bowlers, not that he's got anything to be sorry for," Broad said of Anderson, his longstanding new-ball colleague. "He feels like he's let the bowling group down but he hasn't. Niggles are a part of fast bowling." Broad paid tribute to Smith but, having been on the receiving end of a "bit of stick" by Australian crowds, refused to condemn spectators for their taunts. "It's part of being a professional sportsman," he said. "Footballers get it all the time but it's a bit unexpected sometimes in cricket. "Smith seemed to deal with it OK."

I lost bit of love for cricket at one point, says Steve Smith after Ashes comeback century

Hundreds of people were evacuated from a town in central England as a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/british-airways-suspends-flights-to-cairo-for-seven-days-237378">British</a> military helicopter was called in Friday to prevent a reservoir dam from collapsing.

The Toddbrook Reservoir dam was feared to be on the verge of caving in following heavy rain, threatening the lives and homes of residents in Whaley Bridge.

One side of the dam spillway weakened when the panels started to come away on Thursday.

A Royal Air Force (RAF) helicopter lowered bags of aggregate into the damaged part of the dam wall on Friday, while firefighters, scrambled from around the country, have been pumping water out of the reservoir.

"It is a critical situation," said Julie Sharman, chief operating officer of the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-waterways-connect-bhutan-and-bangladesh-235391">Canal and River Trust</a> which runs the reservoir.

She said water levels had reduced by around eight inches (20 centimetres) overnight.

The British government has issued a "severe flooding -- danger to life" warning for the area directly below the dam.

Whaley Bridge in Derbyshire is on the edge of the Peak District National Park and 16 miles (26 kilometres) southeast of the city of Manchester.

The reservoir dates back to the 19th century.

Fast-flowing water had been rushing over the spillway before the collapse.

"I've lived in Whaley for the best part of 45 years, and I've never seen water flood over the dam like that, ever, nor thought that we could be at risk in this way," said resident Carolyn Whittle.

The RAF Chinook heavy-lift helicopter was dropping some 400 one-tonne bags of sand, gravel, and stone into place.

Derbyshire Police assistant chief constable Kem Mehmet said more than a thousand people had been evacuated from areas that would be flooded immediately if the dam wall failed.

"As there is still a risk the dam will fail, please stay away from the area," he said.

"Being asked to leave your home is an extremely difficult and worrying situation to find yourself in. However, it is not a decision we have taken lightly."

He said "everything humanly possible" was being done "to save the reservoir wall and to protect the town". 
&nbsp;

Hundreds of people were evacuated from a town in central England as a British military helicopter was called in Friday to prevent a reservoir dam from collapsing.

Hundreds of people were evacuated from a town in central England as a British military helicopter was called in Friday to prevent a reservoir dam from collapsing. The Toddbrook Reservoir dam was feared to be on the verge of caving in following heavy rain, threatening the lives and homes of residents in Whaley Bridge. One side of the dam spillway weakened when the panels started to come away on Thursday. A Royal Air Force (RAF) helicopter lowered bags of aggregate into the damaged part of the dam wall on Friday, while firefighters, scrambled from around the country, have been pumping water out of the reservoir. "It is a critical situation," said Julie Sharman, chief operating officer of the Canal and River Trust which runs the reservoir. She said water levels had reduced by around eight inches (20 centimetres) overnight. The British government has issued a "severe flooding -- danger to life" warning for the area directly below the dam. Whaley Bridge in Derbyshire is on the edge of the Peak District National Park and 16 miles (26 kilometres) southeast of the city of Manchester. The reservoir dates back to the 19th century. Fast-flowing water had been rushing over the spillway before the collapse. "I've lived in Whaley for the best part of 45 years, and I've never seen water flood over the dam like that, ever, nor thought that we could be at risk in this way," said resident Carolyn Whittle. The RAF Chinook heavy-lift helicopter was dropping some 400 one-tonne bags of sand, gravel, and stone into place. Derbyshire Police assistant chief constable Kem Mehmet said more than a thousand people had been evacuated from areas that would be flooded immediately if the dam wall failed. "As there is still a risk the dam will fail, please stay away from the area," he said. "Being asked to leave your home is an extremely difficult and worrying situation to find yourself in. However, it is not a decision we have taken lightly." He said "everything humanly possible" was being done "to save the reservoir wall and to protect the town".

British town evacuated as dam disintegrates

Australia captain Tim Paine won the toss and decided to bat in the first <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/anderson-could-hold-key-to-ashes-says-mcgrath-239251">Ashes</a> Test against England at Edgbaston on Thursday.

Ashes-holders Australia has not won a match of any kind at Edgbaston since 2001, while England has won their past 11 internationals at the Birmingham ground.

Australia is looking for their first <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ashes-contest-too-close-to-call-says-former-australia-captain-steve-waugh-238960">Ashes series win</a> in England in 18 years.

"The wicket looks nice and hard and dry," said Tim Paine at the toss. "Hopefully we post a good total and we've got (off-spinner) Nathan Lyon up our sleeve at the back end of the game."

As expected, the visitors included all three players given lengthy bans for their roles in a ball-tampering scandal in South Africa last year -- David Warner, Cameron Bancroft and former captain Steve Smith.

Openers Bancroft and Warner knew they would be booed on their way to the middle, judging by the hostile reception Warner and top-order batsman Smith received during the recent World Cup in England and Wales.

They did not have to wait even that long to face the boo-boys, with the Australia team as a whole jeered onto the field for a pre-match anthem ceremony -- an unusual occurrence before a Test match in England.

Reserve wicketkeeper Matthew Wade was included as a specialist batsman after making three hundred for Australia A on their tour of England.&nbsp;

Usman Khawaja was also back in the top order following a hamstring injury that cut short his involvement in the World Cup, which saw Australia defeated by eventual champions England in an Edgbaston semi-final.

Australia also included experienced paceman Peter Siddle, who has been playing English county cricket this season for Essex, in an attack featuring James Pattinson and Pat Cummins.

"He's a class performer there," said wicketkeeper Paine. "He complements the other two seamers really nicely."

But there was no place for World Cup spearhead Mitchell Starc. &nbsp;

England captain Joe Root named his side on Wednesday.

James Anderson, England's all-time leading wicket-taker, returned after missing last week's win in a one-off Test against Ireland at Lord's.

But World Cup hero Jofra Archer was left waiting for a Test debut after struggling with a side injury.

Fellow World Cup winners Ben Stokes and Jos Buttler returned after being rested against Ireland.

Root had no qualms about losing the toss, saying: "I'm not disappointed at all. It's overcast conditions. It'll be nice to get off to a good start.

"We've go so many great options to go to, especially with the ball. This morning is a great opportunity to exploit that.&nbsp;

"We love playing here, we get fantastic support wherever we go. The atmosphere here, in particular, is extremely exciting."

The Edgbaston match is the first of a five-Test series and the first of the ICC's new World Test Championship, with players' names and squad numbers displayed on the backs of their shirts for the first time in this format.&nbsp;

Australia captain Tim Paine won the toss and decided to bat in the first Ashes Test against England at Edgbaston on Thursday. Ashes-holders Australia has not won a match of any kind at Edgbaston since 2001, while England has won their past 11 internationals at the Birmingham ground.

Australia captain Tim Paine won the toss and decided to bat in the first Ashes Test against England at Edgbaston on Thursday. Ashes-holders Australia has not won a match of any kind at Edgbaston since 2001, while England has won their past 11 internationals at the Birmingham ground. Australia is looking for their first Ashes series win in England in 18 years. "The wicket looks nice and hard and dry," said Tim Paine at the toss. "Hopefully we post a good total and we've got (off-spinner) Nathan Lyon up our sleeve at the back end of the game." As expected, the visitors included all three players given lengthy bans for their roles in a ball-tampering scandal in South Africa last year -- David Warner, Cameron Bancroft and former captain Steve Smith. Openers Bancroft and Warner knew they would be booed on their way to the middle, judging by the hostile reception Warner and top-order batsman Smith received during the recent World Cup in England and Wales. They did not have to wait even that long to face the boo-boys, with the Australia team as a whole jeered onto the field for a pre-match anthem ceremony -- an unusual occurrence before a Test match in England. Reserve wicketkeeper Matthew Wade was included as a specialist batsman after making three hundred for Australia A on their tour of England. Usman Khawaja was also back in the top order following a hamstring injury that cut short his involvement in the World Cup, which saw Australia defeated by eventual champions England in an Edgbaston semi-final. Australia also included experienced paceman Peter Siddle, who has been playing English county cricket this season for Essex, in an attack featuring James Pattinson and Pat Cummins. "He's a class performer there," said wicketkeeper Paine. "He complements the other two seamers really nicely." But there was no place for World Cup spearhead Mitchell Starc. England captain Joe Root named his side on Wednesday. James Anderson, England's all-time leading wicket-taker, returned after missing last week's win in a one-off Test against Ireland at Lord's. But World Cup hero Jofra Archer was left waiting for a Test debut after struggling with a side injury. Fellow World Cup winners Ben Stokes and Jos Buttler returned after being rested against Ireland. Root had no qualms about losing the toss, saying: "I'm not disappointed at all. It's overcast conditions. It'll be nice to get off to a good start. "We've go so many great options to go to, especially with the ball. This morning is a great opportunity to exploit that. "We love playing here, we get fantastic support wherever we go. The atmosphere here, in particular, is extremely exciting." The Edgbaston match is the first of a five-Test series and the first of the ICC's new World Test Championship, with players' names and squad numbers displayed on the backs of their shirts for the first time in this format.

Australia win toss and bat against England in first Ashes Test

How Dilip Jajodia is helping swing king Anderson with his weapon of choice in Ashes

England captain Joe Root is looking forward to having "natural leader" Ben Stokes back alongside him as his Test deputy during the Ashes.

The pair have been friends since their days playing youth cricket, with Root lobbying for Stokes's return to a position the all rounder held until he was involved in a street brawl in Bristol in 2017.

Stokes missed five months of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/international-cricket-council-officially-launches-world-test-championship-239182">international cricket</a>, including England's 4-0 Ashes series loss in Australia under Root, before being cleared of affray in a court case in August 2018.

But the 28-year-old was one of the stars of England's triumphant World Cup campaign earlier this season and Root, also involved in that success, is eager to have Stokes back as his Test vice captain after Jos Buttler took over the role.

"I have asked for a long time (to have Stokes back as vice-captain) but he was made available at the end of the World Cup," Root said during his pre match press conference at Edgbaston on Wednesday, on the eve of the series opener.&nbsp;

"It is fantastic to have Ben back, not just playing and playing back somewhere near his best -- it has been coming a long time. &nbsp;

"The way he stepped up in big moments in that World Cup was just him down to a tee. It is what he does -- he responds well to responsibility and to the big moments.

"He offers with all three departments -- he bowls, bats and he is one of the best fielders and he drags people with him as a natural leader on the field and in the dressing room."

Root praised Buttler but said Buttler was aware Stokes would be brought back as vice-captain when there was an opportunity to do so.

England's World Cup win under the leadership of one day specialist Eoin Morgan achieved a long held goal but Root rejected suggestions that meant the pressure to regain the Ashes had eased as a result.

- 'All-time high' - 
"I think if you speak to anyone who has captained England and is on the verge of an Ashes series, to say it doesn't mean as much as any other event, I don't think any of them would agree," he said.&nbsp;

"It's huge. It's a great opportunity. Cricket in this country is probably at an all time high, it's got interest it probably hasn't had for a long time and we've got an opportunity as a team to make this summer a very memorable one."

Root is going back up to number three in the batting order and Joe Denly dropping down to four as England look to shore up their struggling line up.

"I think it's important to spread the experience out and it gives me an opportunity to lead from the front as well," said Root, England's best batsman.

"I also feel I'm in a place where I've got my head around the captaincy and my batting and I'm able to separate the two."

World Cup winner <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/world-cup-winner-jofra-archer-in-england-squad-for-ashes-opener-238826">Jofra Archer</a> will have to wait for his Test debut after the fast bowler was left out of England's team announced on Wednesday following his struggles with a side injury.

"Jofra is obviously coming back from a very serious injury," said Root. "We looked at conditions, what we thought was best... and it also allows him time to get absolutely ready and fit." 
&nbsp;

England captain Joe Root is looking forward to having "natural leader" Ben Stokes back alongside him as his Test deputy during the Ashes. The pair have been friends since their days playing youth cricket, with Root lobbying for Stokes's return to a position the all rounder held until he was involved in a street brawl in Bristol in 2017.

