England's white-ball captain Harry Brook says that pacer Brydon Carse, who was recently involved in an off-field incident, needs time away from international cricket. Brook's comments came at a press conference on the eve of the first ODI against Sri Lanka, which is scheduled for Tuesday (Sep 22) at Chester-le-Street. England players have been going through off-field disciplinary issues for quite some time, with Brook himself being involved in an incident where he was punched by a nightclub bouncer in New Zealand last year. Brook, however, has not closed the door on Carse's selection in the England team for the future.<h2>Brook shares thoughts on Carse's England selection</h2>Carse was dropped from the England squad for the remainder of the Test series against Pakistan after an incident in Derby following a County match. He was briefly handcuffed and then released by police. The pacer will not face criminal charges, as police closed the investigation, but he still awaits the result of an inquiry by the Cricket Regulator.Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/how-zaheer-khan-came-to-be-csk-s-head-coach-of-ipl-2027-1790047795366">How Zaheer Khan came to be CSK's head coach of IPL 2027</a>Talking about Carse's future international chances, Brook said: "He’s a very good cricketer. He’s been bowling extremely well for Durham. When his time for selection is up, that will be a debate. I’m very good mates with Carsey. I’ve spoken a lot with him. Those conversations are private. I think he just needs time away from the international scene. He’s working on a few things behind the scenes and hopefully he’ll be ready at some point in the future."<h2>England look to replicate T20I form in ODIs</h2>After a 3-0 clean sweep in the T20Is, which helped them attain top ICC team rankings in the format, England now turn their focus to the 50-over format. The Three Lions are dealing with some injury issues, with Jacob Bethell and Sam Curran out of the series and Adil Rashid being doubtful.Brook, however, remains optimistic and said: "We’ve gone undefeated in the T20s and I think we can take a hell of a lot of confidence from that going into this ODI series. It’s more of the same. As a squad and a unit, we’re trying to play a higher-octane style of cricket and we’re really trying to put them under pressure with bat and ball."

Harry Brook says pacer Brydon Carse needs time away from cricket following an off-field incident. Despite injury concerns, Brook remains confident as England targets ODI success after T20I wins.

England's white-ball captain Harry Brook says that pacer Brydon Carse, who was recently involved in an off-field incident, needs time away from international cricket. Brook's comments came at a press conference on the eve of the first ODI against Sri Lanka, which is scheduled for Tuesday (Sep 22) at Chester-le-Street. England players have been going through off-field disciplinary issues for quite some time, with Brook himself being involved in an incident where he was punched by a nightclub bouncer in New Zealand last year. Brook, however, has not closed the door on Carse's selection in the England team for the future. Brook shares thoughts on Carse's England selection Carse was dropped from the England squad for the remainder of the Test series against Pakistan after an incident in Derby following a County match. He was briefly handcuffed and then released by police. The pacer will not face criminal charges, as police closed the investigation, but he still awaits the result of an inquiry by the Cricket Regulator. Also Read - How Zaheer Khan came to be CSK's head coach of IPL 2027 Talking about Carse's future international chances, Brook said: "He’s a very good cricketer. He’s been bowling extremely well for Durham. When his time for selection is up, that will be a debate. I’m very good mates with Carsey. I’ve spoken a lot with him. Those conversations are private. I think he just needs time away from the international scene. He’s working on a few things behind the scenes and hopefully he’ll be ready at some point in the future." England look to replicate T20I form in ODIs After a 3-0 clean sweep in the T20Is, which helped them attain top ICC team rankings in the format, England now turn their focus to the 50-over format. The Three Lions are dealing with some injury issues, with Jacob Bethell and Sam Curran out of the series and Adil Rashid being doubtful. Brook, however, remains optimistic and said: "We’ve gone undefeated in the T20s and I think we can take a hell of a lot of confidence from that going into this ODI series. It’s more of the same. As a squad and a unit, we’re trying to play a higher-octane style of cricket and we’re really trying to put them under pressure with bat and ball."

Harry Brook says pacer Brydon Carse needs time away from cricket following an off-field incident. Despite injury concerns, Brook remains confident as England targets ODI success after T20I wins.

'Needs time away from the international scene': England white-ball captain Brook on pacer Brydon Carse's future

Harry Brook’s biggest priority is playing for England and he wants to represent his country in as many matches as possible. This is why he has stayed away from franchise cricket leagues around the world, except for The Hundred in England. Speaking at the post-match presentation after being named Player of the Series for scoring 170 runs in the three-match T20I series against Sri Lanka, Brook made it clear that playing for England remains his main focus.&nbsp;“I have said plenty of times I want to play as much cricket as I can for England. That’s my main priority, hence why I don’t play any franchise cricket, bar the Hundred. So yeah, that’s my main focus: trying to stay as fit and as ready as I possibly can for England,” Brook said.&nbsp;Brook, the only England captain to score a T20I century, has previously played a season each in the Big Bash League, Pakistan Super League and Indian Premier League.&nbsp;&nbsp;He also entered the IPL 2025 auction and was bought by Delhi Capitals for INR 6.25 crore, however, he withdrew before the season began and was subsequently handed a two-year suspension from the IPL.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/asian-games-2026-shafali-verma-century-india-bangladesh-semifinal-1789893890849">Asia Cup finalists India and Sri Lanka to fight for women’s Asian Games gold</a>&nbsp;Brook was still eligible to enter the auction for the 2027 IPL season. However, his latest comments suggest that a return to the league may be unlikely.&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/asian-games-2026-elavenil-valarivan-silver-women-10m-air-rifle-1789888255969">Asian Games: India's Elavenil Valarivan bags silver in women's 10m air rifle</a><h3>Brook praises England teammates</h3>After England completed a one-sided win over Sri Lanka in the third T20I at Old Trafford, Brook praised his teammates and singled out Sonny Baker, who was named Player of the Match after taking 2/17 in 3.5 overs.&nbsp;“I think everybody stepped up in this series, especially lads who haven’t played as much. Sonny, for example, bowling three overs in the powerplay in two games is an amazing achievement. To not go for the amount of runs that a lot of people do in the powerplay, while also taking wickets, is really impressive.&nbsp;“Daws (Liam Dawson) again, awesome performer, Jos (Buttler) again. I could go through that whole team, but yeah, we’re adapting to the conditions really well. Every game has been slightly different, and we’re playing the conditions extremely well,” he added.

Brook has featured for one season each in the Big Bash League, Pakistan Super League and Indian Premier League, but now limits his franchise cricket to the Men's Hundred.

Harry Brook’s biggest priority is playing for England and he wants to represent his country in as many matches as possible. This is why he has stayed away from franchise cricket leagues around the world, except for The Hundred in England. Speaking at the post-match presentation after being named Player of the Series for scoring 170 runs in the three-match T20I series against Sri Lanka, Brook made it clear that playing for England remains his main focus. “I have said plenty of times I want to play as much cricket as I can for England. That’s my main priority, hence why I don’t play any franchise cricket, bar the Hundred. So yeah, that’s my main focus: trying to stay as fit and as ready as I possibly can for England,” Brook said. Brook, the only England captain to score a T20I century, has previously played a season each in the Big Bash League, Pakistan Super League and Indian Premier League. He also entered the IPL 2025 auction and was bought by Delhi Capitals for INR 6.25 crore, however, he withdrew before the season began and was subsequently handed a two-year suspension from the IPL. Also Read - Asia Cup finalists India and Sri Lanka to fight for women’s Asian Games gold Brook was still eligible to enter the auction for the 2027 IPL season. However, his latest comments suggest that a return to the league may be unlikely. Also Read - Asian Games: India's Elavenil Valarivan bags silver in women's 10m air rifle Brook praises England teammates After England completed a one-sided win over Sri Lanka in the third T20I at Old Trafford, Brook praised his teammates and singled out Sonny Baker, who was named Player of the Match after taking 2/17 in 3.5 overs. “I think everybody stepped up in this series, especially lads who haven’t played as much. Sonny, for example, bowling three overs in the powerplay in two games is an amazing achievement. To not go for the amount of runs that a lot of people do in the powerplay, while also taking wickets, is really impressive. “Daws (Liam Dawson) again, awesome performer, Jos (Buttler) again. I could go through that whole team, but yeah, we’re adapting to the conditions really well. Every game has been slightly different, and we’re playing the conditions extremely well,” he added.

Brook has featured for one season each in the Big Bash League, Pakistan Super League and Indian Premier League, but now limits his franchise cricket to the Men's Hundred.

‘I want to…’: Harry Brook reveals reason for avoiding franchise cricket

England white-ball captain Harry Brook has challenged his upbeat side to retain its top-ranked status in the ICC rankings after sweeping Sri Lanka across three T20Is at home. England regained their number one ranking in the shortest format after completing a comprehensive eight-wicket win over Sri Lanka in the third and final T20I on Saturday in Manchester. Brook’s T20I captaincy has improved England’s numbers in this format, having won 23 of the last 26 T20Is. Moreover, England leapfrogged India to sit at the top.&nbsp;After the T20 World Cup in the subcontinent earlier this year, where England narrowly lost to India in the semifinal, the Brook-led&nbsp;side thrashed the Men in Blue 4-0 in five-match T20Is at home. The defending champions India also lost to Ireland 2-0 before travelling to England, even though they outclassed Zimbabwe and Afghanistan in their next two series.&nbsp;Also read| <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/aus-vs-zim-adam-zampa-joins-shane-warne-in-elite-list-becomes-second-australian-spinner-to-claim-200-odi-wickets-1789817530037">AUS vs ZIM: Adam Zampa joins Shane Warne in elite list, becomes second Australian spinner to claim 200 ODI wickets</a>&nbsp;"I think we should be extremely proud to win another series, another whitewash series, and go back to world number one is an extremely good effort," Brook said after the 3rd T20I against Sri Lanka. "Everybody in that changing room should be really proud of themselves.&nbsp;"I think everything's running so smoothly, especially in the field. Lads are taking it upon themselves to make sure they're in the right spots, and we're really nailing down and buying into everything that we're talking about in the outfield. Especially, we're putting 100% in, which is all that we can ever ask for,” he continued.&nbsp;Thanks to Brook’s blistering unbeaten 114 in the series opener in Southampton, his second T20I hundred, he finished as the second-highest leading run-scorer (170) in the series after Jos Buttler (172). With England dominating Sri Lanka across all departments, Brook wants his team to keep doing so and push harder every time to retain the number-one T20I ranking.&nbsp;"That's why we went with our strongest side today. With the opportunity of whitewashing aside, you never want to take that for granted.&nbsp;"We obviously knew that we had the opportunity to go number one before the series if we had beaten them 3-0. So that was always in the back of our minds.&nbsp;"We've got to stay motivated to try and keep that spot for as long as possible. We probably don't play as much T20 as other nations, especially India, who play a hell of a lot of T20s. So, keeping that might not be as easy as it sounds, but every opportunity we get, we're going to try and dominate in opposition."&nbsp;England will now return to One-Day Cricket mode, with three ODIs against Sri Lanka scheduled to start on Tuesday (Sep 22).

Harry Brook leads England to the top of the ICC T20I rankings after a 3-0 series sweep over Sri Lanka. Read Brook's reaction and series stats here.

England white-ball captain Harry Brook has challenged his upbeat side to retain its top-ranked status in the ICC rankings after sweeping Sri Lanka across three T20Is at home. England regained their number one ranking in the shortest format after completing a comprehensive eight-wicket win over Sri Lanka in the third and final T20I on Saturday in Manchester. Brook’s T20I captaincy has improved England’s numbers in this format, having won 23 of the last 26 T20Is. Moreover, England leapfrogged India to sit at the top. After the T20 World Cup in the subcontinent earlier this year, where England narrowly lost to India in the semifinal, the Brook-led side thrashed the Men in Blue 4-0 in five-match T20Is at home. The defending champions India also lost to Ireland 2-0 before travelling to England, even though they outclassed Zimbabwe and Afghanistan in their next two series. Also read| AUS vs ZIM: Adam Zampa joins Shane Warne in elite list, becomes second Australian spinner to claim 200 ODI wickets "I think we should be extremely proud to win another series, another whitewash series, and go back to world number one is an extremely good effort," Brook said after the 3rd T20I against Sri Lanka. "Everybody in that changing room should be really proud of themselves. "I think everything's running so smoothly, especially in the field. Lads are taking it upon themselves to make sure they're in the right spots, and we're really nailing down and buying into everything that we're talking about in the outfield. Especially, we're putting 100% in, which is all that we can ever ask for,” he continued. Thanks to Brook’s blistering unbeaten 114 in the series opener in Southampton, his second T20I hundred, he finished as the second-highest leading run-scorer (170) in the series after Jos Buttler (172). With England dominating Sri Lanka across all departments, Brook wants his team to keep doing so and push harder every time to retain the number-one T20I ranking. "That's why we went with our strongest side today. With the opportunity of whitewashing aside, you never want to take that for granted. "We obviously knew that we had the opportunity to go number one before the series if we had beaten them 3-0. So that was always in the back of our minds. "We've got to stay motivated to try and keep that spot for as long as possible. We probably don't play as much T20 as other nations, especially India, who play a hell of a lot of T20s. So, keeping that might not be as easy as it sounds, but every opportunity we get, we're going to try and dominate in opposition." England will now return to One-Day Cricket mode, with three ODIs against Sri Lanka scheduled to start on Tuesday (Sep 22).