England captain Joe Root is looking forward to having "natural leader" Ben Stokes back alongside him as his Test deputy during the Ashes. The pair have been friends since their days playing youth cricket, with Root lobbying for Stokes's return to a position the all rounder held until he was involved in a street brawl in Bristol in 2017. Stokes missed five months of international cricket, including England's 4-0 Ashes series loss in Australia under Root, before being cleared of affray in a court case in August 2018. But the 28-year-old was one of the stars of England's triumphant World Cup campaign earlier this season and Root, also involved in that success, is eager to have Stokes back as his Test vice captain after Jos Buttler took over the role. "I have asked for a long time (to have Stokes back as vice-captain) but he was made available at the end of the World Cup," Root said during his pre match press conference at Edgbaston on Wednesday, on the eve of the series opener. "It is fantastic to have Ben back, not just playing and playing back somewhere near his best -- it has been coming a long time. "The way he stepped up in big moments in that World Cup was just him down to a tee. It is what he does -- he responds well to responsibility and to the big moments. "He offers with all three departments -- he bowls, bats and he is one of the best fielders and he drags people with him as a natural leader on the field and in the dressing room." Root praised Buttler but said Buttler was aware Stokes would be brought back as vice-captain when there was an opportunity to do so. England's World Cup win under the leadership of one day specialist Eoin Morgan achieved a long held goal but Root rejected suggestions that meant the pressure to regain the Ashes had eased as a result. - 'All-time high' - "I think if you speak to anyone who has captained England and is on the verge of an Ashes series, to say it doesn't mean as much as any other event, I don't think any of them would agree," he said. "It's huge. It's a great opportunity. Cricket in this country is probably at an all time high, it's got interest it probably hasn't had for a long time and we've got an opportunity as a team to make this summer a very memorable one." Root is going back up to number three in the batting order and Joe Denly dropping down to four as England look to shore up their struggling line up. "I think it's important to spread the experience out and it gives me an opportunity to lead from the front as well," said Root, England's best batsman. "I also feel I'm in a place where I've got my head around the captaincy and my batting and I'm able to separate the two." World Cup winner Jofra Archer will have to wait for his Test debut after the fast bowler was left out of England's team announced on Wednesday following his struggles with a side injury. "Jofra is obviously coming back from a very serious injury," said Root. "We looked at conditions, what we thought was best... and it also allows him time to get absolutely ready and fit."

England captain Root glad to have Stokes as his Ashes deputy

Whether <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/englands-jason-roy-is-honoured-to-receive-test-cap-from-alastair-cook-239080">Jason Roy turns out to be an inspired choice</a> to <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/world-cup-winner-jofra-archer-in-england-squad-for-ashes-opener-238826">open in the Ashes</a> or fails miserably to transfer his one-day form to Tests is almost an irrelevance, such have been England's struggles at the top of the order in recent years.

When Roy teamed up with Rory Burns against Ireland last week, they were England's eighth different opening partnership in the past three years and the 16th since Andrew Strauss retired in 2012.

"The Australia attack is challenging but Jason's method is a solid one,"&nbsp;said former England opener Alec Stewart who has seen plenty of Roy in his role as Surrey’s director of cricket when he proposed Roy for the job after last winter’s struggles.

"He's a good stroke player and a good hitter of the ball but he can defend well too, which you have to be able to do."

Adam Lyth, Alex Hales, James Vince, Nick Compton, Ben Duckett, Michael Carberry, Sam Robson, Haseeb Hameed, Mark Stoneman, Keaton Jennings all tried and, in varying degrees, failed. England even tried Moeen Ali and Joe Root, to no avail.

For much of that period, with Alastair Cook ever-reliable at one end, they often got away with it. But with his retirement last year things became more serious, as Jennings, Burns and Joe Denly slotted in and out and invariably failed to give England any sort of base.

So, fresh from his heroics in the World Cup, where his aggressive hitting and rapid scoring regularly set up England, Roy became less of a left-field suggestion and more a case of “why not – we’ve tried everything else?”

Despite a paucity of red-ball cricket under his belt in recent years, Roy was given his chance against Ireland, alongside Burns.

When he edged an excellent ball by Tim Murtagh to fall for five the naysayers wasted no time in writing him off -- despite the fact that Murtagh then claimed four more wickets in an acclaimed spell as England were all out for 85.

Coming in at three because England employed a night-watchman, Roy played an excellent second inning, reaching 72, before getting bowled attempting an expansive drive.

For some, that was more evidence that he does not possess the bat-all-day mentality of an opener -- not that many have done that for England in recent years -- but for others, it was an example of the yin and yang that he brings and that has been a key ingredient of the team's ODI success.

Australia’s bowlers are unlikely to be quaking in their boots at the prospect of trying to remove Burns, Jennings or Stoneman.

They might also fancy their chances of tempting Roy into something rash against a moving ball but they will also know that if he gets his eye in, he is more than capable of lashing them to all corners and getting England off to the sort of start that can set the tone for an entire test, or even the series.

Kevin Pietersen agreed, saying a year ago: “He’s got oomph, he’s got guts. It is about how guys score their runs and what their personalities are like. I would be all for Roy at the top of the order."

Whether Jason Roy turns out to be an inspired choice to open in the Ashes or fails miserably to transfer his one-day form to Tests is almost an irrelevance, such have been England's struggles at the top of the order in recent years.

Whether Jason Roy turns out to be an inspired choice to open in the Ashes or fails miserably to transfer his one-day form to Tests is almost an irrelevance, such have been England's struggles at the top of the order in recent years. When Roy teamed up with Rory Burns against Ireland last week, they were England's eighth different opening partnership in the past three years and the 16th since Andrew Strauss retired in 2012. "The Australia attack is challenging but Jason's method is a solid one," said former England opener Alec Stewart who has seen plenty of Roy in his role as Surrey’s director of cricket when he proposed Roy for the job after last winter’s struggles. "He's a good stroke player and a good hitter of the ball but he can defend well too, which you have to be able to do." Adam Lyth, Alex Hales, James Vince, Nick Compton, Ben Duckett, Michael Carberry, Sam Robson, Haseeb Hameed, Mark Stoneman, Keaton Jennings all tried and, in varying degrees, failed. England even tried Moeen Ali and Joe Root, to no avail. For much of that period, with Alastair Cook ever-reliable at one end, they often got away with it. But with his retirement last year things became more serious, as Jennings, Burns and Joe Denly slotted in and out and invariably failed to give England any sort of base. So, fresh from his heroics in the World Cup, where his aggressive hitting and rapid scoring regularly set up England, Roy became less of a left-field suggestion and more a case of “why not – we’ve tried everything else?” Despite a paucity of red-ball cricket under his belt in recent years, Roy was given his chance against Ireland, alongside Burns. When he edged an excellent ball by Tim Murtagh to fall for five the naysayers wasted no time in writing him off -- despite the fact that Murtagh then claimed four more wickets in an acclaimed spell as England were all out for 85. Coming in at three because England employed a night-watchman, Roy played an excellent second inning, reaching 72, before getting bowled attempting an expansive drive. For some, that was more evidence that he does not possess the bat-all-day mentality of an opener -- not that many have done that for England in recent years -- but for others, it was an example of the yin and yang that he brings and that has been a key ingredient of the team's ODI success. Australia’s bowlers are unlikely to be quaking in their boots at the prospect of trying to remove Burns, Jennings or Stoneman. They might also fancy their chances of tempting Roy into something rash against a moving ball but they will also know that if he gets his eye in, he is more than capable of lashing them to all corners and getting England off to the sort of start that can set the tone for an entire test, or even the series. Kevin Pietersen agreed, saying a year ago: “He’s got oomph, he’s got guts. It is about how guys score their runs and what their personalities are like. I would be all for Roy at the top of the order."

Jason Roy's method is solid, says former England opener Alec Stewart

Australia coach Justin Langer says an <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/anderson-could-hold-key-to-ashes-says-mcgrath-239251">Ashes</a> return for Cameron Bancroft would be "a great story" but knows he will face a hostile reception from England fans after his ball-tampering ban.

Bancroft, 26, is set to open the batting in Thursday's first Test at Edgbaston, with Australia's top order also likely to feature <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/cameron-bancroft-joins-steve-smith-and-david-warner-in-australias-ashes-squad-238644&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjlgs2W3tzjAhWL7nMBHW9qDEUQFjACegQIDhAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw0EAcaSZ4lNdf3iTyI_At_Y">David Warner and Steve Smith.</a>

If that is the case, it would mean all three players who were banned for their roles in the ball-tampering scandal in South Africa last year would be in Australia's XI.

Smith and Warner have already experienced plenty of boos from English crowds during the recent World Cup.

Bancroft, not selected for the one-day tournament, will almost certainly experience more of the same given he was the one who applied sandpaper to the ball during a Test away to South Africa in a blatant flouting of cricket's rulebook.

"It would be a great story if he comes back into the team," Langer said at Edgbaston on Tuesday.

"His development after what happened in Cape Town has been extraordinary."

Langer, a former Australia opener, said: "We know what the reception is going to be. There's nothing we can do about it. We don't know (how he will cope) actually, but we'll find out.

"He's a good kid and as tough as anyone you could meet. To endure the scrutiny of the past 14 months, especially the first part of it, I think he's had a pretty good dress rehearsal."

Langer confirmed batsman Usman Khawaja, who missed Australia's World Cup semi-final defeat by England at Edgbaston with a hamstring injury, had been passed fit and would play in the opening match of the five-Test series.

"He's a seasoned pro for us, he averages 40-odd in Test cricket, his hammy is good, he's running well, he's passed all the fitness tests, so he's ready to go," Langer said.

Fast bowler James Pattinson is also set to feature in what would be his first Test since February 2016, lining up alongside Pat Cummins and one of Mitchell Starc, Peter Siddle or Josh Hazlewood in Australia's pace attack.&nbsp;

"There's probably three to be fair - Starcy, Peter Siddle and Josh Hazlewood - for one spot," added Langer.

Australia holds the Ashes but has not won a Test series away to England since 2001.

Australia coach Justin Langer says an Ashes return for Cameron Bancroft would be "a great story" but knows he will face a hostile reception from England fans after his ball-tampering ban.

Australia coach Justin Langer says an Ashes return for Cameron Bancroft would be "a great story" but knows he will face a hostile reception from England fans after his ball-tampering ban. Bancroft, 26, is set to open the batting in Thursday's first Test at Edgbaston, with Australia's top order also likely to feature David Warner and Steve Smith. If that is the case, it would mean all three players who were banned for their roles in the ball-tampering scandal in South Africa last year would be in Australia's XI. Smith and Warner have already experienced plenty of boos from English crowds during the recent World Cup. Bancroft, not selected for the one-day tournament, will almost certainly experience more of the same given he was the one who applied sandpaper to the ball during a Test away to South Africa in a blatant flouting of cricket's rulebook. "It would be a great story if he comes back into the team," Langer said at Edgbaston on Tuesday. "His development after what happened in Cape Town has been extraordinary." Langer, a former Australia opener, said: "We know what the reception is going to be. There's nothing we can do about it. We don't know (how he will cope) actually, but we'll find out. "He's a good kid and as tough as anyone you could meet. To endure the scrutiny of the past 14 months, especially the first part of it, I think he's had a pretty good dress rehearsal." Langer confirmed batsman Usman Khawaja, who missed Australia's World Cup semi-final defeat by England at Edgbaston with a hamstring injury, had been passed fit and would play in the opening match of the five-Test series. "He's a seasoned pro for us, he averages 40-odd in Test cricket, his hammy is good, he's running well, he's passed all the fitness tests, so he's ready to go," Langer said. Fast bowler James Pattinson is also set to feature in what would be his first Test since February 2016, lining up alongside Pat Cummins and one of Mitchell Starc, Peter Siddle or Josh Hazlewood in Australia's pace attack. "There's probably three to be fair - Starcy, Peter Siddle and Josh Hazlewood - for one spot," added Langer. Australia holds the Ashes but has not won a Test series away to England since 2001.

Langer predicts hostile Ashes reception for Bancroft from England fans

Sterling hit a two-year low on Monday as Prime Minister Boris Johnson's government said it now assumed there would be a <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/world/no-deal-brexit-had-become-a-serious-possibility-cbi-chief-carolyn-fairbairn-239206&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwi9xcXFitrjAhVO7mEKHQlcAkYQFjABegQIDxAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw07JQut3Vw9Gy2-8QTnDxFn">no-deal Brexit</a> because a "stubborn" European Union was refusing to renegotiate their divorce.

Many investors say a no-deal Brexit would send shock waves through the world economy, tip Britain's economy into a recession, roil financial markets and weaken London's position as the pre-eminent international financial centre.

The pound, which was trading at $1.50 on the day of the 2016 referendum, dropped 0.4% to $1.2325, the lowest level since March 2017.

Johnson bets that the threat of a no-deal Brexit will persuade the EU's biggest powers - Germany and France - to agree to revise the divorce deal that Theresa May agreed to last November but failed three times to push through the British parliament.

The 27 other EU members, though, say publicly and privately that the divorce settlement - including the Irish border backstop - is not up for barter. Many EU diplomats say an election is highly likely.

"There must be some change from the EU and if the EU is not willing to move at all we must be ready to give the country some finality," <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-should-respect-international-laws-britains-foreign-minister-239218">Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab</a> said, adding that London was "turbo-charging" no-deal preparations.

Raab said the United Kingdom wanted a deal but repeatedly cast the bloc as "stubborn". Asked if he was threatening the EU - whose $15.9 trillion economy is nearly six times that of the United Kingdom's - Raab said: "I am not doing any threatening."

Hedge funds increased their net short sterling positions to the highest level in nearly a year. And in a sign investors are scrambling for protection against currency swings around the time of the October 31 exit, three-month implied volatility surged to a four-month high.

Johnson has told EU leaders he will sit down for Brexit talks when they indicate they are ready to shift on the divorce deal, otherwise Britain will prepare for leaving without a deal, his spokeswoman said on Monday.

Our&nbsp;Union

Differences over Brexit have strained the bonds that tie the United Kingdom. While the country voted 52-48 to leave in 2016, Scotland and Northern Ireland voted to stay in the EU while Wales and England vote to leave.

The question of the unification of Ireland and British-ruled Northern Ireland will inevitably arise if Britain leaves the European Union without a divorce deal on October 31, Irish Prime Minister Leo Varadkar said.

Varadkar also suggested that a so-called hard Brexit could undermine Scotland's place in the United Kingdom.

Johnson makes his first visit to Scotland as prime minister on Monday, as his Conservative Party's leader there said she would refuse to support a no-deal Brexit.

"Our Union is the most successful political and economic union in history. We are a global brand and together we are safer, stronger and more prosperous," Johnson said in a statement ahead of the visit.

"So as we prepare for our bright future after Brexit, it's vital we renew the ties that bind our United Kingdom."

Johnson's promise to deliver Brexit, with or without a deal, has put him at odds with some in his party who oppose a "no-deal" exit - including its Scottish leader Ruth Davidson.

Gordon Brown, a Scot and a former prime minister, said this month that Johnson could be the United Kingdom's last prime minister as he could be on a collision course with Scottish nationalists.

Last week, Scotland's nationalist leader Nicola Sturgeon wrote to Johnson telling him his Brexit plans would hurt the Scottish economy and that she would continue preparations for a second independence referendum.

Sterling hit a two-year low on Monday as Prime Minister Boris Johnson's government said it now assumed there would be a no-deal Brexit because a "stubborn" European Union was refusing to renegotiate their divorce.

Sterling hit a two-year low on Monday as Prime Minister Boris Johnson's government said it now assumed there would be a no-deal Brexit because a "stubborn" European Union was refusing to renegotiate their divorce. Many investors say a no-deal Brexit would send shock waves through the world economy, tip Britain's economy into a recession, roil financial markets and weaken London's position as the pre-eminent international financial centre. The pound, which was trading at $1.50 on the day of the 2016 referendum, dropped 0.4% to $1.2325, the lowest level since March 2017. Johnson bets that the threat of a no-deal Brexit will persuade the EU's biggest powers - Germany and France - to agree to revise the divorce deal that Theresa May agreed to last November but failed three times to push through the British parliament. The 27 other EU members, though, say publicly and privately that the divorce settlement - including the Irish border backstop - is not up for barter. Many EU diplomats say an election is highly likely. "There must be some change from the EU and if the EU is not willing to move at all we must be ready to give the country some finality," Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab said, adding that London was "turbo-charging" no-deal preparations. Raab said the United Kingdom wanted a deal but repeatedly cast the bloc as "stubborn". Asked if he was threatening the EU - whose $15.9 trillion economy is nearly six times that of the United Kingdom's - Raab said: "I am not doing any threatening." Hedge funds increased their net short sterling positions to the highest level in nearly a year. And in a sign investors are scrambling for protection against currency swings around the time of the October 31 exit, three-month implied volatility surged to a four-month high. Johnson has told EU leaders he will sit down for Brexit talks when they indicate they are ready to shift on the divorce deal, otherwise Britain will prepare for leaving without a deal, his spokeswoman said on Monday. Our Union Differences over Brexit have strained the bonds that tie the United Kingdom. While the country voted 52-48 to leave in 2016, Scotland and Northern Ireland voted to stay in the EU while Wales and England vote to leave. The question of the unification of Ireland and British-ruled Northern Ireland will inevitably arise if Britain leaves the European Union without a divorce deal on October 31, Irish Prime Minister Leo Varadkar said. Varadkar also suggested that a so-called hard Brexit could undermine Scotland's place in the United Kingdom. Johnson makes his first visit to Scotland as prime minister on Monday, as his Conservative Party's leader there said she would refuse to support a no-deal Brexit. "Our Union is the most successful political and economic union in history. We are a global brand and together we are safer, stronger and more prosperous," Johnson said in a statement ahead of the visit. "So as we prepare for our bright future after Brexit, it's vital we renew the ties that bind our United Kingdom." Johnson's promise to deliver Brexit, with or without a deal, has put him at odds with some in his party who oppose a "no-deal" exit - including its Scottish leader Ruth Davidson. Gordon Brown, a Scot and a former prime minister, said this month that Johnson could be the United Kingdom's last prime minister as he could be on a collision course with Scottish nationalists. Last week, Scotland's nationalist leader Nicola Sturgeon wrote to Johnson telling him his Brexit plans would hurt the Scottish economy and that she would continue preparations for a second independence referendum.

UK plays hardball with 'stubborn' European Union, pound tumbles to a 28-month low on Brexit woes

Australia great Glenn McGrath believes the form of England spearhead James Anderson could determine the course of the Ashes.

Australia holds the urn but heads into Thursday's opening Test at Edgbaston looking for their first series win in England since 2001.

Anderson, 37 on Tuesday, has been battling to overcome a calf injury but McGrath believes he could have a huge impact on the five-Test series if he stays fit.&nbsp;

"On home soil with the Dukes ball, he's the best in the world bowling in those conditions," McGrath told the Sun in an interview.

“He is a big player and if he has a big series for England, Australia will find it tough. If Australia bat well and can get on top of him, that'll make a massive impact on their chances."

The 49-year-old McGrath, working with online trading broker ThinkMarkets to encourage more young people to get into the sport, added: "But Jimmy is on his way to 600 Test wickets, which is absolutely incredible."

Anderson is now just 25 wickets shy of becoming the first fast bowler to take 600 in Tests, having surpassed former paceman McGrath's haul of 563 against India last September.

"Jimmy’s got the record now and it won't be beaten," said McGrath. "For a fast bowler to beat whatever record he sets, they are going to have to play 150 Tests-plus."

This season's Ashes is being played with last year's Dukes ball, which has a bigger seam than the one now in use for the 2019 English domestic season.

While that should benefit both Anderson and new-ball partner Stuart Broad, six-time Ashes winner McGrath thinks the 2018 Dukes will aid Australia's attack as well.

"Pat Cummins will bowl really well with it and if Mitchell Starc is swinging that new ball 150 kilometres (93 miles) per-hour-plus and bowling attacking lengths, he's a handful for anyone," he said.

"It's going to be whether our batsmen have learned and adjusted from last time they were here when they just went too hard at the ball."

Australia has won just three of their past 19 Tests in England including the match at Edgbaston in 2005 when McGrath was ruled out on the morning of the match after injuring his ankle treading on a stray ball during fielding practice.

While the former paceman refused to give one of his trademark Australia whitewash forecasts, he said Tim Paine's men could retain the Ashes.

"Teams around the world are becoming stronger at home and worse away. That is a massive concern," he said.

"But having been here for the World Cup, a lot of Australia's players have been able to adapt and adjust to conditions, to play on the pitches and get a little bit of a feel for everything.

"We have got the players to do it. But they are going to have to be on the top of their game if they are going to compete with England in their own conditions."

Australia great Glenn McGrath believes the form of England spearhead James Anderson could determine the course of the Ashes. Australia holds the urn but heads into Thursday's opening Test at Edgbaston looking for their first series win in England since 2001.

Australia great Glenn McGrath believes the form of England spearhead James Anderson could determine the course of the Ashes. Australia holds the urn but heads into Thursday's opening Test at Edgbaston looking for their first series win in England since 2001. Anderson, 37 on Tuesday, has been battling to overcome a calf injury but McGrath believes he could have a huge impact on the five-Test series if he stays fit. "On home soil with the Dukes ball, he's the best in the world bowling in those conditions," McGrath told the Sun in an interview. “He is a big player and if he has a big series for England, Australia will find it tough. If Australia bat well and can get on top of him, that'll make a massive impact on their chances." The 49-year-old McGrath, working with online trading broker ThinkMarkets to encourage more young people to get into the sport, added: "But Jimmy is on his way to 600 Test wickets, which is absolutely incredible." Anderson is now just 25 wickets shy of becoming the first fast bowler to take 600 in Tests, having surpassed former paceman McGrath's haul of 563 against India last September. "Jimmy’s got the record now and it won't be beaten," said McGrath. "For a fast bowler to beat whatever record he sets, they are going to have to play 150 Tests-plus." This season's Ashes is being played with last year's Dukes ball, which has a bigger seam than the one now in use for the 2019 English domestic season. While that should benefit both Anderson and new-ball partner Stuart Broad, six-time Ashes winner McGrath thinks the 2018 Dukes will aid Australia's attack as well. "Pat Cummins will bowl really well with it and if Mitchell Starc is swinging that new ball 150 kilometres (93 miles) per-hour-plus and bowling attacking lengths, he's a handful for anyone," he said. "It's going to be whether our batsmen have learned and adjusted from last time they were here when they just went too hard at the ball." Australia has won just three of their past 19 Tests in England including the match at Edgbaston in 2005 when McGrath was ruled out on the morning of the match after injuring his ankle treading on a stray ball during fielding practice. While the former paceman refused to give one of his trademark Australia whitewash forecasts, he said Tim Paine's men could retain the Ashes. "Teams around the world are becoming stronger at home and worse away. That is a massive concern," he said. "But having been here for the World Cup, a lot of Australia's players have been able to adapt and adjust to conditions, to play on the pitches and get a little bit of a feel for everything. "We have got the players to do it. But they are going to have to be on the top of their game if they are going to compete with England in their own conditions."

Anderson could hold key to Ashes, says McGrath

England's star opener Jason Roy took to Twitter and said that it was an honour to receive the Test cap from legendary Alastair Cook in the one-off Test against Ireland.&nbsp;

Roy took to Twitter and wrote, "What an honour it was to receive my cap from this legend. Big boots to fill."&nbsp;

Roy, who was a vital cog for the team's title win in the recently concluded World Cup, will make his Ashes debut, which is scheduled to kick off from August 1.&nbsp;

England coach Trevor Bayliss said that Roy can resolve Test side's top order, which has been their Achilles heel "for the last six or seven years".&nbsp;

In his debut Test match, he played an inning of 5 and 72 against Ireland. England won the only match against Ireland by 143 runs.&nbsp;

And during the World Cup, Roy produced a stunning performance as he amassed 443 runs in seven innings.&nbsp;

Following is the 14-man squad: Joe Root (C), Moeen Ali, James Anderson, Jofra Archer, Jonny Bairstow (wk), Stuart Broad, Rory Burns, Jos Buttler, Sam Curran, Joe Denly, Jason Roy, Ben Stokes (vc), Olly Stone, Chris Woakes.&nbsp;

England and Australia will compete in five Ashes Test matches from August 1 to September 16.&nbsp;

England's star opener Jason Roy took to Twitter and said that it was an honour to receive the Test cap from legendary Alastair Cook in the one-off Test against Ireland.

England's star opener Jason Roy took to Twitter and said that it was an honour to receive the Test cap from legendary Alastair Cook in the one-off Test against Ireland. Roy took to Twitter and wrote, "What an honour it was to receive my cap from this legend. Big boots to fill." Roy, who was a vital cog for the team's title win in the recently concluded World Cup, will make his Ashes debut, which is scheduled to kick off from August 1. England coach Trevor Bayliss said that Roy can resolve Test side's top order, which has been their Achilles heel "for the last six or seven years". In his debut Test match, he played an inning of 5 and 72 against Ireland. England won the only match against Ireland by 143 runs. And during the World Cup, Roy produced a stunning performance as he amassed 443 runs in seven innings. Following is the 14-man squad: Joe Root (C), Moeen Ali, James Anderson, Jofra Archer, Jonny Bairstow (wk), Stuart Broad, Rory Burns, Jos Buttler, Sam Curran, Joe Denly, Jason Roy, Ben Stokes (vc), Olly Stone, Chris Woakes. England and Australia will compete in five Ashes Test matches from August 1 to September 16.

England's Jason Roy is honoured to receive Test cap from Alastair Cook

Ireland moved tantalisingly within sight of a historic test win over England as they reduced the hosts to 303-9 in their second innings to trail by 181 at a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/leach-and-roy-get-england-back-on-level-terms-against-ireland-238439">sweltering Lord's</a> on Thursday.

For the second day running, William Porterfield's modest team made a mockery of reputations to give World Cup champions England a torrid time at the home of cricket.

There was no repeat of Wednesday's mayhem when Ireland marked their first test match at Lord's, and only their third ever, by skittling England for 85 before being dismissed for 207.

Indeed when nightwatchman Jack Leach, who fell eight runs short of his century, and Jason Roy took England to 171 for one in blast furnace heat, having begun it 122 runs behind, it appeared the fun was over for the upstarts.

Ireland's tenacious attack of Tim Murtagh, Mark Adair, Boyd Rankin and Stuart Thompson plugged away, however, and were rewarded as England collapsed for the second day running in a match supposed to be a loosener for next week's Ashes opener.

Seven wickets fell for 77 runs to leave England teetering on the brink at 248-8 -- a mere 126 ahead -- before Sam Curran (37) and Stuart Broad (21 not out) counter-attacked.

Friday promises to be an intriguing finale with Ireland likely to be set a modest, but nervy, victory target.

Should they pull off one of the biggest test shocks ever, it would rival their 2011 World Cup win over England and fully vindicate them being given test status in 2017.

They still have a lot of work to do though.