Harry Brook leads England to the top of the ICC T20I rankings after a 3-0 series sweep over Sri Lanka. Read Brook's reaction and series stats here.

Harry Brook targets long reign at top of T20I rankings after Sri Lanka sweep

Kevin Pietersen’s impact on England’s T20I cricket was on display in the series opener against Sri Lanka, when they hammered the Lankans by 119 runs at the Rose Bowl in Southampton. Much of the credit goes to captain Harry Brook, who smashed the joint-quickest T20I hundred in just 42 balls, taking inspiration from the dressing-room hero himself, KP. There was no stopping Brook, who clobbered six sixes and 10 fours in his explosive innings, with his batting idol watching from the sidelines.&nbsp;Speaking highly of Pietersen, whose 2005 Ashes highlights package inspired Brook to his second T20I hundred, England’s white-ball captain said, "Obviously we haven't had too much time together so far, but he's a great figure to have in the changing room -- the type of player he was, he looked at batting slightly differently, in a similar way to me as well," Brook said of Pietersen. "He always wants to try and look to put the bowlers under pressure, and I'm looking forward to working with him a lot more."&nbsp;"I was actually watching his (Pietersen's) highlights earlier, funnily enough," said Brook. "He was a phenomenal player. The way he accessed different areas of the ground made it really tricky to captain and bowl to, and I'm looking forward to having a lot of conversations about that."&nbsp;"That's not just for white-ball cricket, that's for Test cricket as well. Hopefully, he can have a big impact on my career.&nbsp;"He's a hero to a lot of players in that changing room. We all grew up watching him and admiring his work, and it's just awesome to have a man of his calibre in the changing room,” Brook added.&nbsp;Also read| <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/abhishek-sharma-climbs-no-2-t20i-rankings-ollie-robinson-3rd-test-rankings-1789558758664">Abhishek Sharma rises to No. 2 in T20Is; ENG’s Robinson 3rd after record Pakistan Tests</a>&nbsp;Brook was on song on Tuesday evening in Southampton, as was veteran Jos Buttler, with the two adding 128 runs for the second wicket. While Brook remained unbeaten on 114 off just 49 balls, Buttler missed his 100 by 20 runs. Brook’s brilliance, which saw him smash three sixes and three fours in Dunith Wellalage’s second overs, left his former Test captain Ben Stokes going bonkers over him.&nbsp;Stokes took to his social media handle X to praise Brook, and compared him to Pietersen, who joined Brendon McCullum’s white-ball coaching staff as a specialist mentor for the ODI World Cup next year.&nbsp;“I don’t even think the genius of KP could come close to what Harry Brook has talent-wise.&nbsp;Is it really that hard to just sit back and admire these players for what they are, on the good days and the bad days, and stop berating them for doing things that we would never, ever, ever even think of doing because we simply aren’t on their level to think that way?&nbsp;You are an absolute freak, Harry.&nbsp;You’re mint to watch. 🤌🔥,” Stokes wrote on his social media handle.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">I don’t even think the genius of KP could come close to what Harry Brook has talent-wise.

Is it really that hard to just sit back and admire these players for what they are, on the good days and the bad days, and stop berating them for doing things that we would never, ever, ever even think of doing because we simply aren’t on their level to think that way?

You are an absolute freak, Harry. 

You’re mint to watch. 🤌🔥&mdash; Ben Stokes (@benstokes38) <a href="https://x.com/benstokes38/status/2099940730592723373?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 15, 2026</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Harry Brook smashed a joint-record 42-ball T20I hundred against Sri Lanka in Southampton, revealing how watching 'hero' Kevin Pietersen’s highlights inspired his explosive knock.

Kevin Pietersen’s impact on England’s T20I cricket was on display in the series opener against Sri Lanka, when they hammered the Lankans by 119 runs at the Rose Bowl in Southampton. Much of the credit goes to captain Harry Brook, who smashed the joint-quickest T20I hundred in just 42 balls, taking inspiration from the dressing-room hero himself, KP. There was no stopping Brook, who clobbered six sixes and 10 fours in his explosive innings, with his batting idol watching from the sidelines. Speaking highly of Pietersen, whose 2005 Ashes highlights package inspired Brook to his second T20I hundred, England’s white-ball captain said, "Obviously we haven't had too much time together so far, but he's a great figure to have in the changing room -- the type of player he was, he looked at batting slightly differently, in a similar way to me as well," Brook said of Pietersen. "He always wants to try and look to put the bowlers under pressure, and I'm looking forward to working with him a lot more." "I was actually watching his (Pietersen's) highlights earlier, funnily enough," said Brook. "He was a phenomenal player. The way he accessed different areas of the ground made it really tricky to captain and bowl to, and I'm looking forward to having a lot of conversations about that." "That's not just for white-ball cricket, that's for Test cricket as well. Hopefully, he can have a big impact on my career. "He's a hero to a lot of players in that changing room. We all grew up watching him and admiring his work, and it's just awesome to have a man of his calibre in the changing room,” Brook added. Also read| Abhishek Sharma rises to No. 2 in T20Is; ENG’s Robinson 3rd after record Pakistan Tests Brook was on song on Tuesday evening in Southampton, as was veteran Jos Buttler, with the two adding 128 runs for the second wicket. While Brook remained unbeaten on 114 off just 49 balls, Buttler missed his 100 by 20 runs. Brook’s brilliance, which saw him smash three sixes and three fours in Dunith Wellalage’s second overs, left his former Test captain Ben Stokes going bonkers over him. Stokes took to his social media handle X to praise Brook, and compared him to Pietersen, who joined Brendon McCullum’s white-ball coaching staff as a specialist mentor for the ODI World Cup next year. “I don’t even think the genius of KP could come close to what Harry Brook has talent-wise. Is it really that hard to just sit back and admire these players for what they are, on the good days and the bad days, and stop berating them for doing things that we would never, ever, ever even think of doing because we simply aren’t on their level to think that way? You are an absolute freak, Harry. You’re mint to watch. 🤌🔥,” Stokes wrote on his social media handle.

Harry Brook smashed a joint-record 42-ball T20I hundred against Sri Lanka in Southampton, revealing how watching 'hero' Kevin Pietersen’s highlights inspired his explosive knock.

Harry Brook eager to learn from 'hero' Kevin Pietersen after Southampton T20I ton

England began their new era in impressive style under returning captain Joe Root, defeating Pakistan by an innings and 103 runs inside three days in the first Test at Headingley in Leeds on Friday (Aug 21). It was England’s first Test since Ben Stokes retired and Brendon McCullum stepped down as head coach and the hosts delivered a strong all-round performance to take a 1-0 lead in the three-match series. After bowling Pakistan out for 171, England scored 409 before dismissing the visitors for 135 in their second innings.&nbsp;The win was England’s biggest innings victory over Pakistan at Headingley and their second successive innings win against them at the venue after their innings and 55 runs victory in 2018.&nbsp;Earlier in the Test, England opted to bowl after winning the toss, with their pace attack quickly putting Pakistan under pressure. Ollie Robinson and Josh Tongue shared all 10 wickets, taking five each as Pakistan fell from 117/3 to 171 all out. Abdullah Shafique top-scored with a patient 61, but the rest of the batting line-up struggled.&nbsp;England finished the opening day at 112/2 and were in a strong position.&nbsp;On the next day, despite rain interruptions, England dominated as Harry Brook scored 91 off 93 balls, while Jordan Cox made 73. Root contributed 66 and Dan Lawrence added a quick 51.&nbsp;Pakistan spinner Ali Usman claimed his first five-wicket haul in Tests, finishing with 5/95, but England still reached 409 to secure a huge 238-run lead.&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/jannik-sinner-withdraws-from-us-open-2026-due-to-knee-injury-1787323383729">Jannik Sinner withdraws from US Open 2026 due to Knee injury</a>&nbsp;Pakistan struggled again in their second innings, reaching 59/3 at lunch. Mohammad Rizwan offered some resistance with 41, but England’s pace attack soon finished the job.&nbsp;Jofra Archer (3/50), Josh Tongue (3/43) and Ollie Robinson (3/29) picked up three wickets each as Pakistan were bowled out for 135 in 37.3 overs, giving England a comfortable victory before tea.&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/bwf-world-championships-satwik-chirag-suffer-heartbreaking-loss-in-quarterfinals-to-chinese-pair-1787319256986">BWF World Championships: Satwik-Chirag knocked out after losing to Chinese pair</a>&nbsp;Pakistan’s 135 is among their lowest Test totals in England since 2000. It was also only the second time England’s pace bowlers had taken all 20 Pakistan wickets in a Test, after the previous instance at Lord’s in 2001.

England’s Ollie Robinson, Jofra Archer and Josh Tongue claimed three wickets each as Pakistan were bowled out for 135 in their second innings, handing the hosts a dominant innings and 103 runs victory.

England began their new era in impressive style under returning captain Joe Root, defeating Pakistan by an innings and 103 runs inside three days in the first Test at Headingley in Leeds on Friday (Aug 21). It was England’s first Test since Ben Stokes retired and Brendon McCullum stepped down as head coach and the hosts delivered a strong all-round performance to take a 1-0 lead in the three-match series. After bowling Pakistan out for 171, England scored 409 before dismissing the visitors for 135 in their second innings. The win was England’s biggest innings victory over Pakistan at Headingley and their second successive innings win against them at the venue after their innings and 55 runs victory in 2018. Earlier in the Test, England opted to bowl after winning the toss, with their pace attack quickly putting Pakistan under pressure. Ollie Robinson and Josh Tongue shared all 10 wickets, taking five each as Pakistan fell from 117/3 to 171 all out. Abdullah Shafique top-scored with a patient 61, but the rest of the batting line-up struggled. England finished the opening day at 112/2 and were in a strong position. On the next day, despite rain interruptions, England dominated as Harry Brook scored 91 off 93 balls, while Jordan Cox made 73. Root contributed 66 and Dan Lawrence added a quick 51. Pakistan spinner Ali Usman claimed his first five-wicket haul in Tests, finishing with 5/95, but England still reached 409 to secure a huge 238-run lead. Also Read - Jannik Sinner withdraws from US Open 2026 due to Knee injury Pakistan struggled again in their second innings, reaching 59/3 at lunch. Mohammad Rizwan offered some resistance with 41, but England’s pace attack soon finished the job. Jofra Archer (3/50), Josh Tongue (3/43) and Ollie Robinson (3/29) picked up three wickets each as Pakistan were bowled out for 135 in 37.3 overs, giving England a comfortable victory before tea. Also Read - BWF World Championships: Satwik-Chirag knocked out after losing to Chinese pair Pakistan’s 135 is among their lowest Test totals in England since 2000. It was also only the second time England’s pace bowlers had taken all 20 Pakistan wickets in a Test, after the previous instance at Lord’s in 2001.

England’s Ollie Robinson, Jofra Archer and Josh Tongue claimed three wickets each as Pakistan were bowled out for 135 in their second innings, handing the hosts a dominant innings and 103 runs victory.

ENG vs PAK, 1st Test: England crush Pakistan by an innings and 103 runs

England’s batters put their team in a strong position despite a five-wicket haul from Ali Usman on Day 2 of the first Test against Pakistan at Headingley. The hosts finished the rain-affected day on 366-8, giving them a 195-run lead after Pakistan were bowled out for 171 in the first innings.&nbsp;Jordan Cox, Joe Root, Harry Brook and Dan Lawrence all scored half-centuries for England but missed the chance to turn their scores into hundreds.&nbsp;Earlier, rain delayed the start and only 58 overs were possible during the day. Cox and Root resumed their innings under cloudy skies but handled the Pakistan bowlers well.&nbsp;&nbsp;Both batters reached their fifties in back-to-back deliveries, with Cox bringing up his maiden Test half-century.&nbsp;Cox was dismissed for 73 when he edged Usman behind the stumps. Root soon followed after Khurram Shehzad trapped him lbw.&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/bwf-world-championships-2026-the-wisest-thing-to-do-anders-antonsen-sticks-to-game-by-game-approach-1787247952481">BWF World Championships 2026: ‘The wisest thing to do’: Anders Antonsen sticks to game-by-game approach</a>&nbsp;Brook and Lawrence then came together and continued England’s strong batting display and the pair added 120 runs and put the Pakistan pace attack under pressure.&nbsp;Lawrence, playing his first Test since an unsuccessful spell as an opener, was dismissed soon after reaching his fifty while attempting a slog-sweep against Usman. Brook also missed out on a century, losing his wicket for 91 after his stumps were hit.&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/fih-women-s-hockey-world-cup-india-hold-england-to-goalless-draw-advance-to-round-2-1787241065514">FIH Women’s Hockey WC: India hold England to goalless draw, advance to Round 2</a>&nbsp;Usman was Pakistan’s best bowler, taking 5-92. It was his first five-wicket haul in Test cricket and came in only his third match.&nbsp;Mohammad Abbas, Khurram Shahzad and Mohammad Ali also picked up a wicket apiece but failed to trouble England’s batters much.

Jordan Cox, Joe Root, Harry Brook and Dan Lawrence hit half-centuries as England built a 195-run lead despite Ali Usman’s five-wicket haul.