"We've given ourselves a chance," England's Leach said. "We believe we can definitely win the game. The wicket is still doing bits. We've got to make the most of that tomorrow."

Leach, in the side predominantly for his left-arm spin, showed the specialist batsmen what was possible, playing like a seasoned opener, not a man without a first-class century.

Punished bad balls

After opener Rory Burns (6) nicked one behind off Rankin, the first cricketer since the Nawab of Pataudi in 1946 to both play for and against England in a test match, Leach dug in.

Watchful when needed on a pitch still offering encouragement for the bowlers, Leach punished any bad balls.

He struck three boundaries off one wayward Rankin over to take England's score past 50 -- a mark they staggered past on Wednesday for the loss of seven wickets.

With test debutant Roy showing his one-day panache at the other end, the game was slipping out of Ireland's control as England established parity at 122-1 by lunch.

Roy got off the mark by slapping a boundary back past Adair and then a couple of balls later he leathered a sweet cover drive that flashed to the boundary.

He also launched spinner Andy McBrine over long-on for six and his 50 came up in 47 balls.

Leach was put down on 72 off a thick outside edge before Roy, who looked set for his debut test century, tried to clobber a Thompson inswinger and lost his middle stump.

Leach was spared when Adair fumbled a routine slip catch but three balls later he edged Murtagh, Wednesday's five-wicket hero, and this time Adair pouched it.

It slammed the brakes on England's advance and Joe Denly was run out for 10 after a dreadful mix-up with Root.

Jonny Bairstow was tapped lbw by Adair in the next over for his second duck of the match as England reached tea on 209-5 -- a precarious lead of 87.

Ireland then turned the screws. Moeen Ali (9) feathered a short ball from Rankin behind to Gary Wilson then Root played airily to an Adair ball outside off stump, slicing a diving Wilson.

When Chris Woakes was the eighth man out after falling to Adair for 13, caught by Andy Balbirnie at second slip, Irish eyes were widening with excitement as they trailed the hosts by only 126 runs.

Porterfield almost produced a sensational catch at mid-wicket but Curran survived to lead an England counter-attack that could yet prove decisive -- striking four boundaries and two sixes in a 29-ball 37 splicing a high catch to James McCollum.

Ireland moved tantalisingly within sight of a historic test win over England as they reduced the hosts to 303-9 in their second innings to trail by 181 at a sweltering Lord's on Thursday.

Ireland moved tantalisingly within sight of a historic test win over England as they reduced the hosts to 303-9 in their second innings to trail by 181 at a sweltering Lord's on Thursday. For the second day running, William Porterfield's modest team made a mockery of reputations to give World Cup champions England a torrid time at the home of cricket. There was no repeat of Wednesday's mayhem when Ireland marked their first test match at Lord's, and only their third ever, by skittling England for 85 before being dismissed for 207. Indeed when nightwatchman Jack Leach, who fell eight runs short of his century, and Jason Roy took England to 171 for one in blast furnace heat, having begun it 122 runs behind, it appeared the fun was over for the upstarts. Ireland's tenacious attack of Tim Murtagh, Mark Adair, Boyd Rankin and Stuart Thompson plugged away, however, and were rewarded as England collapsed for the second day running in a match supposed to be a loosener for next week's Ashes opener. Seven wickets fell for 77 runs to leave England teetering on the brink at 248-8 -- a mere 126 ahead -- before Sam Curran (37) and Stuart Broad (21 not out) counter-attacked. Friday promises to be an intriguing finale with Ireland likely to be set a modest, but nervy, victory target. Should they pull off one of the biggest test shocks ever, it would rival their 2011 World Cup win over England and fully vindicate them being given test status in 2017. They still have a lot of work to do though. "We've given ourselves a chance," England's Leach said. "We believe we can definitely win the game. The wicket is still doing bits. We've got to make the most of that tomorrow." Leach, in the side predominantly for his left-arm spin, showed the specialist batsmen what was possible, playing like a seasoned opener, not a man without a first-class century. Punished bad balls After opener Rory Burns (6) nicked one behind off Rankin, the first cricketer since the Nawab of Pataudi in 1946 to both play for and against England in a test match, Leach dug in. Watchful when needed on a pitch still offering encouragement for the bowlers, Leach punished any bad balls. He struck three boundaries off one wayward Rankin over to take England's score past 50 -- a mark they staggered past on Wednesday for the loss of seven wickets. With test debutant Roy showing his one-day panache at the other end, the game was slipping out of Ireland's control as England established parity at 122-1 by lunch. Roy got off the mark by slapping a boundary back past Adair and then a couple of balls later he leathered a sweet cover drive that flashed to the boundary. He also launched spinner Andy McBrine over long-on for six and his 50 came up in 47 balls. Leach was put down on 72 off a thick outside edge before Roy, who looked set for his debut test century, tried to clobber a Thompson inswinger and lost his middle stump. Leach was spared when Adair fumbled a routine slip catch but three balls later he edged Murtagh, Wednesday's five-wicket hero, and this time Adair pouched it. It slammed the brakes on England's advance and Joe Denly was run out for 10 after a dreadful mix-up with Root. Jonny Bairstow was tapped lbw by Adair in the next over for his second duck of the match as England reached tea on 209-5 -- a precarious lead of 87. Ireland then turned the screws. Moeen Ali (9) feathered a short ball from Rankin behind to Gary Wilson then Root played airily to an Adair ball outside off stump, slicing a diving Wilson. When Chris Woakes was the eighth man out after falling to Adair for 13, caught by Andy Balbirnie at second slip, Irish eyes were widening with excitement as they trailed the hosts by only 126 runs. Porterfield almost produced a sensational catch at mid-wicket but Curran survived to lead an England counter-attack that could yet prove decisive -- striking four boundaries and two sixes in a 29-ball 37 splicing a high catch to James McCollum.

Lord's Test: Ireland scent historic win over England

Ireland need 182 to win their <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/leach-and-roy-get-england-back-on-level-terms-against-ireland-238439">one-off Test against England</a> at Lord's on Friday as England, after resuming on their overnight 303 for nine, lost its last wicket on the first ball of the third day's play.&nbsp;

England's second innings ended when debutant Olly Stone was bowled for a duck by a Stuart Thompson inswinger that knocked over his leg stump.&nbsp;

Ireland now have two days in which to get the runs they require, with the match scheduled for four days rather than the standard five.

On day one, Ireland produced a stunning performance as they bowled&nbsp;England out for just 85 in the first innings and in reply to that, Ireland made&nbsp;207.&nbsp;

In their second innings, England&nbsp;suffered another worrying batting collapse but&nbsp;scored a fighting 303, thanks to nightwatchman Jack Leach's 92 and Test debutant Jason Roy's 72.&nbsp;

At the time of filing this update, Ireland's&nbsp;second innings was stopped due to rain after just seven balls being bowled.&nbsp;

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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
What a start to the day! 
 
Stuart Thompson bowls Olly Stone with the first ball of day three and England are bowled out. 
 
Ireland will need 182 to secure their first ever victory in Test cricket. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ENGvIRE?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ENGvIRE</a> <a href="https://t.co/Whww6PbEhm">pic.twitter.com/Whww6PbEhm</a>
— ICC (@ICC) <a href="https://twitter.com/ICC/status/1154696740852908032?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 26, 2019</a></blockquote>
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This is only Ireland's third Test match and victory at Lord's would give them their first win in the format following defeats by Pakistan and Afghanistan.&nbsp;

Ireland need 182 to win their one-off Test against England at Lord's on Friday as England, after resuming on their overnight 303 for nine, lost its last wicket on the first ball of the third day's play.

Ireland need 182 to win their one-off Test against England at Lord's on Friday as England, after resuming on their overnight 303 for nine, lost its last wicket on the first ball of the third day's play. England's second innings ended when debutant Olly Stone was bowled for a duck by a Stuart Thompson inswinger that knocked over his leg stump. Ireland now have two days in which to get the runs they require, with the match scheduled for four days rather than the standard five. On day one, Ireland produced a stunning performance as they bowled England out for just 85 in the first innings and in reply to that, Ireland made 207. In their second innings, England suffered another worrying batting collapse but scored a fighting 303, thanks to nightwatchman Jack Leach's 92 and Test debutant Jason Roy's 72. At the time of filing this update, Ireland's second innings was stopped due to rain after just seven balls being bowled. What a start to the day! Stuart Thompson bowls Olly Stone with the first ball of day three and England are bowled out. Ireland will need 182 to secure their first ever victory in Test cricket. #ENGvIRE pic.twitter.com/Whww6PbEhm — ICC (@ICC) July 26, 2019 × This is only Ireland's third Test match and victory at Lord's would give them their first win in the format following defeats by Pakistan and Afghanistan.

Ireland set 182 to win England Test at Lord's

Veteran Sri Lankan star Lasith Malinga said Thursday he was "very happy" to make way for younger players as he calls time on his illustrious 15-year career in the 50-over format.

Malinga will play his final one-day international in Colombo Friday in the first of three ODIs against Bangladesh but hopes to continue playing in the shorter T20 format.

"I am very happy to leave at this time. This is an opportunity for new players to prove themselves and prepare for the next World Cup," Malinga, 35, told reporters Thursday at the team's final training session.

"We may have had some setbacks, but we have the capability to win another World Cup," he added, pointing to <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/india-news/sri-lanka-approves-visa-on-arrival-scheme-for-india-from-august-1-238312&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwit9dO878_jAhULHo8KHWkoDFUQFjAAegQIBBAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw3SU9HIyxcB8NKTaHNUm8NL">Sri Lanka</a>'s success at the 1996 World Cup and 2014 T20 World Cup.

Malinga - known for his trademark blond-highlighted mop and piercings - called on cricket administrators to be patient with up-and-coming stars and let them develop ahead of the next ODI World Cup.

"The young players need to believe that they can deliver. They need to be dedicated and develop to a level that they can decide for themselves when they go to the middle," Malinga said.

Two days ago, Malinga posted a video message on his wife's Facebook page saying he felt no ill will towards officials and players who may have tried to push him out of the ODI team.

He said he was sidelined by selectors two years ago but was able to prove his value at the recent World Cup, where he took four for 43 in Sri Lanka's group-stage win over eventual champions England.

Malinga has his sights on next year's T20 World Cup in Australia, and Sri Lanka's cricket board confirmed he would be available for selection for the T20 squad.

Malinga is leaving as Sri Lanka's third-highest wicket-taker in ODI cricket with 335 wickets in 219 innings so far since his first ODI against the United Arab Emirates in 2014.

Only Muttiah Muralitharan (523) and Chaminda Vaas (399) have taken more wickets than Malinga in ODIs for Sri Lanka.

He was Sri Lanka's highest wicket-taker at the World Cup, claiming 13 scalps in seven innings.

Malinga retired from Test cricket in 2011 but continued to remain available in other formats.

Veteran Sri Lankan star Lasith Malinga said Thursday he was "very happy" to make way for younger players as he calls time on his illustrious 15-year career in the 50-over format.

Veteran Sri Lankan star Lasith Malinga said Thursday he was "very happy" to make way for younger players as he calls time on his illustrious 15-year career in the 50-over format. Malinga will play his final one-day international in Colombo Friday in the first of three ODIs against Bangladesh but hopes to continue playing in the shorter T20 format. "I am very happy to leave at this time. This is an opportunity for new players to prove themselves and prepare for the next World Cup," Malinga, 35, told reporters Thursday at the team's final training session. "We may have had some setbacks, but we have the capability to win another World Cup," he added, pointing to Sri Lanka's success at the 1996 World Cup and 2014 T20 World Cup. Malinga - known for his trademark blond-highlighted mop and piercings - called on cricket administrators to be patient with up-and-coming stars and let them develop ahead of the next ODI World Cup. "The young players need to believe that they can deliver. They need to be dedicated and develop to a level that they can decide for themselves when they go to the middle," Malinga said. Two days ago, Malinga posted a video message on his wife's Facebook page saying he felt no ill will towards officials and players who may have tried to push him out of the ODI team. He said he was sidelined by selectors two years ago but was able to prove his value at the recent World Cup, where he took four for 43 in Sri Lanka's group-stage win over eventual champions England. Malinga has his sights on next year's T20 World Cup in Australia, and Sri Lanka's cricket board confirmed he would be available for selection for the T20 squad. Malinga is leaving as Sri Lanka's third-highest wicket-taker in ODI cricket with 335 wickets in 219 innings so far since his first ODI against the United Arab Emirates in 2014. Only Muttiah Muralitharan (523) and Chaminda Vaas (399) have taken more wickets than Malinga in ODIs for Sri Lanka. He was Sri Lanka's highest wicket-taker at the World Cup, claiming 13 scalps in seven innings. Malinga retired from Test cricket in 2011 but continued to remain available in other formats.

We have the capability to win another World Cup: Malinga

Tim Murtagh took five wickets as England suffered a dramatic collapse to 85 all out on the first morning of their one-off Test against Ireland at Lord's on Wednesday.

Murtagh, who plays county cricket at the ground for Middlesex, took five wickets for 13 runs in nine overs as Ireland made a sensational start to their first Test match at the 'home of cricket'.

In the process, the 37-year-old veteran became the first Ireland bowler to take five wickets in a Test innings in what is just his side's third match at this level.

England, on the ground, where they won the 50-over World Cup just over a week ago, were bowled out in a mere 23.4 overs - and that after captain Joe Root won the toss.

It was the latest worrying batting collapse suffered by England ahead of the Ashes that start next week - the third time in three years they had lost all 10 wickets in a session in the past three years, having not done so previously since 1938.

It was also their lowest score in a home Test innings since they were dismissed for 77 by Australia at Lord's in 1997 and came hot on the heels of their 77 all-out away to the West Indies in Barbados in January.

Tim Murtagh took five wickets as England suffered a dramatic collapse to 85 all out on the first morning of their one-off Test against Ireland at Lord's on Wednesday.

Tim Murtagh took five wickets as England suffered a dramatic collapse to 85 all out on the first morning of their one-off Test against Ireland at Lord's on Wednesday. Murtagh, who plays county cricket at the ground for Middlesex, took five wickets for 13 runs in nine overs as Ireland made a sensational start to their first Test match at the 'home of cricket'. In the process, the 37-year-old veteran became the first Ireland bowler to take five wickets in a Test innings in what is just his side's third match at this level. England, on the ground, where they won the 50-over World Cup just over a week ago, were bowled out in a mere 23.4 overs - and that after captain Joe Root won the toss. It was the latest worrying batting collapse suffered by England ahead of the Ashes that start next week - the third time in three years they had lost all 10 wickets in a session in the past three years, having not done so previously since 1938. It was also their lowest score in a home Test innings since they were dismissed for 77 by Australia at Lord's in 1997 and came hot on the heels of their 77 all-out away to the West Indies in Barbados in January.

England collapse to 85 all out in Ireland Test

Ireland ended England's World Cup honeymoon in dramatic style on Wednesday, bowling out the host nation for a derisory 85 on the first day at Lord's as they eyed one of the biggest shocks in Test history.

Tim Murtagh, who is 37 years old, took a stunning five for 13 in nine overs on a ground where he plays for Middlesex.

Ireland then consolidated their position by making 207 in reply for a first-innings lead of 122.

When they were all out, there was still time for one more over and England felt compelled to have nightwatchman Jack Leach, rather than a specialist batsman, face Murtagh.

Leach somehow survived a maiden and England closed on nought for nought in their second innings.

Appropriately, it was tailender Murtagh who took Ireland into a hundred-run lead in their first Test against England after the visitors suffered a slump of their own when he pulled veteran paceman Stuart Broad for four. &nbsp;

In making 16, Murtagh scored more runs than he conceded while the fact 20 wickets fell broke a first-day record of 18 for a Lord's Test that had stood since 1896.

Ten days after England won the World Cup at the 'home of cricket' against New Zealand and a week ahead of the Ashes, Ireland ruthlessly exposed their batting fragility.

Just three England batsmen made it into double figures -- Joe Denly, who top-scored with 23, debutant Olly Stone and Sam Curran -- in an innings that was over inside 24 overs on a baking day in London.

It was the fourth time in 34 Tests that England had lost all 10 wickets in a session - a worrying sign ahead of the five-Test series against Australia.

Murtagh's ability was no secret but his superb return was the stuff of schoolboy fiction.

 
The seamer, who recently took his 800th first-class wicket, gave a classic demonstration of his skill after England captain Joe Root won the toss and batted on an emerald green pitch prepared by Irish groundsman Karl McDermott.

Fantastic session

"I'm not quite sure what's happened in the last two hours," an elated Murtagh told Sky Sports during the lunch interval. "It's a fantastic first session for us."

"I should know how to bowl on this ground -- I've been here long enough," added Murtagh, a Middlesex player for more than a decade.

The home side was soon in deep trouble despite Root's insistence they did not want to "sleepwalk" into this four-day match ahead of the Ashes.

Test debutant Jason Roy, fresh from his World Cup heroics, fell for five when Murtagh, short of express pace but remorselessly accurate, squared him up with first slip Paul Stirling holding the ensuing edge.

Debutant Mark Adair (3-32) had his first Test wicket when Denly was leg before wicket and he also captured the prize scalp of Root, plumb lbw for two.

When Jonny Bairstow was bowled for a duck -- one of three noughts in the England innings -- off an inside edge by Murtagh as he attempted a booming drive, England were 42-5.

And when Murtagh had Moeen Ali caught behind for a duck, the seamer had a place on the honours board for all those who take five wickets in a Test innings at Lord's.

Stone drove three fours in four balls from Stuart Thompson before he was bowled by Adair to end a stunning morning's play.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/england-collapse-to-85-all-out-in-ireland-test-238217">Ireland</a> made a steady start before captain William Porterfield, hit on the head by a Stone bouncer, pulled Curran to midwicket on 14.

But Andrew Balbirnie had a reprieve when, on 10, he edged Broad between Bairstow and first slip Root for a chance that belonged to the wicketkeeper.

Stirling had made 17 when Root, compounding a miserable day for the captain, dropped a slip catch off the unlucky Broad, leading the attack in the absence of the injured James Anderson.&nbsp;

Balbirnie rubbed salt into England's wounds with a 56-ball fifty that included nine fours. At tea, Ireland was 132-2 but they lost four wickets for nine runs, with Balbirnie bowled for 55 by Stone who, in common with Broad and Curran, took three wickets.

"Tim bowled well, he showed the length to bowl on this pitch," said Stone, who took 3-29.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Ireland ended England's World Cup honeymoon in dramatic style on Wednesday, bowling out the host nation for a derisory 85 on the first day at Lord's as they eyed one of the biggest shocks in Test history.

Ireland ended England's World Cup honeymoon in dramatic style on Wednesday, bowling out the host nation for a derisory 85 on the first day at Lord's as they eyed one of the biggest shocks in Test history. Tim Murtagh, who is 37 years old, took a stunning five for 13 in nine overs on a ground where he plays for Middlesex. Ireland then consolidated their position by making 207 in reply for a first-innings lead of 122. When they were all out, there was still time for one more over and England felt compelled to have nightwatchman Jack Leach, rather than a specialist batsman, face Murtagh. Leach somehow survived a maiden and England closed on nought for nought in their second innings. Appropriately, it was tailender Murtagh who took Ireland into a hundred-run lead in their first Test against England after the visitors suffered a slump of their own when he pulled veteran paceman Stuart Broad for four. In making 16, Murtagh scored more runs than he conceded while the fact 20 wickets fell broke a first-day record of 18 for a Lord's Test that had stood since 1896. Ten days after England won the World Cup at the 'home of cricket' against New Zealand and a week ahead of the Ashes, Ireland ruthlessly exposed their batting fragility. Just three England batsmen made it into double figures -- Joe Denly, who top-scored with 23, debutant Olly Stone and Sam Curran -- in an innings that was over inside 24 overs on a baking day in London. It was the fourth time in 34 Tests that England had lost all 10 wickets in a session - a worrying sign ahead of the five-Test series against Australia. Murtagh's ability was no secret but his superb return was the stuff of schoolboy fiction. The seamer, who recently took his 800th first-class wicket, gave a classic demonstration of his skill after England captain Joe Root won the toss and batted on an emerald green pitch prepared by Irish groundsman Karl McDermott. Fantastic session "I'm not quite sure what's happened in the last two hours," an elated Murtagh told Sky Sports during the lunch interval. "It's a fantastic first session for us." "I should know how to bowl on this ground -- I've been here long enough," added Murtagh, a Middlesex player for more than a decade. The home side was soon in deep trouble despite Root's insistence they did not want to "sleepwalk" into this four-day match ahead of the Ashes. Test debutant Jason Roy, fresh from his World Cup heroics, fell for five when Murtagh, short of express pace but remorselessly accurate, squared him up with first slip Paul Stirling holding the ensuing edge. Debutant Mark Adair (3-32) had his first Test wicket when Denly was leg before wicket and he also captured the prize scalp of Root, plumb lbw for two. When Jonny Bairstow was bowled for a duck -- one of three noughts in the England innings -- off an inside edge by Murtagh as he attempted a booming drive, England were 42-5. And when Murtagh had Moeen Ali caught behind for a duck, the seamer had a place on the honours board for all those who take five wickets in a Test innings at Lord's. Stone drove three fours in four balls from Stuart Thompson before he was bowled by Adair to end a stunning morning's play. Ireland made a steady start before captain William Porterfield, hit on the head by a Stone bouncer, pulled Curran to midwicket on 14. But Andrew Balbirnie had a reprieve when, on 10, he edged Broad between Bairstow and first slip Root for a chance that belonged to the wicketkeeper. Stirling had made 17 when Root, compounding a miserable day for the captain, dropped a slip catch off the unlucky Broad, leading the attack in the absence of the injured James Anderson. Balbirnie rubbed salt into England's wounds with a 56-ball fifty that included nine fours. At tea, Ireland was 132-2 but they lost four wickets for nine runs, with Balbirnie bowled for 55 by Stone who, in common with Broad and Curran, took three wickets. "Tim bowled well, he showed the length to bowl on this pitch," said Stone, who took 3-29.

Lord's Test: Murtagh rips through hapless England as Ireland take charge

For African men, a visit to the barber shop is an important rite of passage. For generations, men have visited to get their hair and beards styled, but also, to exchange conversations around masculinity, fatherhood and other issues affecting African men.

African barber shops come to life on London stage

<a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/world/french-submarine-lost-in-1968-located-in-mediterranean-237670&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwiTv4HDz83jAhWKsI8KHRFQB5EQFjAEegQIAxAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw0zsnytPea_NwIasCtp9EJO">French</a> coastguards on Wednesday rescued 11 migrants, including a woman and two children, after their rigid-hulled inflatable boat hit trouble heading for Britain in the English Channel, authorities said.

The migrants themselves signalled to emergency services they were in distress off Calais and the coastguard mobilised a rescue vessel backed by a helicopter, the local maritime authorities said in a statement.

The migrants were safely returned to the port of Dunkirk and handed over to border police.

Migrants in northern France are increasingly willing to take greater risks to reach Britain due to hardline policing and increased security at ports in the area.

French authorities strongly warn against such attempts, noting that the Channel is one of the busiest shipping lanes in the world.

The first months of this year saw a spike in Channel crossings by <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/afghan-police-pull-back-from-isolated-outposts-as-losses-mount-238143&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjrid3Xz83jAhWBknAKHftjCXkQFjACegQIDxAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw0kOU8tf-giMAngvnpwP7o6">Afghan</a>, Iranian, Iraqi and African migrants trying to reach England, prompting stepped-up patrols by British and French police.

The French boss of a second-hand boat firm was sentenced to prison in May for selling dozens of vessels to migrants who used them to cross the Channel.

French coastguards on Wednesday rescued 11 migrants, including a woman and two children, after their rigid-hulled inflatable boat hit trouble heading for Britain in the English Channel, authorities said.

French coastguards on Wednesday rescued 11 migrants, including a woman and two children, after their rigid-hulled inflatable boat hit trouble heading for Britain in the English Channel, authorities said. The migrants themselves signalled to emergency services they were in distress off Calais and the coastguard mobilised a rescue vessel backed by a helicopter, the local maritime authorities said in a statement. The migrants were safely returned to the port of Dunkirk and handed over to border police. Migrants in northern France are increasingly willing to take greater risks to reach Britain due to hardline policing and increased security at ports in the area. French authorities strongly warn against such attempts, noting that the Channel is one of the busiest shipping lanes in the world. The first months of this year saw a spike in Channel crossings by Afghan, Iranian, Iraqi and African migrants trying to reach England, prompting stepped-up patrols by British and French police. The French boss of a second-hand boat firm was sentenced to prison in May for selling dozens of vessels to migrants who used them to cross the Channel.

French coastguards rescue 11 migrants headed for Britain in Channel

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/boris-johnson-would-do-great-job-as-british-pm-donald-trump-237196">Boris Johnson</a> is expected to become Britain's next prime minister this week, vowing to deliver Brexit on October 31 come what may, in the face of fierce opposition in parliament.

The former London mayor is the runaway favourite to win the governing Conservative Party's leadership contest and replace <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/dancing-queen-theresa-may-boogies-to-abba-in-final-days-as-british-pm-236201">Prime Minister Theresa May</a> on Wednesday.

The postal ballot of 160,000 grassroots party members is expected to return Johnson, 55, as the new Conservative leader over <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-pm-race-boris-johnson-jeremy-hunt-to-contest-conservative-leadership-michael-gove-eliminated-in-final-ballot-229043">Foreign Secretary Jeremy Hunt</a> when the result is announced on Tuesday.

Any remaining ballots must be delivered by the Monday 5:00pm (1600 GMT) deadline. Bookmakers give Hunt around a one in 15 chance of victory.

While Johnson spent a relatively trouble-free Saturday, Hunt, his successor in the Foreign Office, was dealing with Iran's seizure of a British-flagged tanker in the Gulf.

The threat to the majority&nbsp;

The centre-right Conservatives command a razor-thin majority in parliament's lower <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-parliament-remains-divided-on-brexit-options-207308">House of Commons</a> and Johnson's opponents both within and outside the party are keen to scupper his leadership.

Johnson has vowed to take Britain out of the European Union on October 31, with or without a divorce deal.

Opponents of Brexit, and especially of a no-deal departure, are plotting moves against Johnson.

Some Conservatives have hinted they are prepared to bring down their own government rather than accept leaving the EU without a deal.