England’s batters put their team in a strong position despite a five-wicket haul from Ali Usman on Day 2 of the first Test against Pakistan at Headingley. The hosts finished the rain-affected day on 366-8, giving them a 195-run lead after Pakistan were bowled out for 171 in the first innings. Jordan Cox, Joe Root, Harry Brook and Dan Lawrence all scored half-centuries for England but missed the chance to turn their scores into hundreds. Earlier, rain delayed the start and only 58 overs were possible during the day. Cox and Root resumed their innings under cloudy skies but handled the Pakistan bowlers well. Both batters reached their fifties in back-to-back deliveries, with Cox bringing up his maiden Test half-century. Cox was dismissed for 73 when he edged Usman behind the stumps. Root soon followed after Khurram Shehzad trapped him lbw. Also Read - BWF World Championships 2026: ‘The wisest thing to do’: Anders Antonsen sticks to game-by-game approach Brook and Lawrence then came together and continued England’s strong batting display and the pair added 120 runs and put the Pakistan pace attack under pressure. Lawrence, playing his first Test since an unsuccessful spell as an opener, was dismissed soon after reaching his fifty while attempting a slog-sweep against Usman. Brook also missed out on a century, losing his wicket for 91 after his stumps were hit. Also Read - FIH Women’s Hockey WC: India hold England to goalless draw, advance to Round 2 Usman was Pakistan’s best bowler, taking 5-92. It was his first five-wicket haul in Test cricket and came in only his third match. Mohammad Abbas, Khurram Shahzad and Mohammad Ali also picked up a wicket apiece but failed to trouble England’s batters much.

Jordan Cox, Joe Root, Harry Brook and Dan Lawrence hit half-centuries as England built a 195-run lead despite Ali Usman’s five-wicket haul.

ENG vs PAK 1st Test, Day 2: England batters dominate despite Usman’s five-for

From Travis Head to Harry Brook, here's a look at the top five batters in latest ICC Test rankings 2026. This list also includes Joe Root, Steve Smith and Temba Bavuma

From Travis Head to Harry Brook, here's a look at the top five batters in latest ICC Test rankings 2026. This list also includes Joe Root, Steve Smith and Temba Bavuma.

Meet top 5 batters in latest ICC Test rankings 2026 - check who sits at the top

England captain Harry Brook has made it clear that climbing to the top of the ICC men’s T20I rankings is his team’s next big target after wrapping up the series against India. Following England’s dominant performances, Brook said securing the No. 1 ranking has become the side’s biggest motivation. A convincing nine-wicket win in the fourth T20I at Bristol handed England an unbeatable 3-0 lead in the five-match series. Victory in the final game at Southampton would see England overtake India and become the world’s top-ranked men’s T20I side.&nbsp;"We've been told if we win the next game, we go to world No.1 and that's definitely a prize that we're eyeing up," Brook said after the Bristol win.&nbsp;“India are a strong side. They probably haven’t been as good as they have been over the last couple of years, but we’re really happy with the way that we’ve executed our plans.”&nbsp;“To beat India 4-0 would be a pretty special series win. To go No.1 in the world would be even better. That's our main aim. We want to go out there and try and beat them convincingly again.”&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-w-vs-eng-w-shree-charani-earns-maiden-test-cap-at-lord-s-after-t20-world-cup-heroics-1783685232380">IND-W vs ENG-W: Shree Charani earns maiden Test cap at Lord's after T20 World Cup heroics</a>&nbsp;Brook attributed England’s success in the series to their ability to read conditions and adjust their game accordingly, something he feels has been a key advantage against the reigning T20 world champions.&nbsp;"We've got to go to Southampton, try and assess the conditions as well as we can, and that's something that we've done really well in this series so far," he said.&nbsp;The Southampton encounter will also take place on the same day as England’s FIFA Women’s World Cup quarter-final against Norway and Brook admitted the squad would be following the football action closely.&nbsp;“To go world No.1 and England going to the semis, that would be pretty cool,” he said. “We’ll definitely be keeping a close eye on it and watching the game for sure.”&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/fifa-2026-why-was-mbappe-substituted-vs-morocco-france-captain-shares-injury-details-1783662963630">FIFA | Why was Mbappe substituted vs Morocco? France captain gives injury update</a>&nbsp;England’s rise under Brook has been impressive. Since assuming the captaincy, the team has won 19 of its last 22 completed T20Is and also reached the semi-finals of this year’s T20 World Cup, where their campaign ended with a defeat to India.&nbsp;However, Brook believes the team’s progress has been building over time rather than happening overnight.&nbsp;“The white-ball side’s been on a really good path, if I’m being brutally honest,” he said. “We’ve been playing extremely good cricket. We’ve been adapting to the surfaces and conditions really well.&nbsp;“We had a good World Cup. We just fell just short of 250 in a chase at the Wankhede, which is incredible.”&nbsp;Despite already sealing the series, Brook stressed that England’s focus remains firmly on ending it with another victory.&nbsp;"I think it might have changed the mood a little bit, but we've still got one more game to play. Hopefully, we can go to world No. 1 and beat a very strong Indian side."

A win for England in the final T20I in Southampton on Saturday would see them replace India at the top of the ICC rankings.

England captain Harry Brook has made it clear that climbing to the top of the ICC men’s T20I rankings is his team’s next big target after wrapping up the series against India. Following England’s dominant performances, Brook said securing the No. 1 ranking has become the side’s biggest motivation. A convincing nine-wicket win in the fourth T20I at Bristol handed England an unbeatable 3-0 lead in the five-match series. Victory in the final game at Southampton would see England overtake India and become the world’s top-ranked men’s T20I side. "We've been told if we win the next game, we go to world No.1 and that's definitely a prize that we're eyeing up," Brook said after the Bristol win. “India are a strong side. They probably haven’t been as good as they have been over the last couple of years, but we’re really happy with the way that we’ve executed our plans.” “To beat India 4-0 would be a pretty special series win. To go No.1 in the world would be even better. That's our main aim. We want to go out there and try and beat them convincingly again.” Also Read - IND-W vs ENG-W: Shree Charani earns maiden Test cap at Lord's after T20 World Cup heroics Brook attributed England’s success in the series to their ability to read conditions and adjust their game accordingly, something he feels has been a key advantage against the reigning T20 world champions. "We've got to go to Southampton, try and assess the conditions as well as we can, and that's something that we've done really well in this series so far," he said. The Southampton encounter will also take place on the same day as England’s FIFA Women’s World Cup quarter-final against Norway and Brook admitted the squad would be following the football action closely. “To go world No.1 and England going to the semis, that would be pretty cool,” he said. “We’ll definitely be keeping a close eye on it and watching the game for sure.” Also Read - FIFA | Why was Mbappe substituted vs Morocco? France captain gives injury update England’s rise under Brook has been impressive. Since assuming the captaincy, the team has won 19 of its last 22 completed T20Is and also reached the semi-finals of this year’s T20 World Cup, where their campaign ended with a defeat to India. However, Brook believes the team’s progress has been building over time rather than happening overnight. “The white-ball side’s been on a really good path, if I’m being brutally honest,” he said. “We’ve been playing extremely good cricket. We’ve been adapting to the surfaces and conditions really well. “We had a good World Cup. We just fell just short of 250 in a chase at the Wankhede, which is incredible.” Despite already sealing the series, Brook stressed that England’s focus remains firmly on ending it with another victory. "I think it might have changed the mood a little bit, but we've still got one more game to play. Hopefully, we can go to world No. 1 and beat a very strong Indian side."

A win for England in the final T20I in Southampton on Saturday would see them replace India at the top of the ICC rankings.

ENG vs IND: Harry Brook eyes No. 1 T20I ranking after England clinch series against India

India's struggles in the T20I series continued as they suffered a nine-wicket defeat to England in the fourth match on Thursday, marking their fifth loss in the last six games. The defeat also confirmed India's second successive series loss after last month's 2-0 whitewash against Ireland. England now hold an unassailable 3-0 lead in the five-match series with just one game remaining.Phil Salt and England captain Harry Brook led the chase with commanding half-centuries, guiding the hosts to India's target of 159 in just 13.5 overs.&nbsp;India had already endured a humiliating 125-run defeat in the third T20I, their biggest-ever loss by runs in the format. They were beaten by four wickets in the second match, while the series opener was abandoned due to persistent rain. After six matches in charge, Shreyas Iyer is still searching for his first victory as India's T20I captain. Earlier in the evening, Iyer produced a lone battle with a composed unbeaten 80 from 49 deliveries as India recovered from early setbacks to post 158 for seven.&nbsp;The skipper struck five sixes and four boundaries while anchoring the innings on a lively surface where the rest of the batting lineup struggled against England's disciplined attack. Iyer shared a 53-run partnership with Shivam Dube, who contributed 22, but regular wickets at the other end forced the captain to shift gears and play the role of the anchor. He briefly counterattacked in the 18th over, smashing leg-spinner Adil Rashid for two sixes and a four in a 20-run over that lifted India's total.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/england-s-jarell-quansah-handed-two-match-ban-after-red-card-against-mexico-1783623453913">England's Jarell Quansah handed two-match ban after red card against Mexico</a>&nbsp;However, England quickly regained control. Sam Curran conceded only four runs in the penultimate over, while England restricted India to just eight runs without a boundary in the final two overs. Jofra Archer finished with impressive figures of 2/20, striking twice in the last over and also effecting the run-out of Axar Patel. India's top order once again failed to provide a solid start.&nbsp;Young opener Sooryavanshi continued his difficult run after his memorable debut in Manchester. His aggressive approach, effective on Indian pitches, once again proved costly on England's bouncy surfaces. The 15-year-old, visibly disappointed after his dismissal, has now managed scores of 14, 13 and 15 in the series. After surviving an earlier mishit, Sooryavanshi eventually fell to Archer, holing out to Sam Curran at mid-on following a back-of-a-length delivery outside off stump.&nbsp;Ishan Kishan departed soon after when Josh Tongue extracted extra bounce from a short delivery, forcing the left-hander to glove the ball behind to the wicketkeeper. India then suffered another major setback immediately after the powerplay when Adil Rashid produced an outstanding running catch off his own bowling to dismiss the fluent Abhishek, leaving the visitors on the back foot once again. England's clinical bowling display and explosive batting performance ensured a comprehensive victory, while India will look to avoid a series whitewash in the final T20I.

England defeated India by nine wickets in the fourth T20I to clinch the series 3-0. Phil Salt, Harry Brook and Jofra Archer starred despite Shreyas Iyer's unbeaten 80 for India

India's struggles in the T20I series continued as they suffered a nine-wicket defeat to England in the fourth match on Thursday, marking their fifth loss in the last six games. The defeat also confirmed India's second successive series loss after last month's 2-0 whitewash against Ireland. England now hold an unassailable 3-0 lead in the five-match series with just one game remaining. Phil Salt and England captain Harry Brook led the chase with commanding half-centuries, guiding the hosts to India's target of 159 in just 13.5 overs. India had already endured a humiliating 125-run defeat in the third T20I, their biggest-ever loss by runs in the format. They were beaten by four wickets in the second match, while the series opener was abandoned due to persistent rain. After six matches in charge, Shreyas Iyer is still searching for his first victory as India's T20I captain. Earlier in the evening, Iyer produced a lone battle with a composed unbeaten 80 from 49 deliveries as India recovered from early setbacks to post 158 for seven. The skipper struck five sixes and four boundaries while anchoring the innings on a lively surface where the rest of the batting lineup struggled against England's disciplined attack. Iyer shared a 53-run partnership with Shivam Dube, who contributed 22, but regular wickets at the other end forced the captain to shift gears and play the role of the anchor. He briefly counterattacked in the 18th over, smashing leg-spinner Adil Rashid for two sixes and a four in a 20-run over that lifted India's total. Also Read: England's Jarell Quansah handed two-match ban after red card against Mexico However, England quickly regained control. Sam Curran conceded only four runs in the penultimate over, while England restricted India to just eight runs without a boundary in the final two overs. Jofra Archer finished with impressive figures of 2/20, striking twice in the last over and also effecting the run-out of Axar Patel. India's top order once again failed to provide a solid start. Young opener Sooryavanshi continued his difficult run after his memorable debut in Manchester. His aggressive approach, effective on Indian pitches, once again proved costly on England's bouncy surfaces. The 15-year-old, visibly disappointed after his dismissal, has now managed scores of 14, 13 and 15 in the series. After surviving an earlier mishit, Sooryavanshi eventually fell to Archer, holing out to Sam Curran at mid-on following a back-of-a-length delivery outside off stump. Ishan Kishan departed soon after when Josh Tongue extracted extra bounce from a short delivery, forcing the left-hander to glove the ball behind to the wicketkeeper. India then suffered another major setback immediately after the powerplay when Adil Rashid produced an outstanding running catch off his own bowling to dismiss the fluent Abhishek, leaving the visitors on the back foot once again. England's clinical bowling display and explosive batting performance ensured a comprehensive victory, while India will look to avoid a series whitewash in the final T20I.