Justice Secretary David Gauke said he would quit the government if Johnson became prime minister.

He told The Sunday Times newspaper that a no-deal Brexit would trigger national "humiliation".&nbsp;

The broadsheet reported that up to six europhile Conservative MPs were considering defecting to the centrist, pro-EU Liberal Democrats should Johnson win leaving him without a Commons majority.

'Right side of history'&nbsp;

Pro-EU protesters rallied in central London on Saturday in anticipation of Johnson taking office.

The "No to Boris, yes to Europe" protest saw a giant balloon of Johnson inspired by the similar blimp of US President Donald Trump flying outside parliament.

"I want to be on the right side of history. I think anybody who considers Brexit to be a good solution, really hasn't considered the facts," demonstrator Tamara Bishop told AFP.

Claire Payton said of Johnson: "He's going to be appalling."

Michael Fowler, wearing an EU-flag beret, added: "He is a chancer that will say anything, promise anything and then do whatever suits him. Which might be completely the opposite to what he's promised."

'Good relationship': Trump&nbsp;

Trump said he spoke to Johnson on Thursday.

"He is going to do a great job," the president said Friday.

Trump renewed his criticism of May, saying she had done "a very poor job" with Brexit and predicted that Johnson would fix the "disaster".&nbsp;

"He's a different kind of a guy, but they say I'm a different kind of a guy too. We get along well. I think we'll have a very good relationship," Trump told reporters.

After a month-long campaign, the winner of the contest will be announced on Tuesday as the new Conservative Party leader.

May will answer questions in parliament as prime minister for the final time on Wednesday before heading to Buckingham Palace to tender her resignation to Queen Elizabeth II, the head of state.

The sovereign will then invite the new Conservative leader to form an administration.

May, who took office following the seismic 2016 Brexit referendum, has vowed to be "absolutely" loyal to her successor.

She will remain in parliament as the MP for her Maidenhead constituency in southern England.

"It is important that we have a Conservative government, particularly given the nature of the opposition we have," she told the Daily Express newspaper.

The Labour main opposition is riven with in-fighting over Brexit, anti-Semitism and veteran leftist Jeremy Corbyn's leadership.

"I will be doing everything I can to make sure that we have a Conservative government," said May.

The 62-year-old added that initially she would "take some time off, have a holiday and adjust to the new world".

Boris Johnson is expected to become Britain's next prime minister this week, vowing to deliver Brexit on October 31 come what may, in the face of fierce opposition in parliament.

Boris Johnson is expected to become Britain's next prime minister this week, vowing to deliver Brexit on October 31 come what may, in the face of fierce opposition in parliament. The former London mayor is the runaway favourite to win the governing Conservative Party's leadership contest and replace Prime Minister Theresa May on Wednesday. The postal ballot of 160,000 grassroots party members is expected to return Johnson, 55, as the new Conservative leader over Foreign Secretary Jeremy Hunt when the result is announced on Tuesday. Any remaining ballots must be delivered by the Monday 5:00pm (1600 GMT) deadline. Bookmakers give Hunt around a one in 15 chance of victory. While Johnson spent a relatively trouble-free Saturday, Hunt, his successor in the Foreign Office, was dealing with Iran's seizure of a British-flagged tanker in the Gulf. The threat to the majority The centre-right Conservatives command a razor-thin majority in parliament's lower House of Commons and Johnson's opponents both within and outside the party are keen to scupper his leadership. Johnson has vowed to take Britain out of the European Union on October 31, with or without a divorce deal. Opponents of Brexit, and especially of a no-deal departure, are plotting moves against Johnson. Some Conservatives have hinted they are prepared to bring down their own government rather than accept leaving the EU without a deal. Justice Secretary David Gauke said he would quit the government if Johnson became prime minister. He told The Sunday Times newspaper that a no-deal Brexit would trigger national "humiliation". The broadsheet reported that up to six europhile Conservative MPs were considering defecting to the centrist, pro-EU Liberal Democrats should Johnson win leaving him without a Commons majority. 'Right side of history' Pro-EU protesters rallied in central London on Saturday in anticipation of Johnson taking office. The "No to Boris, yes to Europe" protest saw a giant balloon of Johnson inspired by the similar blimp of US President Donald Trump flying outside parliament. "I want to be on the right side of history. I think anybody who considers Brexit to be a good solution, really hasn't considered the facts," demonstrator Tamara Bishop told AFP. Claire Payton said of Johnson: "He's going to be appalling." Michael Fowler, wearing an EU-flag beret, added: "He is a chancer that will say anything, promise anything and then do whatever suits him. Which might be completely the opposite to what he's promised." 'Good relationship': Trump Trump said he spoke to Johnson on Thursday. "He is going to do a great job," the president said Friday. Trump renewed his criticism of May, saying she had done "a very poor job" with Brexit and predicted that Johnson would fix the "disaster". "He's a different kind of a guy, but they say I'm a different kind of a guy too. We get along well. I think we'll have a very good relationship," Trump told reporters. After a month-long campaign, the winner of the contest will be announced on Tuesday as the new Conservative Party leader. May will answer questions in parliament as prime minister for the final time on Wednesday before heading to Buckingham Palace to tender her resignation to Queen Elizabeth II, the head of state. The sovereign will then invite the new Conservative leader to form an administration. May, who took office following the seismic 2016 Brexit referendum, has vowed to be "absolutely" loyal to her successor. She will remain in parliament as the MP for her Maidenhead constituency in southern England. "It is important that we have a Conservative government, particularly given the nature of the opposition we have," she told the Daily Express newspaper. The Labour main opposition is riven with in-fighting over Brexit, anti-Semitism and veteran leftist Jeremy Corbyn's leadership. "I will be doing everything I can to make sure that we have a Conservative government," said May. The 62-year-old added that initially she would "take some time off, have a holiday and adjust to the new world".

Boris Johnson bracing to become Britain's Brexit Prime Minister

Men's and women's teams across all formats of international and first-class cricket will be allowed to replace concussed players during matches following a two-year trial in the domestic game, the International Cricket Council (<a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/angry-indian-fans-fume-over-iccs-hasta-la-vista-tweet-on-ms-dhoni-235304&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwiZgp7urMDjAhWDguYKHUWQBYEQFjACegQIDxAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw11D3QXP3U0NN35JsaKmOxE">ICC</a>) has said.

The rule has been included in the governing body's playing conditions and will be effective starting August&nbsp;1 when the Ashes series between England and Australia begins at Edgbaston.

Decisions on concussion will be made by the team's medical representative while the incoming player, who will be allowed to bat and bowl, must be deemed a "like for like" replacement approved by the match referee.

"Following a two-year trial... in domestic cricket, the <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/icc-suspends-zimbabwe-cricket-over-government-interference-237023&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwiZgp7urMDjAhWDguYKHUWQBYEQFjADegQIEBAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw0ZkjzZOCC5dtAHMSLu7Zgq">ICC </a>approved concussion player replacements in all formats of men's and women's international cricket and for first-class cricket worldwide," the ICC said in a statement following their annual conference in London.

Concussion substitutes have been on trial in Australia's domestic game since the 2016-17 season while the England and Wales Cricket Board adopted the regulations for its four professional domestic competitions in 2018.

Cricket Australia (CA) and the Australian Cricketers' Association (ACA) welcomed the <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/king-kohli-iccs-tribute-to-virat-kohli-ahead-of-indias-world-cup-opener-224479&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwiZgp7urMDjAhWDguYKHUWQBYEQFjAFegQIBBAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw1bclel6EW3i9H0lQeOX0SG">ICC's </a>move to expand the rule to cover international cricket.

"Creating an environment where players feel comfortable in dealing with a concussion... and are able to be appropriately accessed, is vital for their long-term health and wellbeing," ACA chief executive Alistair Nicholson said.

Discussions on concussion and player safety intensified after former Australia test batsman <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/63-forever-not-out-remembering-phillip-hughes-on-his-4th-death-anniversary-179729&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwiHiai4rcDjAhUFmuYKHaVtAlcQFjAFegQIBRAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw0__A0zGN8ihM8zkDaXhHsM">Phillip Hughes</a> died in 2014, having been fatally hit on the head by a bouncer in a first-class match.

Afghanistan's <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/afghanistans-shahidi-kept-batting-after-bouncer-blow-as-he-did-not-want-to-worry-his-mother-228672&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjNrayorcDjAhVH_XMBHdBICuwQFjABegQIEBAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw3H5brPH9_oi5Ku2k10cFjy">Hashmatullah Shahidi</a> ignored medical advice and continued batting after being hit on the head by a bouncer in a World Cup clash with England last month, prompting demands that players should not take those calls.

CA sports science manager Alex Kountouris said the new rule would allow players to declare symptoms of concussion that could occur well after the incident, knowing their team would not be disadvantaged.

A concussion is a major concern in other sports as well, with rugby's world body considering rule changes to reduce the risk of head injuries.

Men's and women's teams across all formats of international and first-class cricket will be allowed to replace concussed players during matches following a two-year trial in the domestic game, the International Cricket Council (ICC) has said.

Men's and women's teams across all formats of international and first-class cricket will be allowed to replace concussed players during matches following a two-year trial in the domestic game, the International Cricket Council (ICC) has said. The rule has been included in the governing body's playing conditions and will be effective starting August 1 when the Ashes series between England and Australia begins at Edgbaston. Decisions on concussion will be made by the team's medical representative while the incoming player, who will be allowed to bat and bowl, must be deemed a "like for like" replacement approved by the match referee. "Following a two-year trial... in domestic cricket, the ICC approved concussion player replacements in all formats of men's and women's international cricket and for first-class cricket worldwide," the ICC said in a statement following their annual conference in London. Concussion substitutes have been on trial in Australia's domestic game since the 2016-17 season while the England and Wales Cricket Board adopted the regulations for its four professional domestic competitions in 2018. Cricket Australia (CA) and the Australian Cricketers' Association (ACA) welcomed the ICC's move to expand the rule to cover international cricket. "Creating an environment where players feel comfortable in dealing with a concussion... and are able to be appropriately accessed, is vital for their long-term health and wellbeing," ACA chief executive Alistair Nicholson said. Discussions on concussion and player safety intensified after former Australia test batsman Phillip Hughes died in 2014, having been fatally hit on the head by a bouncer in a first-class match. Afghanistan's Hashmatullah Shahidi ignored medical advice and continued batting after being hit on the head by a bouncer in a World Cup clash with England last month, prompting demands that players should not take those calls. CA sports science manager Alex Kountouris said the new rule would allow players to declare symptoms of concussion that could occur well after the incident, knowing their team would not be disadvantaged. A concussion is a major concern in other sports as well, with rugby's world body considering rule changes to reduce the risk of head injuries.

ICC approves concussion substitutes in international cricket

England's all-rounder <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/dramatic-world-cup-final-the-best-game-ever-says-england-hero-ben-stokes-235986&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwih-4vroMDjAhXLwI8KHX-HAw8QFjADegQIDxAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw2B7P6CQpDF6emB-zfRmvCU">Ben Stokes</a> on Friday was nominated for the New Zealander of the Year award.

Stokes, born in New Zealand, played a crucial role in England's World Cup victory and he starred for the hosts in the final match against New Zealand.

The left-hander played a knock of 84 runs in the final and he went on to amass 465 runs in the World Cup.

"He might not have been playing for the Black Caps but, having been born in Christchurch, where <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/videos/most-hated-father-in-nz-ben-stokes-parents-take-in-englands-world-cup-success-236142&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwiUlqnAoMDjAhWZ63MBHZf6D_8QFjAAegQIBhAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw0iebMko5B-eI1iNeyu_9em">his parents</a> now live, and with Maori ancestry, there are clearly a few Kiwis about who think we can still claim him," stuff.co.nz quoted Cameron Bennett, the New Zealander of the Year Awards Chief Judge as saying.

Stokes is also likely to receive knighthood after showcasing a match-winning performance in the final as both candidates for next UK Prime Minister, Boris Johnson and Jeremy Hunt expressed their desire to give the player '<a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/ben-stokes-likely-to-receive-knighthood-for-world-cup-final-heroics-236474&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwiUlqnAoMDjAhWZ63MBHZf6D_8QFjACegQIDhAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw13wjcVy3pBRcSmIb4xImE8">knighthood</a>'.

New Zealand cricket captain Kane Williamson has also been nominated for the award.

Williamson's composure after the World Cup loss was lauded by many people within the sporting fraternity.

"The way Williamson conducted himself, not only in the face of such devasting disappointment at Lord's but throughout the tournament, resonated powerfully with Kiwis from all walks of life. He`s been the embodiment of the qualities we cherish as New Zealanders - courage, fairness, humility," Bennett said.

All New Zealand citizens who are older than 15 years are eligible to be nominated.

The shortlist of 10 candidates to be considered for the award will be announced in December, and the 2020 winner will be revealed at the New Zealander of the Year Gala Awards in February.

<a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/world-cup-final-jofra-archer-reveals-ben-stokes-pre-super-over-advice-236203&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwih-4vroMDjAhXLwI8KHX-HAw8QFjAAegQIBRAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw2gylka_PS0Kw8jwmHC1_Uu">England </a>scripted history on July 14 by claiming their first-ever World Cup title.

The finals will be remembered for ages as it did not have a winner after the 50-over and super over action as both ended in a tie.

In the end, England were announced as the winner as they had hit more boundaries - 26 -&nbsp;as compared to New Zealand's 17 boundaries in the match.

England's all-rounder Ben Stokes on Friday was nominated for the New Zealander of the Year award. Stokes, born in New Zealand, played a crucial role in England's World Cup victory and he starred for the hosts in the final match against New Zealand.

England's all-rounder Ben Stokes on Friday was nominated for the New Zealander of the Year award. Stokes, born in New Zealand, played a crucial role in England's World Cup victory and he starred for the hosts in the final match against New Zealand. The left-hander played a knock of 84 runs in the final and he went on to amass 465 runs in the World Cup. "He might not have been playing for the Black Caps but, having been born in Christchurch, where his parents now live, and with Maori ancestry, there are clearly a few Kiwis about who think we can still claim him," stuff.co.nz quoted Cameron Bennett, the New Zealander of the Year Awards Chief Judge as saying. Stokes is also likely to receive knighthood after showcasing a match-winning performance in the final as both candidates for next UK Prime Minister, Boris Johnson and Jeremy Hunt expressed their desire to give the player 'knighthood'. New Zealand cricket captain Kane Williamson has also been nominated for the award. Williamson's composure after the World Cup loss was lauded by many people within the sporting fraternity. "The way Williamson conducted himself, not only in the face of such devasting disappointment at Lord's but throughout the tournament, resonated powerfully with Kiwis from all walks of life. He`s been the embodiment of the qualities we cherish as New Zealanders - courage, fairness, humility," Bennett said. All New Zealand citizens who are older than 15 years are eligible to be nominated. The shortlist of 10 candidates to be considered for the award will be announced in December, and the 2020 winner will be revealed at the New Zealander of the Year Gala Awards in February. England scripted history on July 14 by claiming their first-ever World Cup title. The finals will be remembered for ages as it did not have a winner after the 50-over and super over action as both ended in a tie. In the end, England were announced as the winner as they had hit more boundaries - 26 - as compared to New Zealand's 17 boundaries in the match.

England's World Cup winner Ben Stokes nominated for New Zealander of the Year

South African batsman, <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/i-made-absolutely-no-demands-says-ab-de-villiers-on-world-cup-squad-controversy-235335&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwifk9v6pMDjAhVs4nMBHZ4vB74QFjAAegQIARAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw1t3UfeB2to0jp7scAxTbQo">AB de Villiers</a>, made an impressive debut in England's domestic T20 competition Vitality Blast as he played a match-winning knock of 88 runs for Middlesex on Thursday.

De Villiers kept on hammering Essex bowlers all around the park and he went on to score 88 runs off just 43 balls.

This knock by the right-handed batsman enabled Middlesex to register an easy win by seven wickets with three overs to spare.

Chasing 165, Middlesex had gotten off to a bad start as they lost their first two wickets with just 39 runs on the board.

De Villiers came out to bat at number four and he along with Dawid Malan stitched together a 105-run stand to take Middlesex closer to victory.

Malan departed after playing a knock of 43 runs, but de Villiers ensured that the team registers a victory by seven wickets and with 18 balls to spare.

Earlier, after being put in to bat Essex kept on losing wickets at regular intervals and it was only due to Dutch player Ryan ten Doeschate knock of 74 runs that the team was able to post 164 runs on the board.

AB de Villiers has been surrounded by controversy as during the recently concluded ICC Men's World Cup, Cricket South Africa's (CSA) selection panel had revealed that <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/world-cup-ab-de-villiers-offer-was-too-late-to-change-team-says-south-africa-captain-faf-du-plessis-226140&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwifk9v6pMDjAhVs4nMBHZ4vB74QFjAEegQIBBAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw0psBYqMRmWOLPhachwuj6X">AB de Villiers</a> wanted to make his way back into the World Cup squad on the day of announcement of the team.

However, after South Africa failed to make it to the semi-finals of the World Cup, de Villiers released a statement saying there was no contact between him and CSA after his retirement from international cricket.

He added that he made no demands from either the selection panel or skipper Faf Du Plessis.

"During the weeks and months that followed, there was no formal contact between Cricket South Africa or the Proteas and me. I didn't call them, and they didn't call me. I had made my decision and the Proteas moved on, enjoying success under the expert guidance of coach Ottis Gibson and the outstanding captaincy of Faf du Plessis," de Villiers had said.

"Faf and I have been friends since we were at school together and, two days before the World Cup squad was announced, I contacted him for a chat. I had been in decent form during the Indian Premier League and casually repeated what I had said when asked a year earlier, that I was available if required... but only if required. I made absolutely no demands," he added.

<a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/ab-de-villiers-is-probably-the-best-player-of-our-generation-says-marcus-stoinis-210268&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwifk9v6pMDjAhVs4nMBHZ4vB74QFjACegQIDxAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw1XhHStUaQPoCGT13-GCxrp'">De Villiers</a> had announced his retirement from international cricket on May 23, 2018.

He went on to play 114 Tests, 228 ODIs and 78 T20Is for Proteas.

South African batsman, AB de Villiers, made an impressive debut in England's domestic T20 competition Vitality Blast as he played a match-winning knock of 88 runs for Middlesex on Thursday.

South African batsman, AB de Villiers, made an impressive debut in England's domestic T20 competition Vitality Blast as he played a match-winning knock of 88 runs for Middlesex on Thursday. De Villiers kept on hammering Essex bowlers all around the park and he went on to score 88 runs off just 43 balls. This knock by the right-handed batsman enabled Middlesex to register an easy win by seven wickets with three overs to spare. Chasing 165, Middlesex had gotten off to a bad start as they lost their first two wickets with just 39 runs on the board. De Villiers came out to bat at number four and he along with Dawid Malan stitched together a 105-run stand to take Middlesex closer to victory. Malan departed after playing a knock of 43 runs, but de Villiers ensured that the team registers a victory by seven wickets and with 18 balls to spare. Earlier, after being put in to bat Essex kept on losing wickets at regular intervals and it was only due to Dutch player Ryan ten Doeschate knock of 74 runs that the team was able to post 164 runs on the board. AB de Villiers has been surrounded by controversy as during the recently concluded ICC Men's World Cup, Cricket South Africa's (CSA) selection panel had revealed that AB de Villiers wanted to make his way back into the World Cup squad on the day of announcement of the team. However, after South Africa failed to make it to the semi-finals of the World Cup, de Villiers released a statement saying there was no contact between him and CSA after his retirement from international cricket. He added that he made no demands from either the selection panel or skipper Faf Du Plessis. "During the weeks and months that followed, there was no formal contact between Cricket South Africa or the Proteas and me. I didn't call them, and they didn't call me. I had made my decision and the Proteas moved on, enjoying success under the expert guidance of coach Ottis Gibson and the outstanding captaincy of Faf du Plessis," de Villiers had said. "Faf and I have been friends since we were at school together and, two days before the World Cup squad was announced, I contacted him for a chat. I had been in decent form during the Indian Premier League and casually repeated what I had said when asked a year earlier, that I was available if required... but only if required. I made absolutely no demands," he added. De Villiers had announced his retirement from international cricket on May 23, 2018. He went on to play 114 Tests, 228 ODIs and 78 T20Is for Proteas.

AB de Villiers plays match-winning innings on England's T20 Blast debut

Opening batsman Jason Roy has been named in England's Test squad for the first time for the one-off match against Ireland starting at Lord's next Wednesday.

Roy racked up 443 runs in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ben-stokes-likely-to-receive-knighthood-for-world-cup-final-heroics-236474">England's </a>triumphant 50-overs World Cup campaign but is not a regular top-order batsman for Surrey in red-ball cricket.

The 28-year-old is expected to open the batting with Surrey teammate Rory Burns and will have an opportunity to impress the selectors ahead of the Ashes series against Australia starting on Aug. 1.

Somerset all-rounder Lewis Gregory has also been called up for the first time, while uncapped fast bowler Olly Stone, who picked up an injury on this year's tour of West Indies, returned to the squad.

England's leading wicket-taker James Anderson was included, despite picking up a calf injury this month.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-euphoric-reactions-of-british-grandma-to-englands-historic-world-cup-triumph-236364">England </a>World Cup winners Jos Buttler and Ben Stokes were rested for the Ireland Test but have been included in a 16-man pre-Ashes training camp this weekend.

Fast bowlers Mark Wood and Jofra Archer were not considered for selection because both players have suffered side strains.

Wood has been ruled out for four to six weeks while Archer will have a period of rest before being considered for Ashes selection.

England squad:

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/world-cup-winner-joe-root-thanks-countrymen-for-unbelievable-support-236706">Joe Root</a> (captain), Moeen Ali, James Anderson, Jonny Bairstow (wicketkeeper), Stuart Broad, Rory Burns, Sam Curran, Joe Denly, Lewis Gregory, Jack Leach, Jason Roy, Olly Stone, Chris Woakes.

Opening batsman Jason Roy has been named in England's Test squad for the first time for the one-off match against Ireland starting at Lord's next Wednesday. Roy racked up 443 runs in England's triumphant 50-overs World Cup campaign but is not a regular top-order batsman for Surrey in red-ball cricket.

Opening batsman Jason Roy has been named in England's Test squad for the first time for the one-off match against Ireland starting at Lord's next Wednesday. Roy racked up 443 runs in England's triumphant 50-overs World Cup campaign but is not a regular top-order batsman for Surrey in red-ball cricket. The 28-year-old is expected to open the batting with Surrey teammate Rory Burns and will have an opportunity to impress the selectors ahead of the Ashes series against Australia starting on Aug. 1. Somerset all-rounder Lewis Gregory has also been called up for the first time, while uncapped fast bowler Olly Stone, who picked up an injury on this year's tour of West Indies, returned to the squad. England's leading wicket-taker James Anderson was included, despite picking up a calf injury this month. England World Cup winners Jos Buttler and Ben Stokes were rested for the Ireland Test but have been included in a 16-man pre-Ashes training camp this weekend. Fast bowlers Mark Wood and Jofra Archer were not considered for selection because both players have suffered side strains. Wood has been ruled out for four to six weeks while Archer will have a period of rest before being considered for Ashes selection. England squad: Joe Root (captain), Moeen Ali, James Anderson, Jonny Bairstow (wicketkeeper), Stuart Broad, Rory Burns, Sam Curran, Joe Denly, Lewis Gregory, Jack Leach, Jason Roy, Olly Stone, Chris Woakes.

Jason Roy set to make England Test debut against Ireland at Lord's

England right-back Kieran Trippier has signed for <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/atletico-madrid-accuse-barcelona-antoine-griezmann-for-showing-disrespect-233489&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjV7fWX5b3jAhX8_XMBHeDFCdMQFjAAegQIBhAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw2svE7_PW8K2Dl4b5peHjeq">Atletico Madrid</a> from Tottenham Hotspur, the two clubs said on Wednesday.

Atletico did not say how much they will pay for Trippier, 28, although British media reported the deal was worth £20 million ($25 million) plus variables.

Trippier played a leading role in England's run to the last four of the 2018 World Cup, scoring from a free kick in their 2-1 semi-final defeat by Croatia.

He also helped Spurs to the Champions League final for the first time in their history last season, where they were beaten 2-0 by Liverpool in Atletico’s Wanda Metropolitano stadium.

"With this signing, we add to our team a fantastic and experienced player who comes to us from the Champions League runners-up," Atletico said in a statement on their website.

"The Englishman is a versatile full-back who can also play in midfield and has a fantastic right foot.''

"Because of all this, we welcome Trippier to the Atleti Family and wish him the best of luck at his new home," the statement added.

Trippier is the third defender to join Atletico in the close season after Brazilian pairing <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/atletico-madrid-sign-brazilian-defender-felipe-222279&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjV7fWX5b3jAhX8_XMBHeDFCdMQFjADegQIDxAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw1X4O1G69w-baynkYOPQVkF">Felipe</a> and Renan Lodi while reports in the Spanish media say Spain centre back Mario Hermoso is also set to sign for Diego Simeone's side.

Atletico, who finished second in La Liga last season, bid farewell to captain Diego Godin and stalwart full-backs Juanfran and Filipe Luis after their contracts expired, while France defender Lucas Hernandez has moved to Bayern Munich.

Trippier will be the first English player to play for Atletico in La Liga and the third British player in Spain's top flight next season alongside Scottish forward Jack Harper of Getafe and Real Madrid's Gareth Bale.

England right-back Kieran Trippier has signed for Atletico Madrid from Tottenham Hotspur, the two clubs said on Wednesday. Atletico did not say how much they will pay for Trippier, 28, although British media reported the deal was worth £20 million ($25 million) plus variables.