England beat India by nine wickets to seal the T20I series 3-0 as Shreyas Iyer's unbeaten 80 proved insufficient in the fourth match on Thursday (July 9)

IND vs ENG, 4th T20I: Brook, Salt lead from the front as England win by 9 wickets, seal series

England’s white-ball captain Harry Brook has strongly supported head coach Brendon McCullum, saying he would give him “125%” support if the England and Wales Cricket Board asked for his opinion.Brook made the comments at the post-match press conference after England lost by seven runs to India in the semi-final of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup at the Wankhede Stadium. McCullum’s future as head coach is expected to be a major topic in English cricket in the coming weeks.&nbsp;&nbsp;England’s campaign in the tournament had mixed moments, at the start, the team struggled and nearly lost to Nepal, but somehow avoided the upset. They were also beaten by West Indies, which put their chances of reaching the knockout stage in danger. At that point, very few expected England to reach the semi-finals. However, the team improved later and won the important matches needed to move into the last four.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/lebron-james-sets-nba-record-for-most-field-goals-surpassing-kareem-abdul-jabbar-1772784218957">LeBron James sets NBA record for most field goals, surpassing Kareem Jabbar</a>&nbsp;A key turning point was Brook moving up to bat at number three, he scored scored a brilliant century against Pakistan in the Super 8 stage, helping England gain confidence and push further in the tournament. In the semi-final, Jacob Bethell scored an impressive hundred against India, but England still lost by seven runs in a close and exciting match.&nbsp;After the defeat, attention again turned to McCullum’s future. His position had already been questioned after England’s 4-1 loss in the The Ashes series in Australia. That result led many to wonder if he was still the right person to guide the team.&nbsp;Despite the criticism, Brook made it clear he fully supports his coach. He praised McCullum’s leadership and the respect he receives in the dressing room.&nbsp;Brook said that McCullum communicates well with the players and has a strong presence in the team environment. He also added that the changes McCullum has made over the last four years have helped improve English cricket.&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/-he-is-a-superpower-faf-du-plessis-praises-jasprit-bumrah-after-t20-world-cup-semifinal-heroics-1772780212103">'He is a superpower': Du Plessis praises Bumrah after T20 WC semifinal heroics</a>&nbsp;"The way that he speaks to everybody, the way that he has an aura in the dressing room, everybody looks up to him," Brook said. "The things that he's done over the four years that he's took over has changed English cricket for hopefully the best."&nbsp;When asked what he would tell ECB officials about the coach’s future, Brook replied without hesitation: “125%.”&nbsp;Although Brook’s support is important as team captain, the ECB will make the final decision on McCullum’s role, especially since England has not won a major trophy during his four years in charge.

Brook suggested that McCullum’s arrival has transformed English cricket and has uplifted the dressing room to new heights ever since his arrival back in 2022.

England’s white-ball captain Harry Brook has strongly supported head coach Brendon McCullum, saying he would give him “125%” support if the England and Wales Cricket Board asked for his opinion. Brook made the comments at the post-match press conference after England lost by seven runs to India in the semi-final of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup at the Wankhede Stadium. McCullum’s future as head coach is expected to be a major topic in English cricket in the coming weeks. England’s campaign in the tournament had mixed moments, at the start, the team struggled and nearly lost to Nepal, but somehow avoided the upset. They were also beaten by West Indies, which put their chances of reaching the knockout stage in danger. At that point, very few expected England to reach the semi-finals. However, the team improved later and won the important matches needed to move into the last four. Also Read - LeBron James sets NBA record for most field goals, surpassing Kareem Jabbar A key turning point was Brook moving up to bat at number three, he scored scored a brilliant century against Pakistan in the Super 8 stage, helping England gain confidence and push further in the tournament. In the semi-final, Jacob Bethell scored an impressive hundred against India, but England still lost by seven runs in a close and exciting match. After the defeat, attention again turned to McCullum’s future. His position had already been questioned after England’s 4-1 loss in the The Ashes series in Australia. That result led many to wonder if he was still the right person to guide the team. Despite the criticism, Brook made it clear he fully supports his coach. He praised McCullum’s leadership and the respect he receives in the dressing room. Brook said that McCullum communicates well with the players and has a strong presence in the team environment. He also added that the changes McCullum has made over the last four years have helped improve English cricket. Also Read - 'He is a superpower': Du Plessis praises Bumrah after T20 WC semifinal heroics "The way that he speaks to everybody, the way that he has an aura in the dressing room, everybody looks up to him," Brook said. "The things that he's done over the four years that he's took over has changed English cricket for hopefully the best." When asked what he would tell ECB officials about the coach’s future, Brook replied without hesitation: “125%.” Although Brook’s support is important as team captain, the ECB will make the final decision on McCullum’s role, especially since England has not won a major trophy during his four years in charge.

Brook suggested that McCullum’s arrival has transformed English cricket and has uplifted the dressing room to new heights ever since his arrival back in 2022.

'Has an aura in dressing room...': Harry Brook backs coach Brendon McCullum after T20 WC exit

India and England will be putting their all in the T20 World Cup 2026 semi-final on Thursday (Mar 5) at Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai. The winner will move to the final to face New Zealand in the final on Sunday (Mar 8) at Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad. The semi-final offers India a chance to get one step closer to defending their title and for England, it offers an opportunity to rellive their glorious past from 2022 when they won the title and had beaten India in the semis. While both the sides have multiple match winners in their ranks, there are a few match-up which could define the outcome of the contest and make or break heroes on the biggest stage.<h2>T20 World Cup 2026: Top 5 match-ups to look forward to in India vs England semi-final</h2>Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/t20-world-cup-2026-ind-vs-eng-5-indian-players-who-can-help-avenge-2022-nadir-vs-england-in-semi-1772672872401">T20 WC 2026 | 5 Indian players who can help avenge 2022 nadir vs England in semi</a>Abhishek vs Archer: The dashing Indian opener vs the lightning quick England pacer - Abhishek is out of form in the tournament and Archer has been at his best in the recent times. The contest between the two players could define the powerplay for both the teams which can end up dictating the tone for the whole match.Bumrah vs Salt: Just like Abhishek vs Archer, Jasprit Bumrah vs Phil Salt could also help decide which way England's batting go, especially in the powerplay and death overs. Salt has enough IPL experience to use on a battting pitch but Bumrah is above conditions, match situations, pressure and everything else to make him best in the business.Varun vs Brook: The number 1 T20I spinner from India vs in-form England batter and skipper - Brook has been carrying the England side throughout the tournament and Varun has been available for India in powerplay and middle overs whenever a breakthough is needed. Whoever comes out on top of this contest will surely all but guide their team to winning direction.Suryakumar Yadav vs Will Jacks: The Indian skipper is out of form and the England all-rounder has been a revelation for the team. SKY, however, is playing this match on his home ground and Jacks, who has done well throughout the middle overs this tournament, will be hoping to contain the Indian skipper once more. SKY has good game against spinner and no better stage or crowd to do it in front of.Hardik vs Curran: Two gun seam-bowling all-rounders for their team - capable of bowling tricky overs, breaking partnership and hit useful runs in middle or lower order during both, chasing or setting a target. Whoever has a good day between them, will definitely boost the team's chances to advane to the final.

While both, India and England, have multiple match winners in their ranks, there are a few match-up which could define the outcome of the contest and make or break heroes on the biggest stage.

India and England will be putting their all in the T20 World Cup 2026 semi-final on Thursday (Mar 5) at Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai. The winner will move to the final to face New Zealand in the final on Sunday (Mar 8) at Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad. The semi-final offers India a chance to get one step closer to defending their title and for England, it offers an opportunity to rellive their glorious past from 2022 when they won the title and had beaten India in the semis. While both the sides have multiple match winners in their ranks, there are a few match-up which could define the outcome of the contest and make or break heroes on the biggest stage. T20 World Cup 2026: Top 5 match-ups to look forward to in India vs England semi-final Also Read - T20 WC 2026 | 5 Indian players who can help avenge 2022 nadir vs England in semi Abhishek vs Archer: The dashing Indian opener vs the lightning quick England pacer - Abhishek is out of form in the tournament and Archer has been at his best in the recent times. The contest between the two players could define the powerplay for both the teams which can end up dictating the tone for the whole match. Bumrah vs Salt: Just like Abhishek vs Archer, Jasprit Bumrah vs Phil Salt could also help decide which way England's batting go, especially in the powerplay and death overs. Salt has enough IPL experience to use on a battting pitch but Bumrah is above conditions, match situations, pressure and everything else to make him best in the business. Varun vs Brook: The number 1 T20I spinner from India vs in-form England batter and skipper - Brook has been carrying the England side throughout the tournament and Varun has been available for India in powerplay and middle overs whenever a breakthough is needed. Whoever comes out on top of this contest will surely all but guide their team to winning direction. Suryakumar Yadav vs Will Jacks: The Indian skipper is out of form and the England all-rounder has been a revelation for the team. SKY, however, is playing this match on his home ground and Jacks, who has done well throughout the middle overs this tournament, will be hoping to contain the Indian skipper once more. SKY has good game against spinner and no better stage or crowd to do it in front of. Hardik vs Curran: Two gun seam-bowling all-rounders for their team - capable of bowling tricky overs, breaking partnership and hit useful runs in middle or lower order during both, chasing or setting a target. Whoever has a good day between them, will definitely boost the team's chances to advane to the final.

While both, India and England, have multiple match winners in their ranks, there are a few match-up which could define the outcome of the contest and make or break heroes on the biggest stage.

T20 World Cup 2026, IND vs ENG: Top 5 match-ups which can decide semi-final winner

The stage is set for India vs England T20 World Cup 2026 semi-final on Thursday (Mar 5) at Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai. Both the teams have been patchy in their performances but that doesn't matter anymore as the net run rate is now out of pitcture and this is winner takes all contest. India are the defending champions and England are the first one to enter five consecutive semis, but only one can proceed to the final scheduled on Sunday (Mar 8) where Kiwis was waiting after annihilating South Africa in the first semi-final.<h2>T20 World Cup 2026: 5 England players to watch out for vs India</h2>Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/t20-world-cup-2026-ind-vs-eng-5-indian-players-who-can-help-avenge-2022-nadir-vs-england-in-semi-1772672872401">T20 WC 2026 | 5 Indian players who can help avenge 2022 nadir vs England in semi</a>England may have not been at their best but they have many match winners to win a game on their day, especially under pressure. Have a look at the top 5 players which can win it for them against India in the semi-final:Harry Brook: England skipper has been the team's rock throughtout the tournament. Brook's performance with the bat will very decide England's target, if they bat first, and the result if they are chasing the target. Either way, Brook is going to be the most important player for England in the semi vs India.Jofra Archer: Often marred by the injuries, Archer has, so far, been fit and firing for England in the tournament. His bowling in the powerplay and the death overs will be crucial for England to contain India. Archer's speed, which is biggest asset, could be useful under the lights if the ball starts moving and with Indian top order in not a very good form, the pacer can turn the match its head in no time.Sam Curran: The all-rounder offers exactly the same flexibility to England as Hardik or Shivam Dubey give to India. His medium pace could be vital on the pitch where variations could be tricky to play and his ability to bat down the order as well as take on any bowler make him one of the key players for the English side in the high-octane contest.Will Jacks: The spinning all-rounder has been the revelation for the English team this tournament - he has been good with both, bat and ball, providing crucial breakthroughs and scoring vital runs. He has used his IPL experience to the fullest to ensure that his team comes out on top in the clutch moments where others may falter.Jos Buttler: The former England skipper has not fired all tournament but still remains a danger on any day. He's due a big innings going by the law of averages and if he gets going, it'll be more than a headache for India to not only contain him but to stay in the contest and not fall behind.

England may have not been at their best but they have many match winners to win a game on their day, especially under pressure. T top 5 players which can win it for them against India in the semi-final are: Harry Brook, Jos Buttler, Will Jacks, Sam Curran, and Jofra Archer.

The stage is set for India vs England T20 World Cup 2026 semi-final on Thursday (Mar 5) at Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai. Both the teams have been patchy in their performances but that doesn't matter anymore as the net run rate is now out of pitcture and this is winner takes all contest. India are the defending champions and England are the first one to enter five consecutive semis, but only one can proceed to the final scheduled on Sunday (Mar 8) where Kiwis was waiting after annihilating South Africa in the first semi-final. T20 World Cup 2026: 5 England players to watch out for vs India Also Read - T20 WC 2026 | 5 Indian players who can help avenge 2022 nadir vs England in semi England may have not been at their best but they have many match winners to win a game on their day, especially under pressure. Have a look at the top 5 players which can win it for them against India in the semi-final: Harry Brook: England skipper has been the team's rock throughtout the tournament. Brook's performance with the bat will very decide England's target, if they bat first, and the result if they are chasing the target. Either way, Brook is going to be the most important player for England in the semi vs India. Jofra Archer: Often marred by the injuries, Archer has, so far, been fit and firing for England in the tournament. His bowling in the powerplay and the death overs will be crucial for England to contain India. Archer's speed, which is biggest asset, could be useful under the lights if the ball starts moving and with Indian top order in not a very good form, the pacer can turn the match its head in no time. Sam Curran: The all-rounder offers exactly the same flexibility to England as Hardik or Shivam Dubey give to India. His medium pace could be vital on the pitch where variations could be tricky to play and his ability to bat down the order as well as take on any bowler make him one of the key players for the English side in the high-octane contest. Will Jacks: The spinning all-rounder has been the revelation for the English team this tournament - he has been good with both, bat and ball, providing crucial breakthroughs and scoring vital runs. He has used his IPL experience to the fullest to ensure that his team comes out on top in the clutch moments where others may falter. Jos Buttler: The former England skipper has not fired all tournament but still remains a danger on any day. He's due a big innings going by the law of averages and if he gets going, it'll be more than a headache for India to not only contain him but to stay in the contest and not fall behind.

England may have not been at their best but they have many match winners to win a game on their day, especially under pressure. T top 5 players which can win it for them against India in the semi-final are: Harry Brook, Jos Buttler, Will Jacks, Sam Curran, and Jofra Archer.

T20 World Cup 2026, IND vs ENG | 5 England players to watch out vs India in semi-final

From Sahibzada Farhan to Harry Brook, here's a look at the top five batters with most runs in T20 World Cup 2026 (Super Eight stage). This list also includes Sikandar Raza, Sanju Samson and Brian Bennett.

From Sahibzada Farhan to Harry Brook, here's a look at the top five batters with most runs in T20 World Cup 2026 (Super Eight stage). This list also includes Sikandar Raza, Sanju Samson and Brian Bennett.

Meet top 5 batters with most runs in T20 World Cup 2026 (Super 8 stage)

England have reached the semifinals of the 2026 T20 World Cup after winning all three of their Super Eight matches. However, in almost every game, they have faced tough moments, including Friday’s four-wicket win over New Zealand in Colombo. Will Jacks played a key role with both bat and ball, helping England secure the win. He said that despite the challenges, the team is enjoying themselves under captain Harry Brook.&nbsp;“I think this group is in the era of Harry Brook. He is our white-ball captain,” Jacks told reporters in Colombo. “And I think that is something that we’ve been really focusing on. He has got us to play a certain way, and I think the environment around the group led by him is absolutely brilliant. Hopefully, everyone can see that we’re having fun and we’re approaching the game in the right way. And I think that’s why we’ve had some success.”&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-lionel-messi-knocked-down-as-fans-invade-pitch-during-inter-miami-s-friendly-1772253724930">WATCH | Lionel Messi knocked down as fans invade pitch during Inter Miami’s friendly</a>&nbsp;In the match against New Zealand, Jacks first took two wickets for 23 runs as New Zealand scored 159/7. England then needed 43 runs from the last three overs with Jacks at the crease alongside Rehan Ahmed. He admitted he was nervous, knowing how New Zealand’s spinners had dominated the Sri Lankan batters on the same pitch just days earlier.&nbsp;&nbsp;“I knew that was a big task,” Jacks said. “We’ve seen the Sri Lanka game two nights ago on this pitch and how well New Zealand were bowling, and I watched how our batters were finding it having bowled on it myself. I knew that was a lot of runs. So I knew we needed to do something special.” Jacks finished unbeaten with 32 runs from 18 balls.&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/-there-ll-be-some-nerves-mitchell-santner-on-nz-s-t20-world-cup-2026-semi-final-hopes-1772255696978">‘There’ll be some nerves’: Santner on NZ’s T20 World Cup 2026 semi-final hopes</a>&nbsp;England will now face either India or West Indies in the semifinals, with those two teams playing each other on Sunday. Jacks said the team will be ready for whoever comes through. “We’ll be watching their game ‌Sunday and ⁠we’ll see the outcome. We’ll be prepared and I think we’ll go into ​it with optimism and excitement.”

England will now face either India or the West Indies in the T20 World Cup 2026 semi-finals, with the two teams playing each other on Sunday.

England have reached the semifinals of the 2026 T20 World Cup after winning all three of their Super Eight matches. However, in almost every game, they have faced tough moments, including Friday’s four-wicket win over New Zealand in Colombo. Will Jacks played a key role with both bat and ball, helping England secure the win. He said that despite the challenges, the team is enjoying themselves under captain Harry Brook. “I think this group is in the era of Harry Brook. He is our white-ball captain,” Jacks told reporters in Colombo. “And I think that is something that we’ve been really focusing on. He has got us to play a certain way, and I think the environment around the group led by him is absolutely brilliant. Hopefully, everyone can see that we’re having fun and we’re approaching the game in the right way. And I think that’s why we’ve had some success.” Also Read - WATCH | Lionel Messi knocked down as fans invade pitch during Inter Miami’s friendly In the match against New Zealand, Jacks first took two wickets for 23 runs as New Zealand scored 159/7. England then needed 43 runs from the last three overs with Jacks at the crease alongside Rehan Ahmed. He admitted he was nervous, knowing how New Zealand’s spinners had dominated the Sri Lankan batters on the same pitch just days earlier. “I knew that was a big task,” Jacks said. “We’ve seen the Sri Lanka game two nights ago on this pitch and how well New Zealand were bowling, and I watched how our batters were finding it having bowled on it myself. I knew that was a lot of runs. So I knew we needed to do something special.” Jacks finished unbeaten with 32 runs from 18 balls. Also Read - ‘There’ll be some nerves’: Santner on NZ’s T20 World Cup 2026 semi-final hopes England will now face either India or West Indies in the semifinals, with those two teams playing each other on Sunday. Jacks said the team will be ready for whoever comes through. “We’ll be watching their game ‌Sunday and ⁠we’ll see the outcome. We’ll be prepared and I think we’ll go into it with optimism and excitement.”

England will now face either India or the West Indies in the T20 World Cup 2026 semi-finals, with the two teams playing each other on Sunday.

‘In the era of Harry Brook': Will Jacks hails captain as England reach T20 World Cup semi-finals

England registered a narrow last-over win against New Zealand to maintain their perfect record in the Super 8 stage of the T20 World Cup 2026 on Friday (Feb 27). Playing at the R.Premadasa Stadium in Colombo, England won by four wickets against the Kiwis, keeping them hanging for a place in the semifinal of the T20 World Cup. The result means a win for Pakistan with a big margin will see them secure qualification for the semis at New Zealand’s expense.<h2>England keep New Zealand hanging</h2>With 43 runs needed in the last three overs and Will Jacks struggling to connect, Rehan Ahmed came to the crease after the dismissal of Tom Banton. Kiwi skipper Mitchell Santner gave the 18th over to Glenn Phillips, who started well with a single. But, Ahmed hit a six on the second delivery and took a single on the next. Will Jacks hit three boundaries in the next three deliveries to end the over with 22 runs.&nbsp;Now, 21 runs were needed, and Santner came to bowl. Jacks and Ahmed managed to extract 16 runs in the over with the help of two boundaries. Only five runs were needed in the last over, and Jacks hit the winning runs to help his team win once again in this tournament. He was named Player of the Match for his knock, his fourth in the tournament. He has joined Shane Watson (2012 edition) for the joint-most POTM awards in a T20 World Cup.&nbsp;Chasing a modest target of 160 runs on a slow surface, England lost their first two wickets by the second over as Phil Salt (2 off 4 balls) and Jos Buttler (0) failed to perform. Harry Brook came to bat at number three again and made 26 off 24 balls with the help of three fours and a six. Jacob Bethell also contributed with 21 runs. Tom Banton was the highest scorer for England with 33 runs off 24 balls, but it was Ahmed (19 off seven balls) and Jacks in the end who pulled off a dramatic victory in the end.&nbsp;Rachin Ravindra took three wickets while conceding 19 runs, while Phillips, Lockie Ferguson and Matt Henry shared one wicket each among them. After this win, Pakistan stayed alive in the race for the semi-final spot. Pakistan need to win their Saturday's Super Eights fixture against Sri Lanka with a big margin to qualify for the semi-final. The Men in Green need to win their next match either by more than 64 runs or chase the target in 13.1 overs.<h2>What happened in New Zealand innings?</h2>Earlier, New Zealand posted a fighting total of 159 after opting to bat first in the must-win match. The Black Caps recovered from a mid-innings slump after a brisk start by openers Finn Allen and Tim Seifert. While the Black Caps looked set for a bigger score at one stage, England's bowlers, led by Adil Rashid and Will Jacks, struck at regular intervals to pull things back and restrict the visitors to a manageable total.&nbsp;ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-chris-gayle-to-brendon-mccullum-5-batters-to-score-fastest-t20-world-cup-hundreds-rilee-rossouw-ahmed-shehzad-1768553361691">From Chris Gayle to Brendon McCullum, 5 batters to score fastest T20 World Cup hundreds</a>&nbsp;New Zealand started cautiously, scoring eight runs after the end of the second over. However, openers Finn Allen and Tim Seifert shifted their gears and took the Black Caps to 54/0 after the end of the sixth over. During the last ball of the seventh over, leg-spinner Adil Rashid broke the 64-run partnership for the opening wicket. He dismissed Tim Seifert, who made 35 off 25 balls, with three fours and two sixes. In the following over, all-rounder Will Jacks removed Finn Allen for 29 off 19 balls, with three sixes. After the end of the 10th over, New Zealand scored 84/2.&nbsp;ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/meet-indians-to-score-most-runs-in-each-of-last-5-t20-world-cups-ft-virat-kohli-kl-rahul-rohit-sharma-2026-t20-world-cup-1768479871185">Meet Indians to score most runs in each of last 5 T20 World Cups ft Virat Kohli</a>&nbsp;During the first ball of the 12th over, Rehan Ahmed took the wicket of Rachin Ravindra, who made 11 off 13 deliveries, with one four. After the end of the 13th over, the Kiwis made 116/3. During the 15th over, Adil Rashid took the wicket of Mark Chapman, who made 15 off nine deliveries, with two fours. Liam Dawson then removed Daryl Mitchell for just three runs during the 17th over. In the next over, Will Jacks clean bowled Glenn Phillips for 29 runs as Black Caps slumped to 142/6. Towards the end, Cole McConchie (14 off 12 balls, with two fours) took the Black Caps to a fighting score of 159/7 in 20 overs.

Playing at the R.Premadasa Stadium, Colombo, England won by four wickets against the Kiwis, keeping them hanging for a place in the semifinal of the T20 World Cup. The result means a win for Pakistan with a big margin will see them secure qualification for the semis at New Zealand’s expense.

England registered a narrow last-over win against New Zealand to maintain their perfect record in the Super 8 stage of the T20 World Cup 2026 on Friday (Feb 27). Playing at the R.Premadasa Stadium in Colombo, England won by four wickets against the Kiwis, keeping them hanging for a place in the semifinal of the T20 World Cup. The result means a win for Pakistan with a big margin will see them secure qualification for the semis at New Zealand’s expense. England keep New Zealand hanging With 43 runs needed in the last three overs and Will Jacks struggling to connect, Rehan Ahmed came to the crease after the dismissal of Tom Banton. Kiwi skipper Mitchell Santner gave the 18th over to Glenn Phillips, who started well with a single. But, Ahmed hit a six on the second delivery and took a single on the next. Will Jacks hit three boundaries in the next three deliveries to end the over with 22 runs. Now, 21 runs were needed, and Santner came to bowl. Jacks and Ahmed managed to extract 16 runs in the over with the help of two boundaries. Only five runs were needed in the last over, and Jacks hit the winning runs to help his team win once again in this tournament. He was named Player of the Match for his knock, his fourth in the tournament. He has joined Shane Watson (2012 edition) for the joint-most POTM awards in a T20 World Cup. Chasing a modest target of 160 runs on a slow surface, England lost their first two wickets by the second over as Phil Salt (2 off 4 balls) and Jos Buttler (0) failed to perform. Harry Brook came to bat at number three again and made 26 off 24 balls with the help of three fours and a six. Jacob Bethell also contributed with 21 runs. Tom Banton was the highest scorer for England with 33 runs off 24 balls, but it was Ahmed (19 off seven balls) and Jacks in the end who pulled off a dramatic victory in the end. Rachin Ravindra took three wickets while conceding 19 runs, while Phillips, Lockie Ferguson and Matt Henry shared one wicket each among them. After this win, Pakistan stayed alive in the race for the semi-final spot. Pakistan need to win their Saturday's Super Eights fixture against Sri Lanka with a big margin to qualify for the semi-final. The Men in Green need to win their next match either by more than 64 runs or chase the target in 13.1 overs. What happened in New Zealand innings? Earlier, New Zealand posted a fighting total of 159 after opting to bat first in the must-win match. The Black Caps recovered from a mid-innings slump after a brisk start by openers Finn Allen and Tim Seifert. While the Black Caps looked set for a bigger score at one stage, England's bowlers, led by Adil Rashid and Will Jacks, struck at regular intervals to pull things back and restrict the visitors to a manageable total. ALSO READ | From Chris Gayle to Brendon McCullum, 5 batters to score fastest T20 World Cup hundreds New Zealand started cautiously, scoring eight runs after the end of the second over. However, openers Finn Allen and Tim Seifert shifted their gears and took the Black Caps to 54/0 after the end of the sixth over. During the last ball of the seventh over, leg-spinner Adil Rashid broke the 64-run partnership for the opening wicket. He dismissed Tim Seifert, who made 35 off 25 balls, with three fours and two sixes. In the following over, all-rounder Will Jacks removed Finn Allen for 29 off 19 balls, with three sixes. After the end of the 10th over, New Zealand scored 84/2. ALSO READ | Meet Indians to score most runs in each of last 5 T20 World Cups ft Virat Kohli During the first ball of the 12th over, Rehan Ahmed took the wicket of Rachin Ravindra, who made 11 off 13 deliveries, with one four. After the end of the 13th over, the Kiwis made 116/3. During the 15th over, Adil Rashid took the wicket of Mark Chapman, who made 15 off nine deliveries, with two fours. Liam Dawson then removed Daryl Mitchell for just three runs during the 17th over. In the next over, Will Jacks clean bowled Glenn Phillips for 29 runs as Black Caps slumped to 142/6. Towards the end, Cole McConchie (14 off 12 balls, with two fours) took the Black Caps to a fighting score of 159/7 in 20 overs.

Playing at the R.Premadasa Stadium, Colombo, England won by four wickets against the Kiwis, keeping them hanging for a place in the semifinal of the T20 World Cup. The result means a win for Pakistan with a big margin will see them secure qualification for the semis at New Zealand’s expense.