England right-back Kieran Trippier has signed for Atletico Madrid from Tottenham Hotspur, the two clubs said on Wednesday. Atletico did not say how much they will pay for Trippier, 28, although British media reported the deal was worth £20 million ($25 million) plus variables. Trippier played a leading role in England's run to the last four of the 2018 World Cup, scoring from a free kick in their 2-1 semi-final defeat by Croatia. He also helped Spurs to the Champions League final for the first time in their history last season, where they were beaten 2-0 by Liverpool in Atletico’s Wanda Metropolitano stadium. "With this signing, we add to our team a fantastic and experienced player who comes to us from the Champions League runners-up," Atletico said in a statement on their website. "The Englishman is a versatile full-back who can also play in midfield and has a fantastic right foot.'' "Because of all this, we welcome Trippier to the Atleti Family and wish him the best of luck at his new home," the statement added. Trippier is the third defender to join Atletico in the close season after Brazilian pairing Felipe and Renan Lodi while reports in the Spanish media say Spain centre back Mario Hermoso is also set to sign for Diego Simeone's side. Atletico, who finished second in La Liga last season, bid farewell to captain Diego Godin and stalwart full-backs Juanfran and Filipe Luis after their contracts expired, while France defender Lucas Hernandez has moved to Bayern Munich. Trippier will be the first English player to play for Atletico in La Liga and the third British player in Spain's top flight next season alongside Scottish forward Jack Harper of Getafe and Real Madrid's Gareth Bale.

Atletico Madrid sign England's Kieran Trippier from Tottenham Hotspur

England's Cricket World Cup triumph can be the perfect launch pad to complete a memorable double by winning the Ashes series against Australia this year, test skipper Joe Root has said.

Hosts <a href="http://cms.wionews.com/sports/england-mistakenly-awarded-extra-run-in-world-cup-final-ex-umpire-simon-taufel-236235">England </a>ended a 44-year wait to win the World Cup as they beat New Zealand side on boundary count after a tied Super Over in a dramatic final on Sunday.

Shifting focus to the five-match Ashes series, which begins on Aug. 1, the 28-year-old said England were full of confidence as they bid to reclaim the urn having already achieved one of their targets.

"It's what we set out to do two or three years ago and we're halfway there," Root told reporters.

"This will give the guys confidence and we've talked about taking that forward into a series like that," Root said.

<a href="http://cms.wionews.com/sports/allah-was-with-us-captain-morgan-hails-diverse-cultures-as-england-win-world-cup-with-rest-of-world-236174">England </a>beat Australia in the World Cup semi-finals at Edgbaston, the venue for the first Ashes test, and Root said they were looking forward to getting back there.

"The way we played against Australia in that semi-final... the guys who were involved relished it and will want a bit more,&nbsp;the feeling of euphoria we felt at that ground," Root added.

"To potentially be able to experience all that again is very exciting. Ashes cricket always has a different edge to it so that in itself will get everyone going.''

"The atmosphere, the way it builds up and the way the guys get excited about it, it's like no other series in test cricket," Root said.

However, England must ensure their ODI success does not affect preparations, all-rounder <a href="http://cms.wionews.com/sports/world-cup-final-jofra-archer-reveals-ben-stokes-pre-super-over-advice-236203">Ben Stokes</a> said.

"Everyone here deserves to feel like a champion because we've just won it, but when it comes to the Ashes it's going to be heads on again because it has to be," Stokes said.

"Whether you're winning or losing, you've just got to wipe the slate clean," added Stokes.

England warm up for the series with their first ever test against Ireland, a four-day contest, starting on July 24.

England's Cricket World Cup triumph can be the perfect launch pad to complete a memorable double by winning the Ashes series against Australia this year, test skipper Joe Root has said.

England's Cricket World Cup triumph can be the perfect launch pad to complete a memorable double by winning the Ashes series against Australia this year, test skipper Joe Root has said. Hosts England ended a 44-year wait to win the World Cup as they beat New Zealand side on boundary count after a tied Super Over in a dramatic final on Sunday. Shifting focus to the five-match Ashes series, which begins on Aug. 1, the 28-year-old said England were full of confidence as they bid to reclaim the urn having already achieved one of their targets. "It's what we set out to do two or three years ago and we're halfway there," Root told reporters. "This will give the guys confidence and we've talked about taking that forward into a series like that," Root said. England beat Australia in the World Cup semi-finals at Edgbaston, the venue for the first Ashes test, and Root said they were looking forward to getting back there. "The way we played against Australia in that semi-final... the guys who were involved relished it and will want a bit more, the feeling of euphoria we felt at that ground," Root added. "To potentially be able to experience all that again is very exciting. Ashes cricket always has a different edge to it so that in itself will get everyone going.'' "The atmosphere, the way it builds up and the way the guys get excited about it, it's like no other series in test cricket," Root said. However, England must ensure their ODI success does not affect preparations, all-rounder Ben Stokes said. "Everyone here deserves to feel like a champion because we've just won it, but when it comes to the Ashes it's going to be heads on again because it has to be," Stokes said. "Whether you're winning or losing, you've just got to wipe the slate clean," added Stokes. England warm up for the series with their first ever test against Ireland, a four-day contest, starting on July 24.

World Cup success can spur England to Ashes glory, says Joe Root

Cricket World Cup 2019: Dream team of the tournament

A Wimbledon Final Going Into A 5th Set Tie-Breaker, A Cricket World Cup Final That Ended In A Tie. The sunday (July 14, 2019) will stay in the memory of sports fans for ages to come. An epic Wimbledon final saw Djokovic defend the title by the most slender of margins even as Federer rolled back the years. 17 kilometres away, England won the final against New Zealand in a super over. What's more? It was the New Zealand-born English allrounder who won it for England. Palki sums up the two iconic events and adds some trivia too.

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New Zealand’s all-rounder James Neesham on Monday advised kids that 'don't take up sports' after <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/england-defeat-new-zealand-to-win-the-cricket-world-cup-2019-title-235973">Kiwis loss to England</a> in the Cricket World Cup final.

“Kids, don’t take up sport. Take up baking or something. Die at 60 really fat and happy,” a disappointed Neesham tweeted.

Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/from-most-runs-to-best-average-cricket-world-cup-2019-in-stats-and-numbers-235981">From most runs to best average, Cricket World Cup 2019 in stats and numbers</a>

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Kids, don’t take up sport. Take up baking or something. Die at 60 really fat and happy.
— Jimmy Neesham (@JimmyNeesh) <a href="https://twitter.com/JimmyNeesh/status/1150562893777244160?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 15, 2019</a></blockquote>
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“That hurts. Hopefully, there’s a day or two over the next decade where I don’t think about that last half hour. Congratulations @ECB_cricket, well deserved,” he added.

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That hurts. Hopefully there’s a day or two over the next decade where I don’t think about that last half hour. Congratulations <a href="https://twitter.com/ECB_cricket?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ECB_cricket</a> , well deserved.
— Jimmy Neesham (@JimmyNeesh) <a href="https://twitter.com/JimmyNeesh/status/1150526033776582656?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 14, 2019</a></blockquote>
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“Thank you to all the supporters that came out today. We could hear you the whole way. Sorry, we couldn’t deliver what you so badly wanted,” he said.

But social media users and cricket fans around the world could not help reminding Neesham that his team New Zealand “played like champions”.&nbsp;

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I shouted my lungs off when you hit that 6 in the super over. You did everything right , you played like champs , you are my champions 🏆
— Roshan Rai (@RoshanKrRai) <a href="https://twitter.com/RoshanKrRai/status/1150594945759105024?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 15, 2019</a></blockquote>
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SHUT UP!!! You all were amazing. Not even a kiwi but still so proud
— 👀 (@rainzarry) <a href="https://twitter.com/rainzarry/status/1150563639256133632?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 15, 2019</a></blockquote>
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On July 14 at Lord’s, England were crowned World Cup 2019 champions after the final ended in a tie and the Super Over that followed, too ended in a tie. The hosts were then declared winners on a superior boundary count.

Neesham was in the middle when his batting partner Martin Guptill was run out by Jos Buttler, resulting in the Super Over ending in a tie. The Kiwis needed 16 to win off the Super Over bowled by Jofra Archer.

New Zealand’s all-rounder James Neesham on Monday advised kids that 'don't take up sports' after Kiwis loss to England in the Cricket World Cup final. “Kids, don’t take up sport.

New Zealand’s all-rounder James Neesham on Monday advised kids that 'don't take up sports' after Kiwis loss to England in the Cricket World Cup final. “Kids, don’t take up sport. Take up baking or something. Die at 60 really fat and happy,” a disappointed Neesham tweeted. Also Read: From most runs to best average, Cricket World Cup 2019 in stats and numbers Kids, don’t take up sport. Take up baking or something. Die at 60 really fat and happy. — Jimmy Neesham (@JimmyNeesh) July 15, 2019 × “That hurts. Hopefully, there’s a day or two over the next decade where I don’t think about that last half hour. Congratulations @ECB_cricket, well deserved,” he added. That hurts. Hopefully there’s a day or two over the next decade where I don’t think about that last half hour. Congratulations @ECB_cricket , well deserved. — Jimmy Neesham (@JimmyNeesh) July 14, 2019 × “Thank you to all the supporters that came out today. We could hear you the whole way. Sorry, we couldn’t deliver what you so badly wanted,” he said. But social media users and cricket fans around the world could not help reminding Neesham that his team New Zealand “played like champions”. I shouted my lungs off when you hit that 6 in the super over. You did everything right , you played like champs , you are my champions 🏆 — Roshan Rai (@RoshanKrRai) July 15, 2019 × SHUT UP!!! You all were amazing. Not even a kiwi but still so proud — 👀 (@rainzarry) July 15, 2019 × On July 14 at Lord’s, England were crowned World Cup 2019 champions after the final ended in a tie and the Super Over that followed, too ended in a tie. The hosts were then declared winners on a superior boundary count. Neesham was in the middle when his batting partner Martin Guptill was run out by Jos Buttler, resulting in the Super Over ending in a tie. The Kiwis needed 16 to win off the Super Over bowled by Jofra Archer.

'New Zealand is champ': Twitter reacts after James Neesham tells kids not to take up sport

England were mistakenly awarded an extra run during their nailbiting <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/england-defeat-new-zealand-to-win-the-cricket-world-cup-2019-title-235973">World Cup win over New Zealand</a> at Lord's, a member of the sport's chief rules committee told media Monday.

A freak fielding deflection off Ben Stokes' bat that raced to the boundary saw the team awarded six runs with three balls to go in the final over on Sunday.

Scores were tied at the end of regular play and the resulting Super Over shootout, with England then handed their first-ever <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/allah-was-with-us-captain-morgan-hails-diverse-cultures-as-england-win-world-cup-with-rest-of-world-236174">World Cup victory</a> for their superior boundary count.

But former umpire Simon Taufel told Fox Sports Australia that umpires had made a "clear mistake", as the batsmen had not crossed for their second run.

"They should have been awarded five runs, not six," he said, adding that England's Adil Rashid should have faced the second-last ball instead of Stokes as a result.&nbsp;

Taufel, a five-time winner of the International Cricket Council's Umpire of the Year award, now sits on the Marylebone Cricket Club (MCC) laws sub-committee, the worldwide custodian of cricket's sometimes obscure rules of play.

Watch:&nbsp;England win maiden men's World Cup title at Lord's

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The Australian defended the match umpires, who he said had to make a complicated judgement, and said it would be "unfair" to say the decision altered the outcome of the tournament.

"Unfortunately that sort of thing happens from time to time. It's a part of the game that we play," Taufel said.

"I don't wish to nitpick, just hope it never happens in such moments ever again."

England, who have often cited a humiliating defeat by New Zealand at the 2015 World Cup as the catalyst for their climb to the top of the one-day international rankings, finally have a World Cup win to go with their three losing appearances in the 1979, 1987 and 1992 finals.

By contrast, defeat is devastating for New Zealand, who were also looking to win the trophy for the first time after being well beaten by Australia in the 2015 showpiece.

England were mistakenly awarded an extra run during their nailbiting World Cup win over New Zealand at Lord's, a member of the sport's chief rules committee told media Monday.

England were mistakenly awarded an extra run during their nailbiting World Cup win over New Zealand at Lord's, a member of the sport's chief rules committee told media Monday. A freak fielding deflection off Ben Stokes' bat that raced to the boundary saw the team awarded six runs with three balls to go in the final over on Sunday. Scores were tied at the end of regular play and the resulting Super Over shootout, with England then handed their first-ever World Cup victory for their superior boundary count. But former umpire Simon Taufel told Fox Sports Australia that umpires had made a "clear mistake", as the batsmen had not crossed for their second run. "They should have been awarded five runs, not six," he said, adding that England's Adil Rashid should have faced the second-last ball instead of Stokes as a result. Taufel, a five-time winner of the International Cricket Council's Umpire of the Year award, now sits on the Marylebone Cricket Club (MCC) laws sub-committee, the worldwide custodian of cricket's sometimes obscure rules of play. Watch: England win maiden men's World Cup title at Lord's The Australian defended the match umpires, who he said had to make a complicated judgement, and said it would be "unfair" to say the decision altered the outcome of the tournament. "Unfortunately that sort of thing happens from time to time. It's a part of the game that we play," Taufel said. "I don't wish to nitpick, just hope it never happens in such moments ever again." England, who have often cited a humiliating defeat by New Zealand at the 2015 World Cup as the catalyst for their climb to the top of the one-day international rankings, finally have a World Cup win to go with their three losing appearances in the 1979, 1987 and 1992 finals. By contrast, defeat is devastating for New Zealand, who were also looking to win the trophy for the first time after being well beaten by Australia in the 2015 showpiece.

England 'mistakenly' awarded extra run in World Cup final: Ex-umpire Simon Taufel

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