T20 World Cup 2026: England keep New Zealand hanging with narrow Super 8 win, attention on PAK vs SL

England captain Harry Brook says the team is 'too careful' after defeat against West Indies in T20 World Cup 2026 on Wednesday (Feb 11) at Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai. Brook's team, who had barely got past Nepal by 4 runs in their opening match of the tournament, failed to chase down 197 against two-time winners WI. Brook said that he decided to chase, thinking dew will make the wicket better in second innings, but it didn't happen. England, however, still remain on course of the qualification in the Super 8 stage with their next match against Scotland before finishing up the group stage against debutant Italy.<h2>Brooks blames 'careful approach' for England's loss against West Indies</h2>"We were probably a little bit careful, myself included," said Brook. "I'd much rather be caught on the boundary rather than the way I did today. That's part of T20 cricket. Chasing nearly 200 is always a big ask and we thought the pitch would get better and it would slide onto the bat a little more, and that didn't happen. We thought it was chaseable, definitely. We obviously planned for dew (opting to bat second) and it didn't quite get as dewy as we thought."Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/t20-wc-2026-ind-vs-nam-abhishek-out-of-hospital-but-will-he-play-here-s-what-tilak-said-1770857993915">T20 WC 2026 | India opener Abhishek Sharma discharged from hospital, will he play vs Namibia - Here's what Tilak Varma said</a>The England skipper also acknowledged benefits of coming on top against Nepal in a thriller and said: Thank god we won against Nepal the other night. Otherwise we'd be in a tricky situation."<h2>West Indies vs England - Match summary</h2>Batting first, West Indies were 8/2 when Shimron Hetmyer (23 off12) and Roston Chase (34) added 47 runs for the third wicket to bring some stability. Once Hetmyer was out, Sherfane Rutherford came to the crease and stayed till the end. Rutherford scored unbeaten 42-ball 76, hitting 2 fours and 7 sixes, and was helped by cameos from Rovman Powell (14) as well as Jason Holder (not out 33 off 17) as West Indies posted 196/6 in 20 overs.During the chase, England were given a good start by Phil Salt's 30 off 14 but things started to turn for bad at the eighth over mark with the team at 85/3. England were ahead in the game but WI spinners pulled things back nicely with Gudakesh Motie being the best bowler (3/33 in 4 overs). Sam Currant tried his best, staying not out at 43 off 30 balls, but England were eventually bowled out for 166 in 19 overs, losing the match by 30 runs.

England were ahead in the game but WI spinners pulled things back nicely with Gudakesh Motie being the best bowler (3/33 in 4 overs). Sam Currant tried his best, staying not out at 43 off 30 balls, but England were eventually bowled out for 166 in 19 overs, losing the match by 30 runs.

England captain Harry Brook says the team is 'too careful' after defeat against West Indies in T20 World Cup 2026 on Wednesday (Feb 11) at Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai. Brook's team, who had barely got past Nepal by 4 runs in their opening match of the tournament, failed to chase down 197 against two-time winners WI. Brook said that he decided to chase, thinking dew will make the wicket better in second innings, but it didn't happen. England, however, still remain on course of the qualification in the Super 8 stage with their next match against Scotland before finishing up the group stage against debutant Italy. Brooks blames 'careful approach' for England's loss against West Indies "We were probably a little bit careful, myself included," said Brook. "I'd much rather be caught on the boundary rather than the way I did today. That's part of T20 cricket. Chasing nearly 200 is always a big ask and we thought the pitch would get better and it would slide onto the bat a little more, and that didn't happen. We thought it was chaseable, definitely. We obviously planned for dew (opting to bat second) and it didn't quite get as dewy as we thought." Also Read: T20 WC 2026 | India opener Abhishek Sharma discharged from hospital, will he play vs Namibia - Here's what Tilak Varma said The England skipper also acknowledged benefits of coming on top against Nepal in a thriller and said: Thank god we won against Nepal the other night. Otherwise we'd be in a tricky situation." West Indies vs England - Match summary Batting first, West Indies were 8/2 when Shimron Hetmyer (23 off12) and Roston Chase (34) added 47 runs for the third wicket to bring some stability. Once Hetmyer was out, Sherfane Rutherford came to the crease and stayed till the end. Rutherford scored unbeaten 42-ball 76, hitting 2 fours and 7 sixes, and was helped by cameos from Rovman Powell (14) as well as Jason Holder (not out 33 off 17) as West Indies posted 196/6 in 20 overs. During the chase, England were given a good start by Phil Salt's 30 off 14 but things started to turn for bad at the eighth over mark with the team at 85/3. England were ahead in the game but WI spinners pulled things back nicely with Gudakesh Motie being the best bowler (3/33 in 4 overs). Sam Currant tried his best, staying not out at 43 off 30 balls, but England were eventually bowled out for 166 in 19 overs, losing the match by 30 runs.

England were ahead in the game but WI spinners pulled things back nicely with Gudakesh Motie being the best bowler (3/33 in 4 overs). Sam Currant tried his best, staying not out at 43 off 30 balls, but England were eventually bowled out for 166 in 19 overs, losing the match by 30 runs.

T20 World Cup 2026 | 'Too careful, not dewy enough': England skipper Brook shares reason for loss vs West Indies

England Test captain Ben Stokes, who was hit by a cricket ball in the face last week, has successfully undergone surgery for the same. Stokes, who plays only red-ball cricket for England, was part of England Lions' white-ball coaching set-up under Andrew Flintoff when the incident took place. The England Test skipper had shared a rather nasty picture of the injury on social media. After the surgery, Stokes shared another picture, on Tuesday (Feb 10), with the captaion: "May not look like it but the surgery was a success." Stokes is now back in England for recovery and isn't playing any part in the ongoing T20 World Cup 2026 in India and Sri Lanka.<h2>Stokes shares face injury update</h2>Last week, England Test skipper had shared a photo of himself with face smashed by the ball and a caption: "You should see the state of the cricket ball." The 34-year-old clearly found it amusing. After the sugery, hopefully he'll recover soon and there's enough time left before England play their next Test, agaist New Zealand at home, on June 4 - Stokes's 35th birthday. Stokes will remain the captain of the Test side or not is still a question unanswered with review pending by England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) following 1-4 loss in away Ashes.

Stokes shares face injury update

<h2>Who will lead England in Tests if Stokes is ousted?</h2>If ECB decides to part ways with Stokes as England Test skipper, Harry Brook, who is currently leading the side in white-ball cricket, is the logical option. Brook, however, himself is dealing with the aftermath of a discliplinary issue which took place prior to the Ashes on white-ball tour of New Zealand.Brook has apologised for the incident, which involved him being drunk and getting punched by a bouncer, as well as has been fined the maximum by ECB as per rules alongside a warning as well.

The England Test skipper had shared a rather nasty picture of the injury on social media. After the surgery, Stokes shared another picture, on Tuesday (Feb 10), with the captaion: "May not look like it but the surgery was a success."

England Test captain Ben Stokes, who was hit by a cricket ball in the face last week, has successfully undergone surgery for the same. Stokes, who plays only red-ball cricket for England, was part of England Lions' white-ball coaching set-up under Andrew Flintoff when the incident took place. The England Test skipper had shared a rather nasty picture of the injury on social media. After the surgery, Stokes shared another picture, on Tuesday (Feb 10), with the captaion: "May not look like it but the surgery was a success." Stokes is now back in England for recovery and isn't playing any part in the ongoing T20 World Cup 2026 in India and Sri Lanka. Stokes shares face injury update Last week, England Test skipper had shared a photo of himself with face smashed by the ball and a caption: "You should see the state of the cricket ball." The 34-year-old clearly found it amusing. After the sugery, hopefully he'll recover soon and there's enough time left before England play their next Test, agaist New Zealand at home, on June 4 - Stokes's 35th birthday. Stokes will remain the captain of the Test side or not is still a question unanswered with review pending by England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) following 1-4 loss in away Ashes.

The England Test skipper had shared a rather nasty picture of the injury on social media. After the surgery, Stokes shared another picture, on Tuesday (Feb 10), with the captaion: "May not look like it but the surgery was a success."

'May not look like...': England Test skipper Ben Stokes shares face injury update after surgery

The England captain marked his match-winning century against Sri Lanka by imitating a famous WWE wrestler.

Brook was recently involved in a late-night drinking scandal where he was struck by a bouncer the night before captaining a match in New Zealand.

England Captain Harry Brook Pokes Fun at Drinking Scandal

England has won its first bilateral ODI series (2-1) in over two years, ending Sri Lanka’s five-year winning run at home with a 53-run victory in the third and final ODI in Colombo on Tuesday (Jan 27). On the other hand, South Africa also thrashed West Indies by nine wickets to take a 1-0 lead in the three-match T20I series. While England ODI captain Harry Brook shone for his team, hitting a 57-ball hundred (136* off 66 balls) in the first innings, for the Proteas, their skipper Aiden Markram powered his team to a comfortable win with a blistering 86 not out in just 47 balls.<h2>Brook ends SL’s dream ODI run at home</h2>Sri Lanka had gone 12 series unbeaten at home, winning 11 and drawing one, but Brook's counter-punch knocked them off their perch and swung the momentum decisively England's way.&nbsp;Meanwhile, besides Brook, England batting veteran Joe Root also smashed his 20th ODI hundred (111* off 108 balls), propelling the visitors to 357/3 in the first innings.&nbsp;Sri Lanka began the chase with their openers going bonkers inside the Powerplay, with Sri Lanka's scorecard reading 104/3 in 10 overs. Pavan Rathnayake was the pick of the batter, slamming his maiden ODI hundred (121 off 115 balls), but failed to guide his team home, as English spinners kept the hosts in check.&nbsp;"It was a lot better pitch than we expected. It was an awesome effort from everyone involved," said Brook, the England captain. “Joe Root, in particular, was sensational. We are pretty pleased with the way the spinners went about things, and that's a good sign ahead of the World Cup.”<h3>South Africa hit winning punch</h3>On the other hand, Aiden Markram powered South Africa to a nine-wicket win in the first T20 international against the West Indies at Boland Park on Tuesday. The South African captain hit nine fours and three sixes in a career-best 86 not out off 47 balls as the hosts chased down a competitive West Indian total of 173 for seven with 13 balls to spare.&nbsp; &nbsp;An opening partnership (also) of 83 off 47 balls with Lhuan-dre Pretorius (44) set the tone before Ryan Rickelton joined Markram and made 40 not out in an unbeaten second-wicket stand of 93 off 62 balls.&nbsp; &nbsp;Meanwhile, the three-match series serves as the final preparation for both teams ahead of the T20 World Cup in India and Sri Lanka next month.&nbsp;(With inputs from AFP)

England came from behind (0-1) to win its first bilateral ODI series (2-1) since 2023.

England has won its first bilateral ODI series (2-1) in over two years, ending Sri Lanka’s five-year winning run at home with a 53-run victory in the third and final ODI in Colombo on Tuesday (Jan 27). On the other hand, South Africa also thrashed West Indies by nine wickets to take a 1-0 lead in the three-match T20I series. While England ODI captain Harry Brook shone for his team, hitting a 57-ball hundred (136* off 66 balls) in the first innings, for the Proteas, their skipper Aiden Markram powered his team to a comfortable win with a blistering 86 not out in just 47 balls. Brook ends SL’s dream ODI run at home Sri Lanka had gone 12 series unbeaten at home, winning 11 and drawing one, but Brook's counter-punch knocked them off their perch and swung the momentum decisively England's way. Meanwhile, besides Brook, England batting veteran Joe Root also smashed his 20th ODI hundred (111* off 108 balls), propelling the visitors to 357/3 in the first innings. Sri Lanka began the chase with their openers going bonkers inside the Powerplay, with Sri Lanka's scorecard reading 104/3 in 10 overs. Pavan Rathnayake was the pick of the batter, slamming his maiden ODI hundred (121 off 115 balls), but failed to guide his team home, as English spinners kept the hosts in check. "It was a lot better pitch than we expected. It was an awesome effort from everyone involved," said Brook, the England captain. “Joe Root, in particular, was sensational. We are pretty pleased with the way the spinners went about things, and that's a good sign ahead of the World Cup.” South Africa hit winning punch On the other hand, Aiden Markram powered South Africa to a nine-wicket win in the first T20 international against the West Indies at Boland Park on Tuesday. The South African captain hit nine fours and three sixes in a career-best 86 not out off 47 balls as the hosts chased down a competitive West Indian total of 173 for seven with 13 balls to spare. An opening partnership (also) of 83 off 47 balls with Lhuan-dre Pretorius (44) set the tone before Ryan Rickelton joined Markram and made 40 not out in an unbeaten second-wicket stand of 93 off 62 balls. Meanwhile, the three-match series serves as the final preparation for both teams ahead of the T20 World Cup in India and Sri Lanka next month. (With inputs from AFP)

England came from behind (0-1) to win its first bilateral ODI series (2-1) since 2023.

Cricket Round-up: England win first ODI bilateral series since 2023; Proteas beat West Indies in 1st T20I

England white-ball captain Harry Brook has ackonwledged his mistake on New Zealand tour prior to Ashes and vowed to not repea the same mistake again. The incident happened in Wellington in October last year and Brook was fined $40,000 along with a final warning for his off-field conduct. The statement comes as England get ready to play in a three-match ODI and T20I series in Sri Lanka before the T20 World Cup 2026 which starts Feb 7 in India and Sri Lanka.<h2>Brook acknowledges mistake on NZ tour</h2>"Obviously I made a terrible mistake," Brook said. "Not only as a player, but as a captain. It's very unprofessional and I should be leading from the front.Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/australian-open-2026-coco-gauff-leaving-fashion-to-naomi-osaka-enters-r3-with-perfect-win-1768987523177">Aus Open 2026: Gauff, leaving fashion to Osaka, enters R3 with 'perfect' win</a>"I've learnt from my mistakes, I've reflected a lot on what's happened and I know it wasn't the right thing to do. I want to say sorry to my team-mates, to all the fans that travel far and wide to watch, spend a lot of money on coming out to watch us play cricket and supporting us, and to the ECB for putting them in a tricky situation, and it'll never happen again. I'm extremely sorry," the England skipper added.<h2>What had happened - Brook's New Zealand drama explained</h2>Brook had gotten into an altercation with with a bouncer of a Wellington nightclub while trying to get entry. The player, admittedly, was under influence of alcohol. The bouncer of the nighclub denied entry to Brook, suspecting the England captain to be drunk and the matter escalated. Brook later informed the England Cricket Board (ECB) about the incident himself during which he was not physically injured. He was fined the maximum amount after the investigation but remained the captain of the white-ball teams.

Brook had gotten into an altercation with with a bouncer of a Wellington nightclub while trying to get entry in October last year. The player, admittedly, was under influence of alcohol. The bouncer of the nighclub denied entry to Brook, suspecting the England captain to be drunk.

England white-ball captain Harry Brook has ackonwledged his mistake on New Zealand tour prior to Ashes and vowed to not repea the same mistake again. The incident happened in Wellington in October last year and Brook was fined $40,000 along with a final warning for his off-field conduct. The statement comes as England get ready to play in a three-match ODI and T20I series in Sri Lanka before the T20 World Cup 2026 which starts Feb 7 in India and Sri Lanka. Brook acknowledges mistake on NZ tour "Obviously I made a terrible mistake," Brook said. "Not only as a player, but as a captain. It's very unprofessional and I should be leading from the front. Also Read - Aus Open 2026: Gauff, leaving fashion to Osaka, enters R3 with 'perfect' win "I've learnt from my mistakes, I've reflected a lot on what's happened and I know it wasn't the right thing to do. I want to say sorry to my team-mates, to all the fans that travel far and wide to watch, spend a lot of money on coming out to watch us play cricket and supporting us, and to the ECB for putting them in a tricky situation, and it'll never happen again. I'm extremely sorry," the England skipper added. What had happened - Brook's New Zealand drama explained Brook had gotten into an altercation with with a bouncer of a Wellington nightclub while trying to get entry. The player, admittedly, was under influence of alcohol. The bouncer of the nighclub denied entry to Brook, suspecting the England captain to be drunk and the matter escalated. Brook later informed the England Cricket Board (ECB) about the incident himself during which he was not physically injured. He was fined the maximum amount after the investigation but remained the captain of the white-ball teams.

Brook had gotten into an altercation with with a bouncer of a Wellington nightclub while trying to get entry in October last year. The player, admittedly, was under influence of alcohol. The bouncer of the nighclub denied entry to Brook, suspecting the England captain to be drunk.

England white-ball captain Harry Brook 'sorry to my team-mates' for nightclub bouncer altercation in New Zealand

January 2026 saw explosive Test batting as top run scorers dominated with big hundreds and strong averages. Fast scoring and calm control shaped matches and set the tone for an exciting year.


January 2026 saw explosive Test batting as top run scorers dominated with big hundreds and strong averages. Fast scoring and calm control shaped matches and set the tone for an exciting year.

Meet 5 batters with most Test runs in January 2026

England’s Test vice-captain Harry Brook is on a final warning by his cricket board (ECB) over an incident involving his brawl with a nightclub bouncer in New Zealand before he assumed One-Day captaincy. Ahead of the marquee Ashes, England toured New Zealand for a white-ball series, and just ahead of the ODI opener, Brook found himself in hot water, later feeling ‘deeply sorry’ for that episode. Brook’s statement came shortly after England conceded the away Ashes (1-4) after losing the fifth and final Test in Sydney by five wickets on the fifth day.&nbsp;The Daily Telegraph reported that Brook, the limited-overs skipper and vice-captain of the Test side in Australia, was involved in an altercation with a nightclub bouncer on October 31. England lost to hosts New Zealand the next day in the third ODI in Wellington with Brook scoring six. The 26-year-old Brook was fined £30,000 ($40,000) after reporting the incident to team management and was given a final warning about his behaviour, the newspaper said.&nbsp;Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/england-ben-stokes-dismisses-quitting-captaincy-talks-vows-to-turn-wrongs-to-right-after-crushing-ashes-beat-1767849863099">Stokes dismisses quitting captaincy talks, vows to turn ‘wrongs to right’ after crushing Ashes beat</a>&nbsp;"I want to apologise for my actions. I fully accept that my behaviour was wrong and brought embarrassment to both myself and the England team," he said in a statement. “Representing England is the greatest honour of all, which I take seriously and I am deeply sorry for letting down my team-mates, coaches and supporters.”&nbsp;“I am determined to learn from this mistake and to rebuild trust through my future actions, both on and off the field. I apologise unreservedly and will work hard to ensure this does not happen again.”&nbsp;The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) has launched an immediate review into the Ashes defeat, with off-field behaviour one of its priorities following a team drinking session during the series.<h3>Brook's first away Ashes</h3>On his first tour of Australia, Brook had plenty of missed chances, for most of which he was to be blamed. The right-handed batter never looked in rhythm during the five contested Tests, barring a couple of innings, where he completed his twin fifties – the joint-most by an Englishman against Australia this time.&nbsp;With 358 runs in 10 innings, at an average of just below 40, Brook is England’s second-highest run getter after Joe Root (400) and third overall.&nbsp;&nbsp;Brook’s next assignment is the away white-ball series against Sri Lanka, after which he will lead England at the 2026 T20 World Cup in the subcontinent. Brook’s England is placed in Group C alongside the West Indies, Nepal, Bangladesh and Italy.&nbsp;&nbsp;(With inputs from AFP)

The 26-year-old Brook was fined £30,000 ($40,000) after reporting the incident to team management and was given a final warning about his behaviour, the latest report added.

England’s Test vice-captain Harry Brook is on a final warning by his cricket board (ECB) over an incident involving his brawl with a nightclub bouncer in New Zealand before he assumed One-Day captaincy. Ahead of the marquee Ashes, England toured New Zealand for a white-ball series, and just ahead of the ODI opener, Brook found himself in hot water, later feeling ‘deeply sorry’ for that episode. Brook’s statement came shortly after England conceded the away Ashes (1-4) after losing the fifth and final Test in Sydney by five wickets on the fifth day. The Daily Telegraph reported that Brook, the limited-overs skipper and vice-captain of the Test side in Australia, was involved in an altercation with a nightclub bouncer on October 31. England lost to hosts New Zealand the next day in the third ODI in Wellington with Brook scoring six. The 26-year-old Brook was fined £30,000 ($40,000) after reporting the incident to team management and was given a final warning about his behaviour, the newspaper said. Also read | Stokes dismisses quitting captaincy talks, vows to turn ‘wrongs to right’ after crushing Ashes beat "I want to apologise for my actions. I fully accept that my behaviour was wrong and brought embarrassment to both myself and the England team," he said in a statement. “Representing England is the greatest honour of all, which I take seriously and I am deeply sorry for letting down my team-mates, coaches and supporters.” “I am determined to learn from this mistake and to rebuild trust through my future actions, both on and off the field. I apologise unreservedly and will work hard to ensure this does not happen again.” The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) has launched an immediate review into the Ashes defeat, with off-field behaviour one of its priorities following a team drinking session during the series. Brook's first away Ashes On his first tour of Australia, Brook had plenty of missed chances, for most of which he was to be blamed. The right-handed batter never looked in rhythm during the five contested Tests, barring a couple of innings, where he completed his twin fifties – the joint-most by an Englishman against Australia this time. With 358 runs in 10 innings, at an average of just below 40, Brook is England’s second-highest run getter after Joe Root (400) and third overall. Brook’s next assignment is the away white-ball series against Sri Lanka, after which he will lead England at the 2026 T20 World Cup in the subcontinent. Brook’s England is placed in Group C alongside the West Indies, Nepal, Bangladesh and Italy. (With inputs from AFP)

The 26-year-old Brook was fined £30,000 ($40,000) after reporting the incident to team management and was given a final warning about his behaviour, the latest report added.

Harry Brook on last warning over brawl with nightclub bouncer ahead of Ashes

Joe Root and Harry Brook tamed Australia's all-pace attack with an unbroken 154-run stand on Sunday to rescue England and give them the upper hand after a rain-hit day one of the fifth and final Ashes Test. Batting after skipper Ben Stokes won the toss at a sold-out Sydney Cricket Ground, they steered the tourists to 211-3 when bad light forced the players from the field just before tea. Subsequent rain and the risk of lightning made no further play possible, with stumps called an hour early.&nbsp;&nbsp;Root was not out 72 and Brook on 78 after coming together with England tottering at 57-3 following the wickets of Ben Duckett (27), Zak Crawley (16) and Jacob Bethell (10) before lunch. The world's top two-ranked batsmen set about counter-attacking on a decent batting pitch providing little movement for the bowlers. Both brought up hard-fought half-centuries and, with dark storm clouds looming, kept the scoreboard ticking over at a fast clip.&nbsp;Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ashes-australia-england-honour-bondi-shooting-responders-ahead-of-sydney-test-watch-1767497604745">Ashes rivals honour Bondi shooting responders ahead of Sydney Test - WATCH</a>&nbsp;"We're in very good position, obviously three down at the end of the end of play," said Brook. "Hopefully, we can make the most of that going into tomorrow.&nbsp;"It was good pitch," he added.&nbsp;"When I first went in it felt like the bounce was fairly steep. But then it it started to get a little bit lower and slower and just generally feels like a good wicket."&nbsp;England came into the game buoyed by a four-wicket win inside two days in the previous Test in Melbourne, desperate to keep the momentum going. That victory snapped a 15-year winless streak in Australia but came too late to save the series, with the hosts retaining the urn by winning in Perth, Brisbane and Adelaide.&nbsp;Australia sprang a surprise by including all-rounder Beau Webster in place of quick Jhye Richardson, with off-spinner Todd Murphy overlooked.<h3>‘Hate doing it’</h3>&nbsp;It is the first time in almost 140 years that the hosts have not played a front-line spinner during a Sydney Test.&nbsp;"Hate doing it," said Australia skipper Steve Smith. "But if we keep producing wickets that we don't think are going to spin and seam is going to play a big part and cracks are going to play a big part, you kind of get pushed into a corner."&nbsp;England brought in seamer Matthew Potts for the injured Gus Atkinson in their only change, with their frontline slow bowler Shoaib Bashir missing out for a fifth straight Test.&nbsp;The day began with a tribute to first responders at the Bondi mass shooting last month that killed 15 people, with huge cheers when hero Ahmed Al Ahmed, who tackled one of the gunmen, appeared.&nbsp;Duckett was lively when play started, crunching five boundaries from Mitchell Starc in a quickfire 27 off 24 balls. But England's tormentor-in-chief Mitchell Starc had the last laugh, enticing an outside edge from an angled ball to wicketkeeper Alex Carey at full stretch. It was the fifth time Starc has bagged Duckett this series.&nbsp;Crawley was next to go, trapped lbw by Michael Neser, with both openers back in the sheds by the first drinks break and the tourists in trouble on 51-2. A cautious Bethell took 15 balls to get off the mark and never looked confident. He departed after prodding at a moving delivery from Scott Boland that took a faint edge to Carey as England fell to 57-3.&nbsp;Root joined Brook at the crease and they began to rebuild. They rotated the strike well and punished any loose balls with Root bringing up his 67th half-century, and the 100-partnership, with a single off Webster.&nbsp;Only Indian great Sachin Tendulkar, with 68, has scored more Test fifties.&nbsp;Brook was fortunate to survive on 45 when he slogged Starc and the ball dropped between three chasing fielders. But he kept his composure to reach a 15th half-century four balls after Root, cracking Webster through the covers for a boundary.&nbsp;Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for the WION audience.

Batting after Stokes won the toss at a sold-out Sydney Cricket Ground, the tourists hit 211-3 before bad light forced the players from the field just before tea.

Joe Root and Harry Brook tamed Australia's all-pace attack with an unbroken 154-run stand on Sunday to rescue England and give them the upper hand after a rain-hit day one of the fifth and final Ashes Test. Batting after skipper Ben Stokes won the toss at a sold-out Sydney Cricket Ground, they steered the tourists to 211-3 when bad light forced the players from the field just before tea. Subsequent rain and the risk of lightning made no further play possible, with stumps called an hour early. Root was not out 72 and Brook on 78 after coming together with England tottering at 57-3 following the wickets of Ben Duckett (27), Zak Crawley (16) and Jacob Bethell (10) before lunch. The world's top two-ranked batsmen set about counter-attacking on a decent batting pitch providing little movement for the bowlers. Both brought up hard-fought half-centuries and, with dark storm clouds looming, kept the scoreboard ticking over at a fast clip. Also read | Ashes rivals honour Bondi shooting responders ahead of Sydney Test - WATCH "We're in very good position, obviously three down at the end of the end of play," said Brook. "Hopefully, we can make the most of that going into tomorrow. "It was good pitch," he added. "When I first went in it felt like the bounce was fairly steep. But then it it started to get a little bit lower and slower and just generally feels like a good wicket." England came into the game buoyed by a four-wicket win inside two days in the previous Test in Melbourne, desperate to keep the momentum going. That victory snapped a 15-year winless streak in Australia but came too late to save the series, with the hosts retaining the urn by winning in Perth, Brisbane and Adelaide. Australia sprang a surprise by including all-rounder Beau Webster in place of quick Jhye Richardson, with off-spinner Todd Murphy overlooked. ‘Hate doing it’ It is the first time in almost 140 years that the hosts have not played a front-line spinner during a Sydney Test. "Hate doing it," said Australia skipper Steve Smith. "But if we keep producing wickets that we don't think are going to spin and seam is going to play a big part and cracks are going to play a big part, you kind of get pushed into a corner." England brought in seamer Matthew Potts for the injured Gus Atkinson in their only change, with their frontline slow bowler Shoaib Bashir missing out for a fifth straight Test. The day began with a tribute to first responders at the Bondi mass shooting last month that killed 15 people, with huge cheers when hero Ahmed Al Ahmed, who tackled one of the gunmen, appeared. Duckett was lively when play started, crunching five boundaries from Mitchell Starc in a quickfire 27 off 24 balls. But England's tormentor-in-chief Mitchell Starc had the last laugh, enticing an outside edge from an angled ball to wicketkeeper Alex Carey at full stretch. It was the fifth time Starc has bagged Duckett this series. Crawley was next to go, trapped lbw by Michael Neser, with both openers back in the sheds by the first drinks break and the tourists in trouble on 51-2. A cautious Bethell took 15 balls to get off the mark and never looked confident. He departed after prodding at a moving delivery from Scott Boland that took a faint edge to Carey as England fell to 57-3. Root joined Brook at the crease and they began to rebuild. They rotated the strike well and punished any loose balls with Root bringing up his 67th half-century, and the 100-partnership, with a single off Webster. Only Indian great Sachin Tendulkar, with 68, has scored more Test fifties. Brook was fortunate to survive on 45 when he slogged Starc and the ball dropped between three chasing fielders. But he kept his composure to reach a 15th half-century four balls after Root, cracking Webster through the covers for a boundary. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for the WION audience.

Batting after Stokes won the toss at a sold-out Sydney Cricket Ground, the tourists hit 211-3 before bad light forced the players from the field just before tea.

Ashes, SCG Test: Root, Brook put England ahead before bad light interrupts play on day 1

From Harry Brook to Steve Smith, here's a look at the top five batters in latest ICC Test rankings 2026. This list also includes Kane Williamson, Joe Root and Travis Head

From Harry Brook to Steve Smith, here's a look at the top five batters in latest ICC Test rankings 2026. This list also includes Kane Williamson, Joe Root and Travis Head

Meet top 5 batters in latest ICC Test rankings 2026

From Harry Brook to David Warner here is a list of batters fastest to 3000 Test runs by balls faced. The list also features the likes of Adam Gilchrist, Indian duo of Rishabh Pant and Virender Sehwag. 

From Harry Brook to David Warner here is a list of batters fastest to 3000 Test runs by balls faced. The list also features the likes of Adam Gilchrist, Indian duo of Rishabh Pant and Virender Sehwag.&nbsp;

From Harry Brook to David Warner, 5 batters fastest to 3000 Test runs (by balls faced)

From Rohit Sharma to Harry Brook, here's a look at the top five batters with most ODI sixes in 2025. This list also includes George Munsey, Dewald Brevis and Daryl Mitchell

From Rohit Sharma to Harry Brook, here's a look at the top five batters with most ODI sixes in 2025. This list also includes George Munsey, Dewald Brevis and Daryl Mitchell

From Rohit Sharma to Harry Brook, 5 batters with most ODI sixes in 2025

England white-ball skipper Harry Brook can't think of a reason why they haven't batted well in two ODIs against New Zealand. England lost both the ODIs - scoring 234 in Mount Maungunai thanks to Brook's 135 and 175 in Hamilton. The England batters have clearly failed to adapt to the conditions in New Zealand - seen as precursor to Ashes in Australia which starts November 21. Brook, however, dismissed the notion that toss had anything to do with it and accepted that the Kiwis have 'hammered' them.<h2>Brook on England's dismal batting in Nez Zealand ODIs</h2>"We play aggressively in Test cricket and it's not too far off. Obviously we haven't played much one-day cricket in the last however many years. I can't quite put my finger on why we haven't batted well enough. It's just one of those things. You come to play the second-best team in the world on their own patch and they've hammered us," he had said after the loss in first two ODIs as reported by ESPNCricinfo.Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/why-india-and-australia-women-players-wearing-black-armbands-in-semi-final-match-on-thursday-october-30-1761822923728">WWC 2025: Why are India and Australia players wearing black armbands in semi</a><h2>England either go hard or bust</h2>As raised on Wisden Cricket Weekly podcast, England have not reached 250 in any ODI innings this year when former skipper Joe Root has failed to reach 50. In the two matches against New Zealand, Root made 2 and 25, respectively. Also, England have been bowled out in of the seven away ODIs played this year - a worrying trend for a team that boasts about going hard. The batting approach is also clear by the fact that England have either scored 350 while batting first in ODIs this year of haven't played all the overs.Irrespective of whatever is the reason, England must correct the game quickly as there aren't many ODIs left for them to play in the near future and they surely wouldn't want to repeat the performance of 2023 ODI World Cup, come next edition.

Irrespective of whatever is the reason, England must correct the game quickly as there aren't many ODIs left for them to play in the near future and they surely wouldn't want to repeat the performance of 2023 ODI World Cup, come next edition.

England white-ball skipper Harry Brook can't think of a reason why they haven't batted well in two ODIs against New Zealand. England lost both the ODIs - scoring 234 in Mount Maungunai thanks to Brook's 135 and 175 in Hamilton. The England batters have clearly failed to adapt to the conditions in New Zealand - seen as precursor to Ashes in Australia which starts November 21. Brook, however, dismissed the notion that toss had anything to do with it and accepted that the Kiwis have 'hammered' them. Brook on England's dismal batting in Nez Zealand ODIs "We play aggressively in Test cricket and it's not too far off. Obviously we haven't played much one-day cricket in the last however many years. I can't quite put my finger on why we haven't batted well enough. It's just one of those things. You come to play the second-best team in the world on their own patch and they've hammered us," he had said after the loss in first two ODIs as reported by ESPNCricinfo. Also Read - WWC 2025: Why are India and Australia players wearing black armbands in semi England either go hard or bust As raised on Wisden Cricket Weekly podcast, England have not reached 250 in any ODI innings this year when former skipper Joe Root has failed to reach 50. In the two matches against New Zealand, Root made 2 and 25, respectively. Also, England have been bowled out in of the seven away ODIs played this year - a worrying trend for a team that boasts about going hard. The batting approach is also clear by the fact that England have either scored 350 while batting first in ODIs this year of haven't played all the overs. Irrespective of whatever is the reason, England must correct the game quickly as there aren't many ODIs left for them to play in the near future and they surely wouldn't want to repeat the performance of 2023 ODI World Cup, come next edition.

Irrespective of whatever is the reason, England must correct the game quickly as there aren't many ODIs left for them to play in the near future and they surely wouldn't want to repeat the performance of 2023 ODI World Cup, come next edition.

England captain Brook can't 'put my finger on' dismal batting performance in New Zealand ODIs

From Yashasvi Jaiswal to Steve Smith, here's a look at the five active batters with highest average in Test cricket. This list also includes Kamindu Mendis, Harry Brook and Kane Williamson

From Yashasvi Jaiswal to Steve Smith, here's a look at the five active batters with highest average in Test cricket. This list also includes Kamindu Mendis, Harry Brook and Kane Williamson

From Yashasvi Jaiswal to Steve Smith, 5 active batters with highest average in Test cricket

From Harry Brook to Steve Smith, here's a look at the top five batters in latest ICC Test rankings 2025. This list also includes Kane Williamson, Joe Root and Temba Bavuma

From Harry Brook to Steve Smith, here's a look at the top five batters in latest ICC Test rankings 2025. This list also includes Kane Williamson, Joe Root and Temba Bavuma

From Harry Brook to Steve Smith, top 5 batters in latest ICC Test rankings 2025

From Joe Root to KL Rahul, here's a look at the top five batters with most runs in ICC World Test Championship (2025-27). This list also includes Shubman Gill, Ravindra Jadeja and Harry Brook

From Joe Root to KL Rahul, here's a look at the top five batters with most runs in ICC World Test Championship (2025-27). This list also includes Shubman Gill, Ravindra Jadeja and Harry Brook

From Joe Root to KL Rahul, 5 batters with most runs in ICC World Test Championship (2025-27)

England announced a star-studded squad for the upcoming Ashes 2025-26 in Down Under in Australia, as Harry Brook was named vice-captain. In an announcement made by the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) on Tuesday (Sep 23), Ben Stokes will continue to lead the squad while Brook will act as his deputy. The squad also features the likes of Jofra Archer and Mark Wood, who should be fit for the Ashes, which starts on 21 Nov.<h2>England announce squad for Ashes 2025-26</h2>Having started the new World Test Championship (WTC) cycle with a 2-2 draw against India, the English side will be ready to win their first Ashes Down Under since the 2010-11 edition. Not since the 2015 Ashes has England managed to win the prestigious trophy. As expected, it will be Ben Stokes who will lead the English side, having struggled with injuries in recent times.&nbsp;ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-asia-cup-2025-full-squads-complete-fixtures-date-time-venue-and-live-streaming-details-check-all-details-1755585771834">Asia Cup 2025: All you need to know - full squads, complete fixtures, date, time, venue and other key details</a>&nbsp;It will be the first time England play an away Ashes under Stokes and will try to avoid a poor run, which has haunted them late. In the 2021-22 Ashes, England lost 4-0, having lost all other matches, excluding a draw in Sydney. The likes of Jofra Archer and Mark Wood will lead the bowling attack, while the likes of Josh Tongue, Gus Atkinson and Shoaib Bashir will also have a key role to play.&nbsp;ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-rohit-sharma-to-virat-kohli-here-is-a-look-at-five-indian-batters-with-most-runs-in-asia-cup-odis-t20is-sachin-tendulkar-ms-dhoni-dhawan-1754123070628">From Rohit Sharma to Virat Kohli, 5 Indian batters with most runs in Asia Cup (ODIs + T20Is)</a>&nbsp;Chris Woakes, on the other hand, will miss the Ashes having suffered a shoulder injury in the final Test match at The Oval against India. He will continue his rehabilitation and will target a return to the side during the T20 World Cup in India.&nbsp;England Ashes squad:&nbsp;Ben Stokes (Captain), Jofra Archer, Gus Atkinson, Shoaib Bashir, Jacob Bethell, Harry Brook (Vice-Captain), Brydon Carse, Zak Crawley, Ben Duckett, Will Jacks, Ollie Pope, Matthew Potts, Joe Root, Jamie Smith, Josh Tongue, Mark Wood

In an announcement made by the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) on Tuesday (Sep 23), Ben Stokes will continue to lead the squad while Harry Brook will act as his deputy.

England announced a star-studded squad for the upcoming Ashes 2025-26 in Down Under in Australia, as Harry Brook was named vice-captain. In an announcement made by the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) on Tuesday (Sep 23), Ben Stokes will continue to lead the squad while Brook will act as his deputy. The squad also features the likes of Jofra Archer and Mark Wood, who should be fit for the Ashes, which starts on 21 Nov. England announce squad for Ashes 2025-26 Having started the new World Test Championship (WTC) cycle with a 2-2 draw against India, the English side will be ready to win their first Ashes Down Under since the 2010-11 edition. Not since the 2015 Ashes has England managed to win the prestigious trophy. As expected, it will be Ben Stokes who will lead the English side, having struggled with injuries in recent times. ALSO READ | Asia Cup 2025: All you need to know - full squads, complete fixtures, date, time, venue and other key details It will be the first time England play an away Ashes under Stokes and will try to avoid a poor run, which has haunted them late. In the 2021-22 Ashes, England lost 4-0, having lost all other matches, excluding a draw in Sydney. The likes of Jofra Archer and Mark Wood will lead the bowling attack, while the likes of Josh Tongue, Gus Atkinson and Shoaib Bashir will also have a key role to play. ALSO READ | From Rohit Sharma to Virat Kohli, 5 Indian batters with most runs in Asia Cup (ODIs + T20Is) Chris Woakes, on the other hand, will miss the Ashes having suffered a shoulder injury in the final Test match at The Oval against India. He will continue his rehabilitation and will target a return to the side during the T20 World Cup in India. England Ashes squad: Ben Stokes (Captain), Jofra Archer, Gus Atkinson, Shoaib Bashir, Jacob Bethell, Harry Brook (Vice-Captain), Brydon Carse, Zak Crawley, Ben Duckett, Will Jacks, Ollie Pope, Matthew Potts, Joe Root, Jamie Smith, Josh Tongue, Mark Wood

In an announcement made by the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) on Tuesday (Sep 23), Ben Stokes will continue to lead the squad while Harry Brook will act as his deputy.

Ashes 2025-26: England announce star-studded squad as Harry Brook named vice-captain; Wood, Archer in

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